ACCESS SEALING APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

A surgical access device includes a seal housing (25) and a roller (38, 41) disposed in the housing (25) and defining a working channel (27). The roller (38, 41) may be stationary or moveable within the seal housing (25) to form both a zero seal (76) in the absence of an instrument, and an instrument seal (78) in the presence of an instrument. Rotation of the roller (41, 38) is contemplated and low-friction surfaces are discussed to reduce instrument insertion forces. Multiple rollers, wiper elements, low-friction braid, pivoting elements and idler rollers are contemplated. The rollers will typically be formed of a gel material in order to facilitate the desired compliance, stretchability and elongation desired.