Abstract: The present invention provides methods and devices for shielding an endo scope during insertion through a body lumen, and in particular using a sheath for preventing contact between the endoscope (or trocar sleeve) and the body lumen, thus preventing bacteria from being carried into a body cavity.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for performing translumenal (e.g., transoral and transanal) procedures. In general, the methods and devices utilize a trocar assembly or trocar end cap that can facilitate insertion of an endoscope through tissue. In one embodiment, a flexible trocar assembly is provided and includes an obturator having an inner lumen formed therethrough for receiving an endoscope therein, and a distal end that is adapted to facilitate insertion of the endoscope through tissue and that is adapted to facilitate viewing therethrough. The trocar assembly can also include a trocar sleeve that is disposable over the obturator. In use, once the trocar assembly is inserted through tissue, the trocar sleeve can function as a placeholder, allowing the endoscope and obturator to be removed. The endoscope can then be removed from within the obturator and reinserted through the trocar sleeve for use in performing various other procedures.

Abstract: A method for inserting an instrument through a natural orifice. The instrument has a low profile orientation and a deployed orientation which is larger than the size of the natural orifice through which it is to be inserted. The method is achieved by coupling the instrument to an endoscope and placing the instrument in its low profile orientation, insetting the endoscope and the instrument through a natural orifice to a target position within a body while the instrument is in its low profile orientation, actuating the instrument to it is deployed orientation, and returning the instrument to its low profile orientation and withdrawing the instrument from the body through the natural orifice.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a suture material formed of a flexible strand of suture having at least one marking thereon. The marking is one that is indicative of at least one use characteristic of the suture.

Abstract: An endoscopic apparatus shaped and dimensioned for passage through an orifice in the body includes a scope attachment member coupled to an endoscopic instrument, and a connection member attaching the scope attachment member to the endoscopic instrument. The connection member has an insertion orientation sized for passage through the orifice and a deployed orientation too large to pass though the orifice. When the connection member is in its insertion orientation the endoscopic instrument is positioned closely adjacent an exterior of an endoscope for low profile insertion of the endoscopic instrument through an orifice, and when the connection is in its deployed orientation the endoscopic instrument is spaced from the endoscope to improve visibility.

Abstract: A method for suture lacing includes providing a suture with a needle attached thereto, inserting the needle and suture into an organ through a passageway, throwing a single stitch through a first tissue member, throwing a single stitch through an opposed and spaced apart second tissue member, repeating the preceding step at least once, bringing the first and second tissue members in contact by tensioning the suture, whereby suture drag is minimized during the tensioning and even tissue compression substantially achieved, and securing the suture.