MCEI will support 4D CATH, a dkfz/ Universitätsklinikum Mannheim medical engineering spin-off, with full-time master thesis student Patrick Bach in the venture and dedicated advise. We are looking forward to an inspriring project and collaboration. The project is part of our Mannheim Accelerator initiative and connects to a very fruitful working relationship.
More on 4D CATH:
Catheter procedures play a big role in medicine. Thousands of cardiac cath lab procedures are being performed in the US alone per year. Chances are that every other person will have at least one procedure in their lifetime. Current cardiac cath lab is being performed similar to old fashioned cinema movies - in 2D. The invention here allows physicians to perform future procedures in 3D. While 3D imaging is being used in almost all fields of medical imaging up to date, real-time 3D imaging was not possible in the past for cath lab procedures. CATH 4D employs a technology that is comparable to mp3 for music or mpeg for the movies - it reduces the necessary data. And since in X-ray based imaging data relates to radiation, CATH 4D was able to squeeze the radiation to such a low level that one could think about true 3D imaging for the cath lab. The 4D CATH method greatly improves the overview of the performing physician and decreases the chances of complications.
Aims of 4D CATH
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To build a real-time 4D imaging platform for minimal-invasive interventions
- To bring proof of concepts towards product readiness
- To creat demand by showing the potential of real-time 4D intervention guidance
Benefits of 4D CATH
Medical doctors:
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More accurate image guidance (spatial position of intervention instruments is always clear)
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Lower education threshold to learn new procedures - more procedures can be offered
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New approaches might become feasible - “turf” moves towards interventionalists …
Hospitals:
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A wider range of procedures can be offered
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Faster procedures
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New technology produces vivid images comprehensible by lay people - marketing fuzz
Patients:
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Safer and faster procedures
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Less invasive procedures
- More target oriented, less adverse effects
For more information, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Sönke Bartling via the MCEI Network.
Background:
The dkfz, the ifm and MCEI have successfully cooperated on several projects before. Our joint mission is to foster entrepreneurship and technology transfer in the Rhein Neckar Region. In the realm of our Mannheim Student Accelerator, we have sent more than 5 students to support dkfz spin-offs with dedicated master thesis projects so far. There is a very good working relationship to build on. If you are interested in such a project or a technology transfer project for your master thesis, get in touch. Sent an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will figure out whether there is a potential project for you.
