Abstract: A trocar having a cutting shaft with a cutting surface at a distal end. The cutting shaft moves longitudinally with respect to an obturator such that in one position the cutting surface is in an exposed position suitable for application of a piercing force. Upon interruption of the piercing force to the cutting surface, the cutting surface moves longitudinally with respect to the obturator such that the cutting surface is in a retracted position within the obturator. The trocar may include a first spring urging the cutting surface to an exposed position and a second spring urging the cutting surface to a retracted position. The second spring has a slightly stronger biasing force than the first spring to bias the cutting surface to the retracted position.

Abstract: A seal for use with a trocar. The seal includes a first portion terminating in a proximal end, a second portion terminating in a distal end, and a connecting region disposed between the first and the second portion. At least one longitudinal slit extends from the connecting region toward one of the proximal end, toward the distal end, or toward both. When the seal is in an unstressed state, the seal provides a fluid barrier and when the seal is in a stressed state, the at least one longitudinal slit opens to provide access to the inner portion of the seal.

Abstract: A trocar having a cutting shaft with a cutting surface at a distal end. The cutting shaft moves longitudinally with respect to an obturator such that in one position the cutting surface is in an exposed position suitable for application of a piercing force. Upon interruption of the piercing force to the cutting surface, the cutting surface moves longitudinally with respect to the obturator such that the cutting surface is in a retracted position within the obturator. The trocar may include a first spring urging the cutting surface to an exposed position and a second spring urging the cutting surface to a retracted position. The second spring has a slightly stronger biasing force than the first spring to bias the cutting surface to the retracted position.

Abstract: A fishhook device includes a standard fishhook having a barb, bend, shank and eye. At least one piece of wire can be attached at one end of the shank of the fishhook, preferably substantially adjacent to the eye. The wire is biased by at least one biasing bend to an extended position wherein the free end is distanced from the shank of the hook, and can be flexed to a position wherein the wire is adjacent and substantially parallel to the shank. A retaining ring is positioned around the wire and the shank to keep the wire in the flexed position, and is the point of attachment for the fishing line. A loop in the wire is preferably provided substantially adjacent to the attached end as a guide for the fishing line. Movement of the hook relative to the fishing line will cause the retaining ring to slide over the wire to release the wire to the extended position, such that swallowing of the hook by the fish will be substantially prevented.