A biopsy instrument and method of using such are provided wherein the biopsy
instrument
includes a proximal actuation handle, an elongate flexible member, and a distal
assembly. The flexible member, connected to and extending from the actuation handle,
includes an aspiration conduit for fluid connection with a vacuum source and for
permitting the flow of fluid from the distal end to the proximal end of the biopsy
instrument. The flexible member may include an irrigation conduit for supplying
irrigation fluid to the distal end. The actuation handle includes a stationary
member and an actuation device, and may include a sample chamber, a sample collector,
valves for regulating the vacuum in the aspiration conduit and the fluid flow in
the irrigation conduit, and a pressure increasing device for selectively increasing
the pressure of the fluid supplied to the distal end. The distal assembly, coupled
to the distal end of the flexible member, may be comprised of a movable jaw and
a stationary jaw, or of first and second movable jaws. With the jaws in a closed
position, the distal assembly may provide a substantially fluidtight passageway
at the distal end of the aspiration conduit. The movable jaws are coupled to the
actuation device, such that actuation of the actuation handle moves the movable
jaws relative to the flexible member, thereby opening and closing the digital assembly.
