Abstract: An inflatable surgical packing particularly suited for filling the body cavity formed after hysterectomies, and exenterations having an additional non-inflatable element on an inner axial end thereof extending transversely to support the loops of intestines and the omentum, and preventing pinching thereof between the device and a wall of the cavity, as well as serving to maintain the intestine clear of the raw surface of the cavity to safely permit the surface coating of the denuded area and the use of irradiation of the cavity following surgery.

Abstract: An improved insufflating device particular adapted for use in intrauterine surgical procedures, and similar applications. The device is characterized in the provision of a first hollow shaft having an open distal end through which the barrel of an endoscopic or cystoscopic device is passed. A first inflatable balloon surrounds the shaft and serves to distend the lower portion of the uterus. A second balloon is mounted upon the distal end of a second hollow shaft fixed to the inner surface of said first shaft, and serves to distend the upper portion of the uterus, leaving a clear medially disposed circular area affording access to the lumen of the fallopian tubes for cauterization or other surgical procedure.

Abstract: A surgical retractor for endoscopes and cystoscopes formed substantially entirely from resilient synthetic resinous material which in relatively unstressed condition forms a hook-like appendage at a distal end thereof, and which may be distorted to rectilinear configuration to fit within a channel in an endoscope barrel. The appendage may be of either endless or bifurcated configuration defining an enclosed area which is covered by a web-like membrane preventing the entry therebetween of any loose tissue which would otherwise be entrapped within the retractor when the same is withdrawn after use.

Abstract: The invention relates to surgical instruments having particular application to the field of gynecology. The disclosure includes an inflatable packing and continuous suction device suitable for use following hysterectomy procedures to assist in normal draining while maintaining the bowel in properly elevated condition. There is also disclosed an improved trocar shield useful in performing various procedures. Both embodiments are characterized in the provision of a relatively rigid hollow tube element having mounted thereon an expandable balloon element in which portions thereof are of differential thickness whereby the configuration attained at equilibrium may be predetermined.