The minimally invasive approach has revolutionized surgical care by significantly reducing postoperative pain, recovery time, and hospital stay durations while improving cosmetic outcomes and overall cost-effectiveness. Society benefits from lower healthcare costs due to patients' quick recovery, fewer inpatient procedures, and reduced complications. Image-guided minimally invasive procedures are pivotal, especially in endovascular interventions by cardiologists and vascular surgeons, where precise navigation using guidewires and catheters is crucial. Traditional X-ray imaging, however, exposes patients and staff to radiation. A recently developed passive, wireless sensor, known as a magneto-mechanical resonator (MMR), offers a novel method for continuous position and orientation determination without radiation while also capturing physiological data. These submillimeter-sized permanent magnets can be integrated into medical instruments or used as passive implants for monitoring chemical properties and chronic diseases like diabetes. The MMR technology's low complexity and scalability make it economically appealing, especially in developing countries with limited access to vascular interventions.

Our research group focuses on several key areas related to MMR technology: first, we conduct fundamental research to deepen the understanding of MMR technology itself. Secondly, we are developing spectroscopic methods for high-precision characterization and analysis of the sensors. Thirdly, we work on the development of inductively coupled sensing devices for the readout and manipulation of MMRs, alongside control methods for these resonators. Lastly, we are advancing the development of tracking and sensing methods to enhance the functionality and applicability of MMR technology in various medical and technological contexts.

Contact

• Jonas Faltinath
• Martin Möddel