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instrument is withdrawn, and when the marked tissue is subsequently moved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.