Abstract: Tissue extracting forceps are disclosed which have been designed for use in laparoscopic surgery. The forceps firmly grasp tissue or organs which are to be moved or removed during the procedure. The grasping members of the forceps are aligned such that fragmentation damage to the grasped tissue is minimized. The mechanical layout of the forceps allows the user to manipulate the working end for a distance, so that the user's fingers do not get in the way of the surgical procedure. The working end of the forceps is adaptable to be used with grasping members of different shapes, or with disposable cutting instruments. Any of these working ends may be incorporated in the same overall mechanical design.