US20050159763A1 - Suture welding device - Google Patents

Suture welding device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20050159763A1
US20050159763A1 US11/080,056 US8005605A US2005159763A1 US 20050159763 A1 US20050159763 A1 US 20050159763A1 US 8005605 A US8005605 A US 8005605A US 2005159763 A1 US2005159763 A1 US 2005159763A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
suture
grasping
snare
rod
jaws
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/080,056
Inventor
Kenneth Mollenauer
Theodore Kucklick
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Starion Instruments Corp
Original Assignee
Starion Instruments Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Starion Instruments Corp filed Critical Starion Instruments Corp
Priority to US11/080,056 priority Critical patent/US20050159763A1/en
Publication of US20050159763A1 publication Critical patent/US20050159763A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/04Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for suturing wounds; Holders or packages for needles or suture materials
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/04Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for suturing wounds; Holders or packages for needles or suture materials
    • A61B17/0485Devices or means, e.g. loops, for capturing the suture thread and threading it through an opening of a suturing instrument or needle eyelet
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/00491Surgical glue applicators
    • A61B2017/00504Tissue welding
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/04Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for suturing wounds; Holders or packages for needles or suture materials
    • A61B17/06Needles ; Sutures; Needle-suture combinations; Holders or packages for needles or suture materials
    • A61B17/06166Sutures
    • A61B2017/0619Sutures thermoplastic, e.g. for bonding, welding, fusing or cutting the suture by melting it

Definitions

  • the devices described below relate to the field of surgical devices and methods, specifically to the field of endoscopic suturing techniques.
  • Sutures and stitching are well known techniques for repairing body tissue after injury or surgery. Many types of surgery, such as gall bladder removal, hernia repair, and even coronary bypass surgery can now be performed through the techniques of endoscopic surgery.
  • Endoscopic surgery also referred to as laparoscopic surgery, minimally invasive surgery, or bloodless surgery, is performed through small incisions in the body with long slender cutting and grasping devices which can be inserted into the body through the small incisions.
  • the devices have small working mechanisms on the distal end (the end of the instrument that is inserted into the body) and convenient handles and operating mechanisms (for controlling the working mechanisms on the proximal end).
  • endoscopic scalpels and scissors for cutting tissue
  • endoscopic graspers and forceps for grabbing and manipulating tissue
  • endoscopic suture needles for stitching tissue. Stitching a surgical or traumatic wound closed within an endoscopic work space requires quite a bit of manual dexterity and experience, and the final process of tying a knot in the stitching is very difficult.
  • the devices and methods described below permit the closure of stitches during endoscopic surgery.
  • the devices are endoscopic tools capable of insertion into an endoscopic access port, such as a cannula, and include a long slender insertion rod with a handle and operating mechanism on the proximal end and a pair of grasping jaws on the distal end of the rod.
  • the grasping jaws are fitted with heating surfaces which can be heated to temperatures sufficient to melt suture.
  • a snare comprised of a snare portion and a rod is housed within the insertion rod. The snare portion can be pushed out the distal end of the insertion rod and manipulated to snare a length of suture and then pulled proximally into the insertion rod.
  • the snare may be twisted to create a length of twisted-together suture. Because the snare is drawn into the insertion rod, the entrapped suture is pulled into the space between the jaws where it can be grasped and melted by the jaws. This provides an easy way to get the suture between the jaws with limited movement of the insertion rod within the body and the endoscopic access port.
  • the suture may be tensioned as desired by the surgeon prior to melting by closing the jaws firmly on the suture while drawing the snare proximally, then closely the jaws tightly so that the suture is held in properly tensioned position while the weld is accomplished.
  • the jaws can be scissor-like, having opposing grasping faces which meet to clamp the suture between the grasping faces.
  • the grasping faces are mounted on co-axially disposed tubes, where the tubes rotate relative to the each other to bring the grasping faces together and close upon the suture.
  • a composite weldable suture is described below which is particularly useful in the creating of melted knots.
  • the suture comprises a core, which melts at moderately high temperatures compared to a porous fiber cover, which melts at a high temperature.
  • the cores melt and seep through the fiber cover and fuse together.
