The invention is directed biopsy site markers and methods of marking a biopsy
site, so that the location of the biopsy cavity is readily visible by conventional
imaging methods, particularly by ultrasonic imaging. The biopsy site markers of
the invention have high ultrasound reflectivity, presenting a substantial acoustic
signature from a small marker, so as to avoid obscuring diagnostic tissue features
in subsequent imaging studies, and can be readily distinguished from biological
features. The several disclosed embodiments of the biopsy site marker of the invention
have a high contrast of acoustic impedance as placed in a tissue site, so as to
efficiently reflect and scatter ultrasonic energy, and preferably include gas-filled
internal pores. The markers may have a non-uniform surface contour to enhance the
acoustic signature. The markers have a characteristic form which is recognizably
artificial during medical imaging. The biopsy site marker may be accurately fixed
to the biopsy site so as to resist migration from the biopsy cavity when a placement
instrument is withdrawn, and when the marked tissue is subsequently moved or manipulated.