Abstract: A minimally invasive surgical device characterized by comprising: a manipulable handle (2) manipulated by a user inside a body cavity, a treatment part (3) that holds a specific swappable surgical instrument that is inserted into the body cavity and manipulated using the manipulable part, and a linking part (4), provided between the manipulable handle and the treatment part, for disposing the surgical instrument held by the treatment part in a desired orientation at a desired position within the body cavity.

Abstract: An introducer sheath for the insertion of a medical device into a blood vessel having an expandable sheath. The sheath has a length, a thickness, and proximal and distal ends. The expandable sheath has a frame extending longitudinally between the proximal and the distal ends, and having an exterior surface and an interior surface that forms an interior lumen along the length of the frame. The frame is configured to achieve an expanded state and a contracted state, the expanded state forming an expanded cross-section in the lumen for passing a medical device therethrough. The frame has a smooth coating about the exterior surface and protrusions extending into the lumen along the interior surface. The introducer sheath can be introduced into a patient in the contracted state, with the distal end of the introducer sheath prevented from moving in the proximal direction by an abutment against a dilator end surface.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure includes method and devices for minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery. A method for minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery can include accessing a spinal column through a working channel device, wherein the working channel has a proximal end and a distal end, advancing the working channel so that the distal end pierces an outer layer of a vertebral disc, inserting a disc extractor through the working channel device and into the vertebral disc to cut the vertebral disc into pieces, inserting a disc blade through the working channel device and into the vertebral disc to cut the vertebral disc into pieces, using a disc rake to remove the pieces of the vertebral disc, inserting a disc shaver to clean a number of surfaces of vertebra adjacent to the vertebral disc, and inserting and implanting a disc implant in a space from where the vertebral disc was removed.

Abstract: A robot controller (515) includes a first input (502) configured to receive images (524) from an imaging device for a region of interest. A target identification device (516) is configured to identify a target region in the images. A control system (517) is coupled to a robotically controlled treatment device to generate control signals to control the treatment device to treat the target region when the treatment device is positioned corresponding to the target region. A treatment system comprising an aspiration device, a robot system and a control system, as well as a method for treatment of tissue are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method is disclosed comprising: introducing a treatment member into a living body and positioning the treatment member adjacent substance in the living body to be ground; moving the treatment member in at least a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction about a central axis, which is different from an axis of rotation of the treatment member while the treatment member is positioned adjacent the substance to be ground in the living body to grind the substance; and shearing debris resulting from the grinding of the substance to reduce a size of the debris.

Abstract: A differential dissecting instrument for differentially dissecting complex tissue is disclosed. The differential dissecting instrument comprises a handle and an elongate member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the handle. The differential dissecting instrument comprises a differential dissecting member configured to be rotatably attached to the second end and further comprises at least one tissue engaging surface. The differential dissecting instrument comprises a mechanism configured to mechanically rotate the differential dissecting member around an axis of rotation, thereby causing the at least one tissue engaging surface to move in at least one direction against the complex tissue. The at least one tissue engaging surface is configured to selectively engage the complex tissue such that the at least one tissue engaging surface disrupts at least one soft tissue in the complex tissue, but does not disrupt firm tissue in the complex tissue.

Abstract: Surgical devices with integrated visualization and cauterization are described herein where such devices include an elongate structure having a central lumen and an expandable space-creating structure having at least one expandable leaflet mounted in the vicinity of the distal end and is configured for placement within a mammalian body proximate to a therapeutic target. Also included is a proximal terminal having an actuator mounted in the vicinity of the proximal end and is configured to remain outside of said body and provide an actuation mechanism for actuating the space-creating structure. Additionally, at least one fluid connector and said central lumen is in fluid communication between an interior of the expandable space-creating structure and the at least one fluid connector.

Abstract: A bone graft delivery system includes a rasp having an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a lumen extending through the elongate body and configured to receive bone graft material, a rasping surface removably couplable to the distal end of the elongate body and configured to decorticate bone material of a patient, and one or more openings configured to deliver bone graft material from the lumen.

