Patent Publication Number: US-10772614-B2

Title: Specimen retrieval device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/910,740 filed Feb. 8, 2016, which is a National Stage Application of PCT/US14/52313 under 35USC § 371 (a), which claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61/948,936 filed Mar. 6, 2014, 61/899,365 filed Nov. 4, 2013, 61/899,361 filed Nov. 4, 2013, 61/899,357 filed Nov. 4, 2013, 61/899,353 filed Nov. 4, 2013, 61/869,141 filed Aug. 23, 2013, the disclosures of each of the above-identified applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates to specimen retrieval devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to specimen retrieval devices including a detachable pouch, structure to facilitate detachment of the pouch, and/or structure to prevent inadvertent detachment of the pouch. 
     Background of Related Art 
     Laparoscopic and endoscopic surgical procedures are minimally invasive procedures in which operations are carried out within the body by means of elongated instruments inserted through small entrance or access openings in the body, e.g., an opening defined by a natural passageway of the body, an opening created by a tissue piercing instrument (e.g., a trocar), etc. 
     Minimally invasive procedures are often used to partially or totally remove body tissue or organs from the interior of the body, e.g. nephrectomy, cholecystectomy, duodenectomy, ileectomy, jejunectomy and other such procedures. During such procedures, it is common that affected tissue or organs must be removed via the access opening in the skin, or through a cannula. Various types of retrieval devices are known in the art to facilitate these procedures. 
     Conventional retrieval devices typically include an elongated applicator including a handle at a proximal end that is operable to deploy a pouch or other suitable containment device from a distal shaft. The pouch may be perforated and releasably coupled to a support member along the perforations. As a result of the perforations on the pouch, the pouch may be detached from the support member by tearing along the perforations. 
     The pouch is typically folded or rolled and stored within an outer shaft during packaging and shipping of the retrieval device. However, shipping the pouch in this folded or rolled manner may result in undesirable memory wrinkles being formed thereon, which, in turn, may make it more difficult for a clinician to open the pouch when it is deployed from the applicator. 
     One or more devices or components may be utilized to separate the pouch from the spring to facilitate removal, e.g., a stripper plate. Typically, once the pouch is deployed from the distal shaft and the retrieval device is manipulated to capture a specimen, releasing the pouch from the support member may be facilitated by the stripper plate. As can be appreciated, it is advantageous to ship the stripper plate in a retracted orientation to reduce the risk of inadvertent detachment of the pouch from the spring. Thus, there exists a need to provide a retrieval device that can be packaged and shipped with the pouch in a deployed position and the stripper plate  14  in a retracted position. In addition, there exists a need for a retrieval device that includes structure to prevent inadvertent deployment of the stripper plate from the retracted position during shipping and during initial handling of the retrieval device. 
     SUMMARY 
     One aspect of the disclosure is directed to a specimen retrieval device including a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore and an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft. A retention member is movably supported on a distal end of the inner shaft and a pouch is supported on a distal end of the inner shaft. The retention member is movably supported in relation to the inner shaft from a first position preventing separation of the pouch from the distal end of the inner shaft to a second position permitting separation of the pouch from the inner shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the distal end of the inner shaft includes at least one protrusion and the pouch defines at least one opening. The at least one protrusion of the inner shaft is received within the at least one opening of the pouch to support the pouch on the distal end of the inner shaft. 
     In embodiments, the retention member is configured to engage the at least one protrusion to prevent separation of the pouch from the at least one protrusion. 
     In certain embodiments, each of the at least one protrusion defines a bore and the retention member is configured to extend through the bore to retain the pouch on the at least one protrusion. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion includes two protrusions and the at least one opening includes two openings. 
     In embodiments, the retention member includes a bifurcated member having a first portion configured to extend through the opening in one of the two protrusions and a second portion configured to extend through the opening in the other protrusion. 
     In certain embodiments, a sled is operably coupled to the retention member via at least one coupling device and the sled is movably supported on the inner shaft proximally of the retention member. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one coupling device is a wire having a distal end coupled to a proximal end of the retention member and a proximal end coupled to a distal end of the sled. 
     In embodiments, the housing defines a stop member and the sled includes a resilient finger portion that is positioned to engage the stop member when the inner shaft is in a fully retracted position such that upon movement of the inner shaft distally from the fully retracted position towards an extended position, the inner shaft initially moves independently of the sled and the retention member to disengage the retention member from the at least one protrusion of the inner shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, the sled is movably supported within a notch defined on the inner shaft. The notch may extend along a top wall portion of the inner shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the inner shaft includes a wall portion that is configured to urge the resilient finger portion of the sled downwardly when the inner shaft is moved distally in relation to the outer shaft from the fully retracted position towards the extended position to disengage the resilient finger portion from the stop member of the housing. 
     In embodiments, the stop member is defined along an interior wall of the housing. 
     In some embodiments, a cover plate is operably disposed adjacent the distal end of the inner shaft and is configured to secure the retention member to the inner shaft. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a specimen retrieval device that includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, a pouch including at least one tab, and an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and releasably supporting the pouch at a distal end thereof. The inner shaft may include at least one protrusion configured to releasably engage the at least one proximal tab of the pouch. A sled and a retention member are slidingly disposed on the inner shaft and the retention member is configured to engage the at least one protrusion of the inner shaft to secure the pouch to the inner shaft. At least one coupling member is provided for coupling the sled to the retention member. A stop member is supported on the housing and is positioned distally of and in alignment with the sled when the inner shaft is in a fully retracted position, wherein distal translation of the inner shaft in relation to the outer shaft from the fully retracted position towards an extended position causes the sled to engage the stop member of the housing to cause the inner shaft to move distally independently of the sled and the retention member to effect disengagement of the retention member from the at least one protrusion of the inner shaft to facilitate release of the pouch from the inner shaft. 
     In embodiments, the sled includes a resilient finger portion configured to engage the stop member of the housing when the inner shaft is moved distally in relation to the outer shaft from the fully retracted position towards the extended position. 
     In certain embodiments, the sled is slidably received within a notch that is defined on the inner shaft. A top wall portion of the inner shaft may be configured to urge the resilient finger of the sled downwardly when the inner shaft is moved distally in relation to the outer shaft to disengage the resilient finger from the stop member. 
     In some embodiments, the stop member is defined along an interior wall of the housing. 
     In embodiments, the at least one protrusion defines a bore configured to receive a distal end of the retention member to releasably secure the pouch to the inner shaft such that distal movement of the inner shaft in relation to the retention member disengages the retention member from the bore of the at least one protrusion. 
     In certain embodiments, each of the at least one protrusion includes a proximal chamfer to facilitate separation of the pouch from the inner shaft. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore and a longitudinal axis, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft, a support mechanism extending from a distal end of the inner shaft, a pouch supported on the support mechanism at the distal end of the inner shaft, and a stripper plate supported within a distal end of the outer shaft. The stripper plate defines a first aperture configured to receive the support mechanism and is movable in response to distal movement of the inner shaft from a retracted position disposed within the distal end of the outer shaft to a deployed position wherein the stripper plate is disposed outside of the outer shaft. When the stripper plate is in the deployed configuration, proximal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft causes the stripper plate to engage a distal end of the outer shaft and the pouch to engage a leading end of the stripper plate such that further proximal movement of the inner shaft effects separation of the pouch from the support mechanism of the inner shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the stripper plate has a generally elliptical configuration defining major and minor axes. The stripper plate is oriented within the distal end of the outer shaft in a retracted position to define a first angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the outer shaft and is positioned externally of the outer shaft in a deployed position to define a second angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the outer shaft. 
     In embodiments, a width of the minor axis is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer shaft and a width of the major axis is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, the stripper plate includes a second aperture wherein the first aperture of the stripper plate has a generally circumferential shape and is configured to receive the support mechanism and the second aperture has a generally triangular shape and is configured to receive a cinch of the specimen retrieval device. 
     In some embodiments, the second aperture is further defined by an upper first portion, an upper second portion and a lower portion. Each of the upper first and second portions is defined by generally circumferential walls and the lower portion is defined by a generally concave wall. 
     In embodiments, first and second opposing channels are provided between the upper first and second portions, respectively, and the lower portion wherein the upper first and second portions are configured to receive portions of the cinch of the specimen retrieval device. In embodiments, the upper first and second portions are sized proportionally to the cinch to exert a drag force thereupon as the cinch is being pulled through the first and second portions. 
     In some embodiments, the leading end of the stripper plate includes a generally planar configuration. 
     In certain embodiments, the stripper plate includes a trailing end and a beveled peripheral wall defining an angle in relation to the leading end of the stripper plate that ranges from 25 degrees to 45 degrees. In the retracted position, the first angle of the stripper plate may range from 1 degree to 75 degrees. In the deployed position, the second angle of the stripper plate may range from about 76 degrees to about 90 degrees. 
     In embodiments, a wedge member is releasably coupled to a proximal end of the inner shaft and is configured to prevent distal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft to a fully extended position to prevent the stripper plate from being moved to the deployed position. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one aperture of the stripper plate is further defined by first and second apertures wherein the first aperture of the stripper plate has a generally circumferential shape and is configured to receive the support mechanism and the second aperture has a generally triangular shape and is configured to receive a cinch of the specimen retrieval device. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, the specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore and a longitudinal axis, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft, a pouch, a support mechanism secured to the distal end of the inner shaft configured to releasably support the pouch and a stripper plate supported on the support mechanism. The stripper plate has first and second apertures configured to receive the support mechanism and a cinch of the specimen retrieval device, respectively. The stripper plate is movable from a retracted position disposed within the outer shaft and oriented at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis to a deployed position disposed outside of the outer shaft and oriented at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis. When the stripper plate is in the deployed position, proximal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft causes a trailing end of the stripper plate to contact a distal end of the outer shaft and the pouch to engage a leading end of the stripper plate such that further proximal movement of the inner shaft in relation to the outer shaft from an extended position towards a retracted position uncouples the pouch from the support mechanism of the inner shaft. 
     In embodiments, the stripper plate includes a generally elliptical configuration defining a major and a minor axis. A width of the minor axis is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer shaft and a width of the major axis is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the first aperture of the stripper plate has a generally circumferential shape and is configured to receive the support mechanism and the second aperture has a generally triangular shape and is configured to receive a cinch of the specimen retrieval device. 
     In some embodiments, the second aperture is further defined by an upper first portion, an upper second portion and a lower portion. Each of the upper first and second portions is defined by generally circumferential walls and the lower portion is defined by a lower generally concave wall. 
     In certain embodiments, first and second opposing channels are provided between the upper first and second portions, respectively, and the lower portion. 
     In embodiments, the upper first and second portions are sized proportionally to the cinch to exert a drag force upon the cinch as the cinch is being pulled through the first or second portions. 
     In some embodiments, the leading end of the stripper plate has a generally planar configuration. 
     In certain embodiments, the stripper plate includes a generally oval shaped peripheral wall beveled at an angle that ranges from 25 degrees to 45 degrees in relation to the leading end of the stripper plate. 
     In embodiments, in the refracted position, the first angle of the stripper plate ranges from 1 degree to 75 degrees, and, in the deployed position, the second angle of the stripper plate ranges from 76 degrees to 90 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, a wedge member is releasably coupled to the inner shaft adjacent a proximal end of the inner shaft and is configured to prevent distal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft to a fully extended position to prevent the stripper shaft from being moved to the deployed position. 
     In embodiments, the first aperture of the stripper plate has a generally circumferential shape and is configured to receive the support mechanism and the second aperture has a generally triangular shape and is configured to receive a cinch of the specimen retrieval device. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes an outer shaft defining a longitudinal bore and a longitudinal axis and including a blocking member, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and defining proximal and distal apertures, a support mechanism secured to a distal end of the inner shaft, a pouch releasably supported on the support mechanism, and an actuation device configured to engage the proximal end of the inner shaft. The actuation device includes at least one inwardly extending protrusion configured to be received within one of the proximal and distal apertures of the inner shaft to secure the actuation device to the inner shaft. In a partially retracted position of the inner shaft, the at least one inwardly extending protrusion of the actuation device is positioned within the distal aperture of the inner shaft to releasably secure the actuation device to the inner shaft in a first position, wherein proximal movement of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft from the partially retracted position towards a fully retracted position moves the blocking member of the outer shaft into the distal aperture of the inner shaft to move the at least one protrusion of the actuation device from the distal aperture of the inner shaft to disengage the actuation device from the inner shaft. Upon disengagement of the at least one protrusion from the distal aperture, the actuation device is movable proximally independently of the inner shaft to a position in which the at least one protrusion of the actuation device is received in the proximal aperture of the inner shaft to resecure the actuation device to the inner shaft in a second position. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion is supported on a resilient arm of the actuation device. 
     In certain embodiments, the inner shaft further includes at least one groove that communicates with the distal aperture. 
     In embodiments, the at least one groove is configured to receive the at least one blocking member of the housing when the inner shaft is moved proximally in relation to the outer shaft from the partially retracted position to the fully retracted position of the inner shaft. 
     In some embodiments, a stripper plate is supported adjacent the support mechanism within the outer shaft in the partially retracted position of the inner shaft and the stripper plate is moved to a deployed position in response to movement of the inner shaft to a fully extended position. 
     In embodiments, the blocking member is positioned on an interior wall of the outer shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the proximal and distal apertures are further defined by a pair of proximal apertures and a pair of distal apertures, the at least one blocking member of the housing is further defined by a pair blocking members, and the at least one protrusion of the actuation device is further defined by a pair of protrusions. 
     In some embodiments, the outer shaft includes a housing portion and an outer shaft portion. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, the specimen retrieval device includes an outer shaft defining a longitudinal bore and having an inwardly extending blocking member, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and including proximal and distal apertures defined along the inner shaft, a support mechanism secured to a distal end of the inner shaft configured to releasably support a pouch of the specimen retrieval device, and an actuation device including at least one protrusion extending towards the inner shaft. The at least one protrusion is configured to be received within one of the proximal and distal apertures to releasably secure the actuation device to the inner shaft in two different positions. The at least one blocking member is aligned with the distal aperture of the inner shaft such that when the at least one protrusion is received within the distal aperture, proximal movement of the inner shaft in relation to the outer shaft moves the at least one blocking member into engagement with the at least one protrusion to cam the at least one protrusion of the actuation device from within the distal aperture of the inner shaft to disengage the actuation device from the inner shaft. Subsequent proximal movement of the actuation device relative to the inner and outer shafts causes the at least one protrusion to move into the proximal aperture of the inner shaft to resecure the actuation device to the inner shaft at a position further proximally of the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion is supported on a resilient arm of the actuation device. 
     In embodiments, the inner shaft further includes at least one groove that communicates with the distal aperture. The at least one groove is configured to receive the at least one blocking member of the outer shaft when the inner shaft is moved distally in relation to the outer shaft. 
     In some embodiments, a stripper plate is supported adjacent a distal end of the inner shaft within the outer shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, the blocking member is positioned on an interior wall defining the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one proximal and distal apertures are further defined by a pair of proximal apertures and a pair of distal apertures, the at least one blocking member of the housing is further defined by a pair blocking members, and the at least one protrusion of the actuation device is further defined by a pair of protrusions. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft, a support mechanism secured to a distal end of the inner shaft, a pouch releasably supported on the support mechanism and defining an opening, and an actuation device releasably coupled to a proximal end of the inner shaft. The actuation device includes a pivotal release mechanism having a mechanical interface configured to selectively engage a corresponding mechanical interface positioned on the inner shaft to releasably secure the actuation device to the inner shaft in a locked configuration. The release mechanism is movable from the locked configuration wherein the actuation device is operable to move the inner shaft in relation to the outer shaft to an unlocked configuration wherein the actuation device is separated from the inner shaft. A cinch has a proximal end secured to the actuation device and a distal end extending about the opening in the pouch. In the unlocked configuration, the actuation device is movable in relation to the inner shaft to retract the cinch to close the opening of the pouch. 
     In embodiments, the mechanical interface on the release mechanism is in the form of a detent and the mechanical interface on the inner shaft is in the form of an indent. 
     In some embodiments, the release mechanism is disposed on a top surface of the actuation device and is depressible to disengage the at least one mechanical interface of the release mechanism from the at least one mechanical interface on the inner shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, the release mechanism is overmolded to the actuation device. 
     In some embodiments, the release mechanism is pivotally coupled to the actuation device via a living hinge. 
     In embodiments, the cinch is operably coupled to a distal end of the actuation device. 
     In certain embodiments, the release mechanism is biased towards the locked configuration. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft connected to and extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore and a longitudinal axis, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft, a support mechanism supported on a distal end of the inner shaft, a pouch supported by the support mechanism adjacent a distal end of the inner shaft, and an actuation device releasably coupled to the inner shaft. The actuation device includes a release mechanism pivotally coupled thereto. The release mechanism includes at least one mechanical interface configured to selectively engage a corresponding mechanical interface positioned on the inner shaft to secure the actuation device to the inner shaft. The release mechanism is pivotal from a locked configuration wherein the actuation device is secured to the inner shaft and movement of the actuation device effects corresponding movement of the inner shaft to an unlocked configuration. A cinch has a proximal end secured to the actuation device and a distal end extending about an opening in the pouch. In the unlocked configuration of the release mechanism, the actuation device is separable from the inner shaft to allow movement of the actuation device in relation to the inner shaft to cinch the opening of the pouch. 
