Abstract: A surgical tool captures and removes very large intraocular foreign bodies from the eye. An elongate bore is formed in an elongate base that is held in the palm of a hand. A user retracts a foreign body capturing device including a handle, rim, and net into the elongate bore by sliding a thumb-engagable control member in a first direction. The device is extended by sliding the control member in a second direction opposite to the first. The rim is formed of a material having memory so that it expands into an elliptical shape when extended from the elongate bore. The net depends from the rim and is used to capture intraocular foreign bodies. Gradual curves at the trailing end of the rim facilitate its re-entry into the elongate bore when a foreign body is captured in the net. The incision in the eye is small.

Abstract: A snare for retrieving objects from a body cavity during a medical procedure comprises a guide element having a proximal end and a distal end, a loop provided on the guide element near the distal end and a flexible element provided on the guide element near the distal end and forming a tip.

Abstract: A high frequency snare is provided with a snare loop; a control rod of flat plate shape with a cross-section having a long axis direction and a short axis direction; a distal end side connecting member in which a proximal end of the snare loop and a distal end of the control rod are inserted; and a control wire which is elongated in an axial direction of the control rod and connected to the control rod through a proximal end side connecting member. The distal end side connecting member is provided with a first opening end surface in the axial direction. The first opening end surface is formed with inclined surfaces which intersect the axial direction of the control rod and the short axis direction of the cross-section of the control rod and are parallel with the long axis direction of the cross-section of control rod.

Abstract: A handle for a medical device comprises a frame, a transmission, a slide, a first rack, a sheath, and a cable assembly. The transmission is mounted to the frame. The slide is moveably attached to the frame and coupled with the transmission. The first rack is moveably attached to the frame and coupled with the transmission. The sheath is secured to the first rack. The cable assembly is secured to the frame and extends through the sheath.

Abstract: An improved controlled-motion instrument is provided for grasping, holding or otherwise manipulating an object in operations such as endoscopic procedures. The instrument opens and closes jaws or other manipulation members by way of a longitudinally movable cam member, but maintains the longitudinal position of the manipulation members constant relative to the instrument's body regardless of opening and closing motion. The manipulation members thus have increased length-to-diameter ratio and column strength, and the cam provides positive lateral jaw support and stability during opening and closing. The movable cam member can also include other manipulation members thereon that work in conjunction with the longitudinally fixed manipulation members.

Abstract: A wire section (1) inserted into a patient includes a wire (4) connected with a snare (3) at the front end thereof, and an outer tube (8) which retractably passes the wire (4) and the snare (3) therein. A remote control section (2) not inserted into the patient's body includes a bar-like main body (9) with a hollow inside; an operating member (11) connected to the main body (9) so as to be slidable in L and R direction and sled to enter or exit the snare (3) into and from the outer tube (8); and a pinching mechanism (15) built in the main body (9) and connected to the operating member (11) for detachably pinching the pipe (6) connected to the rear end of the wire (4). The wire section (1) and the remote control section (2) are connected when the pipe (6) is pinched by the pinching mechanism (15), and the wire section (1) and the remote control section (2) are separated when the pipe (6) is released from the pinching mechanism (15).

Abstract: Devices and methods for removing an obstruction from a blood vessel are described. The devices are deployed in a collapsed condition and are then expanded within the body. The devices are then manipulated to engage and remove the obstruction.

Abstract: A medical cauterization snare includes a tubular member such as a catheter, a rod or wire disposed at least partially inside the tubular member, and a resilient loop of a first size attached to a distal end of the rod or wire. The loop includes a nose on a side of the loop opposite the wire. The loop further includes two loop sections each extending between the wire and the nose. The loop sections are each formed with a respective notch or dent for enabling a use of the loop in a second size smaller than the first size. Positioning the loop relative to the tubular member so that the notches or dents are disposed at a mouth opening of the tubular member generates this secondary deployment configuration.

