A method is described for stabilizing moving tissue within the body. The method comprises creating a first opening for primary surgical access into the body, and a second opening spaced apart from the first opening in the body. An elongated stem having a proximal end and a distal end is inserted into the second opening. A foot having an upper and a lower surface is inserted into the first opening. The lower surface of the foot is engaged with the moving tissue within the body. The distal end of the stem is releaseably attached to the foot. The proximal end of the stem may be held so as to stabilize the moving tissue within the body.