Better MRI guidance for children's heart catheter procedures using automated multi-beat imaging
Improved MRI guidance of pediatric catheterization via autonomous multi-beat data synthesis
Using software that blends MRI data from multiple heartbeats to create clearer real-time images during catheter procedures for children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11374237 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will combine MRI data from several heartbeats with automated image-synthesis algorithms to produce clearer, real-time images during pediatric heart catheter procedures. The team plans to use low-field MRI and new processing methods to minimize device heating and improve soft-tissue contrast without X-ray radiation. Work includes developing the algorithms, testing image quality, and integrating the methods into clinical workflows for procedures. The goal is to make MRI-guided catheterizations faster, clearer, and safer for children with complex heart anatomy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children who need heart catheterization—especially those with complex congenital heart anatomy or who require repeat procedures—would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who do not need catheterization or who cannot have an MRI (for example, due to incompatible implants or severe claustrophobia) are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could make heart catheter procedures safer and more accurate for children by avoiding X-ray radiation and giving clearer images.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier first-in-human work showed MRI can guide some cardiac interventions, but real-time image quality has been limited and MRI guidance remains uncommon.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Contijoch, Francisco J — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Contijoch, Francisco J
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.