the present invention is directed towards surgical devices and a method used in minimally invasive surgery whereby a device is incorporated into or onto an instrument to strengthen its shaft and improve its functionality in minimally invasive surgery . the primary goal of the invention is to increase the strength and rigidity of an instrument by using a specially designed sleeve that strengthens the instrument , thereby reducing its ability to bend and increasing its load carrying capacity . the invention will provide a system that gives extra strength and rigidity to small instrument shafts , so that surgeons can still safely and reliably perform their procedures , but can also use incisions that are as small as possible .