Patent ID: 6171282
Filing Date: 2001-01-09
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A method of using a soft cannula, said method comprising the steps of:a) providing a soft cannula having a flexible, shape retainable annular member annularly attached to a body insertion end of a flexible exosheath;b) providing an inserter having a guide point at a first end, a second end, and a protruding attachment member relative to a surface between said first and second ends;c) attaching said annular member to said attachment member by stretching said annular member around said attachment members;d) inserting said inserter and said attached annular member into a patient's body cavity;e) removing said annular member from said attachment member;f) withdrawing said inserter from said patient's body cavity while leaving said annular member and said body insertion end of said flexible exosheath within said patient's body cavity; andg) positioning said annular member substantially perpendicular to and forming a seal with interior body tissue of said patient's body cavity.