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Abstract

A method for removing a gall bladder comprises the steps of (a) providing a surgical instrument including a flexible loop and a flexible web member connected to said loop to form a capture pocket, the loop defining a mouth opening of the pocket, (b) closing the cystic duct, (c) severing the cystic duct, and (d) passing the loop around a portion of the gall bladder including a closed and severed segment of the cystic duct, thereby enclosing the gall bladder portion in the capture pocket. The method further comprises the steps of (e) severing connective tissue between the gall bladder and the adjacent liver subsequently to the passing of the loop around the bladder, (f) maintaining the gall bladder portion surrounded by the capture pocket during the severing of the connective tissue, and (g) shifting the loop relative to the gall bladder to enclose a greater portion of the gall bladder in the capture pocket upon a severing of some of the connective tissue between the gall bladder and the adjacent liver. The method is adaptable to removing other internal organs, particularly organs which are coupled to adjacent tissue masses via connective tissue.

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First Claim