Abstract: A portal access device has a first member pivotally movable relative to a base. A groove is provided at the first member to be in alignment with a bore at the base, so that a cannula may freely extend through the bore, with a portion of the cannula being frictionally held along the groove of the first member. The first member may be rotatably connected to a second member, so that once the cannula is correctly inserted into a portal, the first member may be pivoted from its vertical position to its horizontal position to bend the cannula into a right angle cannula. The cannula is removed from the portal by pivoting the second member upwardly away from the base. In an alternate portal access device where there is only one arm member, the portal access device may be removed from the portal by being pulled vertically upwards.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a suction retractor comprising a flexible continuous dam which forms a closed loop of any shape and which defines one or more inlet opening into an interior of the closed loop, so that suction can be applied into an interior of the continuous dam. The suction retractor may further comprise a suction tube defining a suction channel, the suction tube attached to or attachable to the continuous dam and when attached the suction channel continuous with the one or more inlet. The one or more inlet may open to a continuous channel extending throughout an interior of the closed loop. Preferably, the continuous dam is planar or substantially planar and comprises a first compacted configuration for insertion and a second open configuration for retraction. The suction retractor of the invention finds application in single incision and convention laparoscopic surgery.

Abstract: A surgical access assembly for use during a surgical procedure includes a housing, an access member extending distally from the housing and being dimensioned for positioning within tissue and a seal assembly disposed within the housing. The seal assembly includes first and second seal components operatively coupled to each other. Each of the first and second seal components includes respective seal members defining a respective passage for passage of a surgical object. The first seal component is adapted for rotational movement about the longitudinal axis and relative to the second seal component. The first seal component may be capable of relative rotation between a first position, in which the passages of the first and second seal members are in substantial longitudinal alignment, and a second position in which the passages of the first and second seal members are radially offset to inhibit the communication of fluid through the seal assembly.

Abstract: An access device adapted and configured to be inserted through a natural biological orifice, and related surgical methods are provided. The access device includes a body, a nozzle means and means for delivering a pressurized flow of fluid to the nozzle means. The body is configured and dimensioned to be inserted through a natural bodily orifice and has proximal and distal end portions and defines at least one lumen therethrough to accommodate passage of one or more surgical instruments. The nozzle means is operatively associated with the body for directing pressurized fluid into the lumen to develop a pressure differential in an area within a region within the lumen to form a fluid seal around the one or more surgical instruments passing therethrough.

Abstract: The present invention is referred to a coronary artery retraction means for retracting tissue and/or fat from the coronary artery during coronary anastomosis and a CO2 supplying device capable of blowing CO2 on the coronary artery during a bypass procedure while the retracting means holds and keeps the fat away from the artery. This device comprises, in one embodiment, a stainless steel ‘V’-shaped wire, including a couple of elastic arms, which end with a hook-like retracting means, and also including on said arms grabbing means allowing the surgeon to place the device in place in an easy and fast maneuver, and a CO2 supplying means on each arm, including at least one gas intake on one end and a gas outlet over said retracting means. In a second embodiment, all the different parts of the device define an integral piece made of plastic material which is fully disposable after the procedure.

Abstract: An instrument cleaning apparatus facilitates the cleaning of a scope utilized during a surgical procedure. The instrument cleaning apparatus includes a base portion and a fluid retention portion. The base portion includes a substantially tubular wall having a proximal end and a distal end and a longitudinal passageway extending therethrough. The fluid retention portion is in mechanical cooperation with the base portion and is adapted to retain a cleaning fluid therein. The fluid retention portion may be contacted by the scope.

Abstract: This application presents minimally-obstructive and structurally-adjustable retractors which afford an open work area of desirable size and enhanced visualization for a surgeon about the perineum and the posterior vaginal wall of the patient. The retractors may be lightweight and compact, and also configured and dimensioned to minimize slippage during use. The retractors may retract the engorged labia of the postpartum patient as well as the vaginal walls. The device may also be used as a speculum.

Abstract: A method for grasping and holding tissue employs an apparatus including flexible sheet having walls that define adjoining top and bottom chambers which move together as a unitary part during use. The top and bottom walls of the flexible sheet conform to tissue and have corresponding first and second sets of holes. The method supplies suction to the top chamber and the first set of holes via the first fluid path to engage and hold tissue adjacent the top wall by suction forces applied through the first set of holes, and also supplies suction to the bottom chamber and the second set of holes via the second fluid path to engage and hold tissue adjacent the bottom wall by suction forces applied through the second set of holes.

