FLEXIBLE TROCAR WITH AN UPTURNING TUBE SYSTEM

摘要

A flexible trocar assembly includes an inner flexible tube and a concentric outer flexible tube. The flexible tubes are spaced apart from each other so as to form an open ended annular space in the trocar assembly. The annular space contains surgical instrumentation and passages for inflation gases, trocar assembly rigidifying gases or materials, and trocar manipulating mechanisms. For example, fiber optic light transmitters associated with camera-related fiber optics can be disposed in the annular space so that an area in a body cavity being examined can be illuminated and observed. Trocar manipulating mechanisms such as Bowden cables can also be disposed in the annular space. Liquid flushing tubes can be positioned in the annular space. Carbon dioxide or air injecting tubes can be positioned in the annular space. The inner flexible tube defines a central trocar assembly passage through which surgical instruments can be inserted into the body cavity. The trocar assembly is particularly useful in performing surgical procedures in the colon. An invertable tube assembly is associated with the trocar assembly and is used to move the trocar assembly into and out of the body cavity. The invertible tube embraces the trocar assembly and the invertible tube is moved forward and backward by a controlled drive mechanism. Lubrication is provided between the invertible tube and the trocar assembly so as to reduce friction between the invertible tube drive mechanism and the trocar assembly.