Target identification tool for intra-body localization

Abstract

A marker device that aids in the subsequent identification of a particular area is equipped with an anchoring device that prevents migration once placed in the tissue of that particular area. The device may include a chemical agent or drug that adds a therapeutic function to the marker device.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A device for marking a target location in a patient body, comprising:
 a body portion configured to be located by a locating modality; and   a water-soluble capsule surrounding the body portion, the capsule including an image guidance material;   wherein the device is secured in the patient by action of the water-soluble capsule.   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the material for image guidance is selected from the group including radiopaque dyes and contrast agents. 
     
     
         3 . The device of  claim 2 , wherein the material for image guidance is selected from the group including BaSO4, Omnipaque, or metallic particles. 
     
     
         4 . The device of  claim 3 , wherein the material for image guidance is selected from the group including copper or gold particles. 
     
     
         5 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the body portion includes at least one anchoring feature. 
     
     
         6 . The device of  claim 5 , wherein the at least one anchoring feature is selected from the group including ridges, spikes, rough surfaces, and barbs. 
     
     
         7 . The device of  claim 6 , wherein the at least one anchoring feature inhibits the migration of the body portion relative to the tissue. 
     
     
         6 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the water-soluble capsule has a smooth configuration. 
     
     
         7 . The device of  claim 6 , wherein the water-soluble capsule is configured to minimize trauma upon insertion into the tissue. 
     
     
         8 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the capsule is formed of a water-soluble polymer. 
     
     
         9 . The device of  claim 8 , wherein the capsule is formed of a hydrogel. 
     
     
         10 . A method of implanting a device into tissue comprising:
 providing a body portion configured to be located using a locating modality;   completely encapsulating the body portion with a water-soluble material including a material for image guidance; and   injecting the device into the patient such that the material for image guidance becomes disposed in the tissue.   
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 10 , further including providing at least one anchoring feature on the body portion. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein providing the body portion includes the at least one anchoring feature being configured as one or more of ridges, spikes, rough surfaces, and barbs. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein completely encapsulating the body portion includes the water-soluble material being formed of a water-soluble polymer. 
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein injecting the device includes injecting the device into a portion of tissue such that the device is completely surrounded by tissue. 
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 10 , further comprising locating the body portion using a locating modality. 
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein completely encapsulating the body portion includes providing a smooth outer surface on the body portion. 
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein completely encapsulating the body portion includes selecting the image guidance material from the group including radiopaque dyes and contrast agents. 
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein completely encapsulating the body portion includes selecting the image guidance material from the group including BaSO4, Omnipaque, and metallic particles.