Abstract: A method of relieving vacuum in a biopsy apparatus includes applying vacuum through at least one motor to an inner cannula lumen; providing a continuously open leak path that permits fluid communication between the outer cannula lumen and atmosphere, wherein fluid is drawn from the leak path through the outer cannula; retracting the inner cannula proximally to permit tissue to prolapse into a tissue receiving opening of the outer cannula due to the vacuum; translating the inner cannula distally to sever the prolapsed tissue; aspirating the severed tissue through the inner cannula lumen; and selectively relieving vacuum distally of the severed tissue by retracting the inner cannula proximally to permit the inner cannula lumen to communicate with the respective outer cannula lumen and the leak path while a portion of the biopsy apparatus, including the tissue receiving opening, is positioned within tissue.

Abstract: A biopsy device includes a body having a cannula, a cutter positioned at least partly within the cannula, a tissue collection chamber, and a vacuum source. In one example, the biopsy device includes a cutter loader for rotating the cutter into a loaded position (e.g., open position). A trigger is engaged with a portion of the cutter loader and may be activated to allow the cutter to rotate back to a closed position. During this rotation, the cutter severs a tissue sample, which may thereafter be drawn through the cutter lumen into the tissue collection chamber under the influence of a vacuum created by the vacuum source. The vacuum source includes a piston configured to be operated by squeezing a scissors grip. A user may apply a single stroke or successive strokes to the piston to produce the vacuum.

Abstract: A biopsy needle system includes a cylinder with an open end and a cylinder wall. A piston is inserted in the open end such that a cylinder interior volume is defined between the piston and the cylinder, the piston being movable in the cylinder. A biopsy needle is connected to the cylinder. A ventilation groove is established in the cylinder wall only to a depth of a portion of a thickness of the cylinder wall. The ventilation groove is positioned such that the cylinder interior volume of the cylinder communicates with the ambient atmosphere when the piston is displaced to a position in the cylinder so as to establish an airflow through the ventilation groove past the piston.

Abstract: A biopsy apparatus includes a driver assembly to be grasped by a user and a disposable biopsy probe assembly for releasable attachment to the driver assembly. The driver assembly includes a first vacuum path having a first one-way valve configured and arranged to permit a negative pressure fluid flow toward a vacuum source and to prevent a positive pressure fluid flow away from the vacuum source. The disposable biopsy probe assembly includes a second vacuum path having a second one-way valve configured and arranged to permit the negative pressure fluid flow from a sample basket and to redundantly prevent the positive pressure fluid flow toward the sample basket. In some embodiments, a fluid management tank may be fluidically interposed in the second vacuum path to prevent a flow of residual biopsy biological material from the sample basket to the vacuum source.

Abstract: A biopsy device may be used to obtain and store multiple tissue samples. The device permits the tissue samples to be stored in a sequenced fashion within a generally transparent tissue storage chamber disposed at a proximal end of the biopsy device. The tissue samples can be stored on flexible tissue sample strips arranged around the circumference of a rotating vacuum manifold disposed within the chamber.

Abstract: A hollow microtube structure capable of being used as a minimally invasive electrode, a production method thereof, and a biopsy device using the hollow microtube structure. The hollow microtube structure includes a semiconductor substrate and at least one hollow tube formed on a surface of the semiconductor substrate. The hollow tube includes a metal coating film layer on the inner surface and an electrically insulating coating film layer on the outer surface. The semiconductor substrate includes a through hole communicated with an interior of a hollow tube at a location where the hollow tube is formed. The production method includes an etching, a sacrificial layer forming, a metal coating film layer forming, an electrically insulating coating film layer forming, a tip portion removing, and a piercing.

Abstract: A polyp removal tool and method of use is disclosed. The tool includes a main body, an elongated hollow conduit fixed to the body, a handle, a cable assembly, a suction assembly and an irrigation system. The handle is used to actuate a snare at the end of a cable for transecting of polypoid tissue. The suction assembly is used in pre-conditioning the tissue for cutting and in polyp retention after cutting. The irrigation system is included for tissue recovery after transection. The tool may include a screen for capture of tissue within the device.

Abstract: A fluid connector is provided for a biopsy system that includes a vacuum assisted biopsy device, a first fluid source and a second fluid source. In an embodiment, the fluid connector includes a body member having a first input port, a second input port and an output port. The first input port includes a first check valve in fluid communication with the first fluid source, the second input port includes a second check valve in fluid communication with the second fluid source and the output port is provided in communication with the vacuum assisted biopsy device. A biopsy system including a fluid connector of the present invention is also provided.