Abstract: Devices and methods for a minimally invasive procedure for cutting tissue are disclosed. The device generally includes a probe with a distal exit at an exit angle relative to the probe, a cutting loop with shape memory having a preconfigured shape, and a loop securing mechanism to secure the cutting loop in a penetrating configuration and to release the cutting loop into a cutting configuration. The cutting loop is generally within a profile of the probe in the penetrating configuration. In the cutting configuration, the cutting loop extends through the cutting loop exit and generally returns to the preconfigured shape at a cutting angle generally defined by the exit angle. The cutting loop securing mechanism may be, for example, a cover slidable over the probe, a slidable member extending from a distal tip of the probe, or a groove defined in the probe proximal to the cutting loop exit.

Abstract: A method of forming an annularly expanding and retracting gripping and releasing mechanism providing a series of flexible tubes, comprising providing (1) a series of flexible tubes, (2) a corresponding series of wires, each of which includes a movable wire section and relatively short fixed wire section integrally connected with one end of the movable wire section by a kink configured so that the wire sections extend in longitudinally coextensive relation therefrom; (3) a series of tubular elements of thermoplastic material; and (4) a series of heat shrinkable sleeves assembling a distal end portion of each flexible tube with a fixed wire section, a tubular element and a heat shrinkable sleeve so that the fixed wire section extends along the exterior periphery of the flexible tube with the kink disposed outwardly of the distal end thereof.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument including an introducer having a channel therein and an electrically conductive snare slidably positioned within the channel and slidable between an undeployed position wherein it is substantially retracted within the channel and a deployed position wherein a distal portion of the snare extends outwardly from the channel. The electrically conductive snare is substantially insulated along its length but has an active and a return electrode exposed through a predetermined exposed section. The instrument further includes a retention element at a distal end of the snare for securing the distal end of the snare to the introducer to form a looped configuration of the snare, and at least one fluid delivery channel extending through the introducer between a fluid inlet sand a fluid outlet at the distal end of the introducer and located in proximity to the exposed section of the snare.

Abstract: A surgical instrument assembly for the treatment of hemorrhoids includes an anoscope and a hemorrhoid occlusion device. The anoscope includes a hollow body closed at a distal end and at least partially open at a proximal end to define a longitudinal channel. The hollow body has a sidewall provided with a window spaced from the distal end and the proximal end. A shutter member is slidably attached to the hollow body for selectively covering the window during an insertion operation and for opening the window to allow hemorrhoidal tissues to protrude through the window into the anoscope. The hemorrhoid occlusion device includes an instrument shaft provided at a distal end with two jaws, at least one of the jaws including a C- or U-shaped clamping member movable alternately away and towards the other of the jaws for clamping and occluding hemorrhoidal tissues protruding through the window into the anoscope.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methodology of and apparatus for accurately positioning devices for performing endoscopic cannulation, papillotomy and sphincterotomy and similar procedures. The sphincterotome with a steerable or adjustable distal segment of the present invention allows the physician to control the position of the distal tip of the device independently of the endoscope and adjust for inconsistencies in the device and the anatomy. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a threaded portion of a cable assembly cooperates with a torque transmission element and a cog to enable the operator to rotate a cutting wire into a desired position relative to the catheter. Alternate embodiments allow the operator to fix the depth of a needle knife while allowing, if desired, accurate rotational positioning of the associated catheter. Threaded stabilizing elements, pivot elements and a steering wire may be used together or individually to accomplish these features.

Abstract: A medical cauterization snare assembly with a tubular member, an electrically conductive cauterization loop ejectable from a distal end of the tubular member, and a capture pouch also ejectable from the distal end of the tubular member. The pouch is attached to an auxiliary loop which has a size larger than that of the cauterization loop. Alternatively, the tubular member is formed at its distal end with a first port or opening and in a distal end portion with a second port or opening spaced from the first port or opening. The two ports or openings both face in a distal direction (i.e., away from the user). The cauterization loop is alternately ejectable from and retractable into the first port or opening, while the capture pouch is separately ejectable from the second port or opening. Alternatively, the capture pouch is attached to the cauterization loop, to only a proximal portion of the loop to divide the loop's area into a proximal section covered by the pouch and an open or uncovered distal section.

