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Method and apparatus for combined dissection and retraction

  • US 6,921,364 B2
  • Filed: 09/16/2002
  • Issued: 07/26/2005
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/20/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method for dissecting a first layer from a second layer of tissue and for holding open an anatomic space for the performance of a surgical procedure, the method comprising the steps of:

  • making an incision in a body;

    introducing a dissector into the incision, the dissector having at least one inflatable balloon and a retracting device disposed on an outside surface thereof;

    inflating said at least one balloon whereby the first layer of tissue is dissected from the second layer of tissue, thereby creating the anatomic space;

    retracting within the anatomic space using the retracting device so that at least a portion of said anatomic space is held open; and

    evacuating at least a portion of the balloon dissector either before or after retracting.

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