Patent ID: 6032671
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
A method for dissecting a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue and for holding open an anatomic space for the performance of a surgical procedure, the method comprising the steps of:making an incision in a body;introducing a combination tissue dissector and retractor apparatus into the incision, said apparatus comprising a deflated balloon dissector having an inflation port and a first flexible wall and a second flexible wall which enclose a chamber, and a deflated balloon retractor disposed on an exterior surface of said balloon dissector along one of said first and second flexible walls, said balloon retractor in its inflated state having a longitudinal centerline which is substantially arcuate;inflating said balloon dissector, wherein the first layer of tissue is dissected from the second layer of tissue, thereby creating the anatomic space;inflating said inflatable retractor thereby retracting the anatomic space so that at least a portion of said anatomic space is held open; anddeflating at least a portion of the balloon dissector wherein an open cavity is created for the performance of a surgical procedure.