Inflatable endoscopic retractor

摘要

An inflatable endoscopic retractor is disclosed for retracting organs and tissues in the body. The inflatable retractor comprises an inflatable balloon configured to retract specific organs and tissues at the site of the endoscopic procedure, with attached inflation and deflation means. In one embodiment, the inflatable balloon has an attached support rib to provide additional strength and rigidity during retraction. In another embodiment, the inflatable balloon has multiple projections, each with an attached support rib, to provide retraction in several directions. A retractor having an endoscopic housing with separate channels is also disclosed which provides retraction as well as the means for inserting a second endoscopic surgical tool.