Abstract: The instrument is used in laparoscopic tubal cauterization whereby a fallopian tube is completely blocked by coagulation and comprises: an elongated narrow sheath; an electrically insulated separator means slidably mounted in the sheath; and a pair of bipolar electrodes secured in diametrically opposite grooves extending longitudinally of the sheath. Each electrode defines at one end thereof a prong extending outwardly from one end of the sheath; the prongs are spaced from one another to define a first tube-receiving position whereby a tube may be received therebetween; the prongs may be moved to a second tube-squeezing position by slidably retracting the separator means in the sheath. The opposite end of each electrode is adapted for electrical connection to an external source of cauterizing current.

Abstract: The disclosure herein describes a trocar particularly intended for use in laparoscopic tubal cauterization and formed of: a puncturing sharp-pointed instrument, a cannula with a flange at one end thereof, a flexible insulating ring which is received in the flange recess bore, and a collar secured in the flange bore. The collar retains the ring in the flange while allowing it to flex as the puncturing instrument is introduced in the cannula or disassociated therefrom. The puncturing instrument, cannula and collar are made of inexpensive bio-compatible plastic materials while the ring is made of rubber; consequently, the trocar is disposable after use.

Abstract: An instrument for laparoscopic tubal cauterization includes: a grip member, a probe element attached to the grip member and a pair of electrodes carried by the probe element in such spaced relationship to one another as to avoid electrical short therebetween, the electrodes defining at one extremity a pair of tube-grasping portions. Means are provided on the grip member for electrically connecting the electrodes to an external power source and for allowing a current discharge between the tube-grasping portions of the electrodes whereby the tube grasped is cauterized.