Patent ID: 7331978

Claim:
A multi-functional surgical instrument for use in gaining access to and performing one or more functions at an internal anatomical location comprising: a. a tube having first and second ends; b. a tool operatively connected at or near the first end of the tube; c. an actuator operatively connected to the tool at least partially through the tube; d. the tool having first and second opposed jaws, each having an inner surface and outer surface and distal and proximal ends along a longitudinal axis; e. at least one jaw being translatable relative the other jaw by operation of the actuator for a first tool function; f. a tip at the distal end of at least one jaw shaped for piercing, separating, and penetrating tissue upon generally longitudinal movement of the tip for a second tool function; g. a raised edge on outer surface of and projecting outwardly generally along the longitudinal axis of at least one jaw for separating tissue upon generally longitudinal movement of the jaw for a third tool function.