Abstract: A surgical instrument (4), a handle (2) for use with the surgical instrument and a surgical instrument system are described. The surgical instrument and handle comprise complementary features to ensure a secure connection between the instrument and handle. hi one embodiment the instrument comprises an outer shaft (12), an inner shaft (14) and an operative portion. The outer shaft comprises opposed flat surfaces (16) allowing it to be engaged by the handle on the flat surfaces. The inner shaft comprises a latch surface (26) at its proximal end for engaging a latch mechanism in the handle. In other embodiments a radial bore (18) is provided in the outer shaft of the instrument. This can be engaged by an elongated member in the handle.

Abstract: A handle (3) for a surgical instrument, and in particular a handle for use with keyhole surgery, endoscopic and laparoscopic instruments is disclosed. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a handle for a surgical instrument comprising one part with a pivoting or articulated end portion (4b), and a means for indexing the pivoting movement of the end portion. The indexing means allows adjustment of the angle of the end portion together with improved control and tactile feedback to the user. In another aspect, the present invention provides a handle for a surgical instrument comprising one part with a pivoting or articulated end portion, and a means for locking the movement of the end portion. The locking means can be moved between locked and unlocked positions. The end portion can be pivoted or articulated to a desired angle and the locking means moved to a position to prevent movement of the end portion holding it at the desired angle. This improves control and tactile feedback to the user.

Abstract: Cannula sealing apparatus includes a housing having a central axially facing aperture. A surgical instrument of 10.5 mm may seal with that aperture. Alternatively, a sealing member having an aperture that will seal with a 12 mm surgical instrument can be swung up to be aligned with the aperture. If a 10.5 mm instrument is required then a seal member can be swung up to have its seal aperture located over the central aperture. Each seal member is pivotal about a common axis. Each seal member has a surface that faces a housing such that both parts can seal at their facing surfaces when either of the seal members are swung up into the position where the opening is over the central opening.