Real-time in vivo magnetic induction tomography in rabbits: a feasibility study

Abstract

Abstract As a noncontact, noninvasive medical imaging technique, magnetic induction tomography (MIT) can measure the conductivity distribution inside the human body. Moreover, animal testing is crucial before performing clinical trials. An abdominal subcutaneous injection rabbit model was used to simulate two local conductivity perturbations, that is, (1) injecting a 0.9% NaCl solution and (2) injecting in vitro heparinized blood. Using an improved MIT data acquisition system to record the data, a series of time-difference reconstructed images were obtained for every 3 ml of injection. The target with an increased conductivity distribution can clearly be observed in the reconstructed images. The maximum target value in all the images increased with the injection dosage. The slopes of the regression line for the mean of the maximum target value in the two groups were statistically different. This preliminary rabbit test shows the feasibility of the in vivo application for MIT and will be the basis for further animal tests.