Abstract: A method for extracting a tissue sample is provided, including the steps of inserting a catheter into a bodily cavity, the catheter having a sampling chamber, a movable cover, and an actuation mechanism for actuating the cover, positioning the sampling chamber next to tissue to be sampled, providing a fluid to the actuation mechanism to open the cover, supplying a vacuum to draw tissue sample into the sampling chamber and to close the cover, and withdrawing the catheter from the bodily cavity. Catheter forceps for obtaining a tissue sample are also provided, including a catheter, a sampling chamber positioned at a distal end of the catheter and having a movable cover, and an actuation mechanism for moving the movable cover to an opened position by providing a fluid to the actuation mechanism and to a closed position by providing a vacuum to the actuation mechanism.

Abstract: Device and method for rapid extraction of body tissue from an enclosed body cavity. Hollow entry cannula with optional core element provides entry into body tissue space such as bone marrow. Aspiration cannula is inserted through cannula into body tissue and is manipulated to advance directionally through body cavity. Optional stylet within aspiration cannula aids in advancing aspiration cannula through body tissue and is removed to facilitate extraction of body tissue through the aspiration cannula. Inlet openings near distal tip of aspiration cannula allow tissue aspiration, with negative pressure source at proximal end of aspiration cannula providing controlled negative pressure. Aspiration cannula may be withdrawn and its path adjusted for multiple entries through the same entry point, following different paths through tissue space for subsequent aspiration of more tissue.

Abstract: Methods and device for extracting and collecting tissue, which can be used for example in tissue engineering and grafting applications, are disclosed. In one embodiment, a device can include an outer tube. A rotatable shaft can be disposed within the outer tube can have a tissue harvesting tip formed on its distal end, the tissue harvesting tip being effective to excise tissue upon rotation thereof. A tissue collection device can be included to receive and collected excised tissue, and the tissue collection device can indicate the amount of tissue collected therein. For example, the tissue collection device can include a straining element which collects excised tissue and an indicator by which to assess the amount of collected tissue. In some embodiments, the tissue collection device can translate to indicate the amount of collected tissue.

Abstract: A biopsy device includes a first jaw and a second jaw pivotally connected to the first jaw through a pivot. The second jaw has a lever arm extending rearward from the pivot when the second jaw is closed. A wire having an end is connected to the lever arm of the second jaw. A suction tube is disposed between the first and second jaw.

Abstract: A method for extracting a tissue sample includes altering the pressure inside the lumen of a cannula to facilitate extraction of a tissue sample from the cannula. One aspect of the invention includes a biopsy apparatus comprising a valve for controlling the pressure inside the lumen of the cannula. In one variation, the pressure/vacuum generating device is connected to a cannula with a closed distal end and an orifice located on a circumferential surface of said cannula. A cutting sheath is slidably disposed over said cannula. The valve may be provided between the pressure/vacuum generating device and the cannula to control the pressure within the lumen of the cannula.

Abstract: A biopsy apparatus includes a cannula, a cutting sheath, a pressure generating device and a valve. The cannula has a lumen, a proximal portion, a closed distal end, and an orifice located on a circumferential surface of the cannula. The orifice is configured to receive a tissue sample into the lumen of the cannula. The cutting sheath is coaxially disposed with the cannula. The cutting sheath is configured to be movable relative to the cannula to selectively cover the orifice. The pressure generating device is coupled to the proximal portion of the cannula. A valve is interposed between the cannula and the pressure generating device. The valve is configured to control a flow of a fluid between the lumen of the cannula and the pressure generating device.

Abstract: A biopsy device for tissue collection having a housing and a removable element. A power source is contained within the housing and the removable unit includes a biopsy needle module and a pressure source that can be integrated into the housing such that the biopsy device is fully operational without the need for wires or cables extending from the housing to connect to external units. The biopsy needle module includes a biopsy needle and a cutting sleeve, the biopsy needle having a sharpened distal end and a distal opening for collection of tissue, the cutting sleeve having a cutting blade on its distal end and being coaxially positioned with respect to the biopsy needle.

