Patent ID: 6685724
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A surgical instrument for use in performing endoscopic procedures within an anatomical cavity comprising:a handle; and an elongate tubular member having a proximal end coupled with said handle for being disposed externally of the anatomical cavity and a distal end for being disposed within the anatomical cavity and carrying a pair of opposed, relatively movable jaws; each said jaw defining (i) a functional portion on the inner surface of the jaw; and (ii) a blunt-edge tissue separator that projects outwardly from the outer surface of the jaw; wherein distal tips of the jaws are shaped for piercing, separating, and penetrating tissue when the jaws are closed; and the blunt-edge tissue separators comprise blunt-edge blades arranged circumferentially in spaced relation on opposite jaws; so that when the jaws are in a closed position they may be used for tissue penetration when applied to the tissue with axial force, and functional portions are operable to converge and diverge by manipulation of said handle.