Abstract: An electrocautery probe with a variable morphology electrode includes a coil electrode extending through the distal end of a probe, an adjustment mechanism operable from a proximal end of the probe for changing the morphology of the coil electrode, and a connection for receiving a current for application through the electrode. The morphology of the electrode can be changed by adjusting the length of electrode which extends from the probe. In a preferred embodiment, the morphology of the electrode can also be changed through the use of slider having a shaped head which extends from the distal end of the probe and presses against the electrode. The shaped head of the slider can have a variety of shapes and when the shaped head of the slider urges against the electrode, the electrode is formed to the same shape as that of the distal end of the slider head. Also provided are mechanisms for adjusting and maintaining the position of the slider and shaped head with respect to the electrode.

Abstract: A snap-fit collar for coupling the end of a flexible coil to a part of an endoscopic instrument is a substantially cylindrical member having a first end portion with a stop flange, a resilient tapered locking flange spaced apart from the stop flange defining a waist or groove between the stop flange and the locking flange, and second end portion having a pair of cantilevered substantially semi-cylindrical legs. The first end portion is preferably frustroconical and flares diametrically outward to form the stop flange which has a first diameter. The waist or groove has a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter. The tapered locking flange is also preferably frustroconical and tapers diametrically inward from a third diameter which is larger than the second diameter. Each of the legs is inclined diametrically outward and includes a plurality of coil engaging ribs on its inner surface.

Abstract: An endoscopic urological biopsy forceps includes a hollow tube member with a control member extending therethrough, an actuator coupled to the proximal ends of the tube member and the control member and a jaw assembly coupled to the distal ends of the tube and control member. The jaw assembly includes a stationary jaw with an axle pin, and a movable jaw with an arcuate slot through which the axle pin extends such that the movable jaw is coupled to the stationary jaw and is movable both translationally and rotationally relative to the stationary jaw. The stationary jaw has a basket-like opening and part of the movable jaw fits inside the opening. The movable jaw has a pair of sidewalls each of which define a row of cutting teeth and a distal buck tooth which is arranged substantially perpendicular to the side walls and is angled toward the proximal end of the movable jaw.