Abstract: A surgical access device includes a proximal housing having proximal and distal end portions, the distal end portion of the housing being configured and adapted to engage a proximal portion of a flexible wound retractor. The proximal housing can be provided with a plenum chamber being defined therein, the plenum chamber being in fluid communication with at least one nozzle. The nozzle is preferably configured to direct pressurized fluid in an axial direction from the plenum chamber into a central bore of the surgical access device to provide a constant gaseous seal around a surgical instrument inserted therethrough, while inhibiting a loss of pressurized fluid from the body cavity therethrough. The plenum chamber can be adapted and configured to receive pressurized fluid and conduct the pressurized fluid to the at least one nozzle.

Abstract: An intra-corporeal surgical retractor for holding tissues and organs in place is provided, including a sealed container, made from a flexible material, having an interior containing a granular substance and a fluid. At least one tube may be provided with one end attached to the container in communication with the interior of the container and the other end connected to a suction mechanism. When the fluid is evacuated from the container, the container constricts around the granular substance and becomes relatively rigid. An absorbent sleeve or layer may be provided surrounding the container. The granular substance may be provided as loose fill or as a layer over at least a portion of the inner wall. Alternatively, the inner walls of the container may be provided with a very rough surface. Further, the outer surface of the bottom of the pouch is enhanced frictionally.

Abstract: A surgical access port and method of using is disclosed, the surgical access port comprising a cylindrical member defining a longitudinal axis and having proximal ends defined by a pair of rims oriented substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis. At least one lumen extends from the proximal end to the distal end of the cylindrical member, the lumens substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. A sealing member having proximal and distal ends with opposing openings is disposed externally of the cylindrical member, the opening at the proximal end of the sealing member in contact with the proximal end of the cylindrical member.

Abstract: A system for manufacturing a forceps is disclosed. The system includes a forceps having first and second opposing jaw members. A compression mechanism is coupled to the pair of opposing jaw members and configured to provide and maintain a compression force between the opposing jaw members. The system also includes a load cell configured to measure an initial compression force between the opposing jaw members and a controller coupled to the load cell and configured to adjust the compression force based on a comparison between the initial compression force and a predetermined range.

Abstract: A combination suction retraction instrument for surgery is disclosed. The suction retraction instrument includes a retractor including a body, a suction nozzle secured to a distal end of the body, and means for retaining a suction tube adjacent the retractor. The suction tube is connected to a vacuum source for removing fluids and debris from a surgical site. The means for retaining the suction tube is secured to the body. The means for retaining the suction tube is structured to allow the suction tube to slide within the means for retaining the suction tube upon manual pulling of the suction tube by a surgeon. A proximal end of the suction nozzle is dimensioned to engage a distal end of the suction tube in a sealing relationship thereby providing a suction flow path from an opening of the suction nozzle into the suction tube.

Abstract: A working channel for separating paraspinal muscles and minimizing muscle trauma during spinal surgery includes a flared upper section having a distal end, a proximal end and an interior lumen traversing through the flared upper section. The proximal end of the flared upper section having a larger cross-sectional area than the distal end of the flared upper section. A lower elongate body section extends fixedly from the distal end of the flared upper section. The lower elongate body section has a distal end for inserting into a patient, a proximal end connected to the flared upper section and an interior lumen traversing through the lower section. The flared upper section and the lower elongate body section each have an inner surface and an outer surface. A thickness between the inner and outer surfaces of the lower elongate body section is the same at each point along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity includes a seal anchor member comprising a compressible material and being adapted to transition between a first expanded condition to facilitate securing of the seal anchor member within the tissue tract and in substantial sealed relation with tissue surfaces defining the tissue tract and a second compressed condition to facilitate at least partial insertion of the seal anchor member within the tissue tract. The seal anchor member defines a longitudinal axis, and has leading and trailing ends with at least one longitudinal port extending therebetween adapted for reception of an object whereby compressible material defining the at least one port is adapted to deform to establish a substantial sealed relation with the object. The seal anchor member may comprise a memory foam material and may include a plurality of longitudinal ports.

