Patent ID: 6142957
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
In an instrument for obtaining tissue samples from a site deep within the body, the instrument having an elongated proximal portion that is constructed to follow a long, torturous path to said site, and having a distal end constructed to sever and remove a tissue sample from the body, including tissue specimens, polyps or the like, the improvement wherein said instrument is constructed to take multiple biopsy samples without being withdrawn from the body, said instrument including an actuatable severing member for severing said sample and a separately actuatable tissue sample retractor, said retractor being axially movable between an extended tissue-engaging position and a retracted position, there being an open passage into which said retractor moves when moving from said extended to said retracted position, said retractor having a distal end portion constructed to engage tissue and apply axial transporting force thereto while moving from said extended to said retracted position, said retractor constructed and arranged to be advanced and retracted repeatedly to accumulate a series of samples in said instrument without withdrawing the instrument from the body.