Abstract: In order to later identify the location of a biopsy or surgery, various means and methods for permanently and non-surgically marking selected tissue in the human body are used. Later visualization of the markers is readily accomplished using state-of-the-art imaging systems.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for marking tissue to be subsequently located for removal from a body or for other examination. In general, a marker is provided that can be delivered through a tissue wall proximate to tissue desirable for marking. The marker can be movable between a non-deployed or unexpanded position, in which the marker is configured to be delivered through a relatively small diameter passageway, to an expanded, balloon-like position in which the marker is configured to engage opposed sides of a tissue wall proximate to the desired tissue. The marker can remain disposed in the body in its expanded position and be subsequently palpably identified and/or visually identified to locate the desired tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus for inserting a marking element into a marker body includes a body portion, an insertion member, and a pushing member. The body portion has a compartment configured to receive a marker body. The insertion member is configured to engage the marker body within the compartment. The pushing member is configured to engage with the insertion member. The pushing member is operable to force a marking element along the insertion member into the marker body. The insertion member may include a hollow needle configured to penetrate the marker body. The pushing member may include a pin configured to fit within the hollow needle. The marker body may include an opening such as a slit, a slot, or a passage that is configured to receive a marking element. The marker body may include a collagen dowel, and the marking element may be formed of titanium.

Abstract: A cannula for a marker deployment system is provided, including a tubular sidewall and at least one slit intersecting through the sidewall. The slit selectively permits at least a portion of the sidewall adjacent the slit to deform generally radially outward from an axis of the cannula.

Abstract: Tissue marking apparatus for marking a tissue mass of interest within the body of a patient are disclosed. The tissue marking apparatus include a handle, a tube operatively coupled to a distal end of the handle, a push rod disposed within the tube and extending into the handle, a firing mechanism retained within the handle and operatively coupled to a proximal end of the push rod, and a potential energy source configured and adapted to rapidly drive the push rod distally through the tube upon an activation of the firing mechanism. The tissue marking apparatus further includes a marker configured and dimensioned to be slidably received within the tube at a location distal of the push rod. The marker includes a capsule defining a chamber therein, an elongate tail extending from a distal end thereof, and at least one radioactive bead retained within the chamber of the capsule.

Abstract: A tattooing apparatus for marking animals includes a “U” shaped pliers and a disposable needle carrier that contains plurality of needles that are arranged in desired patterns to be pressed onto animals tissue using tattoo ink. The needle carrier is made of one-piece molded part that can quickly connect into the opening of pliers handle by means of snug fit to be used for purpose of animal tattooing.

Abstract: A target tissue localization device includes a tubular mesh anchor element that is secured to a placement device. In use, the localization device is passed through the patient's skin to the target tissue, creating a tissue track. The tubular mesh anchor element is located at the target tissue and expanded from a contracted to an expanded configuration. Methods for localizing a lymph node are also described. After determining the position of the lymph node, a localization device, which includes an anchor element, is localized near or within the lymph node. The anchor element is then expanded.

Abstract: A method of securing a biopsy marker within a biopsy site includes depositing a marker element within a biopsy site and fixing the marker element within the biopsy site by injecting a securing agent within the biopsy site. Delivery devices for delivering the securing agent to the biopsy site are also disclosed.

Abstract: A needle biopsy system for marking a sampling site is described.

Abstract: A new approach for a system and method for producing a substantially invisible medical tissue marker is described. In certain exemplary embodiments of the invention, the medical marker will become visible only when a light (energy) source is shined thereon. The visible action of the marker is accomplished, for example, utilizing materials that are multi-photon absorbers. In another exemplary embodiment, the medical marker will become visible for a given amount of time when the tissue marker is exposed to a specific light source.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method of marking the skin before surgery. The method includes the steps of providing first and second tape members each having a plurality of perforations defined therethrough, placing the first tape member on a portion of the skin overlying the right submandibular border, placing the second tape member on a portion of the skin overlying the left submandibular border, marking the skin through at least one of the perforations in the first tape member, marking the skin through at least one of the perforations in the second tape member, and removing the first and second tape members from the skin. In a preferred embodiment, the markings made using the first tape member are symmetrical with the markings made with the second tape member.

