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Abstract

An improved laparoscopic technique for treating female urinary incontinence and devices for use therein. These devices include an urethral sound, a stapling device, and a staple saw. The sound is substantially L-shaped having a handle at one end and a probe tip at the opposite end. The probe tip has a plurality of beads protruding therefrom which are observable through the wail of the bladder enabling the junction between the lower border of the bladder and urethra to be located. The stapling device attaches the pelvic floor to the pubic bone. The stapling device comprises of a handle, a stapling head, and an elongated member extending therebetween. The stapling head is pivotally attached to the elongated member. A push rod advances a pair of target pins to anchor the pelvic floor to the pubic bone. A small trigger loads staples into a discharge chamber. A large trigger discharges staples from the stapling head into the pelvic floor and pubic bone. The travel of the staple is limited by a stop plate which prevents the staple from being driven through the pelvic floor. In the event the staple is incorrectly discharged, the staple saw is provided for severing the staples and prying the severed staples apart releasing the pelvic floor therefrom. The staple saw is comprised of a handle, a hook for grappling the staple, and an elongated member extending therebetween. A trigger advances a saw blade. A crank manually drives the saw blade.

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First Claim