     In some embodiments, the mechanical interface on the release mechanism is in the form of a detent and the mechanical interface on the inner shaft is in the form of an indent. 
     In some embodiments, the release mechanism is disposed on a top surface of the actuation device and is depressible to disengage the at least one mechanical interface of the release mechanism from the at least one mechanical interface on the inner shaft. 
     In embodiments, the release mechanism is overmolded to the actuation device. 
     In some embodiments, the release mechanism is pivotally coupled to the actuation device via a living hinge. 
     In certain embodiments, the cinch is operably coupled to the distal end of the actuation device. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, and an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and including a handle. The inner shaft is movable between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position in which the handle is positioned adjacent the housing. A pouch is releasably supported at a distal end of the inner shaft. A lock-out device is supported on the housing and is movable from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the locked position, the lock-out device is positioned to prevent movement of the inner shaft to the fully extended position and in the unlocked position, the lock-out device is positioned to allow movement of the inner shaft to the fully extended position. 
     In some embodiments, the lock-out device is pivotally coupled to the housing via a pivot pin. 
     In embodiments, the lock-out device has a generally elongated configuration with a trailing end that is configured to engage a distal end of the handle of the inner shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, the lock-out device is seated within a notch defined within the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the notch is defined by at least one wall that is configured to contact at least a portion of the lock-out device and retain the lock-out device in the locked configuration. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft connected to and extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft, a support mechanism supported on a distal end of the inner shaft, a pouch supported by the support mechanism, an actuation device operably coupled to a proximal end of the inner shaft, and a lock-out device pivotally supported on the housing. The lock-out device is movable from a locked configuration to prevent engagement between a proximal end of the housing and the actuation device to an unlocked configuration to allow engagement between the proximal end of the housing and the actuation device. 
     In embodiments, the lock-out device is pivotally coupled to the housing via a pivot pin. 
     In some embodiments, the lock-out device has a generally elongated configuration with a trailing end that is configured to engage a distal end of the actuation device. 
     In certain embodiments, the lock-out device is seated within a notch defined in the housing. The notch may be defined by at least one wall that is configured to contact at least a portion of the lock-out device and retain the lock-out device in the locked configuration. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft, a support mechanism secured to a distal end of the inner shaft, a specimen pouch supported by the support mechanism, first and second interfaces spaced longitudinally on the inner shaft, and a cam lock pivotally coupled to the housing and moveable from a first position, wherein the cam lock is positioned to engage the first interface of the inner shaft to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to an extended position, to a second position wherein the cam lock is positioned to allow distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to the extended position to facilitate deployment of the specimen pouch and wherein proximal translation of the inner shaft within the outer shaft from a partially retracted position to a fully retracted position causes the second interface of the inner shaft to engage and move the cam lock to the second position. 
     In some embodiments, the cam lock is rotatable from the first position to the second position about a pivot member coupled to the housing. 
     In embodiments, the cam lock defines a pivot hole and the pivot member is received within the pivot hole to pivotally couple the cam lock to the housing. At least one of the pivot hole and the pivot member is shaped such that rotation of the cam lock relative to the pivot causes the pivot to frictionally engage the cam lock to lock the cam lock in the second position. 
     In embodiments, the cam lock includes first and second portions, wherein in the first position of the cam lock, the first portion is positioned to cooperate with the first interface of the inner shaft to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to the extended position and is positioned to cooperate with the second interface to rotate the cam lock to the second position upon proximal translation of the inner shaft from the partially retracted position to the fully refracted position to allow subsequent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the second portion of the cam lock is positioned and configured to lock the cam lock in the second position. 
     In certain embodiments, the second portion of the cam lock is positioned offset relative to the first plane and is configured to engage a side of the inner shaft to prevent rotation of the cam lock from the first position in a direction away from the second position to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft. 
     In embodiments, the first portion of the cam lock has dimensions different from the second portion of the cam lock. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft connected to and extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore extending therethrough, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough, a support mechanism configured to releasably support a specimen pouch at a distal end of the inner shaft, a first interface disposed on the inner shaft, and a cam lock pivotally coupled to the housing and moveable from a first position wherein the cam lock prevents distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to a second position wherein the cam lock allows distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to facilitate deployment of the specimen pouch. The cam lock includes first and second portions. The first portion cooperates with the first interface to rotate the cam lock to the second position upon proximal translation of the inner shaft to allow subsequent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing and the second portion of the cam lock cooperates with a side of the inner shaft to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing when the cam lock is disposed in the first position. 
     In some embodiments, a second interface is disposed on the inner shaft proximally of the first interface. The first portion of the cam lock cooperates with the second interface to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft when the cam lock is in the first position. 
     In embodiments, the first portion of the cam lock is disposed within a first plane and is configured to cooperate with the first and second interfaces positioned on a top of the inner shaft and the second portion is offset relative to the first plane and is configured to cooperate with a side of the inner shaft. 
     In another aspect of the disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and defining a channel, a support mechanism supported on a distal end of the inner shaft, a specimen pouch supported at a distal end of the inner shaft, first and second interfaces disposed at respective proximal and distal ends of the channel of the inner shaft, and a cam lock pivotally coupled to the housing and moveable from a first position wherein the cam lock is positioned to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to a second position wherein the cam lock is positioned to allow distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to facilitate deployment of the specimen pouch. The cam lock includes first and second portions. The first portion extends into the channel and cooperates with the first interface to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing when the cam lock is disposed in the first position. The first portion also cooperates with the second interface to effect movement of the cam lock from the first position to the second position upon proximal translation of the inner shaft to allow distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. A spring is coupled to the housing and cooperates with the second portion of the cam lock to retain the cam lock in the second position upon full proximal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the second portion of the cam lock rotates against the bias of the spring as the cam lock moves from the first position to the second position. The second portion of the cam lock includes a distal end configured to lock against the spring once the cam lock is rotated to the second position. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of preventing inadvertent deployment of a specimen pouch of a specimen retrieval device includes positioning a cam lock on a housing of the specimen retrieval device; movably positioning an inner shaft of the specimen retrieval device to move through the housing; positioning a pivotal cam lock on the housing; positioning a proximal interface on the inner shaft in a first position to prevent distal movement of the inner shaft in relation to the housing; positioning a distal interface on the inner shaft in a position to engage the cam lock when the inner shaft is moved proximally to effect movement of the cam lock from the first position to the second position, wherein in the second position of the cam lock, the cam lock allows for distal movement of the inner shaft; moving the inner shaft proximally to move the cam lock from the first position to the second position; and advancing the inner shaft distally in relation to the housing to deploy a specimen pouch from the specimen retrieval device. 
     In some embodiments, the method includes locking the cam lock in the second position. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft connected to the housing and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough, a support mechanism secured to a distal end of the inner shaft, a specimen pouch supported on the support mechanism at a distal end of the inner shaft, first and second interfaces disposed at respective proximal and distal ends of the inner shaft, and a cam lock pivotably coupled to the housing and rotatable from a first position wherein the cam lock prevents initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to a second position wherein the cam lock allows distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to facilitate deployment of the specimen pouch. The cam lock includes first and second portions extending therefrom. The first portion cooperates with the first interface to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing when the cam lock is disposed in the first position and the first portion cooperates with the second interface to effect rotation of the cam lock from the first position to the second position upon proximal translation of the inner shaft. A spring is coupled to the housing, wherein upon full proximal translation of the inner shaft within the outer shaft, a distal end of the second portion of the cam lock rotates against the bias of the spring and locks against the spring once the cam lock is rotated to the second position thereby locking the cam lock in the second position and allowing distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft to facilitate deployment of the specimen pouch. 
     In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing defining a slot, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and defining a channel and including a stop surface positioned proximally of the channel, a support mechanism secured to a distal end of the inner shaft, a specimen pouch supported on the support mechanism at a distal end of the inner shaft and a removable shipping wedge configured to be received through the slot in the housing. The removable shipping wedge includes an interface configured to slidably receive the inner shaft. The interface is configured to cooperate with the stop surface of the inner shaft to prevent full distal translation of the inner shaft in relation to the housing while allowing proximal translation of the inner shaft in relation to the housing. The inner shaft is movable proximally in relation to the housing to a fully retracted position to position the channel in alignment with the interface and facilitate removal of the removable shipping wedge from the specimen retrieval device through the slot in the housing to facilitate full distal translation of the inner shaft in relation to the housing and deployment of the specimen pouch. 
     In some embodiments, the inner shaft includes a flexible finger positioned proximally of the channel. The flexible finger extends outwardly from the inner shaft and is positioned to pass under the shipping wedge to a location proximal of the shipping wedge when the inner shaft is moved to the fully retracted position. The flexible finger is biased against the interface of the shipping wedge in the fully retracted position of the inner shaft to prevent distal movement of the inner shaft relative to the housing until the shipping wedge is removed from the specimen retrieval device. 
     In some embodiments, the interface includes opposing surfaces that define a notch that is shaped to slidably receive the inner shaft. 
     In embodiments, the specimen retrieval device includes a stripper plate disposed within the outer shaft that is selectively deployable with the specimen pouch. The inner shaft includes a proximal handle that is spaced from the housing a distance d when the shipping wedge is inserted within the groove of the housing. The distance d represents a dwell distance required to distally translate the inner shaft relative to the housing when the shipping wedge is removed to deploy the stripper plate from the outer shaft. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of preventing inadvertent deployment of a specimen pouch of a specimen retrieval device includes providing a specimen retrieval device including a housing having a groove defined therein, an outer shaft connected to the housing and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft defining a longitudinal bore extending therethrough, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough from a fully retracted position to an extended position, the inner shaft defining a proximal stop surface, a support mechanism supported on a distal end of the inner shaft, a specimen pouch supported on the support mechanism at a distal end of the inner shaft, and a removable shipping wedge having an interface at a distal end thereof configured to receive an outer periphery of the inner shaft while allowing translation of the inner shaft therethrough; and inserting the shipping wedge through the groove in the housing such that the interface engages the stop surface of the inner shaft to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to the extended position. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of deploying of a specimen pouch of a specimen retrieval device includes providing a specimen retrieval device including a housing having a groove defined therein, an outer shaft connected to the housing and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft defining a bore extending therethrough, an inner shaft disposed within the bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough, the inner shaft defining a slot, a support mechanism configured to releasably support a specimen pouch of the specimen retrieval device at a distal end thereof, a flexible finger disposed proximal to the slot on the inner shaft, a stop surface disposed at a proximal end of the inner shaft, and a removable shipping wedge including an interface at a distal end thereof configured to encompass the outer periphery of the inner shaft while allowing translation of the inner shaft therethrough; inserting the interface through the groove in the housing such that the interface engages the stop surface at the proximal end of the inner shaft to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing; proximally translating the inner shaft relative to the housing from a first position wherein the stop surface is engaged with the interface of the shipping wedge to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft to a second position wherein the interface of the shipping wedge is aligned with the slot of the inner shaft; removing the shipping wedge through the groove in the housing and the slot in the inner shaft; and distally translating the inner shaft relative to the housing to deploy the specimen pouch. 
     In some embodiments, the proximally translating step includes biasing the flexible finger against the interface of the shipping wedge and then releasing the flexible finger on a proximal side of the interface into engagement with the interface when the inner shaft is fully translated to the second position to prevent distal movement of the inner shaft until the shipping wedge is removed. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing and defining a longitudinal bore, and an inner shaft movably disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft. The inner shaft defines a cam slot along an outer periphery thereof including first and second portions and a channel connecting distal ends of the first and second portions. The second portion of the cam slot has a length greater than a length of the first portion. A support mechanism is secured to the distal end of the inner shaft and a specimen pouch is supported at a distal end of the inner shaft on the support mechanism. A torsion spring has a first end fixedly engaged with the housing and a second end slidably received within the cam slot and is in tension. The second end of the torsion spring is initially positioned at a proximal end of the first portion of the cam slot when the inner shaft is in a partially retracted position to prevent further distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. The second end of the torsion spring is movable from the proximal end of the first portion of the cam slot to a distal end of the first portion of the cam slot upon retraction of the inner shaft from the partially retracted position to a fully retracted position, wherein when the second end of the torsion spring reaches the distal end of the first portion of the cam slot, the tension in the torsion spring causes the second end of the torsion spring to translate through the channel of the cam slot to the second portion of the cam slot. When the second end of the torsion spring is positioned in the second portion of the cam slot, the inner shaft may be distally translated along the second portion of the cam slot to an extended position relative to the housing to deploy the specimen pouch. 
     In some embodiments, a stripper plate is disposed within a distal end of the outer shaft proximally of the specimen pouch and is selectively deployable with the specimen pouch. The second portion of the cam slot has a length greater than the first portion of the cam slot by a distance “X” and wherein the distance “X” represents a dwell distance required to distally translate the inner shaft relative to the housing to deploy the stripper plate disposed within the outer shaft. 
     In embodiments, the inner shaft and the outer shaft are configured to prevent rotation of the inner shaft in relation to the outer shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, the distal end of the second portion of the cam slot is longitudinally aligned with the distal end of the first portion of the cam slot. 
     In some embodiments, a proximal end of the second portion of the cam slot extends further proximally than a proximal end of the first portion of the cam slot by a distance X, the distance X permitting the inner shaft to move to the extended position. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of deploying a specimen pouch of a specimen retrieval device includes providing a specimen retrieval device including a housing, an outer shaft connected to the housing and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft defining a bore extending therethrough, an inner shaft disposed within the bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough, the inner shaft including a support mechanism configured to releasably support a specimen pouch of the specimen retrieval device at a distal end thereof, the inner shaft including a cam slot defined in an outer periphery thereof, the cam slot including first and second portions and a channel defined therebetween; engaging a first end of a torsion spring to the housing and positioning a second end of the torsion spring to ride within the cam slot upon translation of the inner shaft with respect to housing, wherein the second end of the torsion spring is initially positioned at a proximal end of the first portion of the cam slot to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing; proximally translating the inner shaft with respect to the housing to move the second end of the torsion spring within the cam slot from a first position at the proximal end of the first portion of the cam slot to a second position at a distal end of the first portion of the cam slot to allow the second end of the torsion spring to transition under the bias of the torsion spring within the channel into the distal end of the second portion of the cam slot; and distally translating the inner shaft relative to the housing to deploy the specimen pouch. 
     In another aspect of the disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft extending distally from the housing, the outer shaft defining a longitudinal bore, an inner shaft disposed within the longitudinal bore of the outer shaft and defining a cam slot that extends along a length of the inner shaft, the cam slot defining a proximal end and a distal end, and a removable shipping wedge. The removable shipping wedge includes a body having a flange extending from an upper surface thereof. The flange has a finger at a distal end thereof dimensioned to ride within the cam slot of the inner shaft. The finger is insertable into the cam slot through the notch. At least one support extends from the body and is configured to engage the housing. The finger of the shipping wedge is configured to be received within the proximal end of the cam slot to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing when the inner shaft is in a partially retracted position. 
     In some embodiments, the inner shaft supports a support mechanism which is configured to releasably support a specimen pouch of the specimen retrieval device at a distal end of the inner shaft. The inner shaft is moveable from a first position wherein the finger and the proximal end of the cam slot cooperate to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to a second position at the distal end of the cam slot, wherein the orientation of the finger within the cam slot allows removal of the shipping wedge and subsequent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to facilitate deployment of the specimen pouch. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one support includes a pair of lateral supports extending from opposing ends of the body. 
     In embodiments, the distal end of the cam slot defines a notch configured to allow removal of the shipping wedge from the inner shaft and the housing. 
     In certain embodiments, the shipping wedge further includes a removal tab configured to be gripped to facilitate removal of the shipping wedge from the inner shaft and the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the distal end of the cam slot includes a ramp-like surface positioned proximally of the notch. 
     In embodiments, engagement of the finger and the ramp-like surface provides tactile feedback to a clinician during distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the bias of the finger against the ramp-like surface causes the finger to snap into the notch to provide the tactile feedback. 
     In certain embodiments, a disposition of the finger within the notch prevents the inner shaft from being translated distally relative to the housing until the shipping wedge is removed. 
     In embodiments, the housing includes finger rings extending from opposing sides of the body and each of the one or more supports is configured to engage a respective one of the finger rings to brace the shipping wedge against the housing. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a specimen retrieval device includes a housing, an outer shaft connected to and extending distally from the housing and defining a bore extending therethrough, and an inner shaft movably disposed within the bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough. The inner shaft includes a cam slot having proximal and distal ends and supports a support mechanism configured to releasably support a specimen pouch at the distal end thereof. A removable shipping wedge includes a body having a flange extending from an upper surface thereof. The flange has a finger dimensioned to ride within the cam slot. The inner shaft is moveable from a first position wherein the finger and the proximal end of the cam slot cooperate to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing to a second position at the distal end of the cam slot wherein the orientation of the finger within the cam slot allows removal of the shipping wedge from the specimen retrieval device and subsequent distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. 
