Modified laparoscopic instruments and methods of use

A method for performing nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy comprising:

• providing a surgical instrument comprising:
• an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, an operable end at the distal end of the shaft comprising at least two arms that are disposed opposite each other, the two arms having inner surfaces in longitudinal engagement with each other, the operable end having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a curved portion between the proximal portion and distal portion, wherein the distal portion tapers to a diameter of less than about 2 mm;
• providing the two arms with their inner surfaces in longitudinal engagement;
• inserting the distal portion of the operable end between the prostate and the cavernous nerves;
• manipulating the arms so as to provide a distance between their inner surfaces, thereby separating the prostate from the cavernous nerves;
• and
• dissecting the cavernous nerves from the prostate.