Abstract: A biotissue excising instrument includes a tubular sheath inserted into a body, manipulator inserted into the sheath through leading end of the manipulator and having a loop portion that can be unfolded and contracted to accommodate biotissue to be excised. A slit is formed leading end the sheath to project and sink loop portion of the treatment portion so that manipulator is advanced or retreated to laterally project or sink the loop portion out of or into the or contract the loop portion, the sheath, and a treatment portion provided at thus excising the biotissue loop portion.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel methods, kits, and devices for stopping hemorrhaging of percutaneous wounds. The inventive subject matter involves insertion of a purse-string suture around the wound, insertion of the free two ends of the suture through a tension collar, manual tightening of the tension collar until hemostasis is achieved, and application of a suture lock to the free ends of the suture to secure the tension collar and maintain hemostasis. After a sufficient period of time to allow complete hemostasis, the suture lock and the tension collar are loosened; if hemostasis has been achieved, the suture lock, the tension collar, and the suture material are removed. If bleeding continues from the wound, the tension collar is tightened and the suture lock reapplied. This process may be repeated until complete hemostasis is achieved, without the need for additional suturing or manual compression.

Abstract: An endoscopic stone extraction device includes a handle that supports a sheath, and a filament such as a wire slidably disposed in the sheath. One end of the wire is mounted to the handle for rotation with respect to the handle and the other end of the handle supports a stone extraction basket. A manipulator is provided on the wire to allow a user to rotate the filament and therefore the basket with respect to the handle. The basket can have a side-facing opening or a rear-facing opening. In either case, a stone retention region is provided with relatively small openings sized to retain stones smaller than two millimeters in diameter. A collapsible rake is disclosed which facilitates the collection and extraction of stone fragments.

Abstract: In a vascular anchoring device intended to be introduced into a blood vessel by a catheter and including braces (2) that are expandable in the radial direction, the anchoring device is formed by a substantially hollow-cylindrical part (1) including axially extending braces (2) departing from an end side, and a locking member (3) coaxially guided within the hollow-cylindrical part (1) along a guide wire (4) of the catheter. The locking member (3) carries at least one ramp surface (9) on its end facing the braces (2), which ramp surface causes the braces (2) to expand by an axial displacement relative to the braces (2), and at least one stop (10) cooperating with the hollow-cylindrical part (1) in the expanded position. The guide wire (4) carries a further stop (7) which cooperates with a counter stop surface (8) of the locking member (3), upon displacement of the guide wire (4).

Abstract: One of a first endoscopic treatment instrument setting state and a second endoscopic treatment instrument setting state is selectable. In the former state, when a first diathermic snare is removably inserted in a flexible tube, a loop portion is circumferentially broadened and disposed along a first projection portion. In the latter state, when a second diathermic snare is removably inserted in the flexible tube, a loop portion is circumferentially broadened and disposed along a second projection portion.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing a solid object from a body canal or vessel includes a coil of wire configured to slidably receive a guide wire and a sack having a mouth and a closed bottom opposite the sack. A resilient frame is connected between the coil of wire and the sack for biasing the mouth of the sack open around the coil of wire. The resilient frame is positionable between a collapsed state where the mouth of the sack is closed against the bias of the resilient frame and a deployed state where the mouth of the sack is biased open by the resilient frame.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus for cutting a tissue mass comprising an elongated housing having a distal portion, a rotatable shaft positioned in the elongated housing, and a plurality of flexible electrocautery cutting blades extending from the housing, wherein the plurality of cutting blades are radially expandable from a first position defining a first diameter to a second larger diameter and the blades are rotatable and transmit electrical energy to cut the tissue mass.