Abstract: Device and method for rapid extraction of body tissue from an enclosed body cavity. Hollow entry cannula with optional core element provides entry into body tissue space such as bone marrow. Aspiration cannula is inserted through cannula into body tissue and is manipulated to advance directionally through body cavity. Optional stylet within aspiration cannula aids in advancing aspiration cannula through body tissue and is removed to facilitate extraction of body tissue through the aspiration cannula. Inlet openings near distal tip of aspiration cannula allow tissue aspiration, with negative pressure source at proximal end of aspiration cannula providing controlled negative pressure. Aspiration cannula may be withdrawn and its path adjusted for multiple entries through the same entry point, following different paths through tissue space for subsequent aspiration of more tissue.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for extracting and macerating tissue, and optionally for depositing the tissue onto a tissue scaffold. The device generally includes an outer tube having a substantially open distal end that is adapted to be placed on and preferably to form a seal with a tissue surface, and a shaft rotatably disposed within the outer tube and movable between a first, proximal position in which the shaft is fully disposed within the outer tube, and a second, distal position in which a portion of a distal end of the shaft extends through the opening in the distal end of the outer tube. The device also includes a tissue harvesting tip formed on the distal end of the shaft that is effective to excise a tissue sample when the shaft is moved to the distal position, and a cutting member that is coupled to the shaft at a position proximal to the tissue harvesting tip. The cutting member is effective to macerate a tissue sample excised by the tissue harvesting tip.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for collecting a sample (such as, but not limited to, a tissue sample) from a body, such as the body of a casualty, while simultaneously tagging the body with an identifier.

Abstract: A biopsy system includes a biopsy device, a vacuum canister, a vacuum control module, and a plurality of tubes. A first tube is configured to provide an axial vacuum to the biopsy device, while a second tube is configured to provide a lateral vacuum. A third tube is configured to communicate atmospheric air to the second tube. A fourth tube is configured to communicate saline to the second tube. The vacuum canister is configured to collect fluids drawn through the first tube and the second tube. The canister has a lid with trenches formed in it for retaining the first, second, third, and fourth tubes. The lid also has engagement regions for selectively pinching each of the tubes against to prevent fluid communication through selected tubes. The canister can be removably inserted into the vacuum control module, which includes components for selectively pinching the tubes against the engagement regions.

Abstract: A biopsy apparatus includes a cannula having a closed distal end. An orifice is located on a circumferential surface of the cannula. The orifice is configured to receive a tissue sample into a lumen of the cannula. A cutting sheath is slidably and coaxially disposed over the cannula. The cutting sheath is adapted to seal the opening of the orifice. A pressure generating device is connected to a proximal portion of the cannula for altering a pressure in the lumen of the cannula. A valve is positioned between the cannula and the pressure generating device for controlling a flow of a fluid between the lumen of the cannula and the pressure generating device.

Abstract: A bone-marrow extraction and/or injection device (1) comprising a grip zone (2), and a needle (10) presenting at least one side orifice (15), a protective sleeve (20) surrounding at least part of said needle (10) being mounted to move relative to said needle (10) between a closed position of said at least one side orifice (15) and an open position of said at least one side orifice.

Abstract: A cryosurgical instrument for obtaining a tissue sample with a probe, including the probe including a probe head onto which the tissue sample is frozen and a probe shank for guiding the probe head to the tissue sample, a supply means for supplying a fluid into an expansion chamber configured such that supplied fluid expands therein for cooling the probe head, and a removal means connected to the expansion chamber for removing the expanded fluid therefrom via at least one opening on a distal end of the probe to remove the expanded fluid to an outer region outside the probe. A method for cooling a probe head of a cryosurgical probe including supplying a fluid to an expansion chamber near the probe head, expanding the fluid so that heat energy is withdrawn from the probe head, and removing the expanded fluid in a distal region of the probe.

Abstract: A biopsy device and method may be used to obtain a tissue sample, such as a breast tissue biopsy sample. The biopsy device includes an outer cannula having a distal piercing tip, a cutter lumen, and a cutter tube that is rotated by an integral motor and manually translated past a side aperture in the outer cannula to sever a tissue sample. A sample capturing structure (e.g., sample barrel) has a plurality of sample cavities (e.g., radially symmetric, revolver handgun orientation) that are manually aligned one at a time to capture one or more samples.

