Compressor for use in minimally invasive surgery

摘要

A compressor tool for use in minimally invasive surgery is provided having first and second elongate elements where each elongate element is connected to the other at a pivot point within a pivot region of each element for rotating articulation in an articulation plane with respect to each other. The first and second elongate elements are configured to provide a tool pivot region including the pivot point, a tool handle proximal to the tool pivot region, and a tool working portion distal to the too pivot region so that pressure applied to the tool handle portion results in a compressive force being applied by the tool working portion. The tool has a first closed position for insertion of the tool through an incision or portal so that the pivot region is located within the incision or portal, and a second working position where the tool working portion is arranged to provide a compressive force to spaced apart elements within a patient's body. Articulation of the tool between the first closed position and the second working position results in no increase in dimension of the tool in the pivot region.