Abstract: A method of treating a bone of a patient includes identifying a portion of the patient to be protected. A cannula is provided that includes a shaft extending between opposite first and second end surfaces. The shaft includes an inner surface defining a lumen. The cannula includes a scoop extending from the second end surface. The scoop includes an inner surface that is continuous with the inner surface of the shaft and an opposite outer surface. The cannula is inserted into the bone such that the outer surface of the scoop is positioned adjacent to the portion of the patient to be protected. A balloon is inserted into the cannula such that the balloon is positioned within the scoop. The balloon is inflated such that the balloon expands away from the scoop as the balloon is inflated and creates a void in the bone. Systems are disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical cannula assembly includes an elongate cannula member having a plurality of longitudinal ribs extending along the longitudinal axis with adjacent longitudinal ribs defining a longitudinal channel therebetween, a fluid port mounted adjacent the proximal end of the cannula member and configured for coupling to a source of inflation fluids, a conduit positioned within at least one longitudinal channel of the cannula member and in fluid communication with the fluid port, and an expandable balloon mounted adjacent the distal end of the cannula member and in fluid communication with the conduit. The expandable balloon is configured to transition from an initial unexpanded condition to an at least partially expanded condition upon passage and entry of inflation fluids from the fluid port, through the conduit and within an internal volume of the expandable balloon.

Abstract: In some embodiments an apparatus for providing access for a medical procedure in a patient's body cavity includes a stem configured for insertion through an opening in a body cavity wall. The stem has a bore and a cap is disposed at a proximal end thereof and includes an entry port in communication with the bore which receives an instrument to be inserted into the body cavity. An inflatable annular seal is disposed on the stem proximate the cap and a conduit extends through the cap providing pressurized gas at a first outlet in fluid communication with the body cavity providing insufflation pressure. A second outlet of the conduit is in fluid communication the seal, which when disposed inside the body cavity proximate the wall and inflated by pressurized gas, bears on an inner surface of the wall urging the cap into contact with an outer surface of the wall while sealing the opening.

Abstract: For percutaneous minimally-invasive intervention in vessels originating from other tortuous vessels, such as the tortuous aortic arch, guide wires/catheters are used to enable procedural catheters to access the vessels where an interventional procedure is needed. Two new methods for fixing a stabilization wire/catheter and providing the needed tension and stabilization without a second percutaneous access are disclosed (1) using a micro-anchor and pin and (2) using a modified Fogarty Balloon. These methods are also usable for access to and treatment of peripheral embolisms in tortuous vessels as well as renal and other visceral interventions.

Abstract: A prosthetic repair system includes a prosthesis for repairing a defect in a tissue or muscle wall. A material delivery device is provided for delivering a material, such as an adhesive material, to a surface of the prosthesis and/or to particular locations between the prosthesis and the tissue or muscle wall to attach the prosthesis to the wall. The delivery device may be coupled to the prosthesis and configured to distribute the material from one side of the prosthesis to an opposite side that is to face the defect. The delivery device may include a manifold and conduits for delivering the material from the manifold to one or more desired locations. The conduits may penetrate into and/or through the thickness of the prosthesis. After delivery and distribution of the material, the delivery device may be removed from the prosthesis and withdrawn from) a patient.

Abstract: A surgical sheath system for performing surgery of the head includes a flexible tubular braided sheath which is radially expandable. An expansion tube is insertable into the sheath to radially expand the sheath. A locking assembly includes tube position shift means, such as a cap threaded onto a flange, with a washer contained in a recess in the flange, the recess having an inside diameter greater than an outside diameter of the washer. When unlocked, the expansion tube can be shift horizontally, to access a different area of a surgical site, without moving the locking assembly. A stylet stabilizing assembly may be pivotally or releasably attached to the locking assembly.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to apparatuses, systems, and methods for safely delivering and deploying an intravascular device. An apparatus for controlling an intravascular device may include a body having rotating assembly disposed through the body. The rotating assembly may be configured to hold a proximal end of an elongate mandrel. The rotating assembly may be rotationally connected to the body by a one-way bearing.

Abstract: Unitary endoscopic vessel harvesting devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, such devices comprise an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, a tip disposed at the distal end of the elongated body; and a cutting unit having a first cutting portion and a second cutting portion, the first cutting portion and the second cutting portion being moveable in a longitudinal direction relative to the elongated body to capture a blood vessel between the first cutting portion and the second cutting portion, and being rotatable relative to one another circumferentially about the tip to cut the captured blood vessel.