Abstract: An improved access assembly is provided. The access assembly includes a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, the tubular member including at least one section extending at least a portion of a length therein. The access assembly further includes a first ring including a plurality of first segments and secured at the proximal end of the tubular member and a second ring including a plurality of second segments and secured at the distal end of the tubular member. At least two segments of the first plurality of segments are independently expandable. At least two sections of the plurality of sections are independently expandable.

Abstract: An access apparatus for use in surgical procedures is provided. The access apparatus includes a control mechanism that is configured to control desufflation flow of the access apparatus. The control mechanism includes a valve in fluid communication with a longitudinal passage that is operably associated with the access apparatus. The valve includes one or more openings and a selectively movable mechanical interface that operably couples to the valve. The selectively movable mechanical interface is configured to alter desufflation flow when it is moved with respect to the valve and across the at least one opening.

Abstract: This application presents minimally-obstructive and structurally-adjustable retractors which afford an open work area of desirable size and enhanced visualization for a surgeon about the perineum and the posterior vaginal wall of the patient. The retractors may be lightweight and compact, and also configured and dimensioned to minimize slippage during use. The retractors may retract the engorged labia of the postpartum patient as well as the vaginal walls. The device may also be used as a speculum.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for performing surgical procedures using tissue retractors. In general, the methods and devices allow a surgeon to use a retractor to capture a large or small amount of tissue in the retractor and to move the retractor to relocate tissue to one or more convenient locations during a surgical procedure. The retractor can be configured from a pliable state to a substantially rigid state to hold the retractor and the tissue in a substantially fixed position during the procedure.

Abstract: A device for introducing surgical tools into a body is provided that a slotted cannula supported on a handle. The cannula is an elongate plate having a first end rigidly connected to an end of the handle, and a second end opposed to the first end. The plate is curved in the width direction so that the cannula has a cross-sectional shape that is a minor arc opening upward. As a result of this configuration, the cannula has a concave tool receiving surface, and an opposed, convex outer surface. A cannula fluid channel is disposed between the tool-receiving and outer surfaces. The cannula fluid channel extends from the handle to the second end of the cannula, and opens to the cannula exterior at the leading tip of the cannula.

Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein relate to disposable speculums, and more particularly to disposable vaginal speculums having single-sided support and operating mechanisms. In an embodiment, a speculum includes an upper member having an upper blade and a hinge assembly; a lower member having a handle and a lower blade, wherein a combined smoke channel light guide directs light from a light source in the handle to a distal end of the lower blade for smoke removal; and a linear support member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an elongated body therebetween, the linear support member vertically moveable within a track positioned in the lower member.

Abstract: A veress needle including a housing, a first optical insert for contact viewing, and a second optical insert for distance viewing. The housing including one or more insufflation conduits and an elongate member. The one or more insufflation conduits being adapted to permit the passage and reception of at least one fluid therethrough. The housing defines a passage therethrough. The first and second optical inserts are operably associated with the housing and removably positionable within the passage of the housing while the elongate member remains positioned within tissue. Each optical insert includes an optical assembly having one or more lenses and an ocular. The one or more lenses are adapted to receive an image and transmit the image to the ocular so that the image is perceptible through the ocular.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity is adapted to tissues having different thicknesses. The surgical apparatus is configured to have different lengths. In one embodiment, the surgical includes a seal anchor member having two ends, one of which can be configured to fold and result in a plurality of folded states. Each folded state corresponds to a different length of the seal anchor member. The seal anchor member includes a slot to facilitate transition within the plurality of folded states. The seal anchor member further includes an aperture and a pin configured to further facilitate transition within the plurality of folded states.

Abstract: A minimally invasive dilation device includes a plurality of rigid arms radially arrayed about a center and a dilating member positioned between the arms. A stylus may occupy the center. An outer flexible sleeve may be circumferentially secured to the arms, lying within or without the plurality of arms. An inner mesh may surround the stylus and dilating member. The device may be introduced into tissue toward a targeted area, while in a closed configuration. The dilating member may be a balloon, wherein upon inflation of the balloon, the arms are pushed radially outward, expanding the device and dilating the surrounding tissue. The dilating member may be a tube, wherein upon insertion of the tube, the arms are pushed radially outward. A cannula may be inserted inside the plurality of arms to keep the arms in an open configuration, and the dilating member may be withdrawn, providing an open passageway through the device to the targeted area. The device may be used with a neural monitoring system.

