Client Success Stories: Innovating Cardiology with Advanced Imaging Technology

At Rx Device Consulting, we pride ourselves on partnering with forward-thinking startups to bring groundbreaking medical technologies to market. One of our recent collaborations involved a pioneering company in the interventional cardiology space. This startup was developing a novel catheter-based intravascular imaging device designed to capture optical coherence tomography (OCT) and spectroscopy data from within coronary vessels. The goal was to identify critical lesions and facilitate the precise placement of cardiac stents. Here’s how we helped them realize their vision.

Developing the Core Software Platform

The startup contracted Rx Device Consulting to develop the software platform that would control the imaging hardware subsystems and provide the primary user interface for the device. Recognizing the complexity of the project, we quickly assembled a team of software experts who could deliver on the ambitious goals.

Our team worked closely with various hardware subsystem vendors to create a state machine-based software platform that could control multiple, intricate hardware components. This platform was essential for enabling the subsystems to function harmoniously, allowing the device to perform accurate and reliable scans. We ensured that the software could manage the synchronization of these components, which is crucial for acquiring high-quality imaging data.

Optimizing Data Communication and Processing

A critical aspect of the project was developing efficient data communication pipelines that could rapidly transfer large volumes of imaging data to the user interface for real-time visualization. Given the demanding requirements of intravascular imaging, it was essential that the data be processed and displayed with minimal latency.

We integrated externally developed algorithms, running on a GPU, to perform complex segmentation tasks necessary for analyzing the imaging data. This integration enabled the device to process and visualize the OCT and spectroscopy data in real-time, providing cardiologists with the critical information needed to make informed decisions during procedures.

Enhancing Device Integration and Multi-Modality Fusion

Understanding the importance of interoperability in a cardiac catheterization lab, we developed modules to integrate the startup’s device with other commonly used equipment. This included real-time X-ray systems used for catheter tracking, allowing for multi-modality fusion of data. The ability to overlay OCT and spectroscopy data onto X-ray images significantly enhances the precision of stent placement and other interventional procedures.

Additionally, we enabled the communication of image data to external systems, such as Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), using standard formats like DICOM. This functionality ensures that imaging data can be easily accessed, stored, and reviewed by healthcare providers, further enhancing the device’s utility in clinical settings.

Driving Innovation in Interventional Cardiology

Through our collaboration, the startup has made significant strides in advancing interventional cardiology. Their novel imaging device now offers cardiologists a powerful tool for visualizing the interior of coronary vessels, identifying critical lesions, and guiding the precise placement of stents. The integration of multi-modality imaging and real-time data processing has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes in complex cardiovascular procedures.

Partner with Rx Device Consulting for Success

At Rx Device Consulting, we specialize in helping startups navigate the complexities of medical device development, from software and hardware integration to regulatory strategy. Our expertise in the cardiology space and beyond ensures that your innovation meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. If your company is developing a cutting-edge medical device, visit our website or contact us today at info@rxdeviceconsulting.com. Partner with us to bring your visionary technology to market and transform patient care.