Abstract: An access device having a single sheath is inserted into a body passage puncture, with an expandable member of the access device held to a minimum diameter. The expandable member is held to the minimum diameter using structure that does not increase the diameter of the access device, rather than a large-diameter external sheath. The structure for holding the expandable member to a minimum diameter can subsequently be removed from the lumen of the access device., once the expandable member has been expanded.

Abstract: An absorbable sponge containing a contrasting agent (e.g, radiopaque agent) that can be introduced to a biopsy tract or other puncture wound site is provided. The contrasting agent permits identification of the site by fluoroscopy or other imaging techniques.

Abstract: A surgical device for cleaning and removing obstructing material from within a vascular conduit or other bodily passageway. The device comprises a balloon catheter having an independently operable outer woven sleeve having a plurality of mesh openings. The woven sleeve surrounds the radially expandable and contractible balloon. In one embodiment, the outer woven sleeve is configured into a predetermined shape through manipulation of the catheter and used to maintain the inflated balloon within that predetermined configuration. In another embodiment, the woven sleeve is radially expanded by the inflated balloon such that the woven mesh is driven into the vascular conduit. The woven sleeve may be used to abrade the surface of the vascular conduit and increase the flow passage or alternatively as traction for various other surgical procedures within the vascular conduit.

Abstract: A surgical access device for providing gas tight communication to an anatomical cavity which facilitates the insertion and use of surgical instruments while maintaining the anatomical cavity. The access device allows for the use of laparoscopic instruments in tight surgical locations without the need for a trocar or other supportive device. In addition, the surgical access device allows the use of non-laparoscopic instruments in a laparoscopic setting to add flexibility and improved sterility to an open surgery. Increased surgical instrument access and mobility within the anatomical cavity is achieved with a reduced need for insufflation. The access surgical device includes a flexible planer base with an integral opening for isolating and maintaining an open surgical incision. A hollow stem having an instrument seal is attached to the base over the incision. The stem also includes a valve for maintaining a positive gas pressure within the anatomical cavity.

Abstract: A valvulotome for disrupting valve cusps in the vein of a patient includes a shaft and a cutting member which extends along an axis that defines an axial direction as well as an angular direction. First and second portions of the cutting member define respective cutting edges which extend outwardly of the axis in an angular relationship and an axial relationship with each other. The first and second cutting edges engage and disrupt different cusps of the valve when the shaft is withdrawn axially from the vein. Each of the cutting edges is protected by a proximate shoulder which inhibits the engagement of sidebranches by the associated cutting edge. The cutting member may be formed as a helical blade, a wire or a cylinder and may be provided with a swivel coupling as well as a sheath operable to cover or expose the cutting member.

Abstract: A method for performing a surgical operation on a body conduit includes the step of inserting into the conduit an apparatus having at its distal end an element the location of which is detectable from regions exterior of the body. The apparatus is moved within the conduit until the element is positioned relative to a predetermined location where the element functions as a target. Detecting the location of this target within the conduit facilitates insertion of a surgical instrument percutaneously of the body and toward the predetermined location. The targeting apparatus may be used with an endoscope and may include a variety of active and passive elements which form the target. The surgical instrument can be inserted percutaneously transverse to the axis of the conduit to perform a variety of surgical operations. Sidebranch occlusion in an insitu procedure is greatly facilitated by this method and apparatus.