Method and inflatable chamber apparatus for separating layers of tissue

Abstract

An apparatus for tissue dissection and instrument anchoring and methods for using such apparatus are disclosed. The apparatus includes a cannula, a dissection balloon releasably attached to the cannula at the distal end, an anchoring balloon disposed on the cannula, and a means for inflating both balloons.

1 . A method of accessing a space comprising the steps of:
 making an incision through body tissue;   inserting a device through the incision, the device including:
 an elongate tubular member having a bore, the bore configured for receiving a surgical instrument therethrough, 
 a first inflatable member disposed in a distal region of the elongate tubular member, the first inflatable member having an inflated state and a deflated state, 
 a collar disposed on the elongate tubular member, the collar being compressible and capable of engaging body tissue between the collar and the first inflatable member when the first inflatable member is in the inflated state, 
 a first port fluidly coupled to the first inflatable member, and 
 a second port in fluid communication with the bore; and 
   introducing an inflation medium to the first port such that the first inflatable member transitions from an uninflated state to an inflated state.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the device further includes a valve disposed in the bore. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising the step of:
 inserting a surgical instrument through the bore of the device.   
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3 , further comprising the step of:
 performing a procedure using the surgical instrument.   
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising the step of:
 insufflating the space by introducing an inflation medium through the bore of the device.   
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the collar of the device is formed from a foam material. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the collar has a substantially planar distal face adapted for contacting tissue. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the collar is slidable with respect to the elongate tubular member. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein a distal face of the collar conforms to a surface of body tissue located between the first inflatable member and the collar. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 8 , further comprising the step of:
 sliding the collar distally towards the first inflatable member such that at least a portion of the collar contacts skin of the patient.