Abstract: The present embodiments provide apparatus and methods suitable for removing lymph nodes or providing a tissue anchor during a translumenal procedure. In one embodiment, an apparatus suitable for facilitating removal of a lymph node comprises an expandable device including at least one deployable member having contracted and expanded states. The deployable member may be delivered in the contacted state to a location distal to the lymph node using an insertion tool adapted to be disposed beyond the lymph node. In the expanded state, the deployable member comprises a configuration sized to at least partially circumferentially surround and engage the lymph node. In an alternative embodiment, the deployable member may anchor into an outer portion of a visceral wall to promote stabilization of a system during a medical procedure.

Abstract: A medical system for performing a tissue biopsy at a remote location within a patient is disclosed. The medical system comprises an elongate outer cutting member, an elongate inner member movably disposed within the outer member, and a tissue traction member for anchoring bodily tissue and pulling a sample of the tissue within the outer cutting member.

Abstract: A medical system for performing a tissue biopsy at a remote location within a patient is disclosed. The medical system comprises an elongate outer cutting member, an elongate inner member movably disposed within the outer member, and a tissue traction member for anchoring bodily tissue and pulling a sample of the tissue within the outer cutting member.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide apparatus and methods suitable for removing lymph nodes or providing a tissue anchor during a translumenal procedure. In one embodiment, an apparatus suitable for facilitating removal of a lymph node comprises an expandable device including at least one deployable member having contracted and expanded states. The deployable member may be delivered in the contacted state to a location distal to the lymph node using an insertion tool adapted to be disposed beyond the lymph node. In the expanded state, the deployable member comprises a configuration sized to at least partially circumferentially surround and engage the lymph node.

Abstract: A device is provided for use in joining together first and second tissue layers. The device comprises a catheter with an inflatable balloon mounted on the catheter adjacent one and thereof. An inflation channel is provided which is an fluid communication with the interior of the balloon and with a source of inflation fluid for introducing the inflation fluid into the interior of the balloon. The balloon is inflated and engages an outwardly facing surface of the first tissue layer and a tissue-engaging member, for example a cup or another balloon, engages an outwardly facing surface of the second tissue layer. The inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second tissue layers are thereby urged into engagement with on another.

Abstract: Endoscopic suturing devices are provided for suture locking and/or cutting, the devices being small enough to pass through the working channel of various endoscopic and ultrasound devices. One embodiment of the invention provides a device and method for a physician in a medical procedure to automatically lock and cut a suture in one motion and without the need for additional cutting instrumentation, rather than perform separate locking and cutting actions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a body cavity, such as a portion of the GI tract, are disclosed. The apparatus can include a colonoscope having viewing optics and a liquid conduit with at least one outlet. The outlet can be positioned to direct a liquid to clean the colon or other cavity in the region being viewed.