Abstract: An expandable surgical retractor for use in minimal incision surgery is disclosed. The retractor consists of a fiber optic central rod surrounded by flexible wires designed to create an open space for visualization and surgical work within an illuminated surgical field. The flexible wires are disposed via selective pressure of the surgeon and are variable in number. The configuration will allow for both forward and back illumination of the surgical field. The expandable surgical retractor allows for surgical visualization in anatomical areas heretofore too complicated for surgical consideration. Other embodiments of the expandable surgical retractor are contemplated wherein a handle with an aperture may replace the central rod. The flexible wires may fit in openings around the aperture. The handle, in this embodiment, may have a light source and may be adapted to be used in select areas of anatomy. Further, the handle may be transparent.

Abstract: A laparoscopic surgical clamp for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures includes an elongated shaft, a first set and a second set of double jaws connected to distal end of shaft and moveable relative to one another, and a double handle assembly operatively connected to at least one of the double jaws. The double jaws include an opened position in which the double jaws are separated and substantially parallel to one another and a closed position in which the double jaws are adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. At least one articulation segment is located on each jaw such that the double jaws may be positioned in a U- or V-shaped configuration when in an articulated position. A plurality of fenestration is located on at least one jaw of the double jaws to allow suturing through the double jaws to secure the surgical clamp to the organ tissue.

Abstract: A temporary biocompatible stent and method for visceral anastomosis. The stent is provided with integral means for maintaining the structural stability of the stent while providing substantial flexibility. The method comprises fitting the luminal stumps of the viscus over either end of a stent of the invention, and joining the ends of each stump together. A short time after completion of the anastomosis, the stent dissolves and is absorbed safely into the body. The stent and method can be beneficially used in laparoscopic or more invasive traditional surgical procedures. The stent and method are particularly well suited for anastomosis of the bowel.

Abstract: An expandable surgical retractor for use in minimal incision surgery is disclosed. The retractor consists of a fiber optic central rod surrounded by flexible wires designed to create an open space for visualization and surgical work within an illuminated surgical field. The flexible wires are disposed via selective pressure of the surgeon and are variable in number. The configuration will allow for both forward and back illumination of the surgical field. The expandable surgical retractor allows for surgical visualization in anatomical areas heretofore too complicated for surgical consideration. Other embodiments of the expandable surgical retractor are contemplated wherein a handle with an aperture may replace the central rod. The flexible wires may fit in openings around the aperture. The handle, in this embodiment, may have a light source and may be adapted to be used in select areas of anatomy. Further, the handle may be transparent.

Abstract: A minimally invasive biopsy device includes a cylindrical retractor and a cylindrical cutting tool slidingly engaged within the cylindrical retractor. The cylindrical retractor is adapted for insertion in an incision above a lesion to be excised, and separates the walls of the incision to provide access to the tissue to be excised. The cylindrical cutting tool has a cutting means whichmakes a cylindrical incision around the tissue to be excised. The tissue can then be accurately and quickly removed.

Abstract: A minimally invasive biopsy device includes a cylindrical retractor and a cylindrical cutting tool slidingly engaged within the cylindrical retractor. The cylindrical retractor is adapted for insertion in an incision above a lesion to be excised, and separates the walls of the incision to provide access to the tissue to be excised. The cylindrical cutting tool has a cutting means which makes a cylindrical incision around the tissue to be excised. The tissue can then be accurately and quickly removed.