  • the presence of the fiber provides structural integrity to the suture which ensures that the melted knot does not separate from the standing part of the suture.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a suture welding device for grabbing sutures within and endoscopic work-space and fusing a knot in the suture.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a proximal handle design which permits one handed operation of the suture welding device.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 1 .
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate variations on the snare used with the suture welding device.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a rotary embodiment of the suture welding device.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 8 .
  • FIG. 10 is an illustration of the suture with a meltable component that may be used with the suture welding devices.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a suture welding device 1 .
  • the welding device is comprised of a long insertion rod 2 , with a distal end 3 and a proximal end 4 .
  • the distal end carries a pair of grasping jaws 5 and 6 mounted pivotably within the distal end and protruding from the distal end of the insertion rod.
  • the proximal end is fitted with a handle assembly 7 .
  • a snare 8 including a snaring portion 9 mounted on the distal end of a snare rod 10 is slidably and rotatably disposed within the lumen 11 in the insertion rod 2 .
  • the snare also includes the handle 12 mounted on its proximal end.
  • the snare exits out the distal end of the insertion rod, and as illustrated exits through a port in the distal face 13 of the insertion rod.
  • the snare provides a means for initially grasping loose suture ends and drawing the suture ends into close proximity to the jaws.
  • the jaws provide a second means for grasping the suture ends after they have been picked up by the snare.
  • the insertion rod may be any convenient length, typically 30 to 100 centimeters, and is preferably of small diameter about 2 mm to 2 cm to fit in standard endoscopic access cannulas.
  • the lumen of the insertion rod may also be configured to exit out the side-wall of the insertion rod, thereby directing the snare rod outwardly in a direction which is divergent from the long axis of the insertion rod.
  • the snare portion 9 is comprised of two arcuate branches of resilient metal or plastic, with each branch extending distally from the snare rod to curve first outwardly from the long axis of the snare rod and then inwardly toward the long axis of the snare rod to join together at their distal tips.
  • the resilient branches may preferentially open upon exit from the lumen, and be compressible into a narrow configuration upon withdrawal into the lumen.
  • the grasping jaws mounted on the distal end of the insertion rod extend distally from the insertion rod.
  • Each jaw 5 and 6 has a grasping face 17 and 18 which opposes the grasping face on the other jaw, and the jaws may be closed to bring the grasping faces into contact or close proximity.
  • the grasping face of each jaw includes resistive heating elements 19 and 20 which are connected to an appropriate power supply through electrical wires that run through the jaws and the insertion rod to electrical connector 21 in the handle.
  • the lower jaw 6 holds a suture cutting blade 22 aligned with blade channel 23 on the upper jaw 5 .
  • the grasping faces may have a serrated, knurled or ridged surface to assist in holding the sutures.
  • the handle assembly 7 may include any comfortable gripping structure such as a pistol grip or scissor handle, a trigger 24 for operating the jaws, and a switch 25 for applying electrical power to the heating elements.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a proximal handle design which permits one handed operation of the suture welding device.
  • the insertion rod 2 comprises a barrel which houses the snare 8 and the operating rod 26 for the jaws (which is pulled proximally to close the jaws).
  • the handle assembly 7 is mounted on the proximal end 4 of the insertion rod.
  • the snare is fixed to a screw 27 , so that rotation of the screw results in rotation of the snare.
  • the screw has high pitch threads, and slide yoke 28 engages the threads so the longitudinal movement of the slide yoke causes rotation of the screw and snare.
  • the yoke When the trigger 29 and yoke are pulled distally, the yoke eventually meets the stop plate 30 mounted on the proximal end of the screw, and further proximal movement of the trigger results in withdrawal of the snare loop 9 into the insertion rod. At this point, the jaws of the device are open, the snare has rotated to form a twist in any suture segments ensnared in the snare loop, and the snare loop has been pulled into the insertion rod. Further proximal travel of the trigger and slide yoke will cause the yoke (and the stop plate) to engage the stop plate 31 which is fixed to the jaw operating rod 26 , and force the operating rod proximally, thereby closing the jaws.
