METHODS AND DEVICES FOR MANIPULATING TISSUE IN VIVO

摘要

Methods and devices are provided for manipulating tissue in a body cavity, i.e., in vivo. In general, the methods and devices allow an end effector to engage tissue, be detached from a shaft used to control the end effector (380) to engage the tissue, and then be moved to another location in the body cavity by a separate component, such as an external control unit. In some embodiments the end effector can include one or more deployable hooks (382) that allow the end effector to remain at a surgical site independent of any shafts or external control units. Still further, in other embodiments the end effector can include a transverse bore (484) to allow a second shaft (422) to connect to the end effector to manipulate the tissue. Additional exemplary devices, kits, and methods related to manipulating tissue in vivo are also provided.