#$%^&*AU2006203018B220120419.pdf#####ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE An articulating endoscopic instrument is adapted for properly orienting the stomach for cutting and stapling in an efficient manner. The instrument includes a body member having a first end and a second end, a plurality of suction holes along 5 the body member in fluid communication with a suction inlet at the first end of the body member for the creation of suction along the body member and an articulating joint positioned along the body member. A method for gastric reduction surgery is achieved by inserting an articulating endoscopic instrument within the stomach and articulating the articulating endoscopic instrument to generally assume the shape of the [0 relaxed stomach, applying suction through the articulating endoscopic instrument to draw the stomach tissue into contact with the articulating endoscopic instrument, articulating the articulating endoscopic instrument to a desired orientation and completing the gastric reduction surgery.1/3 1 2 FIG. 1 2/ 10 12 / 2 30/