Abstract: Disclosed is a laparoscopic port perforation and closure device configured such that a perforation device for perforating a laparoscopic port on a patient's body, a trocar for maintaining the port and allowing various surgical tools to be introduced therethrough, and a closure device for closing the port are selectively used in a single trocar assembly. The device includes: a trocar (4) configured such that a handle is coupled to a first end of a sleeve formed in a tubular shape for being introduced into a perforated port; a penetrating tip (37) with an end tip thereof being exposed outside a second end of the sleeve by sequentially penetrating the handle and the sleeve of the trocar, and configured to enter an abdominal cavity by opening a port; and a combined perforation/closure assembly (3) closing the opened port by replacing the penetrating tip (37) with a closure cartridge (36).

Abstract: Unitary endoscopic vessel harvesting devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, such devices comprise an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end; an inflatable, coated or conditioned tip disposed at the distal end of the elongated body; and a cutting unit having a first cutting portion and a second cutting portion, the first cutting portion and the second cutting portion being moveable in a longitudinal direction relative to the elongated body to capture a blood vessel between the first cutting portion and the second cutting portion, and being rotatable relative to one another circumferentially about the tip to cut the captured blood vessel.

Abstract: A snare may a loop at a distal end of the elongate member and defining an inner area. The loop may have an inner surface facing and exposed in the inner area, wherein a first section of the inner surface has an edge sharper than a second section of the inner surface.

Abstract: A cutting device includes an elongated shaft that extends between a proximal end and a distal end. A distal arm extends from the distal end of the elongated shaft. The distal arm includes an inner surface defining a cavity and an outer surface defining a blunt tip. At least one proximal arm extends from the distal end of the elongated shaft at a position proximal to the distal arm. The at least one proximal arm having an inner surface defines a cavity including a cutting portion configured to cut tissue.

Abstract: Surgical devices with integrated, visualization and cauterization are described herein where such devices include an elongate structure having a central lumen and an expandable space-creating structure having at least one expandable leaflet mounted in the vicinity of the distal end and is configured for placement within a mammalian body proximate to a therapeutic target. Also included is a proximal terminal having an actuator mounted in the vicinity of the proximal end and is configured to remain outside of said body and provide an actuation mechanism for actuating the space-creating structure. Additionally, at least one fluid connector and said central lumen is in fluid communication between an interior of the expandable space-creating structure and the at least one fluid connector.

Abstract: An endoscopic harvesting device removes a vessel from a body. The vessel has an anterior side closest to the skin. A sheath extends in a longitudinal direction with a dissector tip for advancing along the vessel substantially along the anterior side to create a flanking tunnel spaced away from the vessel. A ring-shaped blade is mounted to the sheath and is disposed in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and proximal of the dissector tip. The blade forms a lateral loop to encircle the vessel from the flanking tunnel. The blade comprises an inductively-heated ferromagnetic member configured to make a vasiform cut including a pedicle around the vessel as the sheath advances.

Abstract: A surgical access system comprises a trocar, an insufflating optical obturator slidably insertable into the trocar, and a laparoscope slidably insertable into the obturator. A distal end of the obturator comprises a tip, at least a portion of which comprises a wall with a generally uniform thickness comprising a transparent material. At least one vent hole disposed at the obturator tip is fluidly connected to a gas flow channel defined by an interior surface of the obturator and the laparoscope, which is fluidly connected to an insufflation gas inlet disposed at a proximal end of the trocar. Improved optical characteristics of the trocar system permit precise and accurate visual placement thereof into a body cavity. Accordingly the access system is suitable as a first entry surgical access system. Embodiments of the trocar access are also useful for drug delivery, and/or for fluid and/or tissue aspiration.

Abstract: A device and method for repairing a mitral valve leaflet 2, 3. The device 10 includes a body 16 having an annular wall 18 and at least one aperture 22 through the annular wall 18. A deployment assembly 24 mounted on the body includes at least one grasping wire 28 arranged for sliding movement in the aperture 22. Movement of the deployment assembly 24 to a deployed position relative to the body causes a free end of the grasping wire 28 to project out from the annular wall 18 through the aperture 22, and movement of the deployment assembly to a retracted position relative to the body causes the free end of the grasping wire 28 to not project out from the annular wall 18. In the deployed position, the grasping wire 28 may grasp and gather tissue of the leaflet 2,3.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating obesity are provided. More particularly, intragastric devices and methods of fabricating, deploying, inflating, monitoring, and retrieving the same are provided.

