Introductory, expandable device for the production of an anatomical workspace

摘要

Laparoscopic apparatus (31) and method for insertion into a space or potential space in a body comprising an introducer device (32) having a tubular member (33) with a bore (34) extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly (46) is provided and is slidably mounted in the bore (34) of the introducer device (32). The tunneling shaft assembly (46) includes a tunneling shaft (47) having proximal (48) and distal (49) extremities. A tunneling member (79) is mounted on the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft (47). A balloon assembly (86) is provided which is removably secured to the tunneling shaft (47). The balloon assembly (86) includes a balloon (87) wrapped about said tunneling shaft (47). A sheath (106) is provided which encloses the balloon (87) on the tunneling shaft (47). The sheath (106) has a slit (108) extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath (106) to be removed whereby the balloon (87) can be released and inflated. A tubular member (96) is provided which has a balloon inflation lumen (97) thereon and is coupled to the balloon (87) for inflating said balloon (87). IMAGE