Multi-part instrument systems and methods

A method of using a two-part instrument, comprising:

• providing an elongate tool extending between a proximal and a distal end and having first and second body members, where the second body member is sized and shaped to sit within a lumen defined by the first body member and an end effector of the second body member is sized and shaped to extend through an opening at the distal end of the first body member;
• driving at least two degrees of freedom of the distal end effector via movement of the first body member;
• and
• driving an additional degree of freedom by actuating the distal end effector.

A method of assembling a tool, comprising:

• providing an elongate tool extending between a proximal and a distal end and having first and second body members, where the second body member is sized and shaped to reside within a lumen defined by the first body member and wherein the second body member includes an end effector;
• inserting the second body member through a proximal opening in the first body member and into the lumen in the first body member;
• moving the end effector through the lumen and out through a distal opening in the first body member;
• and
• mating the first and second body members such that movement of the first body member moves the end effector on the second body member and such that relative proximal and distal movement of the first and second body members is inhibited.

A two-part instrument system, comprising:

• an elongate guide tube having at least one channel;
• and
• a tool sized and shaped for passage through the at least one channel, the tool comprising a first and a second body member;
• the first body member including a controller, an elongate body having a lumen therein, and a distal end effector, and
• the second body member including an elongate body sized and shaped for receipt in the lumen of the first body and a distal manipulation section for driving the first and second body members when the first body member is positioned within the second body member.