Biodegradable polymer for marking tissue and sealing tracts

Abstract

A tissue marker formed of a biodegradable polymer having drug-delivery capabilities is combined with a sealant that encapsulates the tissue marker and which serves to help anchor the tissue marker against migration. The sealant is delivered to a site in dehydrated form and moisture inherent in tissue at the site expands the sealant. The expanded sealant is formed of a hydrogel and is therefore more compatible to the surrounding tissue than the material of the tissue marker. The sealant and the tissue marker are both bioabsorbed over time.

1 . A method for performing a hepatic biopsy, comprising the steps of forming a bore in a liver by a biopsy procedure, providing a plug formed of an expandable sealant material, and sealing said bore at its surface with said plug to prevent bleeding, said plug expanding to securely seal the opening when contacted by bodily moisture.  
   
   
       2 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising the step of including a marker housed within the expandable sealant material, said markers having utility for viewing and drug delivery.  
   
   
       3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising the step of including marker particles housed within the expandable sealant material, said marker particles having utility for viewing and drug delivery.