     In embodiments, the shipping wedge further includes a removal tab configured to facilitate removal of the shipping wedge from the inner shaft and the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the distal end of the cam slot includes a transverse notch that facilitates removal of the shipping wedge from the inner shaft and the housing. 
     In certain embodiments, the distal end of the cam slot includes a ramp-like surface which is configured to bias the finger as the finger is translated therethrough. 
     In some embodiments, the bias of the finger against the ramp-like surface provides tactile feedback to the clinician during distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. 
     In embodiments, the bias of the finger against the ramp-like surface causes the finger to snap into the notch. 
     In some embodiments, the finger when positioned within the notch prevents the inner shaft from being translated distally relative to the housing until the shipping wedge is removed. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of preventing inadvertent deployment of a specimen pouch of a specimen retrieval device includes providing a specimen retrieval device including a housing, an outer shaft connected to the housing and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft defining a bore extending therethrough, an inner shaft disposed within the bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough, the inner shaft including a cam slot defined therein that extends therealong, the cam slot including proximal and distal ends, and a removable shipping wedge including a body having a flange extending from an upper surface thereof having a finger at a distal end thereof dimensioned to ride within the cam slot, and at least one support extending from the body and configured to engage the housing; and engaging the removable shipping wedge to the housing and the inner shaft such that the finger of the flange is disposed in abutting relation with the proximal end of the cam slot preventing initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of deploying a specimen pouch of a specimen retrieval device includes providing a specimen retrieval device including a housing, an outer shaft connected to the housing and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft defining a bore extending therethrough, an inner shaft disposed within the bore of the outer shaft and translatable therethrough, the inner shaft including a support mechanism configured to releasably support a specimen pouch of the specimen retrieval device at the distal end thereof, the inner shaft including a cam slot defined therein that extends therealong, the cam slot including a proximal end and a distal end having a notch defined therein, and a removable shipping wedge including a body having a flange extending from an upper surface thereof having a finger at a distal end thereof dimensioned to ride within the cam slot, and at least one support extending from the body and configured to engage the housing; engaging the removable shipping wedge to the housing and the inner shaft such that the finger of the spring-like flange is disposed in abutting relation with the proximal end of the cam slot preventing initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing; retracting the inner shaft relative to the housing such that the finger of the spring-like flanges rides along the cam slot and bottoms out in the notch at a distal end thereof; removing the shipping wedge from the housing and the inner shaft; and distally translating the inner shaft with respect the housing to deploy the specimen pouch. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a stripper plate is disclosed for use with a specimen retrieval device having an elongated hollow outer shaft defining an inner diameter. The stripper plate includes a leading end including major and minor axes. A width of the major axis is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft and a width of the minor axis is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer shaft. The leading end includes first and second apertures defined therein and extending therethrough to a trailing end. The first aperture is configured to receive a support mechanism of the specimen retrieval device and the second aperture is configured to receive a suture. The stripper plate is deployable from a retracted configuration within an inner periphery of the outer shaft to a deployed configuration outside the outer shaft, wherein, when the stripper plate is in the deployed configuration, the leading end of the stripper plate is configured to uncouple a specimen pouch from the support mechanism. 
     In some embodiments, the stripper plate is oriented at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis defined through the elongated hollow outer shaft when in the retracted configuration and wherein the stripper plate is oriented at a second angle relative to a longitudinal axis when disposed in the deployed configuration. 
     In embodiments, the leading end of the stripper plate includes two second apertures, each second aperture being configured to receive a respective portion of the suture. 
     In certain embodiments, the stripper plate defines a beveled peripheral wall that extends between the leading end and trailing end. 
     In some embodiments, the bevel of the peripheral wall defines an angle with the leading end that facilitates proper orientation of the stripper plate at the first angle within the inner periphery of the outer shaft. 
     In embodiments, the angle of the bevel of the peripheral wall is in the range of 25 degrees to 45 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, the first angle of the stripper plate ranges from 1 degree to 75 degrees. 
     In certain embodiments, the second angle of the stripper plate ranges from 76 degrees to 90 degrees. 
     In embodiments, the leading end of the stripper plate includes a chamfered front edge to facilitate deployment of the stripper plate from the outer shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the first aperture includes a circular configuration. Alternately, the first aperture includes a rectilinear configuration. 
     In certain embodiments, when the stripper plate is deployed and the stripper plate is forced proximally, the width of the major axis prevents the stripper plate from re-entering the inner periphery of the outer shaft. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a stripper plate is described for use with a specimen retrieval device having an elongated hollow outer shaft defining an inner diameter. The stripper plate includes a leading end including major and minor axes. A width of the major axis is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft and a width of the minor axis is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer shaft. The leading end includes first and second apertures defined therein and extending therethrough to a trailing end. The first aperture is configured to receive a support mechanism of the specimen retrieval device and the second aperture is configured to receive a suture. The stripper plate has a peripheral wall defined between the leading end and the trailing end that is beveled to facilitate deployment of the stripper plate from a refracted configuration within an inner periphery of the outer shaft to a deployed configuration outside the outer shaft. 
     In some embodiments, the leading end of the stripper plate is configured to uncouple a specimen pouch from the support mechanism. 
     In embodiments, the leading end includes a top portion and a bottom portion and wherein the bevel of the peripheral wall extends from both the top and bottom portions of the leading end at the same angle towards the trailing end. 
     In certain embodiments, the trailing end includes a bump-out extending outwardly therefrom and surrounding the first aperture. The bump-out faces proximally when the stripper plate is disposed in the retracted configuration. The bump-out is configured to engage the inner periphery of the outer shaft to center the stripper plate therein. 
     In some embodiments, the bump-out includes a semi-circular configuration. 
     In embodiments, the width of the major axis of the stripper plate prevents the stripper plate from re-entering the inner periphery of the outer shaft. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a stripper plate is described for use with a specimen retrieval device having an elongated hollow outer shaft defining an inner diameter, the stripper plate. The stripper plate includes an elongated cylindrical portion defined by opposing end portions and has a length L. The cylindrical portion includes an aperture defined therethrough configured to receive a suture and a relief defined along at least a portion of an outer peripheral surface thereof proximate the aperture. The relief is configured to facilitate passage of the suture through the aperture. The stripper plate is deployable from a retracted configuration within an inner periphery of the outer shaft to a deployed configuration outside the outer shaft. The length L is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft such that once the stripper plate is deployed from the retracted configuration the stripper plate is prevented from reentering the inner periphery. 
     In some embodiments, the stripper plate is configured such that, the opposing end portions contact either side of the outer shaft to facilitate uncoupling of a specimen pouch from a pouch support mechanism. 
     In embodiments, the outer end portions include a first diameter and the elongated cylindrical portion includes a middle portion having a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter. 
     In some embodiments, the middle portion includes the aperture defined therethrough. 
     In certain embodiments, the elongated cylindrical portion is tapered from the middle portion to the outer end portions. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the outer end portions includes a recess defined therein configured to engage an inner peripheral edge of the outer shaft to facilitate uncoupling a specimen pouch from a pouch support mechanism. 
     In embodiments, each of the outer end portions includes a recess defined therein. Each respective recess is configured to engage opposing portions of the inner peripheral edge of the outer shaft. 
     In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a stripper plate is described for use with a specimen retrieval device having an elongated hollow outer shaft defining an inner diameter. The stripper plate includes an elongated cylindrical portion defined by leading and trailing ends. The elongated cylindrical portion includes an aperture defined therethrough configured to receive a support mechanism of the specimen retrieval device. The stripper plate is deployable from a retracted configuration within an inner periphery of the outer shaft to a deployed configuration outside the outer shaft. The trailing end includes at least one elongated slit defined therein and extending at least partially toward the leading end. The at least one elongated slit is configured to allow the stripper plate to flex inwardly to facilitate insertion of the stripper plate into the inner periphery of the outer shaft. At least one tab-like living hinge is disposed on an outer peripheral surface of the elongated cylindrical portion. The at least one living hinge is biased to self-deploy and extend outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the elongated cylindrical portion once the stripper plate is deployed. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one elongated slit includes a plurality of elongated slits. 
     In embodiments, the plurality of tab-like living hinges is interposed between the plurality of elongated slits. 
     In some embodiments, the leading end of the stripper plate faces proximally within the inner periphery of the outer shaft when disposed in the refracted configuration. 
     In certain embodiments, the stripper plate is positioned in a compressed condition against the bias of the plurality of slits within the inner periphery of the outer shaft. 
     In embodiments, the plurality of tab-like living hinges disposed along the outer peripheral surface of the elongated cylindrical portion is configured to self-deploy from a flush configuration with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the elongated cylindrical portion when the stripper plate is disposed in the refracted configuration within the inner periphery of the outer shaft to an extended configuration relative to the outer peripheral surface of the elongated cylindrical portion when the stripper plate is externalized to the deployed configuration. 
     In some embodiments, when the stripper plate is deployed and the stripper plate is forced proximally, the tab-like living hinges are configured to contact an inner peripheral edge of the outer shaft to facilitate uncoupling of a specimen pouch from a pouch support mechanism. 
     In certain embodiments, when the stripper plate is deployed and the stripper plate is forced proximally, the tab-like living hinges prevent the stripper plate from re-entering the inner periphery of the outer shaft. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments of the presently disclosed specimen retrieval device are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a specimen retrieval device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is the indicated area of detail shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 2A  is an enlarged schematic view of the connection of the pouch with the inner shaft with the retention member in a locked position; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1  with an inner shaft of the specimen retrieval device shown in a fully retracted configuration; 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged partial perspective view of a housing of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1  with a sled of the inner shaft and a stop member of the housing shown in phantom to illustrate a position of the sled in relation to the stop member when the inner shaft is in the fully retracted configuration; 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end of the housing with a portion of an outer shaft which extends from the housing removed to illustrate a spatial relationship of the components of the sled subsequent to the sled being moved distally in relation to the stop member; 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged partial perspective view of a distal end of the specimen retrieval device with a support mechanism of the inner shaft in a deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a specimen retrieval device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  is the indicated area of detail shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9A  is an enlarged perspective view of a stripper plate configured for use with the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9B  is an enlarged front end view of the stripper plate shown in  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIGS. 9C-9G  are perspective views of other embodiments of stripper plates according to the present disclosure; 
         FIGS. 9H-9J  are perspective views of cylindrically-shaped embodiments of stripper plates according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 9K  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stripper plate according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 10  with the stripper plate shown in an extended position; 
         FIG. 11  is the indicated area of detail shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12A  is a schematic view of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with the pouch in a partially retracted position; 
         FIG. 12B  is a schematic view of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  with an inner shaft in a fully extended configuration and the pouch and stripper plate of the specimen retrieval device deployed; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrating the proximal end of the outer shaft separated from the inner shaft with the actuation device engaged with the distal apertures of the inner shaft; 
         FIG. 14  is an enlarged perspective view of a proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  illustrating the inner shaft and actuation device with the actuation device engaged with the distal apertures of the inner; 
         FIG. 15  is an enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  with the outer shaft shown partially in cross-section; 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  with the inner shaft shown in a partially retracted configuration and the actuation device received in the distal apertures of the inner shaft; 
         FIG. 16A  is a cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  as the inner shaft is moved from the partially retracted position towards the fully retracted position as the detents on the outer shaft engage the protrusions on the arms of the actuation device; 
         FIG. 16B  is a cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  as the inner shaft is moved from the partially retracted position towards the fully retracted position after the detents on the outer shaft have urged the protrusions on the arms of the actuation device from the distal apertures; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 12A  with the inner shaft in the fully retracted position with the protrusions on the arms of the actuation device received in the proximal apertures of the inner shaft; 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the specimen retrieval device with the protrusions of the actuation shaft received in the proximal apertures of the inner shaft as the inner shaft and actuation device are moved from the fully retracted position towards the extended position; 
         FIG. 19  is a schematic view of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with parts separated; 
         FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view taken along line segment  20 - 20  in  FIG. 19  with an actuation device and inner shaft of the specimen retrieval device shown in a locked configuration for moving the inner shaft in relation to an outer shaft of the specimen retrieval device; 
         FIG. 21  a cross-sectional view of the actuation device and inner shaft with the actuation device shown in an un-locked configuration for cinching a pouch of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a schematic view of a proximal end of a specimen retrieval device including a locking a member in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 23A  is a schematic view of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure having an inner shaft, a housing and a cam lock configured to prevent inadvertent initial distal advancement of the inner shaft relative to the housing; 
         FIG. 23B  is an enlarged view of a cam lock of  FIG. 23A ; 
         FIG. 23C  is a greatly-enlarged view of another embodiment of the present disclosure showing the engagement of a pivot disposed on the housing to an inner periphery of a pivot hole defined in the cam lock when the cam lock is moved from a first position to a second position; 
         FIGS. 24A-24D  are schematic views showing the sequence of operation as the inner shaft is translated proximally and the cam lock moves from the first position for preventing distal advancement of the inner shaft relative the housing to the second position allowing distal advancement of the inner shaft relative to the housing; 
         FIG. 25A  is an exploded perspective view of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 25B  is a side perspective view of a removable shipping wedge usable with the specimen retrieval device of  FIG. 25A ; 
         FIGS. 26-27  are schematic views of the specimen retrieval device shown in  FIG. 25A  with the removable shipping wedge positioned to prevent initial distal translation of an inner shaft relative to a housing; 
         FIG. 28  is a side view of an inner shaft and torsion spring of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure with the inner shaft in a partially retracted position; 
         FIG. 29  is a side view of the inner shaft and torsion spring shown in  FIG. 28  after the inner shaft has been moved to the fully retracted position as the torsion spring transitions from a first portion of a cam slot to a second portion of a cam slot; 
         FIGS. 30-33  are schematic views of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure having a housing, inner shaft and torsion spring that is configured to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft relative to the housing; and 
         FIGS. 34A-38  are schematic views of a specimen retrieval device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure having a removable shipping wedge to prevent initial distal translation of an inner shaft relative to a housing. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views. As used herein, the term distal refers to that portion of the instrument which is farthest from the clinician, while the term proximal refers to that portion of the instrument which is closest to the clinician. In the following description, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure in unnecessary detail. 
     As used herein with reference to the present disclosure, the terms laparoscopic and endoscopic are interchangeable and refer to instruments having a relatively narrow operating portion for insertion into a cannula or small incision in the skin. Laparoscopic and endoscopic also refer to minimally invasive surgical procedures. It is believed that the present disclosure may find use in any procedure where access to the interior of the body is limited to a relatively small incision, with or without the use of a cannula as in minimally invasive procedures. In addition, as used herein, the term clinician refers to medical staff including doctors, nurses and support personnel. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-6 , and initially with reference to  FIG. 1 , a specimen retrieval device  10  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Specimen retrieval device  10  includes a housing  12 , an outer shaft  14  and an inner shaft  16 . Specimen retrieval device  10  (and components associated therewith) may be formed from any suitable biocompatible material, e.g., plastic. In an embodiment, an injection molding manufacturing process may be utilized to form housing  12 , outer shaft  14  and inner shaft  16 . 
     Housing  12  and outer shaft  14  define a longitudinal bore and have a generally elongated configuration. The longitudinal bore is configured to slidably receive the inner shaft  16 . The housing  12  may be formed as a unitary component or as two separate half components that are coupled to one another by one or more suitable coupling methods (e.g., one or more suitable adhesives). In the latter instance, an indent/detent configuration (not explicitly shown) may be utilized to facilitate coupling the two separate half components. Housing  12  includes a handle, e.g., a pair of opposing lateral loops  13   a ,  13   b  ( FIG. 1 ), that allow a clinician to grasp and manipulate the specimen retrieval device  10 . Alternately, other handle configurations are envisioned. 
     One or more stop members, e.g., a boss (or recess)  18  (shown in phantom in  FIGS. 1 and 3-5 ), is defined along an interior wall of the housing  12  and is configured to releasably engage the inner shaft  16  to limit distal translation of the inner shaft  16  in relation to the outer shaft  14  as will be discussed in further detail below. Other devices and/or components (e.g., a detent, protrusion, or the like) may be utilized in place of the boss  18  to engage the inner shaft  16 . 
     The outer shaft  14  extends distally from housing  12  and includes a generally tubular configuration, which as discussed above, defines the longitudinal bore. The outer shaft  14  is configured to slidably receive the inner shaft  16  and defines a longitudinal axis “A-A” therethrough. Outer shaft  14  is dimensioned for insertion through a trocar, cannula or natural body orifice for endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures. An aperture  20  of suitable configuration is provided at a distal end of the outer shaft  14  and is dimensioned and configured to allow ingress and egress of the inner shaft  16  including a pouch  22  ( FIG. 1 ). The outer shaft  14  is coupled to housing  12  via one or more suitable coupling methods (e.g., welding, etc. adhesives). Alternately, the outer shaft  14 , may be monolithically formed with housing  12 . 