  • the slide yoke is fixed to the trigger 24 through a slot in the handle assembly barrel 32 and the proximal end of the insertion rod.
  • the trigger is slidably mounted in the handle assembly, and is biased to moved distally when not held or squeezed by the surgeon.
  • the bias may be provided with spring clips or spring loaded slides, or various other arrangements.
  • the surgeon may heat the heating elements by operating a push button switch 25 . While the device is illustrated with a grasper having two opposing jaws, it may be constructed with three or more grasping jaws in mutually opposing relationship.
  • the snare loop is illustrated as a two-armed snare, the snare may be-constructed with three or more arms which may be used to ensnare loose suture ends.
  • the operation of the devices is illustrated with a typical suture structure which requires joining two standing parts of the suture structure, three or more standing parts may be joined in the melted “knot” created by the device.
  • FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 illustrate the use of the suture welding device.
  • the suture 41 may be any fusible suture, including the suture described below in reference to FIG. 10 .
  • the suture segments may be referred to as the stitches 42 , the standing parts 43 and 44 (which are the lengths of suture remaining after the knot is welded), the welding portions 45 and 46 and the ends 47 and 48 (the ends are removed after the knot is-welded).
  • the snare loop 9 has been extended distally from the lumen 11 in the insertion rod 2 , and has been manipulated by the surgeon to snare the ends 47 and 48 .
  • FIG. 1 the distal end of the insertion rod is illustrated in proximity to a surgical incision 40 which has been stitched with-suture 41 .
  • the suture 41 may be any fusible suture, including the suture described below in reference to FIG. 10 .
  • the suture segments may be referred to as the stitches 42 , the standing parts 43 and 44 (which are the length
  • FIG. 4 illustrates that the snare and snare rod have been pulled proximally to draw the suture ends into the lumen 11 , drawing the welding portions 45 and 46 into the space between the jaws.
  • the snare rod has been rotated within the lumen to coil the fusing portions of the suture ends into a length of intertwined suture segments, referred to as the twist 49 .
  • the surgeon has closed the jaws upon the twist 49 . The surgeon ensures that enough suture has been taken up in the twist so that the sutured incision is properly closed, tensioning the suture by a combination of pulling and twisting to draw the suture into the insertion rod.
  • the suture may be tensioned as desired by the surgeon prior to melting by closing the jaws firmly on the suture while drawing the snare proximally, then closely the jaws tightly so that the suture is held in properly tensioned position while the weld is accomplished.
  • the surgeon then applies heating-power to the heating elements in the jaws by operating the switch 25 in the handle. The heat fuses the weld portions of each suture into mass that firmly holds the standing parts together, just as would a well tied knot.
  • the closure of the jaws also forces the blade through the suture ends to cut away any excessive length of suture above the weld.
  • the blade may be omitted where the suture used with the device is easily separable during welding, so the formation of the weld also results in separation of the standing part from the loose ends. A light tension on the loose ends during welding is sufficient to separate some sutures.)
  • the jaws When the jaws are opened, the melted twist is released from the jaws and remains in place within the body, just as would the knot.
  • the severed suture ends 47 and 48 may be withdrawn from the device by pulling the snare rod completely out of the proximal end of the suture welding device.
  • the sutures may be inserted into the snare using other endoscopic instruments inserted into the endoscopic workspace through other access ports, and the manipulations necessary to grab the suture and weld it at the proper place may be monitored with endoscopic cameras which are commonly used to visualized endoscopic procedures.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate variations of the snare that may be used with the suture welding device.
  • the snare is comprised of two diverging arms 50 extending from the snare rod and forming a Y together with the snare rod.
  • the arms of the grasper may be closed upon withdrawal into the lumen of the insertion rod.
  • the bosses 51 on the outer surface of each arm help urge the arms closed as they are impinged upon by the walls of the lumen.
  • the snare is comprised of an arcuate branch 52 extending distally from the snare rod and a partial arcuate branch 53 extending proximally from the distal end of the first arcuate branch 52 back toward the snare rod.
  • arcuate branch 52 extending distally from the snare rod
  • partial arcuate branch 53 extending proximally from the distal end of the first arcuate branch 52 back toward the snare rod.