Abstract: A localization mechanism, or fixture, is used in conjunction with a breast coil for breast compression and for guiding a core biopsy instrument during prone biopsy procedures in both open and closed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. The localization fixture includes a three-dimensional Cartesian positionable guide for supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument, and in particular a sleeve, to a biopsy site of suspicious tissues or lesions. A depth stop enhances accurate insertion, and prevents over-insertion or inadvertent retraction of the sleeve. The sleeve receives a probe of the MRI-compatible biopsy instrument and may contain various features to enhance its imagability, to enhance vacuum and pressure assist therethrough, and marker deployment etc.

Abstract: A biopsy device is provided. The device requires a first elongate substantially tubular member that defines a distal end portion and a proximal end portion with a lumen defined therethrough and a second elongate substantially tubular member that is telescopically and slidably disposed within the lumen of the first member. The second member includes a distal end portion and a proximal portion with a lumen defined therethrough, the distal end portion comprising two or more metallic jaws that are biased toward each other. A third elongate tubular member is telescopically and slidably received within the lumen of the second member, the third member includes a distal end portion with an open distal end, configured to allow foreign material to enter the lumen therefrom, the distal end portion of the third portion configured to maintain the jaws in a separated configured when the jaws surround the distal end portion of the third tubular member.

Abstract: A biopsy device may include a needle, a cutter, and a handpiece. A vacuum pump may be provided in the handpiece for providing a vacuum to the needle and/or to the cutter. A motor may be provided in the handpiece to drive the vacuum pump and/or the cutter. A biopsy device may also include a valving mechanism within the handpiece for selectively communicating a vacuum and/or atmospheric air to the needle. A clutching mechanism may selectively provide communication between a motor and the cutter. Portions of a valving mechanism and a clutching mechanism may be integrally formed. A clutching and valving mechanism may be driven by a first motor; and a cutter and vacuum pump by a second motor. A biopsy device may include batteries for powering motors. A biopsy device may thus provide vacuum and power from within a handpiece, such that the biopsy device is tetherless.

Abstract: A device with a sampling portion configured to engage, sever, and remove tissue from a body can be used to obtain one or more tissue samples from the body. The device can be used to obtain multiple tissue samples simultaneously.

Abstract: The invention relates to pressure generating units, in particular to pressure generating unit arranged in the hand piece of a vacuum biopsy device in the form of a singe (2). In said units, air intake is open by a piston when said piston (5) is in the rear position thereof in the space of a vacuumed cylinder (11) which is switched for generating a superpressure, thereby initiating the outflow of a tissue liquid by the air introduced into the space of the vacuumed cylinder. For this purpose, the space of the vacuumed cylinder is connected to the space of an atmosphere pressure cylinder (12) arranged behind the piston, by means of a connection line (15), and an absorbing element (14) is placed on the piston axis.

Abstract: An endoluminal biopsy device is provided with a proximal actuation mechanism attached to a distal sampler by at least one elongate member. The distal sampler includes a distal inner portion defining a plurality of chambers, each configured to receive a tissue sample, and a distal outer portion defining a cutting mechanism opening having a cutting edge adjacent the cutting mechanism opening. The distal outer portion is configured so that, when the cutting mechanism opening aligns with one of the plurality of chambers, the distal outer portion covers the remaining chambers. A related method for the use of such an endoluminal biopsy device also is provided.

Abstract: A specimen retrieval apparatus includes an elongated tubular member defining a lumen therethrough and having an end effector disposed at a distal end thereof. The end effector includes a shaft defining a longitudinal axis, the shaft including a lumen extending therethrough. The lumen of the shaft communicates with the lumen of the elongated tubular member. A suction member is disposed at a distal end of the shaft in communication with the lumen of the shaft. The suction member is configured to retain a tissue specimen thereon. A sleeve is disposed about the shaft and is movable with respect to the shaft from a proximal to a distal position. A specimen retrieval bag is coupled to the sleeve. The bag is deployable from an undeployed position wherein the bag is disposed about the sleeve to an extended position wherein the bag is deployed over the tissue specimen.

Abstract: A surgical device comprising a handle, an elongated tube extending distally from the handle, and a suction tip at a distal end portion of the elongated tube. The suction tip has a cavity formed therein. A cutting blade is positioned at least partially within the cavity and rotatable across the cavity to sever tissue, the cavity dimensioned to receive the severed tissue for removal from a patient's body.

