Applications:
The conventional method of measuring blood flow is referred to as thermodilution, in which an intravascular catheter carrying a temperature sensor, such as a thermister or thermocouple, is introduced into the pulmonary artery. A bolus of cooled saline is then injected into the blood vessel. The distance from the point of saline injection to the temperature sensor is a known number -- more or less. The flow rate is determined by the time measured for the bolus of cooled saline to reach the sensor.
The disadvantage to this method is that a patient is unable to tolerate continuous injections of cooled saline.
MMS® has developed a prototype and established Intellectual Property around a minimally-invasive system that uses microwave radiometry to measure intravascular blood flow. The system employs a low-power, solid-state microwave generator, capable of delivering pulses of energy that will heat a small volume of blood. The system integrates two antennas on a common catheter. The first antenna, located at the proximal end of the catheter is a “transmit” antenna. The second antenna, at the distal end of the catheter, is the “receiver” antenna. The time required for the warmed blood to travel between the two antennas is instantly measured, precisely determining blood flow rate. This technique eliminates the need for infusion of cold saline, and unlike conventional thermodilution, this solution can be used on a patient to continuously and safely measure blood flow rate.
For further information, please contact info@mms-llc.com