Abstract: A retraction device that can be used inside a patient during a surgical procedure is provided. The retraction device includes pivotally connected links and connection ends such that the ring can be flattened and introduced into a patient laparoscopically. Once introduced to a laparoscopic surgery site, the retraction device can be formed and used while within the patient. Once use is complete, the device that can be in the form of a ring can be substantially flattened and removed from the patient using the laparoscopic tool it was introduced with.

Abstract: A suturing device and method of use involve inserting the device into a hole, positioning material around the hole into a notch of the device, passing a needle through a cavity in the device and the material positioned in the notch, and lining up an eye of the needle with a portal for passage of a suture. A suture is then passed through the eye of the needle and the needle is removed from the material (such as skin and fascia) with the suture. The suture is then removed and the process is repeated with another end of the suture at another location through the material, around the hole. When the suture is passed through the second point of penetration, the suture now extends both into and out of the material at different points around the hole and can be tied.

Abstract: A suturing device and method of use involve inserting the device into a hole, positioning material around the hole into a notch of the device, passing a needle through a cavity in the device and the material positioned in the notch, and lining up an eye of the needle with a portal for passage of a suture. A suture is then passed through the eye of the needle and the needle is removed from the material (such as skin and fascia) with the suture. The suture is then removed and the process is repeated with another end of the suture at another location through the material, around the hole. When the suture is passed through the second point of penetration, the suture now extends both into and out of the material at different points around the hole and can be tied.

Abstract: An introducer for use during endoscopic procedures provides insufflation, washing, and aspiration functions, and provides for the protection of the endoluminal surface during laparoscopic examination of an anastomosis or suture line following low anterior resection of the bowel. The introducer may be designed for the insertion of an endoscope capable of white light and/or near infra-red fluorescence imaging into the rectum for analysis of an anastomosis following low anterior resection of the bowel.

Abstract: Viscerotomy closure devices and methods of use close a hole in a bodily organ, such as one created during a natural orifice transgastric surgery procedure. A mesh with a hole in its center and an attached loop of suture having a Roeder knot is mounted on the protruding rod of an end-to-end anastomosis stapler between the anvil and the staple carrying member. The mesh covers the staple receiving slots. When rotated when in contact with tissue, an augur-shaped blade attached to the anvil's exterior self-feeds the tissue through a notch in the anvil's base into the space between the anvil and the staple carrying member. After the stapler is fired to staple the mesh to the tissue and create a viscerotomy, a knot pusher cinches the loop of suture and subsequently tightens the Roeder knot to maintain the cinch.