Abstract An instrument for the biopsy of subcutaneous masses includes an arcuate cannula having a serrated distal cutting end and is provided for alternative insertion, a correspondingly curved pointed stylet and a flexible ejector element. In performing a biopsy, and the skin is punctured and the cannula engaged stylet inserted through the puncture into the surface of the mass from its lateral or inferior aspect. The stylet is removed and the cannula advanced through the mass to cut and draw a specimen thereof into the cannula and the cannula is pushed through the overlying tissue to the skin, which is then punctured and the distal end of the cannula pushed through the puncture. The ejector is then pushed through the proximal end of the cannula to eject the specimen.
The method of claim 1, wherein said cannula is advanced through said first skin area to said mass, while engaged by a stylet provided with a pointed end positioned at the distal end of said cannula, and removing said stylet from said cannula prior to said cannula being advanced through said mass.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 1, wherein said specimen is ejected through said cannula by advancing a plunger through said cannula.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 1, including the step of puncturing said first area of said skin with a sharp instrument prior to the insertion of said cannula.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 1, including the step of puncturing the skin at said second area following the penetration of the mass by the cannula and before the emergence of the cannula through said second area.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
33 words
The method of claim 1, including the step of applying pressure to said mass through the surrounding tissue in a direction towards said cannula during the advance of said cannula through said mass.