Diaphragm entry for posterior surgical access

An access device for creating a temporary cavity between organs in a body, the access device comprising:

• an elongate member having a working channel extending therethrough and exiting at an opening at a distal end of the elongate member, the elongate member having a distal portion adapted for insertion into the body and a proximal portion, the elongate member having a column strength to allow insertion of the distal portion between organs;
• a slot shaped opening at the distal end of the elongate member and extending proximally from the opening at the distal end along a side of the elongate member to provide access to a larger portion of the working channel of the elongate member;
• and
• a rail-member having a far section, a near section, and a mid-section located therebetween, where the far section is removably affixed relative to the elongate member, the near section being moveable relative to the elongate member, such that distal movement of the near section causes the mid-section of the rail-member to assume an arcuate profile distally to the slot shaped opening.