Abstract: A marker delivery device is described which has an obturator with an elongated shaft, an inner lumen, a proximal end, and a substantially sealed distal end. One or more tissue markers are deployed within the inner lumen of the elongated shaft of the obturator. Preferably, the tissue marker(s) is disposed within an inner lumen of a marker delivery tube which is disposed within the inner lumen of the elongated shaft of the obturator. The marker delivery tube has an opening for discharging the tissue markers into a body (e.g. biopsy) cavity. The distal tip of the marker delivery tube is configured to penetrate the substantially sealed distal end of the obturator so that tissue markers can be delivered while the obturator is in place within the body. Preferably, the obturator includes a detectable element capable of producing a relatively significant image signature during MRI.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for incrementally advancing functional probes through tissue.

Abstract: A needle-free injection device is described. The injection device includes a user-grippable housing and a syringe assembly movably secured to the housing. The syringe assembly is configured to expel injectable fluid out of a nozzle upon application of pressurized gas to the syringe assembly. The injection device also includes a pressurized gas delivery mechanism disposed within the housing and configured to selectively apply pressurized gas to the syringe assembly. The pressurized gas delivery mechanism is at least partly actuated by pressing the nozzle onto an injection site so that the syringe assembly moves relative to the housing.

Abstract: A sampling device (10) characterised by a male portion comprising a male base portion (12) and a sample removal means (30), and a female portion comprising a first female base portion (14) and a sample container (16), the sample removal means (30) being removably located on the male base portion (12) and the sample container (16) being removably located at least in part within the first female base portion (14), wherein as the male and female portions are brought together the sample removal means (30) collects a biological sample (47) from an animal being tagged, is received through the first female base portion (14), and lodges in the sample container (16), this action in turn introducing the sample to a sample receiving space (74) within the sample container (16), pushing the sample container (16) from the first female base portion, and sealing the sample receiving space (74), the sample removal means (30) being provided with an amount of sample preparative or preservative (45) that is available to the samp

Abstract: The invention relates to modified ear tags comprising a mandrel-type plate (10), a counter plate (11), in addition to a container for receiving a sample (1) and a means for obtaining the sample (4). The means for obtaining the sample (4) has a detachable hollow tip and the counter-plate (11) has no through opening for the mandrel. The invention relates more particularly to the use of the ear tags for genotypical analysis of animal populations and to a method for analyzing animal populations with the ear tags.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering subcutaneous cavity marking devices. More particularly, the delivery devices may be used with biopsy systems permitting efficient placement of a biopsy marker within a cavity. The device may include an intermediate member which assists in deployment of the marking device. The devices may also include a deployment lock to prevent premature deployment of a biopsy marker. The invention may further include the capability to match an orientation of a biopsy probe which has been rotated upon procurement of a biopsy sample.

Abstract: A needle biopsy system for marking a sampling site is described.

Abstract: A clip and a bioabsorbable marker are employed to mark a biopsy site. The former provides a permanent marker that is clamped onto tissue and that cannot migrate from the site over time. The latter is gradually bioabsorbed over time but the time may vary widely from weeks to months. In most embodiments, the clip and marker are integrally formed with one another at the time of manufacture. In one embodiment, the clip and marker are independently made but are joined to one another during the site-marking process. The markers are deployed by core biopsy needles of the type employing a vacuum, of the type that does not employ a vacuum, and by coaxial biopsy needles.

Abstract: A skin-marking device is disclosed that has a holder body and cap having a shape other than round, preferably triangular, to prevent the device from accidentally rolling off a flat surface. Measuring indicia is disposed on the device for accurately measuring distances. The device contains a dermatologically acceptable coloring agent for marking a patient's skin and one that may be selected from the group consisting of a radioopaque substance for x-ray diagnostic purposes, a fluorescent composition, a non-magnetic hydrogel for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging diagnostic purposes, a sterilizable gel ink, a combination of any of these, and a mixture of any of these. The holder body or cap may include a pocket clip or magnet attached thereto to permit the skin marker to be clipped inside a person's pocket or prevented from sliding off a magnetic drape or other magnetic surface, respectively.

