Method of performing balloon dissection
First Claim
1. A method of creating an anatomical space in body tissue by dissecting a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue along a natural tissue plane, said method comprising the steps of:
- making an incision in the body which provides access to the natural tissue plane;
inserting a substantially rigid member having a bladder disposed on a distal portion thereof through said incision, said bladder being capable of exerting sufficient force when inflated to dissect the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue;
moving said member along the natural tissue plane to a location where it is desired to create the anatomical space between said first and second tissue layers;
inflating said bladder to dissect said first layer of tissue from said second layer of tissue along the natural tissue plane to create the anatomical space;
deflating said bladder;
moving said member to a new location between said tissue layers; and
inflating said bladder again to cause farther dissection of said first and second layers of tissue and to enlarge the anatomical space.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A retractor for use in arthroscopic surgery. The retractor has a mechanical expanding portion for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor also has a fluid-operated expanding portion, which may be independently controllable, for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor is inserted through a small percutaneous opening, expanded in sub-surface tissues without significantly damaging the tissue, then collapsed after use for removal. The retractor can be manipulated to allow the surgeon to push or pull or lever on tissue. The retractor can be hollow like a cannula to permit the passage of one or more surgical devices through the retractor, with a side portal into the center of the retractor.
507 Citations
8 Claims
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1. A method of creating an anatomical space in body tissue by dissecting a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue along a natural tissue plane, said method comprising the steps of:
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making an incision in the body which provides access to the natural tissue plane; inserting a substantially rigid member having a bladder disposed on a distal portion thereof through said incision, said bladder being capable of exerting sufficient force when inflated to dissect the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue; moving said member along the natural tissue plane to a location where it is desired to create the anatomical space between said first and second tissue layers; inflating said bladder to dissect said first layer of tissue from said second layer of tissue along the natural tissue plane to create the anatomical space; deflating said bladder; moving said member to a new location between said tissue layers; and inflating said bladder again to cause farther dissection of said first and second layers of tissue and to enlarge the anatomical space. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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Specification