Can Fiber Optic RealShape (FORS) Technology Provide a Viable Alternative to X-Rays for Aortic Procedures?

For many decades, interventionalists had to rely upon two-dimensional X-ray views to guide devices through blood vessels but the emergence of Fiber Optic RealShape (FORS) technology may enhance the ease and efficiency with which complex aortic procedures are performed.

In an interview, Atul Gupta, M.D., noted the FORS technology (Philips), which provides 3D light-based imaging of blood vessels as opposed to two-dimensional X-ray imaging, has led to a 37 percent reduction in procedure time and a 56 percent reduction in radiation exposure for complex aortic procedures at one facility as per a recent study published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery.¹

Dr. Gupta said the recently launched LumiGuide (Philips) takes FORS technology a step further. LumiGuide offers artificial intelligence (AI)-based recognition, which facilitates efficient registration of guidewires as well as enhanced accuracy, and 3D Hub technology that enables visualization of any catheter in 3D and without radiation, even from angles that one can’t physically achieve with a standard C-arm device, noted Dr. Gupta, the chief medical officer for Image-Guided Therapy and Precision Diagnosis at Philips.

(Editor’s note: For related content, see “Study Examines Photon-Counting CT for CAD Detection in Patients Having TAVR Procedures,” “Key Takeaways from Multidisciplinary Roundtable on Intravascular Ultrasound Use for Peripheral Vascular Interventions” and “Emerging Concepts with ICM Reduction and Photon Counting for Coronary CT Angiography.”)

“With FORS technology, clinicians can carry out portions of these minimally invasive interventions like aortic (procedures) without the need for X-ray. That should minimize the risks associated with that long-term radiation exposure,” emphasized Dr. Gupta, the medical director and founder of Interventional Vascular Consultants in Philadelphia.

For more insights from Dr. Gupta, watch the video below.

Reference

1. Finnesgard EJ, Simons JP, Jones DW, et al. Initial single-center experience using Fiber Optic RealShape guidance in complex endovascular aortic repair. J Vasc Surg. 2023;77(4):975-981.