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A new template technique has been developed for implanting hyperthermia catheters in the treatment of brain tumors. The technique utilizes an imaging template and a drill template which can be rigidly secured to the head with three skull screws. The anatomic and vascular information needed for hyperthermia treatment planning may be assessed with three-dimensional magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and angiography acquisitions which use a surface coil. In the companioning treatment planning system the catheter positions and lengths and the electrodes in the catheter can be interactively manipulated relative to the anatomy and vasculature. The visualization of the blood vessels relative to the template allows the minimization of the risk on intracranial hemorrhages. This template technique is useful for any brain tumor implants, especially when a large number of catheters are involved. A phantom test has shown that this procedure has an accuracy in the order of 1 mm provided that the MR-related geometry distortions are minimized. Index Terms - Brain implants, implantation template, interstitial hyperthermia, treatment planning.

Explores the utility of selective catheter injection in the context of magnetic resonance-guided endovascular interventions. Prevention of overlapping between vessels in two-dimensional acquisitions; Bolus tracking techniques; Application of test-bolus injections.

Examines the potential of passive magnetic resonance tracking techniques for guiding endovascular interventions. Visualization of paramagnetic trackers; Evaluation of the techniques in patients with stenosed hemodialysis access grafts.

Studies the magnetic resonance safety and imaging properties of commonly used vascular stents. Stent screening for magnetic forces and torque; Susceptibility and radio frequency imaging artifacts; Effects of variations in strut geometry on the stents.