Abstract: A site marker device and marker are provided. The site marker device includes a housing and a distally extending delivery tube. A pusher rod is movably positioned within the delivery tube to eject a marker from the distal end thereof. An elongated tubular body is positioned about the delivery tube. An actuator is provided to provide two stage advancement. During the first stage, the delivery tube and the pusher rod are advanced through the distal end of the elongated tubular body. During the second stage of advancement, the pusher rod is advanced independently of the delivery tube to eject a marker from the distal end thereof. The marker is formed from a shape memory material and has a circular or hoop configuration in the relaxed state.

Abstract: A sterile, disposable skin-marking device for applying a marking agent to the skin of a patient who is to undergo radiation therapy. The skin-marking device has a short single needle attached to the operating end of the device and a flexible housing that contains a rupturable cartridge of marking agent. When the cartridge is ruptured by flexing or compressing the housing, the marking agent flows into the needle, which is then used to penetrate the skin of the patient and mark treatment set-up points on the skin by applying the marking agent to the skin.

Abstract: A tattoo mark is applied to a hog prior to sending the hog to market within a sorting cage with a weigh scale for detecting a weight of the hog and a sorting gate operated by a control unit in response to the detected weight. The mark is applied by a tattoo head having marking members thereon by which impact of the tattoo head on the skin of the hog applies a tattoo mark to the skin and a drive mechanism for driving movement of the tattoo head from a retracted position to an operating position for impacting the skin, the drive mechanism being mounted on a mounting assembly separate from and attached to the confining cage at the confining cage. The control unit is arranged, in response to the determination of a hog weight above the predetermined limit, to operate the drive mechanism to apply the tattoo head to the skin to apply the mark to the hog for market while operating the gate to release the hog to the market pen.

Abstract: A circumferential ablation catheter is provided, which is particularly useful for treating atrial arrhythmia by ablating a substantial portion of a circumferential region of tissue in a tubular region of or near the heart of a patient. The catheter comprises an elongated tubular catheter body having an outer wall, proximal and distal ends, and at least one lumen extending therethrough. An ablation assembly is mounted at the distal end of the catheter body. The ablation assembly comprises a circumferential ablation element mounted on the distal end of the catheter body, and an inflatable balloon provided in surrounding relation to the circumferential ablation element. The inflatable balloon is adjustable between a radially collapsed position and a radially expanded position. The catheter further comprises a stabilization assembly mounted on the catheter distal to the ablation assembly.

Abstract: A method, device and kit for body decoration. Embodiments of the kit include an ink suitable for body decoration, means for applying the ink to a desired body area, and an electrically powered patch detachably coupled to the application means to promote penetration of the ink into the body area. Embodiments of the device include a fully integrated patch device. The patch device integrates the elements of a kit (i.e., a color formulation, a means for applying, and a patch) into a stand-alone patch. Embodiments of the method include contacting the desired body area with a means for applying, applying ink through the means for applying, and promoting penetration of the ink into the body area with the patch by applying electric current to the ink application. Exemplary applications include temporary and permanent tattooing, applying semi-permanent cosmetics, animal tattooing, and administering therapeutic treatments.

Abstract: A tattooing apparatus for marking animals includes a “U” shaped pliers and a disposable needle carrier that contains plurality of needles that are arranged in desired patterns to be pressed onto animals tissue using tattoo ink. The needle carrier is made of one-piece molded part that can quickly connect into the opening of pliers handle by means of snug fit to be used for purpose of animal tattooing.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for inhibiting longitudinal expansion of a body portion of an endoscopic sheath during inflation of an inflatable member are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sheath assembly includes a body portion adapted to encapsulate a distal end of an insertion tube, and an inflatable member coupled to the body portion and adapted to be inflated radially outwardly from the body portion. The sheath assembly further includes an expansion-inhibiting mechanism coupled to at least one of the inflatable member and the body portion. The expansion-inhibiting mechanism advantageously inhibits a longitudinal expansion of the body portion during inflation of the inflatable member. The expansion-inhibiting mechanism may assume a variety of embodiments, including, for example, a non-compliant member, a longitudinally-stretched portion, a reinforcing spring member, a pressure relief device, or a suitable detent mechanism.

