Abstract: An endoscopic instrument having one or two moving jaws. One or two control wires attach to the lower portion of the moving jaws. Each control wire is located within a groove or enclosed channel which passes along the side and preferably to the back of the jaw. The end of the control wire is connected with the jaw so that when the control wire is moved, the force from the wire moved the jaw about its pivot point. If two moving jaws are present, the pivot point is preferably centrally located in the housing. If only a single moving jaw is used, the pivot point may be central, or it may be offset.

Abstract: An endoscopic instrument having one or two moving jaws. The jaws are pivotally attached to a housing and actuated by a central control wire attached to an actuation mechanism. Preferably, a portion of the housing forms a pin for each jaw around which the jaw pivots. The actuation mechanism moves back and forth along the body of the instrument. Engagement projections extend from opposing sides of the body of the actuation mechanism. The engagement projections engage openings in the jaws. As the actuation mechanism is moved toward the distal end of the instrument, the jaws are moved toward an open position. As the actuation mechanism is moved toward the proximal end of the instrument, the jaws are moved toward a closed position. Optionally, the jaws maybe configured to open to a predetermined, maximum angle.