This invention discloses a method and apparatus to deliver medical devices
to targeted locations within human tissues using imaging data. The method
enables the target location to be obtained from one imaging system,
followed by the use of a second imaging system to verify the final
position of the device. In particular, the invention discloses a method
based on the initial identification of tissue targets using MR imaging,
followed by the use of ultrasound imaging to verify and monitor accurate
needle positioning. The invention can be used for acquiring biopsy
samples to determine the grade and stage of cancer in various tissues
including the brain, breast, abdomen, spine, liver, and kidney. The
method is also useful for delivery of markers to a specific site to
facilitate surgical removal of diseased tissue, or for the targeted
delivery of applicators that destroy diseased tissues in-situ.