  • Many other embodiments of snares may be used.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a rotary embodiment of the suture welding device.
  • the device comprises an insertion rod 2 with a distal end 3 and a proximal end 4 .
  • the outer tube 54 of the insertion rod houses an inner tube 55 which is rotatable within the outer tube.
  • heating anvil 56 and grasping surface 57 are formed from a radially extending boss.
  • the inner and outer tubes have a small slot 58 which opens on the distal extremity of each tube.
  • the slot defines longitudinally aligned slot wall 59 (visible in FIG. 8 ) and an opposing slot wall 60 (visible in FIG. 9 ) in the outer tube.
  • a small notch 61 is located in the slot wall 59 , opposite to the heating anvil, to receive and locate the suture in relation to the heating anvil.
  • the heating anvil is mounting on one edge of the slot of the inner tube, and extends radially outwardly from the center axis of the tube and into the slot of the outer tube.
  • the grasping surface of the outer tube is disposed on the slot wall of the outer tube slot which opposes the anvil, so that rotation of the inner tube rotates the anvil into mating relationship with the grasping surface of the outer tube.
  • the proximal end of the insertion rod 2 is fitted with a handle assembly 62 which enables rotation of the inner tube 55 to bring the grasping boss 56 into contact or close proximity with the matching grasping surface 57 within the longitudinally aligned slot on the outer tube.
  • a snare 10 is slidably and rotatably disposed within the insertion rod 2 , within a lumen 63 in the inner tube 55 .
  • the snare 8 includes a snare structure 9 mounted on the distal end of the snare rod 10 and the handle 12 mounted on the distal end. The snare exits out the distal end of the insertion rod, and as illustrated exits through the open lumen of the inner tube.
  • the snare is illustrated in the position within the inner tube, indicating that the surgeon has operated the snare to snare the suture ends, leaving the standing parts 43 and 44 outside the tube, and placing the welding portions 45 and 46 within the slot between the anvil and the grasping face.
  • a cutting blade 64 is disposed on the inner edge of the heating anvil, and provides an easily accessible blade for cutting the suture ends from the weld.
  • the handle assembly 62 includes a pistol grip with a trigger switch 65 which is operated by the surgeon to apply electrical energy to the anvil.
  • An aperture 66 through the proximal end of the barrel 2 and handle assembly accommodates a boss 67 which protrudes from the inner tube 55 .
  • the boss is fixed to the inner tube, so that the surgeon may push the boss downward to rotate the inner tube, and thereby close the grasping boss 56 upon the matching grasping surface 57 to grasp and melt the suture as described above.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a step in the operation of the rotating suture welding device of FIG. 8 .
  • the surgeon has tensioned the sutures as desired by pulling the appropriate amount of suture into the insertion rod and/or twisting the suture weld portions together.
  • Tensioning can be accomplished by twisting the standing parts of the suture and/or drawing the suture proximally in to the rod until the desired degree of tension is obtained.
  • the surgeon has drawn the suture end into the insertion rod, and has trapped the welding portions of the suture between the anvil 56 and the grasping surface 57 by rotating the inner tube relative to the outer tube. Closure of the anvil upon the grasping surface also results in closure of the blade 64 on the suture, severing the suture ends from the weld portions.
  • the blade may be omitted where the suture used with the device is easily separable during welding, so the formation of the weld combined with light tension on the loose ends of the suture results in separation of the standing part from the loose ends.
  • the weld is made such that the standing portion is of appropriate tension. After the weld is complete, the suture ends may be removed be pulling the snare rod proximally from the device.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates the suture with a meltable component that may be used with the suture welding devices.
  • the suture 74 is comprised of a meltable core 75 covered by a melt-resistant porous sheath 76 .
  • the core material flows through the porous sheath and flows into core material flowing from adjoining suture segments.
  • the temperature is maintained below the melting point of the sheath material, so that the sheath does not melt and remains in tact so that the suture does not break or separate upon melting of the core.
  • the core melts at temperatures above body temperature but below temperatures which would significantly damage surrounding body tissue, such as the range of 40° C. to 270° C.
