VACUUM-ACTUATED TISSUE-LIFTING DEVICE AND METHOD

摘要

This invention is a vacuum actuated tissue-lifting device (30), and method f or performing a surgical procedure in an operative space of a patient. The devi ce (30) has a shell (33) with a profile configured to surround a tissue surface of the patient, a vacuum port (35) located on the shell (33) for applying a vacuum between the shell (33), the tissue surface, and an air conduit (36) extending through the shell (33) to permit air to pass into the operative space of the patient when vacuum is applied. The device (30)also has an entr y port (37) located on the shell (33), and a perforable membrane (38) located on the entry port (37) to provide a seal when a surgical instrument is inserted through the membrane (38) during the procedure. The device (30), and method of the invention eliminate the need for carbon dioxide insufflation, mechanical lifting devices which create obstruction, and high stress zones on tissues within the operative space created, and unwanted displacement of internal organs when the targeted tissue surface is lifted.