Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods for conveying or transmitting force or energy to a medical end effector coupled to a flexible or rigid shaft are described herein. One variation of such apparatus may be used to manipulate tissue and create a tissue fold and may generally comprise an elongate tubular member having an end effector disposed thereon. The end effector may comprise a tissue engagement member adapted to engage tissue, a first stabilizing member and a second stabilizing member positioned at the tubular member distal end, and a launch tube adapted to pivot about the first stabilizing member. Elements of the end effector may be actuable via various force transmission elements and/or mechanisms. Such force transmission elements preferably are integrated into and/or are actuable via a handle. The force transmission mechanisms may be utilized to actuate and/or transmit force to alternative medical end effectors coupled to flexible or rigid shafts.

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First Claim