A novel polymeric coating for enhanced ultrasound visibility of medical devices.

A dynamic novel coating, consisting of a hydrophilic polymeric matrix and a bubbling agent, has been developed for precise entry and positioning of needles, and accurate collection of biopsy samples. These coated biopsy needles have been successfully used in in vitro trials. The results are discussed here. Potential application areas include vascular, cardiovascular and orthopaedics.