Abstract
Flow-loop systems are valuable tools due to their ability to mimic the intravascular environment. Here we propose a novel flow-loop system designed to train resident physicians in endovascular procedures with quantitative feedback in the form of size characterization of microemboli within the loop. The flow-loop incorporates a peristaltic pump to mimic physiological pulsatile flow with varying tube diameters to customize vascular resistance and custom housing for a pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound probe. We conducted proof-of-concept studies using velocity-based, pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound to correlate signal with particle size and found an inverse relationship between particle size and both displacement and average time per signal spike. These results suggest the ability to distinguish particles down to size 40 μm with sizes differing more than 300 μm. Future research will be focused on reducing data noise from Doppler Ultrasound probes, increasing data granularity, and testing carotid filters with the system. Envisioned for use in academic settings, this system will be a highly customizable tool for training resident physicians, allowing objective metrics for specific interventional procedures.
