Fiber Optic RealShape (FORS) Technology for Endovascular Navigation in Severe Tortuous Vessels

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the use of a wire and catheters embedded with optical fiber (Fiber Optic RealShape [FORS]) to catheterize tortuous target vessels avoiding radiation.

TECHNIQUE: A virtual biplane vies was simulated coupling traditional x-ray system, preoperative CT scan, and FORS system to treat an isolated hypogastric aneurysm. Despite the complex anatomy, catheterization of all target vessels was possible in 12 minutes with 19 seconds of fluoroscopy time (Radiation Exposure 3.8 mGy×cm2). A minimal invasive endovascular exclusion of the aneurysm was achieved through selective coil-embolization of the iliolumbar artery and implantation of balloon expandable covered stents, thus preserving the perfusion of the superior gluteal artery.

CONCLUSION: FORS guidance allowed catheterization of a target vessel with challenging anatomy with a low radiation exposure.