Apparatus and method for providing continuous access to an isolation space while maintaining isolation

A continuous access port for an isolation device, wherein the isolation device defines an isolation space and includes an air management system coupled to the isolation space, wherein the air management system maintains the isolation space substantially isolated from the external environment by re-circulating air through the isolation space, the continuous access port being coupled to the isolation space and comprising:

• a frame having first and second opposing edges extending in a first dimension and third and fourth opposing edges interconnecting ends of the first and second edges and extending in a second dimension, wherein the first dimension has length substantially exceeding the length of the second dimension;
• and
• obstructing means coupled to the first, second, third and fourth edges of the frame, such that, when an insertion item is inserted through the obstructing means into the isolation space, the insertion item is maneuverable within the isolation space in six degrees of freedom and the obstructing means obstructs venting of air into and out of the isolation space.