Radiographic tissue marker

Radiographic tissue markers are implantable or injectable devices designed to provide visible landmarks in soft tissues for precise guidance during medical procedures such as image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) and surgery. They address challenges in localizing small tumors or lesions that are difficult to distinguish from surrounding tissues on imaging like CT, MRI, or ultrasound, enabling reduced safety margins in radiation therapy and improved intraoperative localization in procedures like video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) or breast cancer excision[2]. Examples include liquid systems like Carbo-gel, which form stable depots after injection via small-gauge needles and offer multimodal visibility (radiographic, MRI, US, NIR fluorescence) without significant migration or toxicity in preclinical models[2]. Solid devices like BioZorb incorporate radiopaque materials (e.g., titanium) for permanent marking but have faced FDA safety communications due to complications[3]. These markers enhance the translation of high-resolution diagnostic imaging to therapeutic interventions, particularly for nonpalpable lung nodules, breast lesions, or lymph nodes, though challenges persist with palpability, stability, and compatibility across imaging modalities[2]. Overall, they are tools for procedural accuracy rather than biological molecules like receptors or enzymes[1][2][3].

Other names

Fiducial markersoft tissue markerimplantable markerCarbo-gel markerBioZorb marker