Abstract: A method of repair of direct space and indirect space inguinal hernias and a unique prosthesis enable the use of laparoscopic surgical techniques with the benefits associated therewith, while greatly reducing the recurrence of hernial defects. The prosthetic device in accordance with the present invention is a unitary piece having an abdominal wall engaging base, a hollow projection, and a slurry retaining flap. The base includes a flange that anchors the prosthetic device against the abdominal wall and a flange that covers and gives support to the surrounding abdominal wall where direct space inguinal hernia recurrence is high. The projection, situated between the ledge and the flange, is received within the defect associated with inguinal hernias and lends support thereto.

Abstract: A tissue and organ extractor is provided for use during laparoscopic surgical procedures. The tissue and organ extractor has a handle, an elongated shank, and a flexible collapsible working end. The handle includes lock for locking a grasping instrument, such as forceps, securely in place in relation to the tissue and organ extractor. The extractor is inserted through a cannula into an abdominal cavity and the tissue or organ to be removed is manipulated into the working end by a grasping instrument. The extractor, grasping instrument and tissue are removed from the abdominal cavity through the cannula. The working end envelops the tissue and, during removal, compresses the enveloped tissue.

Abstract: A tissue and organ extractor is provided for use during laparoscopic surgical procedures. The extractor is generally rod-shaped, having a handle, an elongated shank with a central bore, and a flexible collapsible cone-shaped terminal end. The shank extends continuously between the handle and the cone-shaped terminal end. The cone-shaped end is the intra-abdominal end of the instrument and includes a generally circular open end. The handle includes a locking lever for locking a grasping instrument, which might be used to grasp tissue or organs, securely in place in relation to the extractor.In use, the surgeon inserts the extractor through a cannula and, using the grasping instrument, manipulates a tissue or organ into the open-ended, cone-shaped terminal end. The instrument used to manipulate the tissue may be locked into place in the shank of the extractor, and the extractor, instrument and tissue contained in the extractor may be removed from the abdominal cavity through the cannula.