I have a 97 Acura 2.2 Cl, 50500 miles. I haven't had any problems until I found I couldn't open the driver door from the inside although the door opens from the outside. I removed the door handle cover on both the passenger and driver doors and found that there's a piece in the driver door that's broken. I don't know the name of this piece but it acts like a hinge (the turning motion of the door handle is transmitted to a rod which pulls the door open). What I can't seem to find out is:
a. the name of this piece so that I can order it
b. an idea of how to go about repairing it myself

I would appreciate any help on this and a recommendation on whether I should have a mechanic fix this problem. Thanks in advance!