Abstract: An access system for surgical procedures includes an insertion tube having a distal end and a lumen, a pair of instrument delivery tubes extending through the lumen of the insertion tube, each instrument delivery tube having a fixed longitudinal position relative to the insertion tube and a steerable distal portion positioned distal to the distal end of the insertion tube. Proximal actuators are moveable to steer the distal portions of the instrument delivery tubes through manipulation of the handles of instruments extending through those tubes. First and second rigid tubes are mounted within the lumen, at least one of which has a distal end disposed within the lumen.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of devices and method for affecting at least one anatomical tissue can be provided. A configuration can be provided that includes a structure which is expandable (i) having and/or (ii) forming at least one opening or a working space through which the anatomical tissue(s) is placed in the structure. For example, the structure, prior to being expanding, can have at least one partially rigid portion. In addition, or as an alternative, upon a partial or complete expansion thereof, the structure can be controllable to have a plurality of shapes. Further, the structure can be controllable to provide the working space with multiple shapes and/or multiple sizes.

Abstract: A canister is fabricated with a tubular wall and with end caps at respective ends of the tubular wall to form an enclosed cannula. Perforations, or openings, extend through at least the tubular wall and one end cap of the canister to facilitate fluid flow into, through and out from the canister to facilitate use of the cannula for irrigation (lavage) and aspiration (suctioning) procedures A fluid port provides an entry and exit for fluid passing into, through and out from the canister. An additional opening is provided to facilitate positioning a thermo probe in the path of fluid flow through the cannula. The openings are preferably substantially rectangular in configuration with rounded corners and are disposed to provide fluid flow openings through approximately 14% of the surface area of the cannula.

Abstract: A device (10) is described for securing a cranial limb to the cranial top (17) and for simultaneously closing craniotomy holes, comprising: a cortical support riser (12); first closing means (11) operatively connected to the cortical riser (12); second closing means (14) adapted to be secured to the cortical riser (12); and at least one handle (15) removably connected to the cortical riser (12) and adapted to drive the device (10) to take it from its rest position to its operating securing position. A process for using such device (10) is further described.

Abstract: An expandable surgical retractor for minimally invasive surgical applications is disclosed. The expandable retractor, preferably in the form of an inflatable balloon retractor, is inserted in a surgical corridor and expanded to the desired size and shape. The retractor of the present invention is amenable to many shapes including cylindrical, conical with the base at the depth of the corridor, hourglass, and crescent and are dictated by the surgeon's needs. Cooling of the retractor allows the retractor to maintain the expanded characteristic. The expanded relatively rigid retractor provides an ideal corridor for surgical applications. In a preferred embodiment, a second retractor, of the invention, can be placed at a greater depth through the first placed retractor; the “telescoping” effect rapidly provides greater exposure with minimal manipulation. Following surgery, such retractor(s) can be removed in a manner that minimizes bleeding and tissue damage.

Abstract: An improved suction tip for a surgical instrument is disclosed. The suction tip covers a wider range of evacuation area without creating any trauma to surrounding tissues. The proximal end of suctioning tip has a plurality of suction ports located at its front, top, right side and left side of the widen tip portion. Furthermore a ledge member is extending out from its frontal widen tip portion for propose of abutting the tissue and providing a clear spacing between the suction ports and the tissue for means of evacuation and collections of fluid in specified area.

Abstract: A surgical retractor system having a frame and a plurality of arms connected thereto is disclosed. At least one arm is moveable relative to the frame and the relative movement is constrained to a direction along the longitudinal axis of the arm. At least one retractor blade is removably connected to each of the plurality of arms. The blade is fixably rotatable about an axis normal to the longitudinal axis of the arm to which it is connected.

Abstract: An endoscopic forceps for treating tissue includes a handle assembly having a elongated shaft extending therefrom that is movable relative to the handle assembly by an actuator. The forceps also includes an end effector assembly with first and second jaw members that are movable about a pivot for clamping tissue. Each of the jaw members include: an insulative housing having an electrically conductive, inwardly facing tissue contacting surface and a flange with a camming surface. The flange includes a spring-like tail that mounts at least partially within the distal end of the elongated shaft to bias the jaw members in an open configuration. A proximal portion of the spring-like tail is biased radially outward within the distal end of the elongated shaft. The actuator is movable to actuate the elongated shaft to cam the flanges to pivot the jaw members to clamp tissue.