Abstract: An embolus extractor including elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The embolus extractor may include first and second struts coupled to the distal end of the shaft. The struts may define a proximally disposed mouth.

Abstract: A surgical snare instrument according to several embodiments includes a first handle capable of controlling the rotational position of the snare, and a second handle adapted to control the opening and closing of the snare and cauterization. The first handle serves as a grippable element on the sheath and contains a system which rotates the shaft, and consequently the snare, so that when the physician grips the first handle, the physician is capable of steering the snare by operating the first handle. In addition, the physician is also capable of positioning the entire sheath relative to the endoscope by sliding the sheath into and out of the working channel of the endoscope. The proximal handle is operable by an assistant and permits longitudinal movement of the shaft and cautery application. According to other embodiments, the snare instrument is provided with a mount which enables the snare instrument to be adjustably fixed relative to an endoscope handle.

Abstract: An expansible and retractable mechanism of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,175 and/or a medical grasper of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,906,622 in which (1) the fixed flexure elements are self-biased to move into the expanded condition thereof. A handpiece for the medical grasper is constructed and arranged so that after a stone has been grasped, a further digital pull on the movable handpiece structure effects the application of a limiting resiliently yielding force to the gripping action.

Abstract: A surgical instrument and method for facilitating the capture of objects during surgery are provided. The surgical instrument includes a flexible tube defining a cable passageway and being configured for insertion of at least portion of the flexible tube into a body cavity of a patient. The surgical instrument further includes flexible cable slidably disposed in the cable passageway. A snare loop is attached to the cable end and both are adapted so that the snare loop can be selectively retracted or extended within the cable passageway by sliding the cable proximally or distally within the cable passageway. The loop member is adapted for selectively encircling and engaging at least a portion of an object in the body cavity. The system also comprises a tether, the tether attached to the loop member at one end and to the flexible tube at the other, so that extension of the flexible cable causes the snare loop to deform in a predetermined manner.

Abstract: A thrombectomy apparatus for breaking up thrombus or other obstructive material in a lumen of a vascular graft or vessel comprising a flexible sheath, and a wire positioned within the flexible sheath wherein the wire and flexible sheath are relatively movable. The wire is substantially sinuous in configuration and assumes a substantially sinuous shape when in the deployed position and assumes a straighter position in the retracted position. The wire is operatively connected to a motor for rotation of the wire to enable peaks of the sinuous wire to contact a wall of the lumen to break up the thrombus or other obstructive material.

Abstract: An apparatus for the removal of build-up about an implanted catheter having an interior surface, an exterior surface and an open free end positioned within an individual's vascular system. The apparatus includes a delivery assembly storing a stripping coil. The delivery assembly includes a guide structure for guiding the stripping coil through the catheter to the free end of the catheter. The stripping coil is formed of a shape memory or super-elastic material, wherein the stripping coil is preformed to assume a shape wrapping about the outer surface of the catheter in a manner providing for the stripping of build-up from the outer surface of the catheter when the stripping coil is moved relative to the catheter.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of using an apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising providing an apparatus having manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate shape memory alloy members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing or cannula capable of holding at least the shape memory alloy member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the shape memory alloy member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the space and for withdrawing the shape memory alloy member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the shape-memory alloy member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the temperature.

Abstract: This invention relates broadly to surgical instruments. More particularly, this invention relates to a surgical snare instrument for excising polyps. Preferably, the instrument includes a coupling member that may increase ability to actuate the snare. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a surgical instrument for insertion through an endoscope having a handle and a working channel, said surgical instrument including an elongate flexible tubular sheath having proximal and distal ends; a flexible shaft extending through and axially movable relative to the sheath, said shaft having proximal and distal ends; an end effector coupled to or formed at said distal end of said shaft; and a coupling member disposed at said distal end of said shaft.

