Abstract: Methods and apparatus for use in supporting and/or guiding a medical device to be inserted into the body of a patient.

Abstract: An apparatus for percutaneously implanting a localization wire into a tissue mass comprises a cannula with a preloaded localization wire. An actuator is provided to effect the relative movement of the cannula and localization wire such that a distal end of the localization wire is exposed to the tissue mass. A method for implanting a localization wire includes inserting a cannula with a preloaded localization wire into a tissue mass and relatively moving the cannula and localization wire to expose a portion of the localization wire to the tissue mass.

Abstract: A delivery apparatus for the percutaneous placement of a medical device at an area of interest in a tissue mass comprises an introducer comprising a cannula having an insertion tip, an expulsion opening near the insertion tip, and a medical device within the cannula comprising an imaging element, and a guide element connected to the imaging element and having a separable portion, and wherein the cannula is inserted into the tissue mass such that the medical device can be expelled through the expulsion opening into the tissue mass, and when the cannula is withdrawn from the tissue mass, the imaging element is placed within the tissue mass at the area of interest, and at least part of the guide element extends exteriorly of the tissue mass, and when the separable portion is separated from the guide element, no part of the guide element extends exteriorly of the tissue mass.

Abstract: A biopsy marking apparatus for placing a radiopaque marker at the location of a percutaneous biopsy. The biopsy marking apparatus comprises an introducer in combination with a radiopaque marker. The introducer ejects the radiopaque marker at the location of the biopsy. The introducer is configured to completely eject the radiopaque marker and prevent it from being subsequently drawn into the introducer as the introducer is removed from the biopsied tissue mass. The radiopaque marker has enhanced radiopaque characteristics and enhanced non-migration characteristics.

Abstract: A biopsy marking apparatus for placing a radiopaque marker at the location of a percutaneous biopsy. The biopsy marking apparatus comprises an introducer in combination with a radiopaque marker. The introducer ejects the radiopaque marker at the location of the biopsy. The introducer is configured to completely eject the radiopaque marker and prevent it from being subsequently drawn into the introducer as the introducer is removed from the biopsied tissue mass. The radiopaque marker has enhanced radiopaque characteristics and enhanced non-migration characteristics.

Abstract: A connection device for supporting one of a plurality of accessories with respect to a support surface includes a two piece suction cup. The two piece suction cup has an outer shell and a flexible inner member attached to a plunger which extends through the shell. The plunger terminates in a connector configured to engage with a connection feature on each of the accessories. The connection device acts to support a generally universal connector with respect to a support surface.