  • the porous sheath preferably melts at temperatures above the temperature range in which the core melts, preferably being melt resistant to temperatures exceeding the melting temperature of the core material.
  • the core may be made of the following materials: polyethylene (120° C.), polypropylene, nylon (200° C.), polyethylene terepthalate (255-270° C.), polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and ePTFE (Teflon®), polyglycolic acid, polyvinylidene, polylecaprone, polydioxanone, polyglectin, polygalactin, polyvinylidene fluoride and many other thermoplastics.
  • the porous sheath may be made of the materials such as silk, cotton, catgut, stainless steel, polyamide, PTFE, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and any one of the above-mentioned core materials that melts at a higher temperature than the selected core material. It should be appreciated that many combinations of core and porous sheath materials can be achieved.

Abstract

Devices for welding suture segments in lieu of tying knots in sutures applied during endoscopic surgery. The devices provide for snaring loose suture ends and drawing the suture ends into a space between heating surfaces, and provide for closing the heating surfaces

Description

  • This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/215,679, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,866,672, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/596,487 filed Jun. 19, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,115, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/286,484 filed Apr. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,077,277.
  • FIELD OF THE INVENTIONS
  • The devices described below relate to the field of surgical devices and methods, specifically to the field of endoscopic suturing techniques.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS
  • Sutures and stitching are well known techniques for repairing body tissue after injury or surgery. Many types of surgery, such as gall bladder removal, hernia repair, and even coronary bypass surgery can now be performed through the techniques of endoscopic surgery. Endoscopic surgery, also referred to as laparoscopic surgery, minimally invasive surgery, or bloodless surgery, is performed through small incisions in the body with long slender cutting and grasping devices which can be inserted into the body through the small incisions. The devices have small working mechanisms on the distal end (the end of the instrument that is inserted into the body) and convenient handles and operating mechanisms (for controlling the working mechanisms on the proximal end). Surgeons use endoscopic scalpels and scissors for cutting tissue, endoscopic graspers and forceps for grabbing and manipulating tissue, and endoscopic suture needles for stitching tissue. Stitching a surgical or traumatic wound closed within an endoscopic work space requires quite a bit of manual dexterity and experience, and the final process of tying a knot in the stitching is very difficult.
  • Several devices have been suggested for assisting surgeons in securing the loose ends of a suture during open surgery. Rather than assisting the surgeon to tie a knot, the devices allow the surgeon to melt the two loose ends of the suture together or to create a melted mass on a single loose suture tip which prevents it from being withdrawn into the suture pathway. Zinnbauer, et al, Suture Cutting and Cauterizing Method Using Radiant Heat, U.S. Pat. No. 5,565,122 (Oct. 15, 1996), while not intended or adapted for endoscopic use, shows a device with jaws mounted at the distal end of a long neck, and a heating element over the jaws. When the jaws are laid against the skin, and the suture is place between the jaws, the heating element is heated to melt the suture and leave a melted mass of suture material on the suture. The melted mass prevents the suture from being pulled into and through the suture line. Polonsky, Suture Fusing and Cutting Apparatus, U.S. Pat. No. 4,662,068 (May 5, 1987) shows a pair of forceps with heat fusing surfaces on the grasping surfaces of the jaws. The forceps are used to grab and twist two loose suture ends and melt them together to secure the stitching.
  • SUMMARY
  • The devices and methods described below permit the closure of stitches during endoscopic surgery. The devices are endoscopic tools capable of insertion into an endoscopic access port, such as a cannula, and include a long slender insertion rod with a handle and operating mechanism on the proximal end and a pair of grasping jaws on the distal end of the rod. The grasping jaws are fitted with heating surfaces which can be heated to temperatures sufficient to melt suture. A snare comprised of a snare portion and a rod is housed within the insertion rod. The snare portion can be pushed out the distal end of the insertion rod and manipulated to snare a length of suture and then pulled proximally into the insertion rod. The snare may be twisted to create a length of twisted-together suture. Because the snare is drawn into the insertion rod, the entrapped suture is pulled into the space between the jaws where it can be grasped and melted by the jaws. This provides an easy way to get the suture between the jaws with limited movement of the insertion rod within the body and the endoscopic access port. The suture may be tensioned as desired by the surgeon prior to melting by closing the jaws firmly on the suture while drawing the snare proximally, then closely the jaws tightly so that the suture is held in properly tensioned position while the weld is accomplished.