Abstract: This invention provides, e.g., a catheter with a threaded loop type snare tool for retrieval of objects from blood vessels and/or body cavities. The snare tool of the invention provides, e.g., independently maneuverable probe wires and snare wires to encircle and releasably snare foreign objects inside human and veterinary patients. The invention further provides methods of using the catheter of the invention to retrieve objects from patients.

Abstract: A process for delivering high intensity heat in medical applications is disclosed. The process involves forming a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen and reacting the mixture to generate heat near a region of interest.

Abstract: A system for simulating a medical procedure performed on a subject, featuring: (a) a simulated organ; (b) a simulated instrument for performing the medical procedure on the simulated organ; (c) a locator for determining a location of the simulated instrument within the simulated organ; and (d) a visual display for displaying images from the medical procedure, such that the images simulate visual data received during the medical procedure as performed on an actual subject, the visual display including: (i) a three-dimensional model of the simulated organ, the model being divided into a plurality of segments; (ii) a loader for selecting at least one of the plurality of segments for display, the at least one of the plurality of segments being selected according to the location of the simulated instrument within the simulated organ; (iii) a controller for selecting each image from the selected segment according to the location of the simulated instrument; and (iv) a displayer for displaying the image according to

Abstract: A surgical instrument, mainly a laparoscopic organ lifter apparatus and method comprising a flexible arm component having a first manipulating bilateral handle with a central element securing a solid rod terminating in a connector piece holding flexible arms, the solid rod passing through an internally threaded ring housing a locking screw and a tubular rod component having a hollow rod with a proximal hollow externally threaded coupler disposed to receive the internally threaded ring when the hollow rod houses the flexible arms component. To lift and hold an organ, an operator thrusts the first bilateral handle toward the hollow rod proximal end thereby extending the flexible arms outside a hollow tube distal end where the arms assume an arcuate shape appropriate to lift and hold steady an organ such as a spleen.

Abstract: This electrotome is designed for insertion through a trocar into a body cavity for laproscopic surgery, in particular, for resection of diseased tissue. The instrument comprises three coaxial components, a core rod, tubular conductor, and outer sheath, each with a handle, and a ribbon like cutting electrode. The cutting electrode is retained flat against the core rod for insertion and manipulation of the instrument adjacent to the tissue to be resected, and the electrode is extended into a bow for cutting. After extension and electrical heating, the electrotome is rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise manner with simultaneous resection and cauterization of the tissue. The excised tissue can then be trapped between the electrode and core rod for removal from the body cavity.

Abstract: An endoscopic needle device comprises a handle and a catheter sheath connected to the handle, wherein the catheter sheath has at least one lumen, for example a needle lumen and a stabilization lumen, extending therethrough. A needle is selectively movable within the needle lumen between a needle retracted position and a needle extended position and a stabilization element is selectively movable within the stabilization lumen between a stabilizer retracted position and a stabilizer extended position. A linking mechanism may operatively connect the needle and the stabilization element so that when the needle is in the needle retracted position the stabilization element is in the stabilizer extended position and when the needle is in the needle extended position the stabilization element is in the stabilizer retracted position.

Abstract: A device for cutting and retrieving tissue, includes a handle, a first set of at least one wire, and a second set of at least one wire. The handle includes an elongated shaft, a tube, a first sleeve member disposed over the shaft, and a second sleeve member disposed over the shaft. The shaft defines a passageway therein. The tube connects to and extends from a distal end of the passageway, and forms a continuing channel with the passageway. The two sets of wires, attached respectively to the first sleeve member and the second sleeve member, extend through the channel to distal ends of the wires, and form loops at their distal ends. A control tip is secured to the distal end of the first set of wire. A retaining pin is secured to the control tip, extends between at least two wires of the loop of the second set of wire, allows the second set of wire to be extended from the tube and through the control tip, and prevents the second set of wire from being withdrawn from the control tip and into the tube.

