Marking device with metallic element for use in x-ray guided surgery

Abstract

A disposable marker for use in preparation for medical procedures. The marker is made of plastic or such similar material that does not show up on an x-ray monitor. The marker includes one or more metallic elements that have an elongated aspect disposed in proximity to the marker tip. As such, a clinician may introduce the marker into an x-ray field and view it in space by following the metallic element an x-ray monitor.

1 - 13 . (canceled) 
     
     
         14 . A method of performing an x-ray guided interventional procedure, comprising:
 marking or locating a puncture site on a patient, said method comprising the steps of: focusing an x-ray generator on an external surface of a patient; radiating x-rays on the external surface of the patient to form an x-ray field; viewing anatomical features of the patient on an x-ray monitor associated with the x-ray generator; introducing a marker having a marking tip into the x-ray field, whereby the marker comprises a material that does not obstruct the passage of radiant energy, and whereby the marker further comprises a metallic element having an elongated aspect disposed in proximity to the marking tip; viewing the metallic element in said x-ray field on the monitor;   moving the marker in relation to the anatomical features displayed on the monitor; locating an area of interest on the external surface of the patient; and pressing the marking tip on said area of interest to transfer ink to the area of interest or locating the area of interest; and performing the interventional procedure on the patient.   
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 14 , wherein the interventional procedure is vascular surgery. 
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 14 , wherein the interventional procedure comprises inserting a line into an artery or body site through a small incision, wherein the incision is at the puncture site marked or located on the patient's skin. 
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 14 , wherein the interventional procedure is on a spinal column.