Abstract: A colpotomy assembly 10 is adapted for insertion into a vaginal cavity for use in female pelvic surgical procedures employing the inflation of an abdominal cavity with a gas to facilitate the accessability to and visibility of female pelvic organs. The assembly has a vaginal extender 20, a uterine manipulator 16 and a flexible occluder. The occluder being mounted on a shaft of the uterine manipulator such that it permits relative movement of the shaft 26 during use.

Abstract: A colpotomy assembly (10) having a vaginal extender (20) and uterine manipulator (16) for use in performing various female pelvic surgeries, including laparoscopic hysterectomies, laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomies, and other female pelvic laparoscopic procedures where removal of tissue specimens through a colpotomy incision is indicated.

Abstract: A simplified total laparoscopic hysterectomy method employing colpotomy incisions which employs a colpotomy assembly 10 having a vaginal extender 20 and uterine manipulator 16 for use in performing various female pelvic surgeries, including laparoscopic hysterectomies, laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomies, and other female pelvic laparoscopic procedures where removal of tissue specimens through a colpotomy incision is indicated.

Abstract: A uterine manipulating device is provided which provides an improved handle and locking element for holding the handle in a desired position relative to the frame to which it is pivotally connected. The locking element may include a latch element for holding the handle relative to the frame in a selected one of a plurality of slots defined in the frame. Alternatively, the locking element may include a clamp for permitting the handle to be held relative to the frame in any desired position through its range of motion, The inventor hereof also includes a method of supporting a uterine manipulator during surgery including supporting the manipulator by flexible material passed through the handle and tied or otherwise attached to the legs of the patient.