Articulating endoscopic surgical apparatus

摘要

A surgical instrument is provided for use in endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures. The instrument includes a handle portion, an endoscopic portion extending from the handle portion, an articulating section pivotably connected to a distal end of the endoscopic portion, and a bladed retractor assembly operatively associated with the articulating section. Structure is provided for maintaining spacing between the blades of the retractor assembly and for controlling actuation of the retractor assembly.