Method for removing material from a patient's body

The invention comprises a method for removal of tumor tissue from a patient's body. The method generally comprises the steps of providing an apparatus comprising an elongate member for receiving tissue. The elongate member defines a lumen and comprises a distal end defining an aperture and a proximal end. The apparatus further comprises an elongate tissue removal member for conveying tissue through the lumen. The tissue removal member is rotatably disposed within the lumen. The method further comprises gathering a sample of said tissue into said lumen; and conveying with said tissue removal member at least a portion of the tissue sample proximally along said lumen. The step of gathering may be accomplished by advancing the apparatus through the tissue.