US Patent 7959580 Quick cycle biopsy system

A biopsy apparatus includes a cannula having a closed distal end. An orifice is located on a circumferential surface of the cannula. The orifice is configured to receive a tissue sample into a lumen of the cannula. A cutting sheath is slidably and coaxially disposed over the cannula. The cutting sheath is adapted to seal the opening of the orifice. A pressure generating device is connected to a proximal portion of the cannula for altering a pressure in the lumen of the cannula. A valve is positioned between the cannula and the pressure generating device for controlling a flow of a fluid between the lumen of the cannula and the pressure generating device.