Abstract: A system for removing an obstruction from a blood vessel includes an obstruction engaging element and an expandable capture element. The capture element preferably has a flexible cover and an expandable support structure. The engaging element engages the obstruction and moves the obstruction into the capture element. The capture element protects the obstruction when the obstruction is moved into the catheter.

Abstract: An endoscopic surgical device for retrieving severed tissue or foreign bodies from within a subject is disclosed. The device comprises a support unit and a tissue retrieving net system. The net system is carried by the support unit and may be inserted into the subject through an orifice or small incision and operated to retrieve tissue that has been severed by a conventional method. The net system comprises a net, a net actuator, a net deployment and retrieval assembly for transmitting motion between the net and its actuator. The net system further comprises at least one net connector disposed such that only one connector is within an articulation zone, defined by locations of severe bending of the device during operation.

Abstract: Methods and devices for harvesting veins from the body. The methods and devices allow vein harvesting using laparoscopic procedures. A working space is created over the vein using standard laparoscopic procedures and a side-hooked wire is inserted into the working space and twisted to insert the side-hook under the vein. The wire is then pulled or drawn along the vein to separate the vein from the surrounding tissue. In an alternative embodiment, vein separation is accomplished by threading a soft rubber tube under the vein, grasping the ends of the tube so as to surround the vein, and then pulling the tube along the vein. In other embodiments, the working space is created with everting balloons.

Abstract: A medical retrieval device, and related method, for removing material (such as calculi and stones) from the body of a patient has the ability to capture and readily release material. The retrieval device includes a basket having at least one loop with first and second ends including a plurality of bead elements. The first end of the loop is immovable and the second end of the loop is slideably movable.

Abstract: A device for removing a thrombus filter from a blood vessel is disclosed. A device in accordance with the present invention includes a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therethrough, a wire having a first end and a second end, the wire being partially disposed within the lumen of the shaft, a portion of the wire extending beyond the distal end of the shaft and forming a loop, and a portion of the wire extending beyond the proximal end of the shaft.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument includes a handle with a hollow elongate configuration and an electrosurgical assembly having ends disposed within the hollow handle and forming a continuous loop moveable by operation of the handle between an enlarged state and a contracted state. An electrosurgical element included in the assembly has an outer surface and axis and a lumen extending along the axis. Transverse portions of the element define a plurality of slots extending transverse to the axis and providing fluid communication between the lumen and the outer surface of the element. The element includes an insulated backbone and a plurality of ribs disposed to extend in space relationship to each other transverse to the backbone. A method of manufacture includes the step of creating slots in the element to define the ribs in the backbone.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating kidney stones in the urinary tract uses a surgical assembly to remove kidney stones. The surgical assembly is inserted into the urinary tract along a guide wire positioned in the surgical assembly. Fluid, such as lidocaine gel and contrast solution, and a stone-removing device enter the urinary tract via channels located in the surgical assembly. Once the surgical assembly is proximate the stone, the physician engages and retains the stone with the stone-removing device. An exemplary stone-removing device includes an expandable spacer and an adjustable stone retainer. When in an expanded position, the spacer engages a portion of the urinary tract. The stone retainer, confined within the expanded spacer, engages and retains the stone while the spacer spaces the urinary tract from the stone retainer. The stone is removed by removing the surgical assembly containing the stone from the urinary tract.

Abstract: A snare-type device (10) for removing an elongated structure (54) such as, for example, a pacemaker lead. The device (10) first includes a sheath (12) having a first lumen (16) formed therein, the first lumen (16) having a distal end (24) and being dimensioned to receive the elongated structure (54) therein, and being adapted to allow advancement of the sheath (12) along the elongated structure (54). The sheath (12) also has second and third parallel lumens (28 and 36) formed therein, all of the first, second and third lumens (16, 28 and 36) being unitarily formed in the sheath (12). The device (10) also includes a snare (42) contained in the second and third lumens (28 and 36) in the sheath (12). The snare (42) has a snare loop (44 or 52) extending out of the second and third lumens (28 and 36), at and generally extending around the distal end (24) of the first lumen (16).