     Continuing with reference to  FIGS. 1-6 , the inner shaft  16  has a generally elongated configuration and is movably positioned within the outer shaft  14 . The inner shaft  16  is translatable within the outer shaft  14  to move the pouch  22  from a fully retracted configuration to an extended or deployed configuration. In the fully retracted configuration, the pouch  22  is disposed at least partially within a distal end of the outer shaft  14  for positioning the specimen retrieval device  10  through an access port ( FIGS. 3 and 4  show the inner shaft  16  in a fully retracted configuration; the pouch  22  is not shown in  FIG. 3  for clarity). In the extended or deployed configuration, the pouch  22  is disposed outside of the outer shaft  14  for positioning target tissue within pouch  22 . 
     In accordance with the present disclosure, as the pouch  22  is moved from the fully retracted configuration to the extended configuration, the pouch  22  is moved to a release configuration to facilitate uncoupling of the pouch  22  from the inner shaft  16  so that the pouch  22  may be cinched and removed from a patient as will be discussed in detail below. To this end, the inner shaft  16  supports a sled  24  that is coupled to a retention member  26  ( FIG. 2 ) by a coupling member  40 . The retention member  26  and the sled  24  are configured to facilitate detachment of the pouch  22  from a support mechanism  28  provided at a distal end  30  ( FIG. 6 ) of the inner shaft  16  (See  FIG. 3 ) upon movement of the inner shaft  16  from the fully retracted position to the extended position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 2A , the retention member  26  includes a bifurcated configuration having left and right side portions  27   a ,  27   b , respectively that are joined at a proximal end  32  of the retention member  26 . The left and right side portions  27   a  and  27   b  can include wires, rods or the like. With the retention member  26  in a distal most position (as shown in  FIG. 2A ), the left and right side portions  27   a ,  27   b  of retention member  26  extend through corresponding slots  33  defined in side protrusions  34  of inner shaft  16 . Each side protrusion  34  is configured to be releasably received within a corresponding aperture  3638  ( FIG. 1 ) defined through tab portions  39   a  and  39   b  of the pouch  22  ( FIGS. 1, 2 and 6 ). The left and right tab portions  39   a ,  39   b  of the pouch  22  are provided adjacent a proximal end  41  ( FIG. 1 ) of the pouch  22  and extend proximally therefrom for releasably coupling to the corresponding side protrusions  34  on the inner shaft  16 . With the retention member  26  in the distal most position, the left and right side portions  27   a ,  27   b  of the retention member  26  prevent tab portions  39   a ,  39   b  from becoming disengaged from protrusions  34 . The retention member  26  is movable from the distal most position to a proximal most position in relation to the inner shaft  16  to allow a clinician to uncouple the pouch  22  from the support mechanism  28 , as will be described in greater detail below. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 5 , the coupling member  40 , which may be in the form of a wire, cable, rod or the like, is configured to couple the retention member  26  to the sled  24 . Specifically, the coupling member  40  includes a distal hook portion  42  ( FIG. 2 ) that is coupled to the proximal end  32  of the retention member  26 , either fixedly or releasably, and a proximal hook portion  44  ( FIG. 5 ) that is coupled to a distal end  46  of the sled  24 , either fixedly or releasably. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other coupling methods that may be utilized to couple the coupling member  40  to the retention member  26  and the sled  24 . For example, the proximal and distal hook portions  44 ,  42  may be eliminated and proximal and distal ends of the coupling member  40  may be soldered, brazed or welded directly to the respective proximal and distal ends  32 ,  46  of the retention member  26  and sled  24 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 4-5 , the sled  24  has a generally elongated configuration and is seated within a notch  48  ( FIGS. 4 and 5 ) that is defined by a top wall portion  50  of the inner shaft  16 . The sled  24  is slidable along the notch  48  to move between distal and proximal positions within the notch  48 . The sled  24  includes a resilient finger portion  52  including a distal end  54  configured to contact the boss  18  of the housing  12 . An optional cutout  56  ( FIG. 5 ) of suitable configuration may be provided at the distal end  54  of finger portion  52  to engage a corresponding mechanical interface provided on the boss  18  to facilitate engagement of the resilient finger portion  52  with the boss  18 . The distal end  46  of the sled  24  defines an aperture (not explicitly shown) that is configured to receive the proximal hook portion  44  of coupling member  40 . As can be appreciated, in embodiments where the proximal hook portion  44  is not utilized with the coupling member  40 , the sled  24  may be formed without the aperture and the proximal end of the coupling member  40  may be attached to the sled  24  in any known manner, e.g., via welding. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 6 , the support mechanism  28  includes two flexible or resilient members  58  and  60  that form an open fork configuration. The flexible or resilient members  58 ,  60  can be formed from spring steel, Nitinol™ or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the resilient members  58 ,  60  are joined at a proximal end of the support mechanism  28  and are coupled to the distal end  30  of the inner shaft  16  via one or more suitable coupling methods. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the distal end  30  of the inner shaft  16  is overmolded about the proximal end of the resilient members  58  and  60  of the support mechanism  28 . 
     The resilient members  58 ,  60  are configured to move from a stressed or non-expanded state when the pouch  22  is in a retracted configuration positioned within the outer shaft  14  to an unstressed or expanded state when pouch  22  is deployed from outer shaft  14 . In the unstressed or expanded condition, resilient members  58 ,  60  collectively form a generally circular or hoop-like configuration for supporting a periphery of an opening  15  of pouch  22 , see  FIG. 1  for example. Persons skilled in the art will recognize that resilient members  58 ,  60  can form a multitude of configuration shapes, such as generally elliptical. 
     In accordance with the present disclosure, resilient members  58 ,  60  are configured to releasably couple the pouch  22  to a distal end of inner shaft  16 . Specifically, resilient members  58 ,  60  may be fed through a tubular portion or sleeve  17  ( FIG. 6 ) of suitable configuration that is provided about an upper end of the pouch  22 . When the retention member  26  is disengaged from side protrusion  24  of inner shaft  16 , proximal movement of the inner shaft  16  within the outer shaft  14  causes a proximal portion  41  of pouch  22  to contact a distal end of the outer shaft  14 . After the pouch  22  engages the distal end of the outer shaft  16 , further proximal movement of the inner shaft  16  proximally into outer shaft  14  causes the resilient members  58 ,  60  to slide out of the sleeve  17  of the pouch  22  to uncouple the pouch  22  from the resilient members  58 ,  60  as discussed in further detail below. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , a handle, e.g., a finger loop  23 , is provided at a proximal end of the inner shaft  16  and is configured to facilitate movement of the inner shaft  16  in relation to the outer shaft  14  and the housing  12 , e.g., via manual grasping by the clinician. Other handle configurations are envisioned. A cinch puller  62  is removably coupled to the finger loop  23  via a press-fit or friction engagement and is configured to close pouch  22  after a tissue specimen is positioned therein as is known in the art. More specifically, the cinch puller  62  is connected to a suture “S”. A distal end of the suture “s” is coupled to the pouch  22  ( FIG. 6 ). For example, the suture “S” can extend about the opening  15  of pouch  22  through the cuff  17  as is known in the art. In embodiments, the cinch may be in the form of a thread, wire, cable or the like. In use, after the pouch  22  is in abutment with the distal end of the outer tube  14  and the pouch  22  is uncoupled from the support mechanism  28 , the cinch puller  62  can be pulled proximally in relation to the outer tube  14  to draw the suture “S” proximally to close the opening  15  ( FIG. 1 ) of pouch  22 . 
     The pouch  22  may be made from any suitable biocompatible material (e.g., nylon, urethane, ripstop nylon or latex) capable of forming a flexible collapsible member, or membrane. Pouch  22  includes a generally tubular or elongated configuration that is defined by an openable and closable upper portion (or mouth)  19  which defines the opening  15  and a closed lower portion  21  ( FIG. 1 ). The upper portion  19  includes the sleeve  17  that is configured to receive resilient members  58 ,  60  therein and a distal portion of the suture “S” ( FIG. 6 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal portion of the suture “S” is positioned through one end of the sleeve  17  and is coupled to the pouch  22  or a distal end of the retrieval device  10  at the other end of the sleeve  17 . Thus, when the cinch puller  62  is pulled proximally, the suture “S” closes the opening  15  of the upper portion  19 . 
     The specimen retrieval device  10  may be packaged and shipped with the pouch  22  in a deployed configuration and the inner shaft  16  in a partially retracted position. As discussed above, shipping the specimen retrieval device  10  with the pouch  22  deployed will minimize the likelihood of formation of memory wrinkles in the pouch  22 . Prior to use, the inner shaft  16  may be moved proximally in relation to the outer shaft  14  from the partially retracted position to a retracted position to position the pouch  22  within the outer shaft  14  to facilitate insertion of the outer shaft  14  through a small incision or cannula. As the inner shaft  16  is moved proximally from the partially retracted position towards the fully retracted position in relation to the outer shaft  14 , the resilient finger portion  52  of sled  42  is deflected downwardly via engagement with the boss  18  to allow the sled  24  to move to a proximal side of the boss  18 . In doing so, the pouch  22  is drawn at least partially into the outer shaft  14 . In this position, the sled  24  is positioned at a distal end of the notch  48  defined on the inner shaft  16 . Thereafter, the outer shaft  14  may be inserted through a natural or man-made orifice on a patient and positioned adjacent target tissue. As discussed below, movement of the retention member  26  in relation to the inner shaft  16  effects disengagement of the retention member  26  from the side protrusions  34  of the inner shaft  16 . More specifically, when the inner shaft  16  is moved distally in relation to the outer shaft  14  to deploy the pouch  22  from the outer shaft  14 , the distal end  54  of the finger portion  52  ( FIG. 4 ) of sled  24  will temporarily engage the boss  18  to prevent the sled  24  and the retention member  26  from moving distally with the inner shaft  16 . Movement of the inner shaft  26  independently of the sled  24  and the retention member  26  causes the portions  27   a ,  27   b  of the retention member  26  to disengage from the slots  33  of side protrusions  34  when the inner shaft  16  is moved towards the extended position. 
     The distal end  54  of the finger portion  52  remains engaged with the boss  18  until distal translation of the inner shaft  16  in relation to sled  24  and the outer shaft  14  causes the top wall  50  ( FIG. 4 ) of the inner shaft  16  that defines the notch  48  to contact the finger portion  52 . The top wall  50  slides along a top surface of the finger portion  52  and urges the finger portion  52  downwardly out of engagement with the boss  18  so that the sled  24  may again move distally with the inner shaft  16  in relation to the outer shaft  14  ( FIG. 5 ). Continued distal movement of the inner shaft  16  in relation to the outer shaft  14  ultimately moves the pouch  22  to the deployed configuration ( FIG. 6  illustrates the top portion of the pouch  22  for clarity). 
     After the pouch  22  is deployed and the surgical procedure is completed, the inner shaft  16  can be withdrawn into the outer shaft  14  to separate the pouch  22  from the inner shaft  16 . Such a separating force is generated by a clinician pulling proximally on the handle  23  at the proximal end of the inner shaft  16 . More specifically, once the tab portions  39   a ,  39   b  of the pouch  22  are no longer locked onto the left and right protrusions  34  of the inner shaft  16  by the retention member  26 , pulling the inner shaft  16  proximally in relation to the outer shaft  14  causes the proximal end of pouch  22  to abut the distal end of the outer shaft  14 . As a result, when the inner shaft  16  is withdrawn back into the outer shaft  14 , the tab portions  39   a  and  39   b  are disengaged from the protrusions  34  to separate the pouch  22  from the inner shaft  16 . The protrusions  34  may have proximal chamfers  34   a  ( FIG. 6 ) to facilitate separation from tab portions  39   a ,  39   b . Thereafter, the resilient members  58 ,  60  of the support mechanism  28  are caused to slide out of the sleeve  17  of the pouch  22  as the inner shaft  16  is retracted into the outer shaft  14 , until resilient members  58 ,  60  of the support mechanism  28  are no longer supporting the pouch  22 . 
     Once the pouch  22  has been de-coupled from the inner shaft  16 , a clinician may detach the cinch puller  62  from the finger loop  23  of the inner shaft  16 . In an embodiment, the suture “S” may be detached from the inner shaft  16  and the inner shaft can be withdrawn from the outer shaft  14 . With the inner shaft  16  removed, the remaining portion of the suture “S” extends longitudinally through the outer shaft  14 . Pulling the suture “S” causes the suture “S” to tighten about the opening  15  of the pouch  22  to close the opening  15 . The outer shaft  14  may then be withdrawn from the surgical site, leaving just the closed pouch  22  within the surgical site and a portion of the suture “S” extending through the incision. 
     Unlike conventional specimen retrieval devices that are typically shipped for use with a pouch that is folded or rolled and stored within an outer shaft of the specimen retrieval device, the present specimen retrieval device  10  may be shipped for use with the pouch  22  in an unfolded and deployed configuration, e.g., outside of the outer shaft  14 . Such an arrangement may overcome drawbacks typically associated with conventional specimen retrieval devices, e.g., the likelihood of memory wrinkles being formed on pouch  22  is reduced, if not eliminated. 
     From the foregoing and with reference to the various drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without departing from the overall scope. For example, one or more devices or components may be utilized to assist in separating the pouch  22  from the resilient members  58 ,  60  of the support mechanism  28 . 
     For example,  FIG. 7  illustrates, a specimen retrieval device  110  which includes a stripper plate  170 . The stripper plate  170  is configured to be received within an outer shaft  114  of the specimen retrieval device  110  and be deployed when the inner shaft  116  is moved to a fully extended position to assist in separating the pouch  122  from the support mechanism  128  ( FIG. 8 ). Specimen retrieval device  110  is similar to the specimen retrieval device  10 . Accordingly, only those features unique to specimen retrieval device  110  are described herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the stripper plate  170  is movable from a retracted configuration wherein the stripper plate  170  is disposed within a distal end of the outer shaft  114  of the specimen retrieval device  110  to a deployed configuration wherein the stripper plate  170  is disposed outside of the outer shaft  114  ( FIG. 11 ). As will be discussed in further detail below, in the retracted configuration, the stripper plate  170  may be oriented at a first angle 0° relative to a longitudinal axis “A-A” defined through the outer shaft  114  (as shown in  FIG. 8 ). The first angle 0° of the stripper plate  170  may range from about 1 degree to about 75 degrees. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9A-9B , in embodiments, the stripper plate  170  includes a generally elliptical configuration defining a major axis “B-B” and minor axis “C-C.” A width of the minor axis “C-C” is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  and a width of the major axis “B-B” is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114 . It is noted that having the major axis “B-B” greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  prevents the stripper plate  170  from being moved back into the outer shaft  114  after the stripper plate  170  has been deployed from the outer shaft  114 . A leading end  175  of the stripper plate  170  includes a generally planar configuration with a generally oval shaped peripheral wall  179  which extends between the leading end  175  and a trailing end  173  of the stripper plate. The peripheral wall  179  may be beveled at an angle that ranges from about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees in relation to the planar leading end  175  of the stripper plate  170  to allow the peripheral wall  179  to frictionally engage an inner surface of outer shaft  114  ( FIG. 8 ). As shown, the angle of peripheral wall  179  of the stripper plate  170  is substantially parallel to the inner surface of the outer shaft  114  to allow the stripper plate  170  to be deployed from the outer shaft as will be discussed in further detail below. 
     Continuing with reference to  FIGS. 9A-9B , the stripper plate  170  includes first and second apertures  171 ,  172  defined therethrough. The first aperture  171  of the stripper plate  170  has a generally circular shape and is configured to receive the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support mechanism  128  ( FIG. 8 ). 
     The second aperture  172  has a generally triangular shape and is configured to receive the suture “S” of the specimen retrieval device  110  ( FIG. 11 ). In embodiments, the second aperture  172  may be further defined by an upper first portion  176   a , an upper second portion  176   b  and a lower portion  176   c . Each of the upper first and second portions  176   a ,  176   b  may be defined by generally circumferential walls  177   a ,  177   b  and the lower portion  176   c  may be defined by a lower generally concave wall  178 . The upper first and second portions  176   a ,  176   b  are sized proportionally to the suture “S” to exert a drag force on the suture “S” as the suture “S” is being pulled through the first or second portions  176   a ,  176   b . In one embodiment, the suture “S” passes through one of the first or second portions  176   a ,  176   b , extends through the sleeve and about the opening in the pouch  122 , and then passes back through the other opening  176   a ,  176   b  of the stripper plate  170  where the suture “S” is secured to the trailing end  173  of the stripper plate  170 . When the suture “S” is pulled proximally, the suture “S” cinches the opening is in the pouch  122 . 
     First and second opposing channels  180   a ,  180   b  are provided between the upper first and second portions  176   a ,  176   b , respectively, and the lower portion  176   c  of the stripper plate  170 . The first and second opposing channels  180   a ,  180   b  help guide the suture “S” into the upper first portion  176   a  and upper second portion  176   b , respectively, as the suture “S” is being pulled proximally to close the pouch  122  (see  FIG. 7  for example) of the specimen retrieval apparatus  110 . Persons skilled in the art will recognize that first and second apertures  171  and  172  may each be of any known configuration, such as circular, oval, square, rectangular, Y-shaped or X-shaped, with either sharp or curved/concave corners or edges. Furthermore, the inner walls of each of the first and second apertures  171  and  172  may be angled, for example inward or outward, relative to the front face of the stripper plate  170 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 10-11 , the stripper plate  170  is supported on the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support mechanism  128  which is configured to support the pouch  122 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 7-11 , the tab portions  39   a ,  39   b  ( FIG. 1 ) of the pouch  122  are configured to extend around the minor axis “C-C” ( FIG. 9A ) of the stripper plate  170  for coupling to the side protrusions  134  ( FIG. 8 ) provided on an inner shaft  116  of the specimen retrieval device  110 . 
