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Combination dissector and expander

  • US 5,855,588 A
  • Filed: 09/19/1997
  • Issued: 01/05/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/03/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method of using an inflatable device to dissect a tissue pocket underlying the skin and to thereafter expand the dissected tissue pocket, the method comprising the steps of:

  • providing an inflatable device comprising a balloon having an inflatable space, said balloon in an uninflatable and collapsed state having a distal portion inverted into said inflatable space and a side portion rolled laterally along a surface of said balloon;

    making an incision through the skin to access desired tissue layers;

    inserting the inflatable device into the incision;

    advancing the inflatable device between the tissue layers to a location where it is desired to create a tissue pocket;

    dissecting the tissue layers to create the tissue pocket by inflating the inflatable device with a fluid to a selected fill volume or pressure whereby inflation causes said side portion of said balloon to unroll and said distal portion to evert;

    reducing the fluid volume of the inflatable device to a level appropriate for long term tissue expansion; and

    gradually expanding the dissected tissue pocket by adjusting the fill volume of the inflatable device over a predetermined period of time.

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