  • In one embodiment, the jaws can be scissor-like, having opposing grasping faces which meet to clamp the suture between the grasping faces. In another embodiment, the grasping faces are mounted on co-axially disposed tubes, where the tubes rotate relative to the each other to bring the grasping faces together and close upon the suture.
  • A composite weldable suture is described below which is particularly useful in the creating of melted knots. The suture comprises a core, which melts at moderately high temperatures compared to a porous fiber cover, which melts at a high temperature. When two strands of suture are pressed together and exposed to heat, as in the operation of the suture welding devices, the cores melt and seep through the fiber cover and fuse together. The presence of the fiber provides structural integrity to the suture which ensures that the melted knot does not separate from the standing part of the suture.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a suture welding device for grabbing sutures within and endoscopic work-space and fusing a knot in the suture.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a proximal handle design which permits one handed operation of the suture welding device.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 1.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate variations on the snare used with the suture welding device.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a rotary embodiment of the suture welding device.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a step in the operation of the suture welding device of FIG. 8.
  • FIG. 10 is an illustration of the suture with a meltable component that may be used with the suture welding devices.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONS
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a suture welding device 1. The welding device is comprised of a long insertion rod 2, with a distal end 3 and a proximal end 4. The distal end carries a pair of grasping jaws 5 and 6 mounted pivotably within the distal end and protruding from the distal end of the insertion rod. The proximal end is fitted with a handle assembly 7. A snare 8 including a snaring portion 9 mounted on the distal end of a snare rod 10 is slidably and rotatably disposed within the lumen 11 in the insertion rod 2. The snare also includes the handle 12 mounted on its proximal end. The snare exits out the distal end of the insertion rod, and as illustrated exits through a port in the distal face 13 of the insertion rod. The snare provides a means for initially grasping loose suture ends and drawing the suture ends into close proximity to the jaws. The jaws provide a second means for grasping the suture ends after they have been picked up by the snare.
  • The insertion rod may be any convenient length, typically 30 to 100 centimeters, and is preferably of small diameter about 2 mm to 2 cm to fit in standard endoscopic access cannulas. The lumen of the insertion rod may also be configured to exit out the side-wall of the insertion rod, thereby directing the snare rod outwardly in a direction which is divergent from the long axis of the insertion rod. The snare portion 9 is comprised of two arcuate branches of resilient metal or plastic, with each branch extending distally from the snare rod to curve first outwardly from the long axis of the snare rod and then inwardly toward the long axis of the snare rod to join together at their distal tips. The resilient branches may preferentially open upon exit from the lumen, and be compressible into a narrow configuration upon withdrawal into the lumen. The grasping jaws mounted on the distal end of the insertion rod extend distally from the insertion rod. Each jaw 5 and 6 has a grasping face 17 and 18 which opposes the grasping face on the other jaw, and the jaws may be closed to bring the grasping faces into contact or close proximity. The grasping face of each jaw includes resistive heating elements 19 and 20 which are connected to an appropriate power supply through electrical wires that run through the jaws and the insertion rod to electrical connector 21 in the handle. The lower jaw 6 holds a suture cutting blade 22 aligned with blade channel 23 on the upper jaw 5. The grasping faces may have a serrated, knurled or ridged surface to assist in holding the sutures. The handle assembly 7 may include any comfortable gripping structure such as a pistol grip or scissor handle, a trigger 24 for operating the jaws, and a switch 25 for applying electrical power to the heating elements.