Access Device

Abstract

Various devices and methods are provided with respect to inserting multiple surgical instruments through a single surgical access device. A medical device including a flexible tissue retractor a releasable insert having multiple instrument openings, and a member such as a sleeve is disclosed. The insert can be in the form of an insert assembly including multiple components. The sleeve can support the insert with respect to the retractor such that the insert and sleeve can be removed together with the retractor remaining in the incision. A method of using the insert is also described.

1 - 20 . (canceled) 
     
     
         21 . A medical device comprising:
 a flexible tissue retractor having an outer surface with a tissue engaging portion adapted to engage a body incision and an inner surface defining a passageway;   a tubular sleeve member having a portion releasably positionable co-axially within the passageway of the flexible tissue retractor at an axial position coincident with the tissue engaging portion; and   an insert comprising at least one instrument opening;   wherein the tubular sleeve member is adapted to releasably support the insert with respect to the passageway of the flexible tissue retractor.   
     
     
         22 . The medical device of  claim 21  wherein tubular sleeve member and insert are configured to be removed together from the passageway of the flexible tissue retractor. 
     
     
         23 . The medical device of  claim 22  wherein the tubular sleeve member and insert are configured to be removed together from the flexible tissue retractor without removing the tissue retractor from a body incision. 
     
     
         24 . The medical device of  claim 21  wherein the tubular sleeve member comprises a retention feature for preventing the insert from being pushed through the member and into a body cavity.