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Abstract

Methods of endoscopic surgery are disclosed. The methods utilize a suction/irrigation endoscopic instrument and a second endoscopic instrument. The suction/irrigation endoscopic instrument has a cannula, a fluid chamber in communication with the cannula, and an automatic valve at the proximal end of the fluid chamber. The second endoscopic instrument has end effectors and actuating means, and the end effectors of the second endoscopic instrument is inserted through the automatic valve, through the fluid chamber, and through the cannula. The methods involve inserting the suction/irrigation instrument through a trocar tube, and then inserting the second endoscopic instrument therethrough. The automatic valve insures that there is no leakage when the second instrument is inserted. The second endoscopic instrument may rotated inside, or may be partially withdrawn into the suction/irrigation instrument. Upon removing the second endoscopic instrument, the valve of the suction/irrigation instrument automatically closes so that there is no leakage. If desired, the suction/irrigation instrument may be provided with a cautery current at the cannula, and the second endoscopic instrument may be provided with a bump which contacts the cannula as a cautery pick-up.

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