Abstract: Surgical fluid collection devices, systems and methods allow individual containers to be coupled in series using a single inflow port and a single outflow port on each container. Surgical fluids are sealed within a disposable liner in each container. In most embodiments, a one-way valve of the liner seals surgical fluid within the liner to prevent spillage to a surrounding vacuum chamber, and allows flow from the surrounding vacuum chamber into the interior of the liner to equalize pressure across the liner. This arrangement allows the use of flexible, inexpensive liners with large interior volumes, without having to resort to complex pressure equalizing arrangements. A sterilizable polymer receptacle is also provided which can withstand the large pressure forces associated with large fluid collection volumes.

Abstract: A morcellator for removing large masses of tissues during laparoscopic procedures includes a rotationally fixed, axially movable inner tube disposed within a rotating cutting member. The cutting member is often disposed in the annular space between the inner tube and an outer tube. A laparoscopic grasping instrument is inserted through the lumen and draws the tissue proximally through the morcellator. As the cutting member severs tissue, the tissue is drawn into the fixed lumen of the inner tube. This prevents the cutting member from twisting the severed tissue, thereby preventing any degradation of the surgeon's control. A novel valve is provided to prevent loss of insufflation gas when no instrument traverses the lumen. The inner tube can be translated distally to protect tissues and/or other surgical implements against inadvertent contact with the cutting edge of the cutting member.

Abstract: A surgical valve prevents loss of insufflation gas (or the like) when no instrument traverses the valve lumen. The valve is suitable for passing surgical implements distally, and for passing enlarged bodies (such as large morcels of severed tissue) proximally. A first set of valve segments angle together along a slit, similar to a duck-bill valve. A second set of valve segments angle outwardly distally, the second segments often having a passage so that distal pressure pushes the first segments together along the slit.