Balloon loaded dissection devices and methods for using such devices are
disclosed. The devices include an elongate balloon and may be provided with a central
lumen. The device may have a guide tube to provide columnar support. In a further
aspect, the guide tube may have a spoon-shaped shroud attached to a distal end.
The guide tube receives the guide rod, scope or other surgical instrument and may
have a stop member. By using the guide rod or scope as a pushing member, the device
may be advanced alongside the vessel it is desired to dissect free from attached
tissue. A balloon cover may be provided to surround the balloon and facilitate
compression of the balloon after it is deflated. In an additional feature, the
guide rod and/or tubular member are plastically bendable into a curved shape such
that the balloon dissector may be adjusted into a curved shape.