Location tracking of a metallic object in a living body

Abstract

A method and apparatus are provided for determining and tracking location of a metallic object in a living body, and then directing a second modality such as ultrasound waves to the determined location. The metal detector may be a radar detector adapted to operate on a living body. The adaption may include disposing a transfer material having electromagnetic properties similar to the body between the radar detector and the living body, ECG gating the radar detector, and/or employing an optimal estimator with a model of expected stent movement in a living body. Applications include determination of extent of in-stent restenosis, performing therapeutic thrombolysis, or determining operational features of a metallic implant.

1 . Apparatus for use in diagnostic imaging, comprising:
 a metal detector adapted for determining location of a metallic object in a living body;   an ultrasound probe; and   guiding means for directing said probe at the location determined by the metal detector.   
     
     
         2 .- 51 . (canceled)