Abstract: An instrument for use in endoscopic biopsy procedures comprising biopsy forceps which utilize a simple and cost effective construction. The apparatus of the invention eliminates the use of an outer housing and utilizes a simplified hinge assembly in conjunction with simple activation of the biopsy jaws. By eliminating the outer housing, the rigid portion of the device is greatly reduced thereby reducing the potential for damage to the instrument or to the narrow channel of the endoscope through which the instrument is inserted and retrieved. The apparatus includes an outer flexible tubular sheath which carries a control wire extending through the sheath. The control wire is movable within the flexible sheath, and includes an operating mechanism coupled to a first end of the tubular sheath for controlling movement of the wire within the sheath. The device further includes a pair of jaw assemblies and a simplified activator for opening and closing the jaws.

Abstract: A tissue sample collection trap for trapping tissue samples for use with a suction sample collecting device comprising a cylindrical container either translucent or opaque with a suction connector element with a port provided at one end to connect to and cooperate with a suction device and the opposite container end open and adapted to accept a cap, the cap being either solid for continuous suction or provided with a control port through the end and into the container to be manually obstructed for suction by the operator and the diameter of a section of the inside of the container at the suction connector element and reduced forming a ledge adapted to hold a removable tissue trap assembly, and a tissue trap assembly comprising two round discs with a plurality of perforations forming screens and adapted to trap specimens and to slidably engage with and within the container and a hollow tubular handle provided to separate the discs extending axially and through the discs for slidably removing the tissue trap as