The present invention provides a split endoscopic instrument including a handle and cannula in communication with a surgical site through a lumen therein the split endoscopic instrument being comprised of separable instrument halves that meet at a parting plane and are configured for operation between open and closed configurations and further includes retaining members and interlocking connectors for securely aligning the separable instrument halves together, the handle includes circumferential grooves extending radially therearound for receiving the retaining members therein.
