A device for introducing surgical tools into a body is provided that a slotted cannula supported on a handle. The cannula is an elongate plate having a first end rigidly connected to an end of the handle, and a second end opposed to the first end. The plate is curved in the width direction so that the cannula has a cross-sectional shape that is a minor arc opening upward. As a result of this configuration, the cannula has a concave tool receiving surface, and an opposed, convex outer surface. A cannula fluid channel is disposed between the tool-receiving and outer surfaces. The cannula fluid channel extends from the handle to the second end of the cannula, and opens to the cannula exterior at the leading tip of the cannula.
