MAGNETIC ANATOMICAL MARKER AND METHOD OF USE

An anatomical marker uses a permanent magnet to indicate a selected location within a patient. The magnet is enclosed within a non-degradable envelop and is coupled to a retention membe r that is preferably manufactured from a biodegradable material, such as a polyglucuronic acid based material. The retention member may include one or more barbs to retain the anatomical marker in the selected location. An insertion tool, usable with an endoscope , can insert the anatomical marker. A retention magnet is fixedly attached to the insertion tool and holds the anatomical marker in place due to the attractive magnetic forces between the retention magnet and the marker magnet in the non-biodegradable envelope. Wh en the anatomical marker is securely fastened at the selected location in the patient, the forces exerted by the patient's bo dy on the retention member exceed the attractive magnetic forces between the retention magnet and the magnet in the envelope, thus causing the anatomical marker to be released from the insertion tool. The location of the magnet may be subsequently detected usin g a magnetic detector system.