Abstract: A flexible forceps device comprises a distal end to be inserted into a patient, a proximal end to remain outside the patient and a flexible, elongated body extending between the ends. The flexible body has at least one lumen and may have a smooth, sealed external surface. An effector assembly is attached to the distal end and includes a support piece and at least one movable element. A control assembly is attached to the proximal end and includes a push-pull mechanism. A coaxial actuating assembly extending through the lumen of the flexible body consists of a flexible tube having a lumen, with a control wire slidably disposed within the lumen of the tube. The tube provides a flexible, yet relatively incompressible column support between the effector assembly and control assembly. The proximal end of the control wire is attached to the push-pull mechanism and the distal end is linked to the movable elements, whereby operation of the control assembly moves the movable elements relative to the support piece.

Abstract: A flexible biopsy forceps device for acquiring more than one tissue sample comprises an elongated, flexible body having a central lumen and having a proximal end and a distal end. A control assembly is adjacent to the proximal end of the flexible body and a jaw assembly is coupled to the distal end. A jaw actuating means extends from the control assembly to the jaw assembly. The jaw assembly includes a pair of jaws that pivot from an open position to a closed position in response to movement of the jaw actuating means to surround and excise tissue samples. In their closed position, the jaw pair has a proximal opening aligned with the central lumen of the flexible body sized to allow passage of tissue samples. An intake means is disposed within the distal portion of the central lumen and may extend into the proximal opening of the jaw pair.