Devices and methods for marking a biopsy site

Abstract

A biopsy localization device made according to the invention includes an intracorporeal delivery cannula and at least one marker disposed within an inner lumen of the delivery cannula. The marker includes an expandable fibrous body with at least one radiographically detectable marker element. The expandable fibrous body may also be bioabsorbable. Methods of use of the device are also described.

1 . An intracorporeal marker delivery device for a tissue site, comprising: 
 an intracorporeal delivery cannula which has a tissue penetrating distal tip, an inner lumen and a discharge opening in communication with the inner lumen; and    at least one marker disposed within the inner lumen of the delivery cannula which includes an expandable biodegradable or bioabsorbable fibrous body with at least one radiographically detectable marker element.    
     
     
         2 . A method of marking to a desired intracorporeal location within a patient, comprising: 
 (a) providing a delivery cannula having an inner lumen and a discharge opening in a distal portion thereof;    (b) providing at least one marker which includes an expandable biodegradable or bioabsorbable fibrous body with at least one radiographically detectable marker element and which is slidably disposed within the inner lumen of the delivery cannula;    (c) inserting the delivery cannula with the at least one marker into a patient;    (d) advancing the delivery cannula within the patient until the distal portion of the cannula is disposed within a desired intracorporeal location; and    (e) discharging the at least one marker from an opening in a distal portion of the cannula into the desired intracorporeal location.