Abstract: This invention is an improved tissue localizing device for fixedly yet removably marking a volume of tissue containing a suspect region for excision. This invention also encompasses methods for deployment of the localizing device and its excision along with the marked tissue volume. At least one locator element is deployed into tissue and assumes a predetermined curvilinear shape to define a tissue border containing a suspect tissue region along a path. The locator element path preferably encompasses the distalmost portion of the tissue volume without penetrating that volume. Multiple locator elements may be deployed to further define the tissue volume along additional paths defining the tissue volume border that do not penetrate the volume. Other localization wire embodiments of the invention are disclosed in which the tissue volume may be penetrated by a portion of the device.

Abstract: Marking instrument for producing marks, in particular for uses in optical surgery, having a head (12) comprising marking elements (14) and adjustable in relation to the object (16) to be marked, and an instrument handle (11) arranged thereon.

Abstract: A delivery system for placement of implantable occlusive devices allows placement of the devices place at selected treatment sites in the vascular system. Occlusive filaments produced from gel polymers are delivered by apparatus comprising various grippers, engagers, and couplers that are capable of holding onto the often slippery occlusive devices and of releasing and selectively severing them at desired treatment sites within the human body.

Abstract: A target tissue localization device (28) has outer and inner members (30, 32) which are longitudinally movable relative to one another. An anchor (42) is secured to the outer and inner members and is movable from a radially-contracted configuration to a radially-expanded configuration. The anchor may be a tubular mesh anchor. The anchor may have a sufficiently large cross-sectional area when in the radially-expanded configuration to substantially eliminate inadvertent dislodgment of the anchor once radially-expanded. In use, the location of the target tissue (56) is determined and the distal end of the localization device is passed through the patient's skin (58) and to the target tissue to create a tissue track (60) between the patient's skin and the target tissue. The target tissue includes near and far sides (62, 64). The anchor element, located at the target tissue is expanded to an expanded configuration. The method the anchor element may be located on the far side of the target tissue.

Abstract: A cardiac constraint jacket is formed of flexible material defining a volume between an open upper end and a lower end. The jacket is dimensioned for an apex of a patient's heart to be inserted into the volume through the open upper end and for the jacket to be slipped over the heart. The jacket includes a receiving member along its upper end for engagement to a delivery apparatus, the apparatus used in positioning the jacket on the heart. The delivery apparatus includes a handle and a band. The band is generally hoop shaped having a first end and a second end attached to the handle, the first end fixedly attached to the handle and the second end releasably attached to the handle. Alternatively, the first end can be attached to a releasable end cap of the handle. In use, the second end of the band is released from the handle and inserted into the jacket receiving member. The jacket is threaded onto the band and the band end re-attached to the handle.

Abstract: A method and system for applying temporary tattoos or other surface indications in locations remote from a region of medical/surgical treatment is disclosed. The method/system allows medical/surgical staff to indicate treatment and/or patient information in a non-invasive but reliable manner through temporary application of a tattoo or other surface indication at a location remote from a medical/surgical treatment region. The tattoos may include verbiage and/or schematic depictions, and advantageously convey information derived with respect to the patient/individual, e.g., allergies, physical conditions and the like. Utilization of the method/system of the present disclosure minimizes the likelihood of medical/surgical errors by effectively communicating information concerning individuals/patients to surgical/medical personnel.

Abstract: This invention is an improved tissue localizing device for fixedly yet removably marking a volume of tissue containing a suspect region for excision. This invention also encompasses methods for deployment of the localizing device and its excision along with the marked tissue volume. At least one locator element is deployed into tissue and assumes a predetermined curvilinear shape to define a tissue border containing a suspect tissue region along a path. The locator element path preferably encompasses the distalmost portion of the tissue volume without penetrating that volume. Multiple locator elements may be deployed to further define the tissue volume along additional paths defining the tissue volume border that do not penetrate the volume. Other localization wire embodiments of the invention are disclosed in which the tissue volume may be penetrated by a portion of the device.

