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Retraction apparatus and methods for endoscopic surgery

  • US 5,743,851 A
  • Filed: 06/04/1996
  • Issued: 04/28/1998
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/29/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method for retracting an organ inside the body to gain access to an adjacent tissue, the method comprising the steps of:

  • providing an inflatable chamber attached to an open distal end of a hollow tube, wherein the inflatable chamber has a window located opposite the open distal end of the hollow tube;

    inserting an endoscope into the hollow tube so that a distal end of the endoscope protrudes beyond the open distal end of the hollow tube and is located within the inflatable chamber adjacent the window, wherein the inflatable chamber is in a deflated state and comprises an assembly along with the hollow tube and the endoscope;

    inserting a distal end of the assembly into an incision;

    viewing through the endoscope while manipulating the assembly to bring the distal end of the assembly into proximity with a tissue;

    inflating the inflatable chamber to retract an adjacent organ; and

    further viewing through the endoscope while manipulating the assembly and the inflated chamber to position the window into proximity with the tissue.

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