Articulating endoscopic surgical apparatus

Abstract

A surgical instrument is provided for use in endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures. The instrument includes a handle portion, an endoscopic portion extending from the handle portion, an articulating section pivotably connected to a distal end portion of the endoscopic portion, and a retractor assembly operatively associated with the articulating section. Structure is provided for manipulating the articulating section relative to the longitudinal axis of the endoscopic portion within an angular degree of rotation. An injection port may also be provided to deliver fluids through the endoscopic portion to the operative site.

1 . A surgical apparatus comprising: 
 an endoscopic portion including an elongated tubular section having opposed proximal and distal ends;    an articulating section pivotally connected to a distal end portion of said endoscopic portion;    tool means operatively associated with said articulating section and including at least two cooperating members movable between a closed position and an open position;    rotating means cooperating with a proximal end of said endoscopic portion for moving said at least two cooperating members between said closed position and said opened position; and    means cooperating with said proximal portion of said endoscopic portion for pivoting said articulating section relative to a longitudinal axis of said endoscopic portion within an angular degree of rotation.