| abstract |
This invention is an apparatus and methods for intraoperatively performing surgery to create transmural channels in tissue. For example, trans-myocardial revascularization is provided using a device including a mechanical end effector (112) and means (27) for stabilizing the end effector (112) in contact with the tissue. The end effector (112) is adapted to cooperate with a source of suction to evacuate tissue severed during the channel forming process, and may optionally include an electrode for cauterizing the tissue surrounding the channel. |