Patent ID: 8986321
Filing Date: 2015-03-24
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of loading a retrieval bag within a specimen retrieval instrument, wherein the specimen retrieval instrument comprises a tubular member, a sheath, an expandable member, and a retrieval bag, wherein the retrieval bag is secured to the expandable member, wherein the sheath is configured to contain the expandable member and the retrieval bag, wherein the sheath is configured to hold the expandable member in a compressed state to contain the expandable member, wherein the expandable member is configured to open the retrieval bag when the expandable member is expanded to an expanded state, wherein the tubular member defines a longitudinal axis, the method comprising: (a) coupling the sheath to a distal end of the tubular member such that the sheath partially overlaps with the tubular member and extends distally from the tubular member; (b) reducing the size of the retrieval bag to create a packed retrieval bag, wherein the act of reducing the size of the retrieval bag comprises one or more of the following acts: (c) positioning the packed retrieval bag and the expandable member within the sheath such that the packed retrieval bag and the expandable member are distal of the tubular member, wherein the expandable member is in a compressed state within the sheath, wherein the act of positioning the packed retrieval bag and the expandable member comprises deflecting the expandable member away from the longitudinal axis of the tubular member such that the expandable member is oriented obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis of the tubular member.