Abstract: An accessory strap fixing structure is disposed on a portable electronic device to assemble a accessory strap. The accessory strap fixing structure includes an assembling slot and a rotor. The assembling slot is recessed on the portable electronic device. The rotor is rotatably assembled within the assembling slot and divides the assembling slot into two opening portions to assemble the accessory strap. The invention also discloses a portable electronic device having the accessory strap fixing structure.

Abstract: A tissue retractor and guide device for use in securing a spinal fixation plate to a spine is provided. In general, the device includes an elongate member having a guide member formed thereon or mated thereto with at least one lumen extending therethrough for receiving a tool. The guide member is adapted to couple to a spinal implant, while the distal portion of the elongate member is effective to retract tissue disposed adjacent to the guide member.

Abstract: Exemplary scope systems and methods involve a cannula assembly, a sheath assembly, and a tubing set. A cannula assembly, which may be a non-magnetic scope cap assembly, can include a cannula body, a proximal housing having a strap, an optical window, and a luer for suction or flushing. A cannula body may include a first lumen or scope channel for receiving a visualization device such as an endoscope or laparoscope, a distal end having suction or flushing flush apertures, and a second lumen for providing fluid communication between the apertures and the luer. Exemplary magnetic introducer systems and methods involve a cannula assembly, a sheath assembly, a tubing set. In some cases, the cannula assembly of a magnetic introducer system can be a magnetic scope cap assembly. In addition to cannula and sheath assemblies, magnetic introducer systems can include a magnetic introducer tubing assembly and a stylet assembly.

Abstract: Systems and methods provide for more efficient cleaning and sterilizing of surgical handpieces by using a removable valve assembly. The valve assembly is removable to provide access to a first suction passageway and a second suction passageway for cleaning purposes. The first suction passageway may also be removable.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include an insertion aid device with a handle, a tongue depressor, a tracheal suction catheter guide, and a guide with a recess formed by a pair of prongs. The guide may be configured to accommodate the cross-sectional shape of a tracheal suction catheter, a nasogastric tube, or an orogastric tube. The tracheal suction catheter guide may include a connection port configured to couple to an in-line suction catheter. A light source may be included with the insertion aid device.

Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and devices for removing fluid from a surgical instrument. Surgical access devices and seal systems are generally provided having one or more valves or seal assemblies to create a closed system between the outside environment and the environment in which the surgical access device is being inserted. The devices of systems can also include a fluid remover in the form of a sorbent element, a scraper element, a wicking element, or any combination thereof that is configured to remove fluid from a working channel of the device or system and/or from a surgical instrument inserted therethrough.

Abstract: A vaginal speculum adapted to be positioned within a vagina has a hollow cylindrical body with means integral therewith for distending the vagina internally of the introitus, whereby the speculum allows visualisation of, and access to and through the cervix, without distending the cervix. In one embodiment the hollow cylindrical body has an inner and outer tube, which are movable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical body between a first position, wherein the distending means is closed and a second position, wherein the distending means is distended. In this embodiment the distending means is a plurality of elongate members connected between the distal ends of the inner and outer tubes. In the first position the elongate members lie along the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical and in the second position they are bent out from the hollow cylindrical body as the distance between the distal ends of the inner and outer tubes has been shortened.

Abstract: Retractor apparatus including a blade and a fluid port and/or a light emitter associated with blade, and surgical systems including an arm and a retractor apparatus.

Abstract: A retractor and a surgical tool are positioned within a cannula, and a dissection cradle of the retractor is positioned at the distal end of the cannula. The retractor includes a dissection cradle that is resiliently supported along an axis skewed relative to the axis of the cannula. The dissection cradle, in operation, is extended to cradle the target vessel, and the retractor may be fully extended to urge the vessel away from the axis of the cannula to isolate a side branch for exposure to a surgical tool. The retractor includes a hollow support and a spray nozzle disposed in the distal end of the retractor to form an irrigation system and lens washer that can be selectively positioned to direct the spray of irrigation fluid at a remote surgical site or at an endoscopic lens.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for allowing multiple surgical instruments to be inserted into sealing elements of a single surgical access device. The sealing elements can be movable along predefined pathways within the device to allow surgical instruments inserted through the sealing elements to be moved laterally, rotationally, angularly, and vertically relative to a central longitudinal axis of the device for ease of manipulation within a patient's body while maintaining insufflation.

