Defibrillation Current Density Imaging

Authors

  • Richard S. Yoon Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto
  • Tim P. DeMonte Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto
  • Dawn Jorgenson Heartstream Operation, Philips Medical Systems
  • Michael L.G. Joy Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto

Abstract

Low frequency current density imaging (LFCDI) using a magnetic resonance (MR) imager has been shown to accurately measure electrical current density inside a phantom. CDI measures the magnetic field generated by the current and converts it to current density (CD) by computing its curl. This makes CDI an ideal technique for studying the current flow inside the body during electrical therapies such as defibrillation where the current density in tissue is closely associated with the efficacy. Here we report simultaneous measurements of current density at all points within the pig torso during an electrical current application through defibrillation electrodes. We observed current flow over the chest walls in agreement with the current literature. However, complex and unexpected current flow patterns were seen inside the heart as well as in the surrounding vasculature. This study represents the first non-invasive volume current measurement inside the pig torso during an electrical current application.

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Published

2002-12-31

How to Cite

[1]
R. S. Yoon, T. P. DeMonte, D. Jorgenson, and M. L. Joy, “Defibrillation Current Density Imaging”, CMBES Proc., vol. 27, no. 1, Dec. 2002.

Issue

Vol. 27 (2002)

Section

Academic