An obturator apparatus for penetration of tissue and for permitting visualizationincludes an elongated shaft having proximal and distal ends, and defining a longitudinalaxis and an optical transmitting member mounted adjacent the distal end of theelongated shaft. The optical transmitting member comprises a transparent materialfor permitting passage of light therethrough and has internal surfaces defininga hollow internal chamber and external surfaces adapted to penetrate tissue.The optical transmitting member is further adapted to provide an inclined fieldof view inclined relative to the longitudinal axis. The elongated shaft may includea longitudinal opening adapted for reception of an endoscope.
