Abstract: Trocar seal assemblies are disclosed which consist of a helically-shaped seal positioned within a trocar's cannula; wherein, as an instrument is inserted through the central bore of the helically-shaped seal, the helically-shaped seal expands, thereby increasing the diameter of the central bore. In other embodiments, a protective member is positioned within a retaining member; wherein the protective member is configured as a helix and, as an instrument is inserted through the central bore of the helix, the helix expands, thereby increasing the diameter of the central bore.

Abstract: Cannula anchor assemblies are disclosed which consist of a threaded cannula and a cannula anchor. The cannula anchor system allows for secure anchoring into the body wall, and proper cannula height adjustment prior to and during surgery. Sutures through the body wall may be secured to the cannula anchor either directly through the cannula anchor, or around suture posts attached therein. The cannula anchor also prevents excessive plunge of a trocar into the patient. The cannula anchor is generally configured with internal threads that mate with a threaded cannula.

Abstract: Trocar seal assemblies are disclosed which consist of a protective member and a retaining member. The protective member prevents accidental perforations of the retaining member during the insertion of an instrument through the seal assembly and assists in forming a seal against the instrument when inserted in the seal assembly. The protective member is generally configured with a circular upper portion and a generally conical lower portion. The lower portion of the protective member consists of a plurality of flaps which increasingly overlap as they progress to the lower portion of the conical shape, thereby forming a seal at the lowest portion where the flaps overlap entirely. The overlapping flaps expand with minimal resistance when instruments are inserted through the seal assembly, thereby ensuring a proper seal regardless of the size or configuration of the instrument.