Circular stapler introducer with radially-openable distal end portion

摘要

Introducers for introducing a surgical circular stapler into a patient. Various embodiments comprise a hollow flexible sheath (110) that has a distal end (114) and an open proximal end (112) that is sized to receive a stapling head portion of the circular stapler therein. A radially - openable barrel member (152) is attached to a distal end of the hollow flexible sheath to define an opening for receiving the stapling head therein. A rigid cap member (160) is hingably attached to the radially-openable barrel member and is movable between a closed position wherein the rigid cap member covers a distal end of the opening in the barrel member and open position wherein the rigid cap member is movable to a position wherein the distal end of the opening is exposed. A releasable latch member (140) is provided to engage and release opposed ends of the radially-openable barrel member.