Abstract: A medical device for severing and removing small amounts of internal tissue for biopsy sampling or other purposes is disclosed. Versions of the device may include a hollow probe having a piecing tip, a tissue receiving aperture and a vacuum lumen; a cutter within the probe having a cutting edge that moves past the tissue receiving aperture, and a cutter driver mechanism. A cutter for use with versions disclosed herein may include an angled cutting tip and a cutting edge having a concave grind. Versions of the device also may include an aspirator fluidly connected to the vacuum lumen, coordinated operation of the aspirator and the cutter driver mechanism, and a fluid management system. Versions described may be used for removing multiple samples of tissue during a single insertion of the probe proximate to a target tissue mass.

Abstract: A multiple biopsy device has a number of chambers into which tissue samples are received. A cutting mechanism, such as a blade, moves relative to the chambers to cut a tissue sample that is within a chamber. In one embodiment of the invention, the multiple biopsy device is removably secured to the distal end of an endoscope/bronchoscope.

Abstract: A first medical instrument includes a flexible catheter and a medical guidewire extendable beyond a distal end of the catheter. The catheter is adapted to slidably receive a rail-coupling portion of an adjunct medical device. The medical guidewire has first and second segments, wherein the bending moment of inertia of the first segment is less than the bending moment of inertia of the second segment. A second medical instrument includes a flexible catheter, a mechanized guidewire assembly, and a medical guidewire extendable beyond a distal end of the catheter. The catheter is adapted to slidably receive a rail-coupling portion of an adjunct medical device. The medical guidewire has an exterior surface including a repetitive series of spaced-apart surface elevation features. One example of surface elevation features is external threads. The spaced-apart surface elevation features are adapted for operable engagement with the mechanized guidewire drive assembly.

Abstract: Instruments, systems and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include safe access needle injection instruments incorporating electrosurgical capability, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, a mucosal resection device and submucosal biopsy system. Systems include a combination of one or more of such instruments with or without injectable agents. Embodiments of various methods for performing the procedures are also provided.

Abstract: An endoscope of an endoscope system includes a channel of which a distal end forms a distal opening at a distal end of an insertion portion, of which a proximal end forms a proximal opening at an operating portion, and used for at least suction, and a suction duct of which a distal end forms a suction opening at the operating portion and of which a proximal end is connected to a suction device. An endoscopic accessory includes a capture portion to be connected to an accessory insertion portion and detachably attached to the operating portion of the endoscope, and the capture portion includes a communication path to communicate the proximal opening with the suction opening when the capture portion is attached to the endoscope, and a capture unit interposed in the communication path and to capture the tissue being sucked from the channel into the suction duct.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a movable member having a proximal portion, the movable member defining an opening at the proximal portion. The instrument includes a stationary member defining an aperture. The stationary member is arranged relative to the movable member with a close fit between the stationary member and the movable member such that aspiration occurs through the movable member substantially only during a portion of a repetitive motion of the movable member. The instrument includes a surgical handpiece coupled to the movable member and the stationary member to provide suction and motion to the movable member. A method of regulating aspiration through a surgical instrument includes providing a close fit between a moving member having an opening at a proximal portion and a stationary member having an aperture such that aspiration occurs through the moving member substantially only during a portion of a repetitive motion of the movable member.

Abstract: The invention relates to pressure generating units, in particular to pressure generating unit arranged in the hand piece of a vacuum biopsy device in the form of a sirynge (2). In said units, air intake is open by a piston when said piston (5) is in the rear position thereof in the space of a vacuumed cylinder (11) which is switched for generating a superpressure, thereby initiating the outflow of a tissue liquid by the air introduced into the space of the vacuumed cylinder. For this purpose, the space of the vacuumed cylinder is connected to the space of an atmosphere pressure cylinder (12) arranged behind the piston, by means of a connection line (15), and an absorbing element (14) is placed on the piston axis.

Abstract: A biopsy system includes a first external device, a second external device and a control module interface. The control module interface is in electrical communication with both the first and second external devices, and the control module interface is in mechanical communication with the second external device. The control module interface is configured to be positioned remotely from at least one of the first and second external devices. The control module interface comprises a motor, operational electronics, a shaft connector assembly, an electrical connector and a cabinet configured to house the motor and operational electronics. The motor is in mechanical communication with the second external device via a mechanical cable. The operational electronics are configured to permit control of the motor and a motorized component of the second external device. In some embodiments, the mechanical cable comprises a flexible shaft cable, such as a speedometer cable.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible core biopsy system uses a biopsy device having intuitive graphical displays and a detachable remote keypad that advantageously allows convenient control even within the close confines afforded by a localization fixture installed within a breast coil that localizes a patient's breast and guides a probe of the biopsy device relative to the localized breast. A control module for interactive control and power generation are remotely positioned and communicate and transmit rotational mechanical energy via sheathed cable.