     As will be described in further detail below, in use of the specimen retrieval device  110 , the inner shaft  116  is movable from a partially retracted position to a fully retracted position and then to a fully extended position. In the partially retracted position of the inner shaft  116  ( FIGS. 7 and 12A ), which is the shipping position, the pouch  122  is deployed but the stripper plate  170  is positioned within the outer shaft  114 . In this position, as will be discussed in further detail below, a locking member prevents advancement of the inner shaft  114  to the fully extended position until the inner shaft  116  is first moved to the fully retracted position. Movement of the inner shaft  116  to the fully retracted position, which in some embodiments releases the locking member, draws the pouch into the outer shaft  114  to facilitate insertion of the outer shaft  114  through a small incision or cannula. Movement of the inner shaft  116  from the fully retracted position to the extended position ( FIGS. 11 and 12B ) redeploys the pouch  122 , deploys the stripper plate  170  and, as discussed above with regard to  FIGS. 1-6 , disengages the retention member  26  from the protrusions  34  ( FIG. 2A ) to facilitate separation of the pouch  122  from the inner shaft  116 . 
       FIGS. 9C-9K  show alternate embodiments of stripper plates  1170 ,  1270 ,  1370 ,  1470 ,  1570 ,  1670 ,  1770 ,  1870 , and  1970  for use with the present disclosure. As can be appreciated, any one of these disclosed stripper plates  1170 ,  1270 ,  1370 ,  1470 ,  1570 ,  1670 ,  1770 ,  1870 , and  1970  may be utilized with any one of the specimen retrieval devices shown and described in this application, e.g., specimen retrieval devices  10  and/or  110 , to assist in separating the pouch  122  from the resilient members  58 ,  60  and  158 ,  160  of the support mechanism  28 ,  128 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9C , the stripper plate  1170  includes a generally elliptical configuration defining a major axis “B-B” and minor axis “C-C.” Much like stripper plate  170 , the width of the minor axis “C-C” is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  and a width of the major axis “B-B” is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114 . Once again, it is noted that having the major axis “B-B” greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  ensures that the stripper plate  1170  cannot be moved back into the outer shaft  114  after the stripper plate  1170  has been deployed from the outer shaft  114 . 
     Stripper plate  1170  includes a first aperture  1171  and a pair of second apertures  1172   a ,  1172   b  defined therethrough. The first aperture  1171  of the stripper plate  1170  has a generally circumferential shape and is configured to receive the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support mechanism  128  (see  FIGS. 10-11  for example). 
     The pair of second apertures  1172   a  and  1172   b  extend through the stripper plate  1170  and are each configured to frictionally receive a portion of a suture “S” of the specimen retrieval device  110  (similar to  FIG. 11 ). The pair of sccond apertures  1172   a  an d  1172   b  arc configured to help guide the suture “S” as the suture “S” is pulled proximally to close the pouch  122  (see  FIG. 7  for example) of the specimen retrieval apparatus  110 . In one embodiment, the suture “S” extends through the opening  1172   a , around the opening in pouch  122  and back through the opening  1172   b  where the suture “S” is secured to a trailing end  1173  of the stripper plate  1170 . 
     Much like the stripper plate  170  described above, in the refracted configuration, the stripper plate  1170  is oriented at an angle 0° within the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114 ( FIG. 8 ). When the stripper plate  1170  is moved from the retracted configuration to the deployed configuration ( FIGS. 10-11 ), the stripper plate  1170  tilts about the resilient members  158 ,  160  and orients itself at a second angle 0° relative to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. When the stripper plate  1170  is in the deployed configuration, proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  causes a trailing end  1173  of the stripper plate  1170  to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  114  and the pouch  122  to contact the leading end  1175  of the stripper plate  1170  as the support mechanism  128  ( FIG. 8 ) passes through opening  1171  to uncouple the pouch  22  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  of the inner shaft  116  as discussed above. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9D , the stripper plate  1270  includes a generally elliptical configuration defining a major axis “B-B” and minor axis “C-C.” Much like stripper plate  170 , the width of the minor axis “C-C” is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  and a width of the major axis “B-B” is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114 . Once again, it is noted that having the major axis “B-B” greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  ensures that the stripper plate  1270  cannot be moved back into the outer shaft  114  after the stripper plate  1270  has been deployed from the outer shaft  114 . A leading end  1275  of the stripper plate  1270  includes a generally planar configuration with a generally oval shaped peripheral wall  1279  which extends between the leading end  1275  and a trailing end  1273  of the stripper plate  1270 . The peripheral wall  1279  is beveled to define an angle that ranges from about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees in relation to the longitudinal axis A-A ( FIG. 8 ) of the outer shaft  114  to facilitate proper orientation of the stripper plate  1270  within the outer shaft  114  as discussed above and to facilitate deployment of the stripper plate  1270  from the retracted configuration to the deployed configuration. Stripper plate  1270  also includes a chamfered front edge  1277  defined on leading end  1275  of the stripper plate  1270 . Leading end  1275  of stripper plate  1280  is designed to face distally when stripper plate  1270  is disposed at the first angle 0° within outer shaft  114 . The chamfered front edge  1277  and peripheral wall  1279  include a substantially corresponding angle 0° to facilitate deployment of the stripper plate from outer shaft  114 . The corresponding angle 0° may be in the range of about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees. 
     Stripper plate  1270  includes a first aperture  1271  and a pair of second apertures  1272   a ,  1272   b  defined therethrough. The first aperture  1271  of the stripper plate  1270  has a generally circumferential shape and is configured to receive the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support mechanism  128  ( FIG. 11 ). 
     The pair of second apertures  1272   a  and  1272   b  are defined within a leading end  1275  of the stripper plate  1270  and are each configured to receive a portion of a suture “S” of the specimen retrieval device  110  for reasons discussed above. The pair of second apertures  1272   a  and  1272   b  are positioned adjacent each other and are configured to help guide the suture “S” as the suture “S” is being pulled proximally to close the pouch  22  of the specimen retrieval apparatus  110  ( FIG. 7 ). 
     Much like the stripper plate  170  described above, in the retracted configuration, the stripper plate  1270  is oriented at an angle 0° within the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  with the leading end  1275  of stripper plate  1270  facing distally. When the stripper plate  1270  is moved from the retracted configuration ( FIG. 8 ) to the deployed configuration ( FIG. 11 ), the stripper plate  1270  tilts about the resilient members  158 ,  160  and orients itself at a second angle 0° relative to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. When the stripper plate  1270  is in the deployed configuration, proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  causes a trailing end  1273  of the stripper plate  1270  to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  114  and the pouch  122  to contact the leading end  1275  of the stripper plate  1270  to uncouple the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  at the distal end of the inner shaft  116 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9E , the stripper plate  1370  is similar to stripper plate  1270  with the exception that the first aperture  1371  includes a generally rectangular configuration. All other features of stripper plate  1370  are identical to stripper plate  1270  and operate in the same fashion, namely, second apertures  1372   a  and  1372   b , major and minor axes “B-B” and “C-C”, respectively, leading end  1375 , trailing end  1373  and peripheral wall  1379 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9F , the stripper plate  1470  is similar to stripper plate  1270  with the exception that the trailing end  1475  of the stripper plate  1470  also includes a bump-out or protuberance  1478  adjacent the first aperture  1471 . The protuberance  1478  extends outwardly from the leading end  1475  proximate second apertures  1472   a  and  1472   b . In embodiments, the bump-out  1478  may include a semi-circular configuration or a circular configuration. As a result, first aperture  1471  includes a trailing inner peripheral edge  1490  that is generally flush with trailing end  1475  and a leading inner peripheral edge  1491  that extends outwardly from trailing end  1475 . All other features of stripper plate  1470  are identical to stripper plate  1270  and operate in the same fashion, namely, second apertures  1472   a  and  1472   b , major and minor axes “B-B” and “C-C”, respectively, leading end  1475 , trailing end  1473  and beveled edge  1479 . Trailing end  1475  includes a top portion  1494   a  and a bottom portion  1494   b . Beveled peripheral edge  1479  extends from both the top and bottom portions  1494   a ,  1494   b , respectively, at the same angle towards the leading end  1473  to facilitate seating of the stripper plate  1470  at a particular orientation within the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  prior to deployment. 
     In the retracted configuration, the stripper plate  1470  is oriented at an angle 0° within the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  with the trailing end  1475  and bump-out  1478  of stripper plate  1470  facing proximally. When the stripper plate  1470  is moved from the retracted configuration ( FIG. 8 ) to the deployed configuration ( FIG. 11 ), the stripper plate  1470  tilts about the resilient members  158 ,  160  and orients itself at a second angle 0° relative to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. When the stripper plate  1470  is in the deployed configuration, proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  causes the trailing end  1475  of the stripper plate  1470  to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  114 , and the pouch  122  to contact the leading end  1473  of the stripper plate  1470  to uncouple the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  of the inner shaft  116 . The bump-out  1478  is designed to be received in the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  and center the stripper plate  1470  thereagainst along axis “A-A” (see  FIG. 8 ). 
     In embodiments, bump-outs  1478  may be included on both the trailing end  1475  and leading end  1473  to facilitate alignment of the stripper plate within the outer shaft  114  and uncoupling of the pouch  22  from the resilient members  158 ,  160 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9G , the stripper plate  1570  is similar to stripper plate  170  with the exception that the second apertures  1572   a  and  1572   b  for guiding the sutures “S” are different from the second triangular shaped aperture  172  of stripper plate  170 . All other features of stripper plate  1570  are identical to stripper plate  170  and operate in the same fashion, namely, major and minor axes “B-B” and “C-C”, respectively, leading end  1575 , trailing end  1573  and peripheral wall  1579 . 
     The pair of second apertures  1572   a  and  1572   b  extend through the stripper plate  1570 . Each aperture  1572   a ,  1572   b  is configured to receive a corresponding portion of a suture “S” of the specimen retrieval device  110  as discussed above. The pair of second apertures  1572   a  an d  1572   b  is configured to help guide the suture “S” as the suture “S” is being pulled proximally to close the pouch  122  ( FIG. 7 ) of the specimen retrieval apparatus  110 . 
     Much like the stripper plate  170  described above, in the retracted configuration, the stripper plate  1570  is oriented at an angle 0° within the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114 . When the stripper plate  1570  is moved from the retracted configuration ( FIG. 8 ) to the deployed configuration ( FIG. 11 ), the stripper plate  1570  tilts about the resilient members  158 ,  160  and orients itself at a second angle 0° relative to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. When the stripper plate  1570  is in the deployed configuration, proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  causes a trailing end  1573  of the stripper plate  1570  to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  114 , and the pouch  122  to contact the leading end  1575  of the stripper plate  1570  to uncouple the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  of the inner shaft  116 . 
       FIGS. 9H-9J  show alternate embodiments of stripper plates that may be utilized to both guide the suture “S” and assist in uncoupling the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160 . Unlike the aforedescribed stripper plates, e.g., stripper plate  170 , the stripper plates shown in  FIGS. 9H-9J  are not configured with a first aperture dimensioned to receive the resilient members  158 ,  160  therethrough. Rather, these stripper plate designs are configured to allow the resilient members  158 ,  160  to extend distally on either side of the stripper plates. 
     Referring initially to  FIG. 9H , a stripper plate  1670  is shown and includes a generally cylindrical configuration with a centralized aperture  1672  defined therethrough. The central aperture  1672  is configured to frictionally engage and guide the suture “S” therethrough in much the same manner as the second apertures, e.g., aperture  172 , described above. The cylindrically-shaped stripper plate  1670  also includes a relief  1695  defined therein which is positioned proximate to and in communication with the aperture  1672  when the stripper plate  1670  is supported in the outer shaft  114 . More specifically, when the stripper plate  1670  is positioned in the distal end of the outer shaft  114 , the relief  1695  extends along an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer shaft  114  to facilitate passage of the suture “S” from a proximal end of shaft  114  to the aperture  1672 . The stripper plate  1670  includes a length “L” defined by outer end portions  1691   a ,  1691   b . The length “L” is greater than the length of the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  to ensure that the stripper plate  1670  cannot be moved back into the outer shaft  114  after the stripper plate  1670  has been deployed from the outer shaft  114 . 
     In the retracted configuration, the stripper plate  1670  is supported within the outer shaft  114  with the resilient members  158 ,  160  extending on either side of the stripper plate  1670 . It is envisioned that both of the resilient members  158 ,  160  may extend along one side of the stripper plate  1670 . When the stripper plate  1670  is moved from the retracted configuration ( FIG. 8 ) to the deployed configuration ( FIG. 11 ), the stripper plate  1670  self aligns on either side of the resilient members  158 ,  160  and orients itself in a position extending across the distal end of the outer shaft  114 . When the stripper plate  1670  is in the deployed configuration, proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  causes the stripper plate  1670  to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  114  and the pouch  122  to contact the stripper plate  1670  to uncouple the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  of the inner shaft  116 . 
       FIG. 9I  includes a stripper plate  1770  that is similar to stripper plate  1670  with the exception that stripper plate  1770  includes a middle portion  1794  having a diameter D 2  that is larger than the diameter D 1  of the end portions of the stripper plate  1770 . All other features of stripper plate  1770  are identical to stripper plate  1670  and operate in the same fashion. 
     For example, relief  1795  is configured to facilitate passage of the suture “S” through the aperture  1772 . The stripper plate  1770  includes a length “L” defined by outer end portions  1791   a ,  1791   b  that is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  to ensure that the stripper plate  1770  cannot be moved back into the outer shaft  114  after the stripper plate  1770  has been deployed from the outer shaft  114 . Operation of the stripper plate  1770  is identical to that of stripper plate  1670  and will not be described in further detail herein. 
       FIG. 9J  includes a stripper plate  1870  that is similar to stripper plate  1670  with the exception that stripper plate  1870  includes a bulging middle portion  1894  that surrounds an aperture  1872  and is tapered towards both ends  1891   a  and  1891   b  from bulging middle portion  1894 . In addition, stripper plate  1870  includes a relief  1895  defined therein in communication with the aperture  1872  to facilitate passage of the suture “S” therethrough. The stripper plate  1870  includes a length “L” defined by outer end portions  1891   a ,  1891   b  that is greater than the inner diameter of the outer shaft  114  to ensure that the stripper plate  1870  cannot be moved back into the outer shaft  114  after the stripper plate  1870  has been deployed from the outer shaft  114 . 
     Similar to the above stripper plates, stripper plates  1670  and  1770 , proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  causes the stripper plate  1870  to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  114 , and the pouch  122  to contact the stripper plate  1870  and to uncouple the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  of the inner shaft  116 . Recesses  1892   a  and  1892   b  are defined at each respective end portion  1891   a  and  1891   b  of the stripper plate  1870 . Each recess  1892 ,  1892   b  is configured to engage opposing portions of the inner peripheral edge (not shown) of the distal end the outer shaft  114 . As can be appreciated, the recesses  1892   a ,  1892  seat the stripper plate  1870  against the outer shaft  114  which, in turn, facilitates, uncoupling of the resilient members  158 ,  160  from the pouch  122 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9K , a stripper plate  1970  is shown and includes a generally hollow cylindrical configuration with a centralized aperture  1971  defined therethrough. The central aperture  1971  is configured to both accommodate the resilient members  158 ,  160  and guide the suture “S”. The cylindrically-shaped stripper plate  1970  also includes a rounded trailing end  1975  and a leading end  1973 . A series of outwardly biased tab-like living hinges  1997  surround the outer peripheral surface  1980  of the stripper plate  1970  and are biased to self-deploy and extend outwardly from the outer peripheral surface  1980  of stripper plate  1970  when the stripper plate  1970  is deployed from the outer shaft  114  as explained in detail below. A series of slits (or flex reliefs)  1999  are defined within the outer peripheral surface  1980  of the stripper plate  1970  and are interposed between each living hinge  1997 . The slits  1999  are configured to allow the stripper plate  1970  to flex inwardly for insertion into the distal end of the outer shaft  144  during assembly. 
     In the retracted configuration, the stripper plate  1970  is positioned with the hinges  1997  in a compressed condition within the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  with the trailing end  1975  of stripper plate  1970  facing proximally. Both the resilient members  158 ,  160  and the suture(s) “S” are positioned to extend through aperture  1971 . The living hinges  1997  are biased against the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  in friction-fit engagement to hold the stripper plate  1970  within the outer shaft  114 . Once stripper plate  1970  is moved to the deployed configuration, the living hinges  1997  self-deploy and extend outwardly from the outer peripheral surface  1980  of stripper plate  1970  to prevent the stripper plate  1970  from re-entering the outer shaft  114 . Proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  relative to the outer shaft  114  forces a portion the trailing end  1975  of the stripper plate  1970  into the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114  such that the living hinges  1997  engage the distal end or rim of the outer shaft  114  preventing the entire stripper plate  1970  from re-entering the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114 . 
