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Abstract

A method for removing a polyp from a patient utilizes (i) a flexible conductive cauterization loop and (ii) a flexible auxiliary loop to which a flexible web member is connected to define an expandable pocket, the cauterization loop and the auxiliary loop being disposed in a common tubular member. Upon insertion of an endoscope assembly into a patient and a locating of the polyp, the tubular member is moved through the biopsy channel of the endoscope to eject a distal end portion of the tubular member from the biopsy channel. The cauterization loop is then shifted in a distal direction relative to the ejected tubular member to eject the cauterization loop from the tubular member. The cauterization loop is manipulated from outside of the patient to pass the loop over the polyp and to at least partially close the loop to engage the polyp around a base region thereof. Upon a subsequent conducting of an electrical current through the cauterization loop to burn through the polyp at the base region, thereby severing the polyp at the base region, the cauterization loop is retracted into the tubular member and the auxiliary loop is ejected and maneuvered to enclose the severed polyp in the capture pocket. The auxiliary loop is at least partially closed to capture the severed internal body tissues in the pocket. The captured polyp is removed in the pocket from the patient.

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First Claim