Abstract: A marking pen for indicating the proper location of incisions to be made on a patient undergoing surgery is provided. The marking pen includes a handle having a first end and a second end; a wheel comprising a gelatinous ink-soaked polymer rotably attached to the first end of the handle; and a plurality of treads on a periphery of the wheel.

Abstract: This invention is an improved tissue localizing device for fixedly yet removably marking a volume of tissue containing a suspect region for excision. This invention also encompasses methods for deployment of the localizing device and its excision along with the marked tissue volume. At least one locator element is deployed into tissue and assumes a predetermined curvilinear shape to define a tissue border containing a suspect tissue region along a path. The locator element path preferably encompasses the distalmost portion of the tissue volume without penetrating that volume. Multiple locator elements may be deployed to further define the tissue volume along additional paths defining the tissue volume border that do not penetrate the volume. Other localization wire embodiments of the invention are disclosed in which the tissue volume may be penetrated by a portion of the device.

Abstract: A target tissue localization assembly includes a radially expandable tissue anchor connected to the distal ends of an anchor assembly and an elongated anchor actuator element. A lock, engageable between the actuator element and the placement element, may be used to prevent collapse of the anchor from its radially expanded state. A sheath may be slidably mounted over the anchor assembly. The sheath and the anchor assembly may be configured to permit the sheath to move in a proximal direction, relative to the anchor assembly, past a chosen location while preventing the sheath from moving past the chosen location in a distal direction.

Abstract: A device for safely tagging and releasing large fish includes a long pole to which is attached at its distal end a holder body for retaining therewithin an axially extending cutting blade and, at its tip portion, a tag applicator.

Abstract: The invention provides marker delivery devices, assemblies, and methods. Assemblies embodying features of the invention include marker delivery devices having a delivery tube with an orifice, markers, and a plug releasably disposed in the tube occluding the orifice. The plug prevents markers from passing through the orifice before the marker is to be placed at a desired location within a patient's body, prevents ingress of tissue into the bore of the tube, and allows markers to pass out of the orifice when marker delivery is desired. Guidance of a delivery tube to a desired location within a patient's body may include the use of an imaging device, with or without the use of a guide cannula. The plug may itself serve as a marker, and may be the sole marker. Markers may be detectable by ultrasound, X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, and other imaging devices, and may include bioactive elements.

Abstract: A site marker device and marker are provided. The site marker device includes a housing and a distally extending delivery tube. A pusher rod is movably positioned within the delivery tube to eject a marker from the distal end thereof. An elongated tubular body is positioned about the delivery tube. An actuator is provided to provide two stage advancement. During the first stage, the delivery tube and the pusher rod are advanced through the distal end of the elongated tubular body. During the second stage of advancement, the pusher rod is advanced independently of the delivery tube to eject a marker from the distal end thereof. The marker is formed from a shape memory material and has a circular or hoop configuration in the relaxed state.

Abstract: An ostomy siting device for determining and marking the position of a possible stoma comprising a stoma simulating first element and a second element simulating an adhesive wafer of an ostomy appliance and an optionally separately detachable collecting bag, said ostomy siting device having on the proximal side an adhesive surface for removable adhering to the abdominal skin of an ostomate to be provided a readily repositionable and reusable system for simulating the placement and physical configuration of the stoma and the collection system and for marking the optimum position of the stoma to be.

Abstract: A surgical site marking system for marking, correlating, and verifying that the surgical site which is to undergo the surgical procedure has been identified as the correct surgical site. The system utilizes labels and a series of checks to associate the patient with the correct surgery and appropriate surgical site.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering subcutaneous cavity marking devices. More particularly, the delivery devices may be used with biopsy systems permitting efficient placement of a biopsy marker within a cavity. The device may include an intermediate member which assists in deployment of the marking device. The devices may also include a deployment lock to prevent premature deployment of a biopsy marker. The invention may further include the capability to match an orientation of a biopsy probe which has been rotated upon procurement of a biopsy sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for tattooing animals, the device comprising a moving needle-carrier plate (4) whose needles (41) are designed to be covered in ink and to press, at the end of the stroke of the plate, against the skin (P) of an animal in order to tattoo it, and a spongy pad (6) soaked in ink lying on the path of the needles (41) and suitable for being pierced by the needles so that they project against the skin (P) of the animal at the moment of impact. It is remarkable in that said pad (6) is integrated with the plate (4), the assembly being moved by a hammer (8) housed in a guide barrel (5), and that said plate (4) is secured to the outside face (92) of a resilient diaphragm (9) which closes one end of said barrel (5).

