Abstract: A device and method for removing a fluid-filled object from a body cavity of a patient is provided. The device includes a tube and a grasper slidably movable with respect to the tube. The device also includes a needle fixed to one end of the tube. In use, the device is inserted into the body cavity, and the object is punctured with the needle. The object is grasped by the grasper, and the object and the device are removed from the body cavity.

Abstract: A nonabsorbent monolithic holding member having a plurality of openings to define spring segments and columns adapted for use within an abdominal cavity of a patient to keep the patient's bowels out of the operative field during open pelvic surgery. The holding member has a peripheral edge formed of a resiliently deformable material sized to be received within the abdominal cavity. The resilient deformation of at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the holding member in combination with the spring segments and columns results in a predetermined residual reactive force against the abdominal cavity to assist in positioning the holding member in the abdominal cavity while resisting movement of the retracted intestines though the deformed openings.

Abstract: A nonabsorbent holding member adapted for use within an abdominal cavity of a patient defined by an anterior wall, a posterior wall and two lateral walls to keep the patient's bowels out of the operative field during open pelvic surgery. The holding member has a peripheral edge formed of a resiliently deformable material sized to be received within the abdominal cavity. The resilient deformation of at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the holding member results in a residual reactive force against the abdominal cavity to assist in positioning the holding member in the abdominal cavity.

Abstract: A device for evaluating anorectal function. The device is a silicone gel-filled deformable artificial stool adapted for transanal insertion within the rectum and having an adjustable volume, and a shape consistency and size similar to a normal stool. The device has an elongate extensible silicone elastomer outer shell overlying and affixed to a coaxially mounted inflatable inner shell to create a sealed cylindrical space between the outer and inner shells. The elastic outer shell preferably incorporates a radiopaque material homogeneously dispersed within the silicon elastomer, alternatively, inner balloon affixed thereto. Radiopaque fluid is introduced into the cylindrical space to provide a means for radiographically observing the in situ deformation of the device when placed within the rectum of a subject. One end of a flexible fill tube projects within the volume enclosed and defined by the inflatable inner shell and is affixed thereto.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transilluminating a tubular tissue within the body. The apparatus comprises an elongate catheter having a fiber optic substantially coextensive with the length thereof which provides diffuse illumination laterally along at least a portion of the length of the catheter. The fiber optic terminus at the proximal end of the catheter is flared to form a light receiving aperture for collecting illuminating light. The flared proximal end of the optical fiber presents an effectively greater light input aperture and enables the fiber to conduct more light to the distal delivery end than would otherwise be possible with a fiber having a flat cut end and receiving light from a divergent light source. The distal end of the catheter is dimensioned to fit within a tubular tissue and be advanced therethrough.

Abstract: A light-conducting bougie consisting of an elongate flexible member operable for conducting light from the proximal end of the bougie to the distal portion thereof. The light-conducting bougie is made from a substantially homogenous, optically transparent polymer being flexible and operable for the transmission of light. The bougie is particularly useful for transilluminating tissue within a body. In operation, the distal end of the bougie is inserted into a hollow tissue such as the esophagus by passage through the mouth. Illuminating light from a light source enters the proximal end of the bougie and is conducted to the distal portion thereof to exit the bougie and transilluminate the surrounding wall of the organ or structure. The present invention provides an improved bougie wherein the intensity of the portion of light directed radially outward from the distal end portion of the bougie is increased without the addition of material scattering centers to the polymeric body.