Method and apparatus employing conformable sleeve for providing percutaneous access

摘要

Methods and systems for introducing articles and surgical instruments to target body cavities utilize conformable sleeves which are percutaneously positioned within the cavity. Articles may then be passed directly through the conformable sleeve, without use of a rigid cannula, either by pushing the articles inwardly through the sleeve using an introducer or pulling the articles inwardly through the sleeve using a tapered carrier. Surgical instruments are also passed directly inwardly through the sleeve. Such systems and methods may be used in a variety of minimally invasive surgical procedures.