Abstract: A surgical apparatus for manipulating body tissue includes a handle member consisting of a frame, a self contained fluid dispenser having a chamber for storing a supply of fluid and a plunger reciprocally moveable within the chamber for dispensing the fluid, and a trigger operatively connected to the plunger and moveable to cause corresponding movement of the plunger. The apparatus also includes a generally elongated member connected to the handle member and an inflatable member supported at the distal end portion of the elongated member in fluid communication with the fluid dispenser. A method for performing a tracheostomy with the apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus, method of use and instrumentation kit are provided for suturing body tissue. The apparatus includes a handle assembly and an elongated body assembly detachably engaged to the handle assembly. The elongated body assembly includes an actuating mechanism for sequentially pulling the first and second ferrule portions of a length of suture material through body tissue. The length of suture material and the first and second ferrule portions are releasably retained in the elongated body assembly. The instrumentation kit includes the surgical apparatus and at least one additional elongated body assembly in an enclosure.