A vena cava filter is a device inserted into a major vein to prevent a thrombus (blood clot) from entering the lungs, which could cause a pulmonary embolism. This device will trap the blood clot in a cage before it reaches the lungs.

Vena cava filter which traps blood clots, preventing them from entering the lungs

The MRI image below of a standard vena cava filter shows that the image of the filter is disrupted and the physician can’t see within the filter. This is a standard control filter, without Biophan’s patented resonator technology.

Standard MRI image of vena cava filter, showing that the filter interferes with the MRI image

Biophan’s resonator technology overcomes the MRI interference. To demonstrate, Biophan set up a laboratory experiment using a phantom (material that simulates human tissue). In this case, the phantom simulates a blood clot (left).

Biophan’s resonator technology allows for visualizing inside vena cava filter

In the MRI image on the right (above), the material is effectively imaged within the vena cava filter due to the application of Biophan’s proprietary resonator  technology. This is resonant-frequency circuitry tuned to the exact MRI frequency. Developed by the Biophan Europe division, based in Germany, this technology has significant implications for the future of medical imaging. The ability to effectively visualize allows a physician to easily determine the degree of clotting within the filter and to know whether it is safe to remove the device or if it is necessary to take other actions. This kind of vital, accurate information will lead to better diagnoses and safer procedures for patients.