Abstract: An instrument access device comprises a base which is mounted to a proximal ring assembly of a retractor. A first, second and third connector sleeves connect first, second and third seal assemblies to a connector base. The connector sleeves are of a laterally flexible and longitudinally rigid material. At least some of the first, second and third seal assemblies comprise a lipseal through which an instrument is inserted and a second seal having a passageway through which the instrument is insertable. At least one of the seal assemblies has a reducer cap which has a further lipseal. To insert large diameter instruments the cap is removed. To insert smaller diameter instruments the cap is in place. The access device has two insufflation/desufflation ports.

Abstract: An expandable surgical retractor for minimally invasive surgical applications is disclosed. The expandable retractor, preferably in the form of an inflatable balloon retractor, is inserted in a surgical corridor and expanded to the desired size and shape. The retractor of the present invention is amenable to many shapes including cylindrical, conical with the base at the depth of the corridor, hourglass, and crescent and are dictated by the surgeon's needs. Cooling of the retractor allows the retractor to maintain the expanded characteristic. The expanded relatively rigid retractor provides an ideal corridor for surgical applications. In a preferred embodiment, a second retractor, of the invention, can be placed at a greater depth through the first placed retractor; the “telescoping” effect rapidly provides greater exposure with minimal manipulation. Following surgery, such retractor(s) can be removed in a manner that minimizes bleeding and tissue damage.

Abstract: An articulating endoscopic instrument is adapted for properly orienting the stomach for cutting and stapling in an efficient manner. The instrument includes a body member having a first end and a second end, a plurality of suction holes along the body member in fluid communication with a suction inlet at the first end of the body member for the creation of suction along the body member and an articulating joint positioned along the body member. A method for gastric reduction surgery is achieved by inserting an articulating endoscopic instrument within the stomach and articulating the articulating endoscopic instrument to generally assume the shape of the relaxed stomach, applying suction through the articulating endoscopic instrument to draw the stomach tissue into contact with the articulating endoscopic instrument, articulating the articulating endoscopic instrument to a desired orientation and completing the gastric reduction surgery.

Abstract: A surgical portal apparatus for use in surgical procedures incorporating at least one suture includes a portal housing defining a longitudinal axis and having a longitudinal opening therethrough for receiving a surgical object and a sleeve extending from the portal housing and including one or more channels formed along the length of the sleeve. The channels are configured to receive the at least one suture.

Abstract: A method of preventing tissue creep using a surgical retractor apparatus having one or more independent, removable extension members adapted to be mounted at the distal end of the retractor, or between the blades of a spreadable retractor, after the retractor has been positioned in the patient, such that a significant portion of the extension member extends beyond the distal end of the retractor to preclude or minimize intrusion of tissue into the access area created by the retractor. The extension members may vary in size and shape so that the most appropriate extension member can be chosen to address the intrusion problem, and the extension members may be mounted at various fixed locations, using clips, mechanical interlocking structures or the like.

Abstract: A surgical device having a housing, an elongated shaft extending distally from the housing, a retractor including a plurality of retractor elements extending distally from the shaft, a vacuum chamber in communication with a vacuum tube positioned within the elongated shaft for applying a suction force to remove a specimen, and a fluid delivery assembly including a fluid container positioned adjacent the housing.

Abstract: A working channel for separating paraspinal muscles and minimizing muscle trauma during spinal surgery includes a flared upper section having a distal end, a proximal end and an interior lumen traversing through the flared upper section. The proximal end of the flared upper section having a larger cross-sectional area than the distal end of the flared upper section. A lower elongate body section extends fixedly from the distal end of the flared upper section. The lower elongate body section has a distal end for inserting into a patient, a proximal end connected to the flared upper section and an interior lumen traversing through the lower section. The flared upper section and the lower elongate body section each have an inner surface and an outer surface. A thickness between the inner and outer surfaces of the lower elongate body section is the same at each point along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A device to be used in a cardiovascular environment, comprising an expandable element that is coupled to a rod and that includes a compressed state and an expanded state. The expandable element is operable to be positioned within a wall of an organ while the expandable element is in the compressed state. The expandable element is further operable to be deployed once it is within the organ such that it is in the expanded state. The device further includes a cutter element operable to make a circular incision at the wall of the organ. The expandable element creates a resistive force when it is pulled against the wall while in the expanded state such that an interface is created for making the incision. The device includes a stop-grip mechanism that maintains the resistive force at the interface. One embodiment features the expandable element being umbrella shaped.