FDA clears Echo-Coat needles

STS Biopolymers of Rush, NY, has received 510(k) clearance for its line of Echo-Coat needles for ultrasound-guided biopsy applications. The needles are coated with a biocompatible polymer material that acts like an ultrasound contrast agent, providing a clear picture of the needle under ultrasound guidance, according to the company. STS believes that Echo-Coat will prompt physicians to use ultrasound for guiding biopsy procedures, rather than more expensive technologies like MRI or CT.