Suturing apparatus and method

US7879046B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• DePuy Mitek, LLC · US

Inventors

• Christopher Weinert · Mansfield, US
• Ron Farkash · Rochester, US
• Dan Nelsen · East Greenwich, US
• Breck Petrillo · East Greenwich, US
• Michael Pereira · Smithfield, US
• David Robson · Barrington, US
• Thomas Weisel · Ventura, US
• Charles Johnson · Boulder, US
• David Skinlo · North Logan, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 20, 2007
• Grant date: Feb 1, 2011
• Expiry date: Feb 24, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2090/0814
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A suturing apparatus comprises a pair of jaws. A bendable needle housed in one of the jaws is adapted to carry a suture. An optional suture receiver may be disposed adjacent to the opposite jaw. A transition block curves the needle and directs it in a direction generally unparallel to an axis of the carrying jaw. The needle may also be configured to retrieve a suture. A retaining mechanism holds a suture in place to be engaged by the needle. The jaw housing the needle may include a lateral opening through which the suture may be inserted. The needle may also include a lateral notch which may be aligned with lateral opening to receive the suture. An actuator coupled to the needle enables the user to move the needle proximally to align the notch with the lateral slot.