Patent ID: 6196968
Filing Date: 2001-03-06
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A device for retraction of subcutaneous tissue to hold open a working space within a patient's body, comprising:an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, and having an arcuate cross-section defining an elongate passage therein; anda substantially transparent illumination member having a proximal portion connectable to a source of light, and a distal portion within the elongate passage for directing light from the proximal portion into the elongate passage,wherein the illumination member includes a plurality of lateral grooves in the distal portion for diffusing light transmitted from the proximal portion into the distal portion towards a longitudinal working window defined by the elongate member,wherein the lateral grooves extend progressively deeper into the distal portion towards a distal tip of the illumination member for diffusing light substantially uniformly along the longitudinal working window.