| abstract |
A morcellator (10) for removing large masses of tissues during laparoscopic procedures includes a rotationally fixed, axially movable inner tube (14) disposed within a rotating cutting member (12). The cutting member (12) is often disposed in the annular space between the inner tube (14), and an outer tube (16). A laparoscopic grasping instrument (42) is inserted through the lumen, and draws the tissue proximally through the morcellator (10). As the cutting member (12) severs tissue, the tissue is drawn into the fixed lumen of the inner tube (14). This prevents the cutting members (12) from twisting the severed tissue, thereby preventing any degradation of the surgeon's control. A novel valve (28) is provided to prevent loss of insufflation gas when no instrument traverses the lumen. The inner tube (14) can be translated distally to protect tissue, and/or other surgical implements against inadvertent contact with the cutting edge of the cutting member (12). |