Tissue sampling device and method

摘要

A device for obtaining a sample from inside a body is disclosed. It comprises a tubular body portion that defines a chamber for receiving a sample of material therein and which has a distal end, a proximal end and defines a longitudinal central axis. The device also comprises a plunger assembly operatively associated with the tubular body portion which has a stopper slidably disposed within the chamber of the tubular body portion that is adapted for fluid tight engagement with the tubular body portion. Feedback elements are provided on at least one of the tubular body portion and the plunger assembly for providing a user of the sampling device with audible and/or tactile indications regarding an amount of displacement of the plunger assembly relative to the tubular body portion. At least one cutting element having a plurality of arms extending radially inwardly from the open distal end of the tubular body portion and angled into the tubular body portion is also provided. Each of the cutting elements have an unsupported free end disposed within the tubular body portion.