Magnetic ink tissue markings

Abstract

The invention provides tissue markings (such as tattoos) comprising magnetic particles, e.g., magnetite, and methods for making and altering, e.g., removing them.

1 . A device for removing magnetic skin tattoos, the device comprising means for producing a high product of the magnetic field strength and magnetic field gradient within the skin, and a housing configured to enable the device to be contacted to the skin in the location of a tattoo. 
   
   
       2 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the means for producing a high product of the magnetic field strength and magnetic field gradient within the skin comprises at least one electromagnet. 
   
   
       3 . The device of  claim 2 , in which the electromagnet comprises a superconducting electromagnet. 
   
   
       4 . The device of  claim 2 , in which the electromagnet comprises a solenoid coil. 
   
   
       5 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the means for producing a high product of the magnetic field strength and magnetic field gradient within the skin comprises at least one permanent magnet. 
   
   
       6 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the device further comprises a controller that varies the magnetic field spatially or temporally, or both. 
   
   
       7 . The device of  claim 1 , further comprising a laser arranged to illuminate the location of the tattoo. 
   
   
       8 . The device of  claim 7 , wherein the laser is a Q-switched ruby laser.