Abstract: The invention includes a forceps and collection assembly for acquiring and storing a plurality of tissue samples in a single pass, and accompanying mechanisms for use with the forceps and collection assembly. The accompanying mechanisms include an endoscope working channel cap assembly configured to minimize compression of a pouch of the forceps and collection assembly as it traverses a seal of the cap assembly, and a flush adapter configured to be coupled to the pouch so as to assist in removing tissue samples in the pouch by flowing fluid through the pouch.

Abstract: Surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods are disclosed. A tissue fastener used to join multiple tissue layers includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member connecting the first and second members. In some embodiments, the first and second members are configured to expand from a delivered state to a deployed state in which the fastener secures the tissue layers together. Other tissue fastener embodiments include means for applying a substantially constant force on the tissue layers and/or means for adjusting a length of the connecting member between the first and second members.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for traversing an anatomic wall. A system can include a port that mates with an anatomic wall and provides a lumen for the passage of a guide tube of a transluminal device. The port can inhibit the passage of biological materials through the anatomic wall. Further described herein are methods for implanting the port and/or for inserting the transluminal device into a body cavity.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include endoscopic guide tubes having a retractor and a stabilizing assembly for use with the guide tube and related methods of use.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for guiding, supporting, and/or housing instruments. One exemplary system includes a guide tube having a manipulation section and mated with rails carrying instrument control members. Moving the rails with respect to the guide tube, or another point of reference, can control movement of the manipulation section.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various instruments, systems, and methods of use. The instruments can have various control members and/or handles for controlling various degrees of freedom. In addition, the control members can include various control mechanisms for transferring user inputs from a handle to a distal portion of the instrument. In one aspect, an instrument can comprise a control member and a catheter. The catheter can be adjustably and/or detachably connected to the control member.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for facilitating control of a tool or tools. The systems can allow a user to control multiple degrees of freedom. One such system allows a user to control multiple degrees of freedom of two tools simultaneously. Another such system allows a user to control multiple degrees of freedom with a single hand. Frames and rails for supporting and/or constraining movement of a tool or tools are also described herein.

Abstract: Described herein are drive systems and methods. One exemplary system includes a tool having a proximal handle and a catheter body. The tool can be mated with a rail and the rail mated with a frame. The connection between the tool and rail and/or the rail and frame can allow relative movement of the tool with respect to the frame, a patient, and/or a point of reference. In one exemplary configuration the handle of the tool rotates around an axis that corresponds to a portion of the catheter body, such that rotational movement of the handle has a minimal impact on longitudinal movement and/or position of a distal end of the tool.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for ejecting fluid from a fluid delivery system. The fluid delivery system has a pneumatic assembly that when triggered injects gas into a hydraulic assembly, which in turn ejects fluid through an external interface. An electronic interface displays various measurements, for example, how much fluid has been ejected and if the hydraulic system is closed the pressure of the system. The pneumatic assembly can also be depressurized such that fluid can reenter the hydraulic assembly through the external interface.

Abstract: Surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods are disclosed. A tissue fastener used to join multiple tissue layers includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member connecting the first and second members. In some embodiments, the first and second members are configured to expand from a delivered state to a deployed state in which the fastener secures the tissue layers together. Other tissue fastener embodiments include means for applying a substantially constant force on the tissue layers and/or means for adjusting a length of the connecting member between the first and second members.