     Once the living hinges  1997  are positioned against the outer shaft  114 , further proximal movement of the inner shaft  116  causes the pouch  122  to contact the leading end  1973  of the stripper plate  1970  and uncouple the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support member  128  of the inner shaft  116 . 
     All of the aforementioned embodiments of the stripper plate described above, namely,  170 ,  1170 ,  1270 ,  1370 ,  1470 ,  1570 ,  1670 ,  1770 ,  1870  and  1970 , have common attributes. For example, the main purpose of the stripper plate is to preclude the specimen bag (once deployed) from being drawn back into the outer shaft  114  by acting as a backstop to the distal end of the outer shaft  114 . In some embodiments, the stripper plates serve as a fixation point for the suture “S” as the suture “S” passes though the plate and is secured to itself behind the stripper plate and/or to the stripper plate. The plate also acts to prevent the suture from being reversed though the suture aperture, e.g., aperture  1172   a . In some embodiments, the stripper plate is slideable in a distal direction through the inner periphery of the outer shaft  114 , but once deployed, the plate is designed to flip (in most instances) or re-orient itself to preclude reentry of the plate into the outer shaft  114 . 
     In some embodiments, the apertures in the plate, e.g., apertures  1171  and  1172  are configured to predispose the stripper plate to re-orient itself relative to the distal end of the outer shaft  114  and the longitudinal axis “A-A” extending therethrough to facilitate uncoupling of the specimen bag  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  and retrieval of the specimen bag  122 . In some embodiments, the main aperture, e.g., aperture  1171 , is designed to allow the resilient members  158 ,  160  and the specimen bag  122  to pass therethrough. In some embodiments, one or more reliefs are disposed along the stripper plate to facilitate translation of the suture “S” therethrough and facilitate the plate re-orienting itself with respect to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 7 , specimen retrieval device  110  includes a wedge member  185  having a grasping portion  186  and a coupling portion  187 . The wedge member  185  is provided to prevent movement of the inner shaft  116  in relation to the outer shaft  114  from the partially retracted position ( FIG. 8 ), or shipping position, to the extended position ( FIG. 11 ) to prevent inadvertent deployment of the stripper plate  170  as will be discussed in detail below. Only stripper plate  170  will be described with respect to the embodiments of the specimen retrieval device to be described herein. However, it is contemplated that any of the above-described stripper plates  1170 ,  1270 ,  1370 ,  1470 ,  1570 ,  1670 ,  1770 ,  1870 , and  1970  may be utilized with any of the features and embodiments described in this specification. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the grasping portion  186  of the wedge member  185  is configured for grasping by a clinician and the coupling portion  187  is configured to releasably couple the wedge member  185  to the inner shaft  116  adjacent a handle  123  of the specimen retrieval device  110 . The coupling portion  187  of the wedge member  185  may couple to the inner shaft  116  via a friction or press fit, or via other suitable coupling methods and/or devices. For example, coupling portion  187  can include flexible arms which define a channel dimensioned in receive the inner shaft  116 . The flexible arms flex apart to receive the inner shaft  116  within the channel and flex together to releasably secure the wedge member  185  about the inner shaft  116 . 
     As discussed above, the wedge member  185  is configured to prevent inadvertent deployment of the stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  114  during shipping and during preparation prior to use. Specifically, when the coupling portion  187  of the wedge member  185  is coupled to the inner shaft  116 , the coupling portion  187  is configured to contact a proximal portion of the housing  112  ( FIG. 7 ) of the specimen retrieval device  110  and the handle  122  to prevent a clinician from moving the handle  123  of the inner shaft  116  to its distal-most positon. Thus, the wedge member  185  functions as a spacer to maintain separation between the inner shaft  116  and the handle  123  to prevent movement of the inner shaft  116  in relation to the housing  112  and the outer shaft  114  to the fully extended position. 
     Operation of the specimen retrieval device  110  is substantially similar to that of the specimen retrieval device  10 . As discussed above, the specimen retrieval device  110  is shipped with the pouch  22  in a deployed position and the inner shaft  116  in a partially retracted position as shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . Prior to use, the inner shaft  116  can be moved proximally in relation to the outer shaft  114  to move the pouch  122  into the outer shaft  114  to facilitate insertion of the outer shaft  116  through a small incision or small diameter cannula. When this occurs, the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the support mechanism will be drawn through the first aperture  171  of stripper plate  170  into the outer shaft  114 . Thereafter, the outer shaft  114  may be positioned within a patient in a manner as described above. 
     In order to deploy the pouch  122  and the stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  114 , the wedge member  185  is removed from the inner shaft  116  by pulling the grasping portion  186  of the wedge member  185  to separate the coupling portion  187  from the inner shaft  116 . Thereafter, the inner shaft  116  is moved to the extended position (see  FIG. 10 ) in contact with the housing  112 . The inner shaft  116  can be moved to the fully extended position because the wedge member  185  is removed and does not obstruct movement of the handle  133 . When this occurs, a distal end of the inner shaft  116  engages and pushes the stripper plate  170  from the distal end of the outer shaft  114 . As discussed above with regard to device  10  shown in  FIGS. 1-6 , this movement of the inner shaft  114  causes the pouch  122  to be released by the retention member  26  ( FIG. 2A ). Once the stripper plate  170  is deployed from the outer shaft  114 , a clinician can move the inner shaft  116  proximally in relation to the outer shaft  114 . Unlike the pouch  22  of the specimen retrieval device  10 , however, the pouch  122  of the specimen retrieval device  110  which is configured to contact the distal end of the outer shaft  116 , the pouch  122  of retrieval device  110  is configured to contact the leading end  175  of the stripper plate  170  to separate the pouch  122  from the resilient members  158 ,  160  of the specimen retrieval device  110 . Once the pouch  122  has been separated from the inner shaft  116 , a clinician may proceed in a manner as described above with respect to the specimen retrieval device  10  to cinch or close the pouch  122 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12A-12B , a specimen retrieval device  210  according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The specimen retrieval device  210  functions similar to the specimen retrieval devices  10 ,  110  and includes, inter alia, the retention member  26  and sled  24  assembly described with respect to  FIGS. 1-6 . Accordingly, only the functional features that are unique to the specimen retrieval device  210  are described herein. 
     The specimen retrieval device  210  includes a housing  212  and an outer shaft  214  that extends distally from the housing  212 . As with each of the embodiments disclosed herein, the housing  212  and the outer shaft  214  can be formed integrally as a single unit. The housing  212  and the outer shaft  214  together define a longitudinal bore  214   a  which extends along a longitudinal axis. The housing  212  and/or the outer shaft  214  include one or more blocking members in the form of detents  218  that are positioned on an interior wall defining the longitudinal bore  214   a . As can be appreciated, more or less detents  218  may be positioned on the interior wall of the housing  212  as will be discussed in further detail below. 
     An inner shaft  216  is movably positioned within the longitudinal bore  214  of the housing  212  and the outer shaft  214 . The inner shaft  216  is configured to function in a manner similar to that of inner shaft  16 . The inner shaft  216  supports a support mechanism  228  at its distal end which includes a pair of resilient members (not explicitly shown) similar to support mechanism  28  ( FIG. 1 ) described above. The resilient members are configured to support a pouch  222  which is substantially similar to pouch  22  and pouch  122  described above. 
     The inner shaft  216  is movable from a partially retracted position ( FIG. 12A ), the shipping position of the retrieval device  210 , in which the pouch  222  is deployed and the stripper plate  170  is positioned within the distal end of the outer shaft  214 , to a fully retracted position, and thereafter, to an extended position ( FIG. 12B ) in which the pouch  222  and the stripper plate  170  are both deployed. The specimen retrieval device  210  further includes an actuation mechanism which functions to enlarge the effective stroke of the inner shaft  216  upon retraction of the inner shaft  216  from the partially retracted position ( FIG. 12A ) to a fully retracted position ( FIG. 17 ) to facilitate movement of the inner shaft  216  from the fully retracted position to the extended position ( FIG. 12B ) as discussed in further detail below. 
     Referring also to  FIGS. 13-15 , the inner shaft  216  includes one or more proximal apertures  225   a  and one or more distal apertures  225   b  of suitable configuration. For illustrative purposes, two proximal apertures  225   a  and two distal apertures  225   b  are illustrated. Each of the proximal and distal apertures  225   a ,  225   b  are longitudinally spaced along the inner shaft  216  and positioned to receive a respective protrusion  233  as discussed in further detail below. A groove  229  of suitable configuration is defined along the inner shaft  216  between each of the proximal and distal apertures  225   a  and  225   b  and communicates with each respective distal aperture  225   b . The grooves  229  have a width which is dimensioned to receive a respective detent  218  but is smaller than the width of protrusions  233  and apertures  225   a  and  225   b . For illustrative purposes, two grooves  229  are shown in the figures (See, e.g.,  FIG. 16 ). The groove  229  is configured to slidably receive the detent  218  of the housing  212  when the inner shaft  216  is moved in relation to the outer shaft  214  and the housing  212  from the partially retracted position ( FIG. 12A ) to the fully retracted position ( FIG. 17 ). As can be appreciated, a second groove  229  is only required where two apertures  225   a  and two detents  218  are provided. 
     Continuing with reference to  FIGS. 13-15 , the inner shaft  216  includes a handle or actuation device  223  that is capable of being repositioned on the inner shaft  216  to change the effective stroke of the inner shaft  216 . The handle  223  includes one or more arms  221  that extend distally from the handle  223  and into a cavity  231  ( FIG. 13 ) provided at a proximal end of the inner shaft  216  when the handle  223  is coupled to the inner shaft  216  (see  FIG. 13  for example). The arms  221  arc flexible and include a protrusion  233  (detent, barb or the like) at a distal end thereof that is configured to be received in one of the proximal and distal apertures  225   a ,  225   b  of the inner shaft  216  to connect the handle  223  to the inner shaft  223 . When the handle  223  is connected to the inner shaft  216  via the distal apertures  225   a , the handle  223  is positioned to engage the proximal end of the housing  212  to limit advancement of the inner shaft  216  to the partially retracted position ( FIG. 12A ). In contrast, when the handle  223  is connected to the inner shaft  216  via the proximal apertures  225   b , the stroke of the inner shaft  216  is lengthened to facilitate movement of the inner shaft  216  to the extended position as shown in  FIG. 12B  as will be discussed in further detail below. 
     As discussed above with respect to the specimen retrieval devices  10  and  110 , the surgical retrieval device  210  includes a retention member  26  and sled  24  assembly such as discussed above. The assembly functions as described above and will not be shown or discussed in further detail herein. Alternatively, the retention member  24  described above can be connected directly to handle  223  by a retention member connector  226  ( FIGS. 13 and 14 ). The retention member  26  functions as described above to releasably couple the pouch  222  to the support mechanism  228  of the inner shaft  216  but is actuated by the connector  226  rather than the sled  24 . More specifically, a proximal portion of the retention member connector  226  is operably coupled directly to the handle  223  of the inner shaft  216  via one or more suitable coupling methods, and the distal end of the connector  226  is connected to the retention member  26 . One or more additional grooves (not shown) are provided along the inner shaft  216  which are configured to slidably receive the retention member connector  226  so that the retention member connector  226  can be moved in relation to the inner shaft  216  along a longitudinal axis defined through the outer shaft  214  when the handle  223  moves in relation to the inner shaft  216  as described in further detail below. 
     A stripper plate ( FIGS. 12A and 12B ) may also be provided on the specimen retrieval device  210  which is configured and functions as described above with respect to any of the stripper plates disclosed herein, e.g., stripper plate  170 . Further, a cinch puller, e.g., cinch puller  62 , and suture “S” may be provided to facilitate closure of the pouch  222  as described above. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12A and 16 , the specimen retrieval device  210  may be shipped with the pouch  222  in a deployed configuration ( FIG. 12A ) and the inner shaft  216  in the partially retracted position. In this position, the protrusion  233  of the arms  221  are received within the distal apertures  225   b  ( FIG. 16 ) and the handle  223  is positioned in abutment with the housing  212  to prevent further distal translation of the inner shaft  216  in relation to the housing  212  and the outer shaft  214 . As shown in  FIG. 12A , with the handle  223  in this position, the pouch  222  will be deployed from the outer shaft  214  and the stripper plate  170  will remain within the distal end of the outer shaft  214 . 
     Prior to use of the specimen retrieval device  210 , the inner shaft  216  is moved proximally in relation to the outer shaft  214  ( FIG. 13 ) to position the pouch  222  within the outer shaft  214  so that the outer shaft  214  may be inserted through a natural or manmade orifice and positioned adjacent target tissue within a body cavity. Referring to  FIGS. 16A-17 , as the handle  223  is pulled proximally to move the inner shaft  216  toward the fully retracted position, the detents  218  formed along an inner wall of the housing  212  (or outer shaft  214 ) move along the grooves  229  and into engagement with the protrusions  233  formed on arms  221  of the handle  223  ( FIG. 16A ). When the detents engage the protrusions  233 , a tapered cam  218   a  surface formed on the detents  218  deforms the arms  221  outwardly to remove the protrusions from the distal apertures  225   a  ( FIG. 16B ). When the protrusions  233  become disengaged from the apertures  225   a , the handle  223  moves proximally independently of the inner shaft  216  until the protrusions  233  snap into the proximal protrusions  225   b  ( FIG. 17 ). As discussed above, the handle  223  may be directly connected to the retention member  26  ( FIG. 2A ) by the connector  226 . As such, when the handle  223  moves proximally independently of the inner shaft  216 , the retention member  26  will be withdrawn from engagement with the protrusions  34  on the inner shaft  216  to disengage the retention member  26  from the protrusions  34 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12B and 18 , once the protrusions  233  are received in the proximal openings  225   a  of the inner shaft  216  and the handle  223  is recoupled to the inner shaft  216 , the handle  223  can be moved proximally to advance the inner shaft  216  to the fully extended position to deploy the pouch  222  and the stripper plate, e.g., stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  214  ( FIG. 12B ). As illustrated in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the reconfiguration of the handle  223  in relation to the inner shaft  216  increases the effective stroke of the inner shaft  216  by a distance equal to D 2 -D 1  to facilitate deployment of both the pouch  222  and the stripper plate  170 . 
     After the specimen retrieval pouch  210  is deployed and the surgical procedure has been completed, the pouch can be disengaged from the inner shaft  216  as discussed above. More specifically, the handle  223  can be retracted to retract the inner shaft  216  to the fully retracted position. As the inner shaft is withdrawn into the outer shaft  214 , the pouch  222  moves into contact with the stripper plate, e.g., stripper plate  170 , and the stripper plate abuts the distal end of the outer shaft  214 . As discussed above, this engagement causes the pouch  222  to slide off the resilient members of the support mechanism  228  as the inner shaft  216  is moved further proximally. Once the pouch  222  is uncoupled from the support mechanism  228 , a cinch puller (e.g., similar to the cinch puller  62 ) may be actuated to close the pouch  222  in a manner as described above. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 19-21 , a specimen retrieval device  310  according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 19-21 , an actuation device in the form of a removable handle  323  is removably coupled to the inner shaft  316  of the specimen retrieval device  310 . The handle  323  serves a dual purpose. More specifically, handle  323  is operable for moving an inner shaft  316  in relation to an outer shaft  314  and also for cinching an open end of a pouch  322  supported on a support mechanism  328  of the specimen retrieval device  310 . The distal portion of handle  323  may fit within the outer shaft  314  or, alternatively, may abut the outer shaft  314 . 
     Specimen retrieval device  310  includes a release mechanism  390  pivotably disposed on a top surface  393  of the handle  323 . Specifically, the release mechanism  390  can be overmolded to the handle  323  such that a living hinge  390  is formed between the top surface  393  of the handle  323  and the release mechanism  390 . Alternately, other hinge mechanisms may be used to secure the release mechanism  390  to the handle  323 . The release mechanism  390  is movable from a locked configuration ( FIG. 20 ) in which the handle  323  is coupled to the inner shaft  316  to an unlocked configuration ( FIG. 21 ) in which the handle  323  is uncoupled from the inner shaft  316 . A proximal end  390   a  of the release mechanism  390  is depressible for disengaging a mechanical interface, e.g., a detent  394 , of the release mechanism  390  from a corresponding mechanical interface, e.g., an indent  391 , on the inner shaft  316  ( FIGS. 20 and 21 ) to uncouple the handle  323  from the inner shaft  316 . The release mechanism  390  can be biased or naturally resilient to urge the release mechanism  390  to the locked configuration. A cinch, e.g., a suture “S,” has a proximal end coupled to a distal end of the handle  323  and a distal end positioned about an opening in the pouch  322  to facilitate closure of the pouch opening as described above. 
     In use, with the release mechanism  390  in the locked configuration, the inner shaft  316  may be moved in a relation to the outer shaft  314  to move the pouch  322  within the outer shaft  314  so that the outer shaft  314  may be inserted through a natural or manmade orifice on a patient and positioned adjacent target tissue. 
     Thereafter, the specimen retrieval device  310  may be configured to uncouple the pouch  322  from the resilient members of the support mechanism of the specimen retrieval device  310  as described above with respect to the specimen retrieval devices  10 ,  110 ,  210 . 