Abstract: This invention is an improved tissue localizing device for fixedly yet removably marking a volume of tissue containing a suspect region for excision without penetrating that volume. This invention also encompasses methods for deployment of the localizing device and its excision along with the marked tissue volume. At least one locator element is deployed into tissue and assumes a predetermined curvilinear shape to define a tissue border containing a suspect tissue region along a path. The locator element path preferably encompasses the distalmost portion of the tissue volume without penetrating that volume. Multiple locator elements may be deployed to further define the tissue volume along additional paths defining the tissue volume border that do not penetrate the volume. Polar and tangential deployment configurations as well as a locator element that may be cold-formed by a die in the distal portion of the deployment tube into a permanent arcuate shape is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical instrument comprising an instrument body (8), an instrument tip (5) and a tracking means (1, 2, 4), characterized in that said instrument tip (5) is fitted with a touch-sensor (3) which detects a contact between said tip (5) and an object, for example a patient. It is preferably realized as an indicator device or pointer, in particular as a registering pointer for instrument tracking systems.

Abstract: A medical device (10) includes at least a stylet (12) for establishing the location of tissue of interest, such as a nonpalpable lesion in breast tissue. The device may also include a needle assembly (14) and an aspiration syringe (16). The medical device (10) can most readily be understood as an improvement in Kopans-type or hookwire-type localizer stylet having a wire shaft (18) with a distal end (28), and a hook (36) depending in a proximal direction from the wire shaft (18). The improvements entail spacing the hook (36) proximally of the distal end (28) of the wire shaft (18), and providing the wire shaft with a twist between the hook (36) and the distal end (28) of the wire shaft (18). Wire shaft (18) has first and second wire segments (20 and 30), each including a respective distal twisted portion (24 or 34) adjacent its respective distal end (22 or 32).

Abstract: A tool is provided for use in acquiring a treatment portal on the skin surface of a patient undergoing radiation therapy or the like. The portal acquisition tool includes a template portion having a cut-out pattern for marking the treatment portal on the skin and a handle portion which both facilitates use of the template and includes ruled markings for taking measurements. Additionally, the handle portion is provided with transverse lines for assisting the therapist in altering the source-to-skin distance during the administration of electron energy and an opaque backing which serves as a screen for reflecting the optical distance indicator projected by the linear accelerator.

Abstract: A pellet implant system and method of implanting a plurality of implants that include at least one pharmaceutical pellet implant and at least one non-pharmaceutical device implant in an animal or human in a single combined procedure. The system includes (1) an implanter apparatus for subcutaneously implanting pharmaceutical pellets or implantable non-pharmaceutical devices in an animal or human through the bore of a hypodermic needle, and (2) a plurality of pellets that include that include at least one pharmaceutical pellet and at least one non-pharmaceutical device pellet sized to be implanted through the needle. The needle is used to puncture the skin of the animal or human. Pellets are delivered under the skin of the animal or human into the through the needle in a single injection. The system minimizes the number of skin punctures required for implanting multiple implants in an animal or human, thus reducing the risk of infection in the animal or human associated with the implant administration.

Abstract: A medication administration system includes an application assembly having a syringe assembly coupled within the application assembly. A trigger handle of the application assembly is operationally coupled to the syringe assembly such that actuation of the trigger handle actuates the syringe assembly. The syringe assembly is for administering medication to an animal. A needle assembly is in fluid communication with the syringe assembly. The needle assembly is for piercing the hide of the animal such that the syringe assembly is adapted for applying medication to a blood stream of the animal. A sling assembly is for carrying a medication supply assembly. The sling assembly is adapted for selectively coupling to a user. The medication supply assembly is in fluid communication with the syringe assembly such that the medication supply assembly is adapted for supplying medication to the syringe assembly.