Multipoint pressure measurement in blood vessel model for evaluation of intravascular treatment of cerebral aneurysm using fiber-optic pressure sensors

In recent years, endovascular coil embolization for cerebral aneurysms has been used as an effective and minimally invasive treatment. However, the therapeutic effects might be deteriorated due to the incorrect positioning of the coils in the aneurysm or insufficient reduction of the blood flow in the neck area of the aneurysm. Therefore, the quantitative evaluation of the therapeutic effects of coil embolization is important. We have developed a system that measures intraaneurysmal pressure in the blood vessel model at multipoint using ultra-miniature fiber-optic pressure sensors. The blood vessel model including aneurysm model is fabricated using Poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogel (PVA-H). Two ultra-miniature fiber-optic pressure sensors are inserted from outside and placed in the aneurysm area. Two commercially available pressure sensors were also connected to both the upstream and downstream sides of the model. The pressure measurement was performed in the aneurysm and in the adjacent blood vessel. Pressure were measured before and after coil placement in the aneurysm.