Magnetic microcatheter rides blood flow for deeper vessel access

Researchers at EPFL have developed MagFlow, an ultraminiaturized magnetic microcatheter that leverages blood flow and magnetism to navigate the body’s narrowest arteries—some thinner than a human hair. Unlike traditional guidewire-based catheters, which are slow, difficult to steer, and risk damaging vessel walls, MagFlow uses the bloodstream’s kinetic energy to move forward, minimizing contact with vessel walls. This innovation could significantly expand treatment options for conditions such as stroke, arteriovenous malformations, and pediatric eye cancers by reaching vessels previously inaccessible to conventional catheters. The device consists of two bonded polymer sheets forming a flexible body capable of inflating to deliver various liquids, including contrast agents and embolizing materials. Steering is achieved through a robotic control system called OmniMag, which uses a magnetic field generator guided by a doctor’s hand movements to precisely orient MagFlow’s magnetic tip. Successful animal trials demonstrated safe navigation through complex, narrow arteries in pigs, delivering therapeutic agents effectively.