Intra-Thoracic Access Device Without Thoracotomy, and Related Methods

摘要

A device for accessing the intra-thoracic space without the need for a thoracotomy or sternotomy includes a cannula having a shaft positionable through a supra-sternal incision into a retrosternal space and a stabilization system for supporting the cannula in a fixed position. The cannula includes illumination features used to illuminate the retrosternal space, giving clear, direct visualization of the retrosternal space during dissection to, and performance of procedures at, the surgical site.

主权项

1. A cannula system comprising:
an elongate cannula having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; and at least one fiber optic cable couplable to an illumination source, the fiber optic cable attachable to the cannula so as to transmit light from the illumination source into the lumen such that said light illuminates structures distal to the distal end of the cannula.