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Endoscopic inflatable retraction devices for separating layers of tissue

  • US 5,468,248 A
  • Filed: 08/24/1993
  • Issued: 11/21/1995
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/29/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. Apparatus for separating a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue and for maintaining separation of the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue while providing access to at least one of the layers of tissue, the apparatus comprising:

  • (a) a main envelope, the main envelope defining a main inflatable chamber;

    (b) introducing means for;

    (1) introducing the main envelope in a collapsed state between the first layer of tissue and the second layer of tissue,(2) inflating the main envelope into an expanded state to separate the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue, and to create a working space therebetween, and(3) returning the main envelope to a collapsed state after the working space has been created, the introducing means comprising a single cannula, the single cannula including a main cannula portion whereto the main envelope is attached, and additionally including a bore having a distal end, the bore including a circumferential groove at the distal end;

    (c) engaging means for detachably engaging the main envelope with the circumferential groove;

    (d) disengaging means for disengaging the engaging means from the circumferential groove and for withdrawing the main envelope from the working space through the bore of the single cannula after the main envelope has been returned to its collapsed state; and

    (e) insufflating means for introducing insufflation gas into the working space to maintain the separation of the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue, the insufflating means including an auxiliary envelope attached to a second portion of the single cannula, the auxiliary envelope defining an auxiliary inflatable chamber.

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