     Once the pouch is uncoupled from the inner shaft  316 , the inner shaft  316  can be retracted to facilitate separation of the pouch  322  from the support mechanism  328  using, for example, a stripper plate or the distal end of the outer shaft  314 . Next, the release mechanism  390  may be depressed to release the handle  323  from the inner shaft  316 . Thereafter, the handle  323  can be moved proximally in relation to the device  310  to cinch the pouch  322 . As can be appreciated, a specimen retrieval device  310  that utilizes the release mechanism  390  makes the specimen retrieval device  310  more intuitive to use. 
     Referring to  FIG. 22 , a specimen retrieval device  410  according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. This embodiment utilizes a lock-out device in the form of a lever  485  that is configured to replace the wedge members  185 ,  285  of specimen retrieval devices  110  and  210  described above. Specifically, the lever  485  is movable from a locked configuration in which the lever  485  is positioned to engage the handle  423  to prevent engagement between a proximal end of a housing  412  and a distal end of handle  423  of an inner shaft  416 , to an unlocked configuration (shown in phantom) in which the lever  485  is spaced from the handle  423  to allow engagement between the proximal end of the housing  412  and the handle  423 . The lever  485  prevents the inner shaft  416  from moving to the extended position in the locked configuration to prevent inadvertent deployment of the stripper plate, e.g., stripper plate  170  ( FIG. 8 ). 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the lever  485  has a generally elongated configuration and is disposed adjacent a proximal end of the housing  412 . The lever  485  includes a leading end  484  that is pivotably coupled to the housing  412  via a pivot pin and a trailing end  486  that is configured to engage a distal end of the handle  423 . The lever  485  is seated within a notch  483  that is defined within an exterior of the housing  412 . The notch  483  is defined by at least one wall  487  that is configured to contact at least a portion of the lever  485  and maintain the lever  485  in the locked configuration. The specimen retrieval device  410  may be utilized in a manner as described above with respect to the specimen retrieval devices that utilize one of the aforementioned wedge members  185 ,  285 , e.g. the specimen retrieval devices  110 ,  210 . 
       FIGS. 23A-23C  illustrate portions of a specimen retrieval device  1000  according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, it is advantageous to ship a specimen pouch in a deployed condition to reduce the likelihood of memory wrinkles being formed on the pouch. The specimen retrieval device  1000  may be shipped for use with pouch in an unfolded and deployed configuration, outside of the outer shaft  1014 , with a stripper plate  170  ( FIG. 7 ) positioned within an outer shaft  1014 . In order to prevent initial deployment of the stripper plate  170  during shipping, the inner shaft  1016  must be prevented from moving distally until the specimen pouch is pulled (via proximal movement of the inner shaft  1016 ) within the outer shaft  1014  to facilitate positioning of the outer shaft  1014  of the specimen retrieval device  1000  through a small body incision or cannula into a body cavity. 
     In order to accomplish this, the specimen retrieval device  1000  includes structure that serves a similar function to the above described wedge members  185  and  285  and lockout device  485 , i.e., to prevent inadvertent distal advancement of the inner shaft  1016  relative to the housing  1012  and, thus, prevent premature deployment of the stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  1014 . 
     In one particular embodiment, the specimen retrieval device  1000  includes a housing  1012  and an outer shaft  1014  that extends distally from the housing  1012 . See  FIG. 23A . The outer shaft  1014  defines a longitudinal bore  1011  therethrough. An inner shaft  1016  ( FIG. 23A ) is selectively translatable through the bore  1011 . Inner shaft  1016  may be tubular or be shaped to limit relative rotation within the outer shaft  1014 . For example, the inner and outer shafts can include one or more flats to prevent relative rotation. A cam lock  1080  ( FIG. 23B ) is supported on the housing  1012  and acts to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  1016  relative to the housing  1012  (and prevent unintended deployment of the stripper plate  170 ) until the clinician retracts the inner shaft  1016  to position the specimen pouch, e.g.,  22 ,  122 , within the outer shaft  1014  to facilitate insertion of the specimen device  1000  through a trocar as described above. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 23A-23C , cam lock  1080  is mounted to housing  1012  about a pivot  1024  and is rotatable from a first position wherein the cam lock  1080  acts to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  1016  to a second position wherein the inner shaft  1016  is distally translatable within the outer shaft  1014  to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  and stripper plate  170  as described above with to respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 7-22 . Cam lock  1080  is generally C-shaped and includes first and second portions  1081   a  and  1081   b , respectively. First portion  1081   a  is configured to engage corresponding interfaces  1022   a  and  1022   b  disposed on an upper surface  1016   a  of the outer periphery of inner shaft  1016  to prevent accidental deployment of the stripper plate  170  as described in more detail below. Once rotated, second portion  1081   b  of cam lock  1080  is configured to lock the cam lock  1080  in the second position as described in more detail below. 
     Portions  1081   a  and  1081   b  of cam lock  1080  include outer surfaces  1084  and  1082  and inner surfaces  1086  and  1087 , respectively. The inner surfaces  1086  and  1087  mutually define an aperture  1085  therebetween. First portion  1081   a  is configured to extend in a first plane positioned above the upper surface  1016   a  of the inner shaft  1016 , while second portion  1081   b  is offset from the first plane and configured to extend in a second plane below the first plane as viewed in  FIG. 23A  to engage a side  1016   b  of shaft  1016 . Engagement between second portion  1081   b  and side  1016   b  of shaft  1016  prevents rotation of cam lock  1080  in a clockwise direction as viewed in  FIG. 23A  to prevent translation of the inner shaft  1016  towards an extended position. 
     In an embodiment, cam lock  1080  defines an elongated pivot hole  1083  that is configured to receive a pivot  1024  disposed atop housing  1012 . In one embodiment, pivot  1024  is also elongated and is dimensioned such that as cam lock  1080  rotates from the first position to the second position, a portion of the cam lock  1080  defining the elongated pivot hole  1083  engages the pivot  1024  such that the pivot  1024  locks against an inner periphery  1083   a  of pivot hole  1083  in the second position (See  FIG. 23C ). It is envisioned that either the pivot hole  1083  or the pivot  1024  may be shaped to effect frictional engagement between the cam lock  1080  and the pivot member  1024  to retain the cam lock  1080  in the second position. 
     As mentioned above, the specimen retrieval device  1000  may be shipped with the inner shaft  1016  in a partially retracted position such that the pouch  22 ,  122  is in an unfolded and deployed configuration, and the stripper plate  170  is in an undeployed condition positioned within the outer shaft  1014 . In order to prevent inadvertent initial deployment of the stripper plate  170 , the inner shaft  1016  is prevented from being advanced to the extended position from the partially retracted position by the cam lock  1080 . More particularly, the inner surface  1086  of first portion  1081   a  of the cam lock  1080  is initially positioned to abut interface  1022   a  on inner shaft  1016  when the inner shaft  1016  is in the partially retracted position ( FIG. 23A ). Since the cam lock  1080  can only rotate in a counter-clockwise direction because of engagement between second portion  1081   b  of cam lock  1080  with side  1016   b  of inner shaft  1016 , distal advancement of the inner shaft  1016  is prevented. In use, a clinician unpacks the specimen retrieval device  1000  from its shipping container and readies the device  1000  for insertion into a surgical cavity by pulling the inner shaft  1016  proximally to translate the inner shaft  1016  within the outer shaft  1014 . As discussed above, interface  1022   a  prevents movement of the inner shaft  1016  from the partially retracted position ( FIG. 23A ) directly to the extended position. Proximal translation of the inner shaft  1016  within the outer shaft  1014  withdraws the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  into a distal end of the outer shaft  1016 . The clinician draws the inner shaft  1016  proximally until interface  1022   b  of inner shaft  1016  engages the outer surface  1084  of first portion  1081   a . When the interface  1022   b  engages first portion  1081   a  of cam lock  1080 , the interface  1022   b  forces the cam lock  1080  to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. Continued withdrawal of shaft  1016  forces cam lock  1080  to rotate and lock in the second position (approximately 90 degrees of rotation) ( FIG. 23C ) wherein the first portion  1081   a  is generally parallel to inner shaft  1016 . As mentioned above, the second portion  1081   b  (and/or the configuration of the pivot  1024  within the pivot hole  1083 ) may be used to lock the cam lock  1080  in the second position. Other mechanisms (explained below with respect to  FIGS. 24A-24D ) may also be utilized to accomplish this purpose. 
     Once the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  is withdrawn into the outer shaft  1014  and the cam lock  1080  is locked in the second position, the clinician may selectively advance the inner shaft  1016  to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  within an operating cavity of a patient without interference from the cam lock  1080 . More particularly, in the second position, the cam lock  1080  does not interfere with or engage interferences  1022   a  or  1022   b  on the inner shaft  1016  during distal translation of the inner shaft  1016 . Distal advancement of the inner shaft  1016  to the extended position will also deploy the stripper plate, e.g., stripper plate  170 . See  FIGS. 7-11 . Indicia or tactile elements (not shown) may be included on the specimen retrieval device  1000  to provide feedback to the clinician that the inner shaft  1016  is positioned to effect deployment of the specimen pouch  22 ,  122 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 24A-24D , one or more mechanisms may be utilized to lock the cam lock  1080  in the second position. For example, the cam lock  1080  may be configured such that in the second position of the cam lock  1080 , the second portion  1081   b  engages a spring  1032  disposed proximate the side  1016   b  of inner shaft  1016  and locks the cam lock  1080  in the second position.  FIGS. 24A-24D  detail this sequence of operation. 
       FIG. 24A  shows an alternate embodiment of the cam lock  1080  with the inner shaft partially retracted in a shipping position. In this position, the cam lock  1080  is prevented from rotating in a clockwise direction by virtue of the geometry of the housing  1012 , one or more pins, ribs or other known locking mechanisms, not shown. In this position, the first portion  1081   a  of cam lock  1080  extends into a track  1023  defined in a side wall of inner shaft  1016  such that an interface  1022   a  defined at one end of track  1023  is positioned to abut the first portion  1081   a  of the cam lock  1080  to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft  1016 . An outer surface  1082  of the second portion  1081   b  of the cam lock  1080  is positioned to contact the spring  1032 . The cam lock  1080  is free to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. As discussed in further detail below, spring  1032  may be configured to provide the clinician with tactile feedback as the second portion  1081   b  of the cam lock  1080  is rotated over the spring  1032  upon proximal translation of the inner shaft  1016 . 
       FIG. 24B  shows the specimen retrieval device  1000  near full retraction of the inner shaft  1016  with respect to the housing  1012 . More particularly, as inner shaft  1016  nears full retraction and the specimen retrieval pouch  22 ,  122  is withdrawn into the outer shaft  1014 , interface  1022   b  defined at the other end of the track  1023  engages the outer surface  1084  of first portion  1081   a  of the cam lock  1080  and forces the cam lock  1080  to rotate in a counter clock-wise direction as viewed in  FIG. 24B  toward a second unlocked position. As cam lock  1080  is rotated toward the second position, the second portion  1081   b  of the cam lock  1080  is rotated against the bias of the spring  1032  to provide a tactile feedback to the clinician that the inner shaft  1016  is nearing full retraction and the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  is almost fully positioned within the outer shaft  1014 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 24C-24D , once the inner shaft  1016  is fully retracted within the outer shaft  1014  ( FIG. 24C ), an extension  1087  of the second portion  1081   b  rotates over and locks against the spring  1032  to lock the cam lock  1080  in the second position. In the second position, the cam lock  1080  is positioned outside of the track  1023  to allow unimpeded distal translation of the inner shaft  1016  to the extended position with respect to the housing  1012  to effect deployment of the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  and stripper plate  170  as discussed above. 
       FIGS. 25A-27  show another embodiment of a specimen retrieval device  2000  having a shipping lockout in the form of a removable shipping wedge  2100  which prevents movement of an inner shaft  2016  from a partially retracted or shipping position to an extended position. Specimen retrieval device  2000  is similar to the specimen retrieval devices detailed above and, accordingly, only those features unique to specimen retrieval device  2000  are described herein. Specifically, a clinician must initially retract the inner shaft  2016  from a partially retracted or shipping position to a fully retracted position to release a locking device and move the pouch  22 ,  122  into the outer shaft  2014  before the inner shaft  2016  can be advanced to the extended position. Thereafter, the outer shaft  2014  may be positioned within a patient in a manner as described above and the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  and stripper plate, e.g.,  170  ( FIGS. 7-11 ) can be fully deployed. 
       FIG. 25A  shows an exploded, perspective view of the specimen retrieval device  2000  having a housing  2012  and inner and outer shafts  2016 ,  2014 , respectively, that are selectively translatable relative to one another to withdraw and deploy the specimen retrieval pouch  22 ,  122 . A groove or slot  2018  is defined within the housing  2012  and is configured to receive the removable shipping wedge  2100  therein. An alignment channel  2017  is defined in the inner shaft  2016  and is dimensioned to align with slot  2018  when the inner shaft  2016  is fully retracted and specimen pouch  22 ,  122  is withdrawn into outer shaft  2014  as explained in more detail below. A flexible finger  2019  is disposed on the inner shaft  2016  proximal to channel  2017  and is configured to prevent advancement of the inner shaft  2016  from the fully retracted position towards the extended position until the shipping wedge  2100  is removed from the specimen retrieval device  2000 , as explained in more detail below. In addition, the inner shaft  2016  includes a stop surface  2022  that is positioned to engage the shipping wedge  2100  when the inner shaft  2016  is in the partially retracted or shipping position to prevent movement of the inner shaft  2016  from the partially retracted position to the extended position prior to removal of the shipping wedge  2100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 25B , shipping wedge  2100  includes a handle  2120  having an elongated shaft  2116  that extends therefrom. The shaft  2116  includes an interface  2110  at a distal end thereof that is configured to be received within slot  2018  in housing  2012 . Interface  2110  includes opposing surfaces  2112  and  2114  that define a notch  2011  which slidably receives the inner shaft  2016  while allowing translation of the inner shaft  2016  therethrough. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 26 , in the partially retracted position of the inner shaft  2016  or the shipping position of the specimen retrieval device  2000 , the shipping wedge  2100  is positioned through the slot  2018  within the housing  2012  such that the inner shaft  2016  (or a portion thereof) is received through the notch  2111  ( FIG. 25B ). The shipping wedge  2100  is prevented from being removed laterally from slot  2018  by virtue of the inter-engagement of surfaces  2112 ,  2114  of interface  2110  with the sides inner shaft  2016 . The stop surface  2022  is disposed on a proximal end of inner shaft  2016  and configured to engage the inner shaft  2016  to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  2016  past the shipping wedge  2100  ( FIG. 25A ). This prevents the distal end of the inner shaft from deploying the stripper plate, e.g., the stripper plate  170 , from the outer shaft  2014 . When the inner shaft  2016  is positioned in the partially retracted position such that the stop surface  2022  engages the shipping wedge  2100 , further distal advancement of the inner shaft  2016  is prevented. In this position, the inner shaft  2016  is positioned a distance “d” from the extended position. Distance “d” represents the dwell distance required for deploying the stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  2014 . It is envisioned that the dwell distance “d” can be greater than the distance the stripper plate  170  is positioned within the distal end of the outer shaft  2014 . Once the shipping wedge  2100  is removed (as explained below), the inner shaft  2016  may be translated distally to its extended position to deploy the stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  2014  (See  FIGS. 7-10 ). 
     Prior to use of the specimen retrieval device  2000 , the clinician retracts the inner shaft  2016  by withdrawing the handle  2023  to withdraw the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  into the distal end of the outer shaft  2016 . The clinician continues to draw the inner shaft  2016  proximally until the flexible finger  2019  ( FIG. 25A ) disposed on inner shaft  2016  is deflected by, and withdrawn beneath the interface  2110  of the shipping wedge  2100  and moves to a proximal side thereof as shown in  FIG. 27 . Various known audible or tactile elements may be utilized to provide feedback to the clinician to indicate that the inner shaft  2016  is fully retracted and the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  has been adequately withdrawn into the outer shaft  2014 . For example, the clinician may feel or hear a snap as the flexible finger  2019  is released after it passes beneath the shipping wedge  2100 . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 27 , when the flexible finger  2019  passes under interface  2110  of the shipping wedge  2100 , the inner shaft  2016  is in the fully retracted position and the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  is positioned within the outer shaft  2014 . At this point, distal movement of the inner shaft  2016  is prevented by the flexible finger  2019  which is positioned to engage the shipping wedge  2100  until the shipping wedge  2100  is removed. 
     When the inner shaft  2016  is in the fully retracted position, the channel  2017  defined by the inner shaft  2016  aligns with corresponding slot  2018  defined within housing  2012  to facilitate removal of the shipping wedge  2100  from the specimen retrieval device  2000 . 
     In order to remove the shipping wedge  2100  from the device  2000 , a clinician pulls the handle  2120  of the shipping wedge  2100  transversally with respect to the inner shaft  2016  in the direction “R” ( FIG. 27 ) to withdraw the shipping wedge  2100  through the channel  2017  in the inner shaft  2016  and the slot  2018  in housing  2012  and release the interface  2110  from inner shaft  2016 . With the shipping wedge removed, the inner shaft  2016  is free to be translated distally to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  (See  FIG. 27 ). 
