Surgical device

Abstract

An endoscopic surgical device for an endoscopic surgical procedure includes a slotted clear cannula with a tubular body having a distal end, a proximate end and a slot extending longitudinally therethrough. A pair of wings near the proximal end of the slotted clear cannula extend outward from the tubular body. The tubular body is made from a transparent material. The slotted clear cannula may be part of an endoscopic surgical blade assembly in which the cannula is attached to a housing enclosing a blade slidably oriented in the cannula. A kit comprising the endoscopic surgical device and a method for a performing a uniportal endoscopic surgical procedure using the endoscopic surgical device are also described.

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         18 . A method for implementing a uniportal endoscopic surgical procedure, comprising:
 establishing an entry portal in the subject at a location proximal or distal to an operation site;   inserting into the entry portal a device comprising an elongated cannula having a tubular body with an open proximal end, an integrally formed open slot extending longitudinally from proximal end to the proximity of the distal end;   extending the elongated cannula through the entry portal to the target tissue;   advancing an endoscope into the cannula to visualize a target tissue; and   advancing a blade into the cannula until a desired cut is made on the target tissue,   wherein the endoscopic surgical procedure is selected from the group consisting of carpal tunnel release, cubital tunnel release, plantar fascia release, lateral release for patella realignment, release of radial tunnel, release of pronatar teres, release of trigger finger, release of lacertous fibrosis, release of the extensor tendons for lateral epicondylitis, release of medial epicondylitis, release of the posterior and other compartments of the leg, forearm fascia release for fascial compartment syndrome, and release of fascial compartments in the upper and lower extremity.   
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 18 , further comprising:
 making an incision to establish an entry portal at a location proximal to a ligament in need of repair;   forming a pathway beneath the ligament;   inserting the elongated cannula into the pathway;   visualizing the ligament with an endoscope;   dividing the ligament with a cutting instrument protruding through the open slot of the elongated cannula by single-handed manipulation of the endoscope and cutting instrument; and   withdrawing the elongated cannula through the entry portal.   
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 18 , wherein a pair of wings is integrally formed on the proximal end of the slotted clear cannula, wherein the wings are formed on opposing edges of the slot and extend radially from the tubular body. 
     
     
         21 . The method of  claim 18 , wherein the tubular body is made from a transparent material, has an inner diameter large enough to accommodate an endoscope, has an inner diameter of 1-10 mm, has an outer diameter of 2-12 mm, and has a length of 5-25 cm. 
     
     
         22 . The method of  claim 18 , wherein the endoscopic surgical procedure is carpal tunnel release. 
     
     
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