Abstract: An intravascular filter device comprising a frame having an open configuration and a closed configuration, the frame comprising a plurality of elongate members each having a proximal end and a distal end, and a proximal region and a distal region and being fixedly connected at the proximal end to each other; and a filter having an open end and a closed end disposed on the frame; wherein the elongate members have a bend distal the proximal region and a helical curve over a substantial length of the distal region when the elongate members are in the open configuration.

Abstract: A cardiac constraint jacket is formed of flexible material defining a volume between an open upper end and a lower end. The jacket is dimensioned for an apex of a patient's heart to be inserted into the volume through the open upper end and for the jacket to be slipped over the heart. The jacket includes a receiving member along its upper end for engagement to a delivery apparatus, the apparatus used in positioning the jacket on the heart. The delivery apparatus includes a handle and a band. The band is generally hoop shaped having a first end and a second end attached to the handle, the first end fixedly attached to the handle and the second end releasably attached to the handle. Alternatively, the first end can be attached to a releasable end cap of the handle. In use, the second end of the band is released from the handle and inserted into the jacket receiving member. The jacket is threaded onto the band and the band end re-attached to the handle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods that enhance the accuracy of lesion excision, through severing, capturing and removal of a lesion within soft tissue. Furthermore, the present invention relates to devices and methods for the excision of breast tissue based on the internal anatomy of the breast gland. A tissue severing device generally comprises a guide having at least one lumen and a cutting tool contained within the lumen. The cutting tool is capable of extending from the lumen and forming an adjustable cutting loop. The cutting loop may be widened or narrowed and the angle between the loop extension axis and the guide axis may be varied. Optional tissue marker and tissue collector may additionally be provided. A method for excising a mass of tissue from a patient is also provided. The device and method are particularly useful for excising a lesion from a human breast, e.g.

Abstract: A biotissue excising instrument according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a tubular sheath inserted into a body, a manipulator inserted into the sheath so as to advance and retreat freely through the sheath, and a treatment portion provided at a leading end of the manipulator and having a loop portion that can be unfolded and contracted to accommodate biotissue to be excised. A slit is formed in a side of a leading end of the sheath to project and sink the loop portion of the treatment portion so that the manipulator is advanced or retreated to laterally project or sink the loop portion out of or into the sheath through the slit to unfold or contract the loop portion, thus excising the biotissue in the loop portion.

Abstract: A surgical instrument and method for facilitating the capture of objects during surgery are provided. The surgical instrument comprises a flexible tube having a proximal tube end and a distal tube end, the flexible tube defining a cable passageway and being configured for insertion of at least a distal portion of the flexible tube into a body cavity of a patient. The surgical instrument further comprises a flexible cable having a proximal cable end and a distal cable end. At least a portion of the flexible cable is slidably disposed in the cable passageway. A snare loop having a loop member is attached to the distal cable end. The snare loop and the cable are adapted so that the snare loop can be selectively retracted within the cable passageway by sliding the flexible cable proximally within the cable passageway.

Abstract: A medical retrieval device for retrieving foreign objects from a patient and the method of constructing the device are disclosed. The device incorporates a wire cable composed of a precursor alloy to a superelastic material to improve durability of the device. Because precursor alloys exhibit, a linear stress-strain relationship and a yield point associated with a relatively high stress level, the device transfers greater stresses before experiencing deformation. Thus, greater crushing forces can be achieved using a device of this type. These crushing forces may be needed when the foreign object is too large to remove intact. This property also facilitates the device in dilating ducts to retrieve foreign objects. Using the precursor alloy additionally eliminates the need for heat treatment of the cables used in constructing the device. A retrieval device made of precursor alloy cable also is less susceptible to permanent deformation and unwinding during use.