Patent ID: 6860892

Claim:
A method of providing access to an anatomical structure in an anatomical region within a body, the method comprising the steps of: providing an apparatus including a cannula, an inflatable balloon having a longitudinal axis and shaped for use in the anatomical region, wherein the balloon has a distal portion and a proximal portion, where the diameter, volume or perimeter of the balloon when inflated generally decreases from the proximal portion towards the distal portion of the balloon, and an inflation lumen having access to the interior of the balloon for inflating the balloon; making an incision in a body; inserting the balloon through the incision into the anatomical region; directing the balloon to the vicinity of the anatomical structure; and inflating the balloon to dissect tissue in the anatomical region to provide access to the anatomical structure such that the amount of dissection varies along the longitudinal axis of the balloon.