     A method of preventing inadvertent deployment of a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of a specimen retrieval device  2000  is also disclosed and includes providing a specimen retrieval device  2000  having a housing  2012  with a slot  2018 , an inner shaft  2016  and an outer shaft  2014 . The outer shaft  2014  defines a bore  2011  extending therethrough that is connected to the housing  2012 . An inner shaft  2016  is disposed within the bore  2011  and is translatable therethrough, the inner shaft including a support mechanism  28  (See  FIG. 6 ) configured to releasably support the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  at a distal end thereof and a flange  2022  disposed at a proximal end. A removable shipping wedge  2100  includes an interface  2110  at a distal end thereof that is configured to receive the inner shaft  2016  while allowing translation of the inner shaft  2016  therethrough. A stop surface  2022  is supported on a proximal end of the inner shaft  2016  and is positioned to engage the shipping wedge  2100  to prevent full distal translation of the inner shaft  2016  to the extended position from a partially retracted position or the shipping position. 
     The method also includes inserting the interface  2110  through the slot  2018  in the housing  2012  such that the interface  2110  engages the stop surface  2022  to prevent full distal translation of the inner shaft  2016  relative to the housing  2012 . 
     A method of deploying a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of a specimen retrieval device  2000  is also disclosed and includes providing a specimen retrieval device  2000  including a housing  2012  having a slot  2018  defined therein and an outer shaft  2014  connected to the housing  2012  and extending distally therefrom. The outer shaft  2014  includes a bore  2011  extending therethrough. An inner shaft  2016  is included and is disposed within the bore  2011  of the outer shaft  2014  and is translatable therethrough, the inner shaft  2016  including a channel  2017  defined at a distal end that extends across an outer periphery of the inner shaft  2016 . The inner shaft  2016  also includes a support mechanism  28  (See  FIG. 6 ) configured to releasably support a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  at a distal end thereof and a flexible finger  2019  disposed on the inner shaft  2016  proximal to the channel  2017 . A stop surface  2022  is disposed at a proximal-most portion  2016   a  of the inner shaft  2016 . 
     A removable shipping wedge is also provided and includes an interface  2110  at a distal end thereof configured to encompass the outer periphery of the inner shaft  2016  while allowing translation of the inner shaft  2016  therethrough. 
     The method also includes: inserting the interface  2110  through the slot  2018  in the housing  2012  such that the interface  2110  engages the stop surface  2022  at the proximal-most potion  2016   a  of the inner shaft  2016  to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  2016  relative to the housing  2012 ; proximally translating the inner shaft  2016  relative to the housing  2012  from a first position wherein the stop surface  2022  engages the interface  2110  of the shipping wedge  2100  to prevent distal translation of the inner shaft  2016  to a second position wherein the interface  2110  of the shipping wedge  2100  aligns with the channel  2017  of the inner shaft  2016 ; removing the shipping wedge  2100  through the slot  2018  in the housing  2012 ; and distally translating the inner shaft  2016  relative to the housing  2012  to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122 . 
     The proximally translating step of the method may also include biasing the flexible finger  2019  of the inner shaft  2016  past the interface  2110  of the shipping wedge  2100  to position the flexible finger  2019  on a proximal side of the interface when the inner shaft  2016  is translated to the second or fully retracted position; and preventing distal movement of the inner shaft  2016  relative to the housing  2012  until the shipping wedge  2100  is removed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 28-33 , a specimen retrieval device  3000  according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. As mentioned above, it is advantageous to ship the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  in a deployed condition to reduce the likelihood of memory wrinkles being formed on pouch  22 ,  122 . Similar to the specimen retrieval devices described above, the pouch  22 ,  122  is shipped in an unfolded and deployed configuration, positioned externally of the outer shaft  3014  with the stripper plate, e.g., stripper plate  170  ( FIG. 7 ) positioned within the outer shaft  3014 . 
     As with the other specimen retrieval devices described above, the inner shaft  3016  is prevented from moving distally until the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  is first withdrawn into the outer shaft  3014  to facilitate positioning the specimen retrieval device  3000  within a surgical cavity through a small incision or cannula. Thereafter, the outer shaft  3014  may be positioned within a patient in a manner as described above and the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  subsequently deployed. 
       FIG. 28  shows specimen retrieval device  3000  which includes a housing  3012  that supports inner and outer shafts  3016  and  3014 , respectively. Inner shaft  3016  is selectively translatable through outer shaft  3014  and defines a longitudinally extending cam slot  3018  having first and second portions  3017  and  3019 . A torsion spring  3100  has a first end  3120  fixedly engaged to a first end of the housing  3012  (or the outer shaft  3014 ) and a second end  3115  dimensioned to ride within cam slot  3018  as detailed below. The torsion spring  3100  is in tension to urge end  3115  of torsion spring  3100  towards end  3120  of the torsion spring  3100 . However, inner shaft  3016  is rotatably fixed within the outer shaft  3014  by respective geometries of the outer and inner shafts  3014 ,  3016  to prevent rotation of the inner shaft  3016  in relation to the housing  3012 . A channel  3021  is defined between the distal ends of the first and second portions  3017  and  3019  of the cam slot  3018  and is configured to facilitate translation of the second end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  from the first portion  3017  to the second portion  3019  of cam slot  3018  as discussed in further detail below. 
     First portion  3017  of cam slot  3018  is shorter than the second portion  3019  of the cam slot  3018  by a distance “X”. The distance “X” represents the dwell distance required for deploying the stripper plate, e.g., the stripper plate  170 , from the outer shaft  3014  as will be discussed in further detail below. It is envisioned that the dwell distance “X” can be greater than the distance the stripper plate is positioned within the outer shaft  3014  such that the inner shaft  3016  may be translated distally to or beyond the dwell distance “X” to deploy the stripper plate  170  from the outer shaft  3014  (See  FIGS. 7-10 ). 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 28 and 29  prior to use, a clinician unpacks the specimen retrieval device  3000  from its shipping container and readies the device  3000  for insertion within a surgical cavity. The end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  is initially positioned adjacent the proximal end of the first portion  3017  of cam slot  3018  with the inner shaft  3016  in a partially retracted position. Engagement of the end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  with a proximal end wall of the first portion  3017  of cam slot  3018  prevents further distal movement of the inner shaft  3016  with respect to the housing  3012  to the extended position to prevent inadvertent deployment of the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  and the stripper plate, e.g., stripper plate  170 , from the outer shaft  3014 . 
     In use, housing  3012  is secured by a clinician with one hand and the proximal end  3023  of the inner shaft  3016  is retracted in relation to the housing  3012  to withdraw the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  into the distal end of the outer shaft  3014 . As the inner shaft  3016  is retracted, the end  3115  of torsion spring  3100  rides distally along the first portion  3017  of the cam slot  3018  until the end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  reaches the distal end of the first portion  3017  at the fully retracted position of the inner shaft  3016  ( FIG. 30 ). At this point, the tension of the torsion spring  3100  causes movement of the end  3115  of torsion spring  3100  along the channel  321  of the cam slot  3018  from the first portion  3017  to the second portion  3019  of the cam slot  3018  (See  FIGS. 30 and 31 ). The clinician is then free to translate the inner shaft  3016  distally as the end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  translates along second portion  3019  of the cam slot  3018  an additional distance “X” ( FIG. 28 ) (the length of the offset “X” between portions  3017  and  3019 ) to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  and the stripper plate from the outer shaft  3014  (See  FIG. 33 ). 
     It is envisioned that one or more torsion or helical springs  3100  may be utilized to accomplish a similar purpose. Various known audible or tactile elements may be utilized to provide feedback to the clinician that the inner shaft  3016  is fully retracted and that the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  has been adequately withdrawn into the outer shaft  3014 . For example, the clinician may feel or hear a snap or release as the torsion spring  3100  transitions from the first portion  3017  to the second portion  3019  of cam slot  3018  through the channel  321  of the cam slot  3018 . 
     A method of deploying a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of a specimen retrieval device  3000  is also disclosed and includes providing a specimen retrieval device  3000  including a housing  3012  and an outer shaft  3014  connected to the housing  3012  and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft  3014  having a bore  3011  extending therethrough; providing an inner shaft  3016  disposed within the bore  3011  of the outer shaft  3014 , the inner shaft  3016  being selectively translatable therethrough, the inner shaft  3016  including a support mechanism  28  (See  FIG. 6 ) configured to releasably support a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of the specimen retrieval device  3000  at a distal end thereof; the inner shaft  3016  including a cam slot  3018  defined in an outer periphery thereof, the cam slot  3018  including first and second portions  3017 ,  3019  defined within the inner shaft  3016  and extending therealong and a channel  3021  defined therebetween. 
     The method also includes: securing a first end  3120  of a torsion spring  3100  to the housing  3012  and positioning a second end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  within the cam slot  3018 , wherein the second end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  is initially positioned at a proximal end of the first portion  3017  of the cam slot  3018  to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  3016  relative to the housing  3012 ; proximally translating the inner shaft  3016  with respect to the housing  3012  to move the second end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  within the cam slot  3018  from a first position located at the proximal end of the first portion  3017  of the cam slot  3018  to a second position located at a distal end of the first portion  3017  of the cam slot  3018  to allow the second end  3115  of the torsion spring  3100  to transition under the bias of the torsion spring  3100  along the channel  3021  from the distal end of the first portion  3017  into the distal end of the second portion  3019  of the cam slot  3018 ; and distally translating the inner shaft  3016  relative to the housing  3012  to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122 . 
       FIGS. 34A-38  illustrate another embodiment of a specimen retrieval device  4000  having a shipping lockout in the form of a removable shipping wedge  4100 . Specimen retrieval device  4000  is similar to the specimen retrieval devices detailed above and, accordingly, only those features unique to specimen retrieval device  4000  are described herein. Specifically, a clinician must initially move the inner shaft  4016  from a partially retracted position ( FIG. 34B ) proximally in relation to the outer shaft  4014  to a retracted position ( FIG. 36B ) to withdraw the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  into the outer shaft  4014  and facilitate release of the shipping wedge  4100 . Thereafter, the outer shaft  4014  may be positioned within a patient as described above and the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  subsequently deployed. 
     As with the other specimen retrieval devices described above, the inner shaft  4016  is prevented from moving distally from a partially refracted position or the shipping position until the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  is withdrawn into the outer shaft  4014  to facilitate positioning of the specimen retrieval device  4000  within a body cavity. 
     Specimen retrieval device  4000  includes a housing  4012  that supports outer and inner shafts  4014  and  4016 . Inner shaft  4016  is selectively translatable through a longitudinal bore  4011  defined within the outer shaft  4014 . The inner shaft  4016  defines a cam slot  4017  that extends longitudinally along its length. Cam slot  4017  includes proximal and distal ends  4013  and  4015 , respectively. Each of the ends  4013  and  4015  defines a stop surface as will be discussed in further detail below. The distal end  4015  of the cam slot  4017  includes a ramp-like surface  4018  which transitions into a notch  4019 . The shipping wedge  4100  is supported about the inner shaft  4016  between a handle  4023  of the inner shaft  4016  and the housing  4012  to prevent the inner shaft  4016  from being advanced to the extended position prior to the shipping wedge  4100  being removed from the device  4000 . The notch  4019  is defined at a distal-most end of the cam slot  4017  and is configured to facilitate removal of the shipping wedge  4100  from the specimen retrieval device  4000  as described in detail below. The notch  4019  is positioned at the distal end of the cam slot  4017  and defines a stop surface  4019   a    
     The shipping wedge  4100  includes a body  4105  defining a cutout  4105   a  ( FIG. 34A ) and having a flange  4110  extending from an upper surface of the body  4105 . The flange  4110  has a resilient finger  4112  that extends into the cutout  4105 . The finger  4112  extends downwardly from flange  4110  through the cutout  4105   a  and is dimensioned to ride within cam slot  4017  (See  FIGS. 34B, 35A and 35B ). The finger  4112  is inserted laterally into the notch  4019 . Thereafter, the inner shaft  4016  is moved distally to position the finger  4112  in the cam slot  4017  to lock the shipping wedge  4100  onto the shipping device. More specifically, the shipping wedge  4100  must have the finger  4112  aligned with the notch  4019  to allow removal of the shipping wedge  4100  from the device  4000 . 
     The shipping wedge  4100  includes one or more supports  4115   a  and  4115   b  (see  FIG. 34A ) that extend from the body  4105  of shipping wedge  4100 . Each of the supports is configured to engage the housing  4012 , e.g., finger rings  4012   a  and  4012   b  (see  FIG. 35A ). Supports  4115   a  and  4115   b  are configured to mount the shipping wedge  4100  to the housing  4012 . A removal tab  4113  is disposed on the body  4105  which is configured to allow the shipping wedge  4100  to be grasped and laterally removed from the device  4000 . 
     Prior to use, engagement of the finger  4112  with the proximal end  4013  of the cam slot  4017  prevents further advancement of the inner shaft  4016  in relation to the outer shaft  4014  to the extended position. In use, housing  4012  is grasped by a clinician with one hand and the proximal end or handle  4023  of the inner shaft  4016  is retracted to withdraw the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  ( FIG. 7 ) into the distal end of the outer shaft  4014 . As the inner shaft  4016  is retracted, finger  4112  of the flange  4110  rides within cam slot  4017  until the finger  4112  engages the ramp-like surface  4018 . Ramp-like surface  4018  deforms the finger  4112  to provide a tactile feedback to the clinician that the finger  4112  is approaching the notch  4019  at the distal end of cam slot  4017 . When the resilient finger  4112  snaps over ramp-like surface  4018 , the positioning of the finger  4112  between the stop surface  4019   a  and the distal end of the cam slot  4017  prevents the inner shaft  4016  from being advanced or retracted in relation to the outer shaft  4014  prior to the shipping wedge  4100  being removed from the device  4000 . 
     Once the inner shaft  4016  is moved to the retracted position to position the resilient finger  4112  in the notch  4119 , the clinician may pull the removal tab  4113  of the shipping wedge  4100  laterally in the direction “R” ( FIG. 36A ) to remove the shipping wedge  4100  from the specimen retrieval device  4000 . Once removed, the clinician is then free to translate the inner shaft  4016  distally to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122  from the outer shaft  4014  (See  FIGS. 37 and 38 ). A method of preventing inadvertent deployment of a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of a specimen retrieval device  4000  is also disclosed and includes supporting a removable shipping wedge  4100  on a housing  4012  of a specimen retrieval device such that a finger  4112  of a spring-like flange  4110  of the shipping wedge  4100  is disposed within a cam slot  4017  defined in an inner shaft of the device, with the finger  4112  in abutting relation with a proximal end  4013  of a cam slot  4017  to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  4016  relative to the housing  4012 . 
     A method of deploying a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of a specimen retrieval device  4000  is also disclosed and includes providing a specimen retrieval device  4000  having a housing  4012  and an outer shaft  4014  connected to the housing  4012  and extending distally therefrom, the outer shaft  4014  defining a longitudinal bore  4011  extending therethrough. An inner shaft  4016  is disposed within the bore  4011  of the outer shaft  4016  and is translatable therethrough, the inner shaft  4016  including a support mechanism  28  ( FIGS. 7-11 ) configured to releasably support a specimen pouch  22 ,  122  of the specimen retrieval device  4000  at the distal end thereof. The inner shaft  4016  also defines a cam slot  4017  that extends therealong, the cam slot  4017  including a proximal end  4013  and a distal end  4015  having a notch  4019  defined therein. A removable shipping wedge  4100  having a body  4105  is secured about the inner shaft  4016  between a handle  4023  of the inner shaft  4016  and the housing  4012 . The shipping wedge  4100  includes a spring-like flange  4110  which extends from an upper surface thereof having a finger  4112  at a distal end of the flange  4110 , the finger  4112  being dimensioned to ride within the cam slot  4017 . One or more supports  4115   a  and  4115   b  extend from opposing ends of the body  4105  and each support  4115   a  and  4115   b  is configured to engage an opposing side of the housing  4012 . 
     The method also includes: engaging the removable shipping wedge  4100  to the housing  4012  and the inner shaft  4016  such that the finger  4112  of the spring-like flange  4110  is disposed in abutting relation with the proximal end  4013  of the cam slot  4017  to prevent initial distal translation of the inner shaft  4016  relative to the housing  4012 ; retracting the inner shaft  4016  relative to the housing  4012  such that the finger  4112  of the spring-like flanges  4110  rides along the cam slot  4017  and bottoms out in the notch  4019  at a distal end of the cam slot  4017 ; removing the shipping wedge  4100  from the housing  4012  and the inner shaft  4016 ; and distally translating the inner shaft  4016  with respect the housing  4012  to deploy the specimen pouch  22 ,  122 . 
     In addition to the foregoing, the specimen retrieval devices,  10 ,  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410 ,  1000 ,  2000 ,  3000  and  4000  may be configured for use with other pouch configurations and/or release mechanisms. Such pouch configurations and their associated release mechanisms are described in commonly-owned U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/771,129 entitled “Specimen Retrieval Device With Pouch Stop,” filed by Malkowski et al. on Mar. 1, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto. Additionally, it is envisioned that the elements and features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the elements and features of another without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, and that such modifications and variations are also intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims.