An MRI/US/X-Ray Compatible Breast Localization Marker: In Vivo Evaluation1

A positive contrast, tri-modality tissue marker for breast tumour localization

“…Studies of marker shelf life as well as safety for use in vivo based on animal studies are needed. Previous work with our markers sterilized with 30 kGy gamma radiation, showed no long term adverse biological effects in a rabbit model based on histology studies (Li et al 2005a). Similarly, previous studies showed that this construct was stable over a 7 week period post-implantation in muscle; however the stability with regard to migration through the breast tissue needs to be assessed.…”

“…Ultrasound contrast was achieved by scattering from copper microspheres while x-ray contrast was clear on the basis of the copper attenuation. As with our previous glass-filled markers, further research is needed to explore the use of a biocompatible polyurethane material to form a thin layer to seal the marker and to provide a level of mechanical stabilization (Li et al 2005a). Studies of marker shelf life as well as safety for use in vivo based on animal studies are needed.…”

“…In order to address this limitation, we previously proposed a novel tri-modality marker (Li et al 2005a) composed of glass microspheres (0.4-0.6 mm) fixed in a cylindrical gelatin matrix. Loading the marker with glass microspheres provided omni-directional ultrasound scattering to provide a clear, positive ultrasound contrast regardless of the relative orientation of the marker to the ultrasound probe.…”