Abstract: A biopsy device and method are provided for obtaining and storing multiple tissue samples. The device permits the tissue samples to be stored in an end to end configuration. The device can include a sample tube having a sample lumen and a generally parallel vacuum lumen. A movable member, such as rod, can be advanced to uncover a predetermined number of fluid passageways between the sample lumen and the vacuum lumen as each sample is severed.

Abstract: An instrument for removing a tissue sample from a subject comprises a plurality of tissue sampling devices having respective chambers, the tissue sampling devices being radially disposed along a length of the instrument such that upon insertion of the instrument into the subject one or more samples are extracted and isolated in the respective chambers of the sampling devices at the site at which removal occurs.

Abstract: A biopsy device is provided. The biopsy device includes cutter and a sample tube advancable through the hollow cutter to retrieve a tissue sample severed by the cutter. A vacuum source can be provided in communication with the sample tube. The sample tube can be releasably attached to the biopsy device.

Abstract: A biopsy device and method are provided for obtaining tissue samples. The biopsy device can include a probe assembly having a cannula and a cutter assembly. The cutter assembly includes a hollow cutter, and the hollow cutter can be removed from the probe assembly without disassembling the probe assembly. The method can include the steps of positioning the tissue receiving port in the tissue to be sampled; removing the cutter from the biopsy device; imaging the biopsy site associated with the tissue receiving port of the biopsy device after removing the cutter from the biopsy device; inserting the cutter into the biopsy device; and severing tissue received in the tissue receiving port with the cutter.

Abstract: A cap for an endoscope includes: a cylindrical portion formed so that a distal end thereof protrudes forwardly from a distal end of an insertion portion of an endoscope; and a suction path that is connected to a suction device, and that communicates with an internal surface of the cylindrical portion.

Abstract: A biopsy device is provided. The biopsy device can include a cutter which is advanced through a first portion of its stroke by a differential fluid pressure acting on a piston. A mechanical drive can be used to translate and rotate the cutter during tissue severing.

Abstract: A medical instrument usable with an ultrasound-endoscope for performing a needle biopsy on a patient's internal body tissues usable at a surgical site not visible to the unaided eye or viewed endoscopically, comprises an elongate tubular member with a hollow needle element connected at its distal end, a sheath member housing said tubular member and needle element, an actuator subassembly with a shifter member operatively connected to elongate tubular member's proximal end, and a distal camming subassembly, said subassembly enabling a rotating motion of said needle member while handle actuator is moved in the forward direction. Upon inserting an ultrasound-endoscope into a patient and locating a mass, the fine needle with sharply pointed spoon shaped distal end is inserted into the mass aided by endoscopic and ultrasonographic guidance. Once in the mass, a camming action is initiated, causing rotation of the fine needle within the mass, resulting in a scooped out core biopsy.

Abstract: A sampling device for obtaining samples of internal body substances in the digestive system is a swallowable capsule which allows a sample of the body substance to enter the capsule through an inlet which opens in the digestive tract following contact with the substance to be collected. The capsule inlet initially is sealed and, after the capsule has been swallowed, the inlet opens following contact with the body substance. An inner chamber preserves a vacuum or substantial under pressure when the inlet is sealed by a blocking member adjacent to the inlet. The blocking member is elastic and has a flow permitting configuration which admits the body substance into the inner chamber and a flow preventing configuration which blocks the inlet from the inside of the chamber when the pressure difference has been equalized.

Abstract: A biopsy device is provided which has a plurality of sample chamber bodies with each body having a plurality of sample chambers. The sample chamber bodies are pivotally coupled to one another to permit the device to be steered and so that the device may conform somewhat to the shape of the esophagus.

Abstract: A medical vacuum aspiration device includes an aspiration cylinder and a valve. The valve includes a removable fluid conduit, a valve housing having at least first and second housing portions, means for removably attaching the first housing portion to the second housing portion, and an actuator. The removable fluid conduit has a first end for attaching to a cannula and a second end for attaching to the aspiration cylinder. The first and second housing portions may define a cavity for removably holding at least a portion of the fluid conduit. The actuator is coupled to the valve housing and selectively compresses a portion of the fluid conduit to open and close a fluid path defined by the fluid conduit.