Abstract: Tissue expansion system includes a pump, a controller, and inflatable bladder, and a pressure sensor. The pump is adapted for substantially continuous operation in response to a pressure within a subcutaneously implanted inflatable bladder. The pump is thus able to deliver inflation medium to the bladder when the pressure within the bladder is below a predetermined lower threshold while stopping delivery of the fluid when the pressure rises above a higher threshold or reaches a predetermined maximum volume.

Abstract: A delivery system for a medical device includes a proximal tip having a curved groove formed therein and a pre-loaded catheter disposed in the groove such that the pre-loaded catheter is disposed at least partly circumferentially with regard to the proximal tip. A guidewire can be advanced through the pre-loaded catheter and extended laterally from the delivery system.

Abstract: A single stage instrument is used to insert a chest drainage tube into the inter-pleural space to facilitate drainage. The instrument is scissor-like with cylinder-like channels to slidably enclose the distal section of the tube therein when closed. The tip of the instrument is curved to enter the skin incision and the offset pleural incision whereafter the instrument is rotated 180 degrees to align the curved tip with the pleural space. The curved tip facilitates sliding the chest drainage tube through the instrument to effect sufficient insertion length. Once the instrument is in place, the tube is slid along the instrument to ensure that all drainage holes in the chest drainage tube are within the pleural cavity. Thereafter, the instrument is withdrawn leaving the chest drainage tube in place. After withdrawal of the instrument, it is opened laterally for lateral disengagement with the chest drainage tube.

Abstract: Laparoscopic device for anchoring an internal organ to the thoracic diaphragm or abdominal wall of a patient having an introducer sheath; washer with two openings; T-fastener assembly having T-fastener with anchor having a shank with a crown and at least one fluke. The anchor is connected to the T-fastener by a flexible string. A thread is attached to the crown. An introducer needle introduces the T-fastener into a lumen of the internal organ of the patient The device further has a T-fastener pusher inside the introducer needle and locking arrangements for locking the introducer needle and the T-fastener pusher. A blocker blocks the first washer opening and a grasper, inserted through the second washer opening, grasps the shank inside the introducer sheath in a predefined orientation Finally, a holding mechanism on the introducer sheath is provided for holding the grasper in a predetermined position inside the introducer sheath.

Abstract: A surgical access system comprises a trocar, an insufflating optical obturator slidably insertable into the trocar, and a laparoscope slidably insertable into the obturator. A distal end of the obturator comprises a tip, at least a portion of which comprises a wall with a generally uniform thickness comprising a transparent material. At least one vent hole disposed at the obturator tip is fluidly connected to a gas flow channel defined by an interior surface of the obturator and the laparoscope, which is fluidly connected to an insufflation gas inlet disposed at a proximal end of the trocar. Improved optical characteristics of the trocar system permit precise and accurate visual placement thereof into a body cavity. Accordingly the access system is suitable as a first entry surgical access system. Embodiments of the trocar access are also useful for drug delivery, and/or for fluid and/or tissue aspiration.

Abstract: A surgical access system comprises a trocar, an insufflating optical obturator slidably insertable into the trocar, and a laparoscope slidably insertable into the obturator. A distal end of the obturator comprises a tip, at least a portion of which comprises a wall with a generally uniform thickness comprising a transparent material. At least one vent hole disposed at the obturator tip is fluidly connected to a gas flow channel defined by an interior surface of the obturator and the laparoscope, which is fluidly connected to an insufflation gas inlet disposed at a proximal end of the trocar. Improved optical characteristics of the trocar system permit precise and accurate visual placement thereof into a body cavity. Accordingly the access system is suitable as a first entry surgical access system. Embodiments of the trocar access are also useful for drug delivery, and/or for fluid and/or tissue aspiration.

Abstract: In specific embodiments, a manipulator adapted to grasp and draw tissue comprises a first arm and second arm having proximal ends and distal ends separated by a distance. A first grasping surface and second grasping surface each connected to and extending from respective distal ends of the first and second arm are biased toward each other by a respective spring force. When the first arm and second arm are actuated to reduce the distance, tissue arranged between the first grasping surface and the second grasping surface resists the actuation. The first arm and second arm are then further actuatable to overcome the spring force of the first grasping surface and the second grasping surface so that the first grasping surface and the second grasping surface pivot at respective pivot points such that the distance between the distal ends of the first and second arms is reduced.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for traversing an anatomic wall. A system can include a port that mates with an anatomic wall and provides a lumen for the passage of a guide tube of a transluminal device. The port can inhibit the passage of biological materials through the anatomic wall. Further described herein are methods for implanting the port and/or for inserting the transluminal device into a body cavity.

Abstract: A slitter for slitting a guide catheter has a handle and a blade assembly coupled to the handle. The blade assembly includes a shroud for receiving an elongated body of a medical device and a slitting blade having an exposed cutting edge to slit the guide catheter. The blade assembly includes a user-deflectable portion coupled to the shroud for causing the shroud to flex in response to deflection of the user-deflectable portion. The handle and the blade assembly may be assembled from piece parts in a manufacturing method.

Abstract: Devices, tools and methods for performing minimally invasive surgical procedures. Methods of performing minimally invasive ablation procedures. Methods of performing rapid exchange of tools in a device while the device remains in a reduced-access surgical space.

Abstract: A forceps for use in surgery for dissecting tissue includes a pair of jaw members movable from an open position in spaced relation relative to one another to a closed position. The jaw members each have an outer housing extending along the length thereof to a distal end of the jaw members. The outer housing of one of the jaw members includes a textured surface at a distal end configured to interface with and dissect tissue during the movement of the jaw members from the closed to open positions. A dissecting tip may be selectively extendable from a channel defined in one of the jaw members to engage and separate tissue when in the extended position.

Abstract: A dilator retractor and the dilators that are used for minimally invasive spinal surgery or other surgery are configured to accommodate the anatomical structure of the patient as by configuring the cross sectional area in an elliptical shape, or by forming a funnel configuration with the wider end at the proximate end. In some embodiments the distal end is contoured to also accommodate the anatomical structure of the patient so that a cylindrically shaped, funnel shaped, ovoid shaped dilator retractor can be sloped or tunneled to accommodate the bone structure of the patient or provide access for implants. The dilator retractor is made with different lengths to accommodate the depth of the cavity formed by the dilators.

Abstract: Systems and methods for separating an object such as a pacing lead from a patient tissue involve a flexible and torqueable shaft having an internal lumen sized to receive the object, and a hard separating mechanism for separating the object from the tissue. Typically the shaft and separating mechanism are advanced along or toward the object, and the separating mechanism is contacted with the tissue. The shaft is rotated to effect separation between the object and the tissue. The systems and methods are well suited for use in cardiac pacing or defibrillator lead explant procedures.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use with a surgical portal apparatus is disclosed. The surgical instrument includes an elongate shaft and a dilating member disposed at the distal end of the elongate shaft. The elongate shaft has proximal and distal ends and defines a longitudinal axis. The dilating member has an outer surface that includes at least one atraumatic edge member. The at least one atraumatic edge member extends proximally from a tip of the dilating member. The dilating member has a first substantially triangular cross-section disposed transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a bladeless trocar obturator to separate or divaricate body tissue during insertion through a body wall. In one aspect, the obturator of the invention comprises a shaft extending along an axis between a proximal end and a distal end; and a bladeless tip disposed at the distal end of the shaft and having a generally tapered configuration with an outer surface, the outer surface extending distally to a blunt point with a pair of side sections having a common shape and being separated by at least one intermediate section, wherein each of the side sections extends from the blunt point radially outwardly with progressive positions proximally along the axis, and the shaft is sized and configured to receive an optical instrument having a distal end to receive an image of the body tissue. With this aspect, the tapered configuration facilitates separation of different layers of the body tissue and provides proper alignment of the tip between the layers.

Abstract: A wound opener is provided. An operative field can be created through head/neck soft tissues for introducing the endoscopes and robotic surgical tools. An incision size can be properly adjusted. Thus, endoscopes, robotic arms or other devices can be smoothly introduced into the operative field to evaluate and treat lesions of head and neck soft tissues. Hence, the present invention facilitates surgical procedure, reduces wound size and effectively conceals wound to make it become invisible.

Abstract: Methods and devices described herein facilitate improved access of locations within the body by providing a variety of dissection modes on a single access device.

Abstract: Surgical apparatus and method includes a cannula that houses an endoscope and supports a dilating element near a distal end of the cannula. The dilating element has a dimension which is greater than the diameter of the cannula for enlarging a surgical cavity in tissue as the cannula is advanced through tissue at a surgical site to provide working space adjacent a target vessel within which surgical instruments may be conveniently manipulated. The dilating element of oval sided shape permits surrounding tissue to be pushed away or otherwise displaced away from the target vessel atraumatically. A locking mechanism is disposed on the cannula, which accepts a succession of mating dilating elements of progressively larger dimensions for successive insertion and enlargement of a surgical cavity as required.

Abstract: A tissue separation device includes: a sheath; a tube having a deformation part; a restriction member; and an inner structure. The tissue separation device is used in an assembled state where the tube is movably inserted in the sheath, the restriction member is inserted in the tube, and the inner structure is movably inserted in the restriction member. The inner structure includes: wires and which are expandable and contractible; an operation unit which operates expansion of the wires; a tubular body; and a traction shaft. The wires are expanded by being curved so as to protrude in opposite directions. When dissecting a biological tissue, the wires in an expanded state are moved within the tube in relation to the tube, without moving the tube relative to the living body.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for opening a workspace inside a lumen of a living creature are disclosed. Anchors may be affixed to opposite ends of the workspace. An extender may be distance anchors apart while they are affixed to the walls of the workspace. Distancing the anchors may unfold and/or stretch the lumen in the region of the workspace.

Abstract: A device for steering J-tip guidewire through true lumen of artery to puncture site where an occlusion abuts artery wall and stylet wire in lumen of J-tip guidewire provides axis for screwing it between intimal and medial layers of artery wall and stiffens it sufficiently to transform J-tip to loop that dissects a false lumen between intimal and medial layers around occlusion to its end where tamping balloons push aside intimal layer and occlusion so false lumen and true lumen coincide allowing intimal layer to be safely pierced by stylet wire allowing blood flow through previously occluded artery segment.

Abstract: Various embodiments of components, devices, systems and methods are provided for a pneumatic surgical instrument having a probe or an impactor disposed at a distal end thereof and configured to make contact with a selected portion of an orthopedic implant or device and drive the implant into a hole or void formed in a patient's bone. The instrument is configured to generate a shock wave, which is then transferred to the distal end of the probe or impactor, and hence into the orthopedic implant, thereby causing the implant to be driven into contact with portions of the void or hole.

Abstract: A method for detaching an object from a patient includes providing a tool having a sheath, and a separating assembly operably coupled to a distal end of the sheath. The separating assembly includes a separator moveably coupled to a tip via a threadable connection. The separating assembly is placed near patient tissue that is attached to the object, the sheath is rotated to move the separator distal to the tip, and the separator is applied to the patient tissue that is attached to the object, so as to separate the tissue. A separating system includes a sheath, and a separator threadably coupled with a distal end of the sheath. The separator is adapted to switch between a first configuration where a separating means is deployed, and a second configuration where the separating means is undeployed.

Abstract: A surgical obturator that includes an elongated shaft defining a longitudinal axis and an obturator member disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongated shaft. The obturator member may include a proximal section being convex along a majority of its length. It may also include a central section disposed adjacent the proximal section, the central section including a first pair of surfaces disposed relative to each other on radially opposite sides of the central section, and a second set of surfaces disposed between the first pair of surfaces and further being disposed relative to each other on radially opposite sides of the central section, at least a portion of a length of each one of the first pair of surfaces being concave, and at least a portion of a length of each one of the second pair of surfaces being convex. The obturator member may also include a guiding nub disposed distally of the central section and including a rounded distal-most portion.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a surgical fastener applying apparatus that includes an elongate body portion having proximal and distal ends, an end effector including a first movably coupled to a second jaw that is positioned at the distal end of the elongate body portion, and an introducer member. The introducer member has proximal and distal portions, and is configured and dimensioned for releasable connection with the end effector. The introducer member is at least partially formed from a flexible material, and is configured and dimensioned to separate target tissue from collateral tissue prior to positioning of the target tissue between the first and second jaws of the end effector.