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a proximal handle design which permits one handed operation of the suture welding device. The insertion rod 2 comprises a barrel which houses the snare 8 and the operating rod 26 for the jaws (which is pulled proximally to close the jaws). The handle assembly 7 is mounted on the proximal end 4 of the insertion rod. The snare is fixed to a screw 27, so that rotation of the screw results in rotation of the snare. The screw has high pitch threads, and slide yoke 28 engages the threads so the longitudinal movement of the slide yoke causes rotation of the screw and snare. When the trigger 29 and yoke are pulled distally, the yoke eventually meets the stop plate 30 mounted on the proximal end of the screw, and further proximal movement of the trigger results in withdrawal of the snare loop 9 into the insertion rod. At this point, the jaws of the device are open, the snare has rotated to form a twist in any suture segments ensnared in the snare loop, and the snare loop has been pulled into the insertion rod. Further proximal travel of the trigger and slide yoke will cause the yoke (and the stop plate) to engage the stop plate 31 which is fixed to the jaw operating rod 26, and force the operating rod proximally, thereby closing the jaws. The slide yoke is fixed to the trigger 24 through a slot in the handle assembly barrel 32 and the proximal end of the insertion rod. The trigger is slidably mounted in the handle assembly, and is biased to moved distally when not held or squeezed by the surgeon. The bias may be provided with spring clips or spring loaded slides, or various other arrangements. When the jaws are closed upon the sutures, the surgeon may heat the heating elements by operating a push button switch 25. While the device is illustrated with a grasper having two opposing jaws, it may be constructed with three or more grasping jaws in mutually opposing relationship. Likewise, although the snare loop is illustrated as a two-armed snare, the snare may be-constructed with three or more arms which may be used to ensnare loose suture ends. Additionally, while the operation of the devices is illustrated with a typical suture structure which requires joining two standing parts of the suture structure, three or more standing parts may be joined in the melted “knot” created by the device.
  • FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 illustrate the use of the suture welding device. In FIG. 3 the distal end of the insertion rod is illustrated in proximity to a surgical incision 40 which has been stitched with-suture 41. The suture 41 may be any fusible suture, including the suture described below in reference to FIG. 10. The suture segments may be referred to as the stitches 42, the standing parts 43 and 44 (which are the lengths of suture remaining after the knot is welded), the welding portions 45 and 46 and the ends 47 and 48 (the ends are removed after the knot is-welded). The snare loop 9 has been extended distally from the lumen 11 in the insertion rod 2, and has been manipulated by the surgeon to snare the ends 47 and 48. FIG. 4 illustrates that the snare and snare rod have been pulled proximally to draw the suture ends into the lumen 11, drawing the welding portions 45 and 46 into the space between the jaws. The snare rod has been rotated within the lumen to coil the fusing portions of the suture ends into a length of intertwined suture segments, referred to as the twist 49. In FIG. 5, the surgeon has closed the jaws upon the twist 49. The surgeon ensures that enough suture has been taken up in the twist so that the sutured incision is properly closed, tensioning the suture by a combination of pulling and twisting to draw the suture into the insertion rod. The suture may be tensioned as desired by the surgeon prior to melting by closing the jaws firmly on the suture while drawing the snare proximally, then closely the jaws tightly so that the suture is held in properly tensioned position while the weld is accomplished. The surgeon then applies heating-power to the heating elements in the jaws by operating the switch 25 in the handle. The heat fuses the weld portions of each suture into mass that firmly holds the standing parts together, just as would a well tied knot. The closure of the jaws also forces the blade through the suture ends to cut away any excessive length of suture above the weld. (The blade may be omitted where the suture used with the device is easily separable during welding, so the formation of the weld also results in separation of the standing part from the loose ends. A light tension on the loose ends during welding is sufficient to separate some sutures.) When the jaws are opened, the melted twist is released from the jaws and remains in place within the body, just as would the knot. The severed suture ends 47 and 48 may be withdrawn from the device by pulling the snare rod completely out of the proximal end of the suture welding device. The sutures may be inserted into the snare using other endoscopic instruments inserted into the endoscopic workspace through other access ports, and the manipulations necessary to grab the suture and weld it at the proper place may be monitored with endoscopic cameras which are commonly used to visualized endoscopic procedures.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate variations of the snare that may be used with the suture welding device. In FIG. 6, the snare is comprised of two diverging arms 50 extending from the snare rod and forming a Y together with the snare rod. The arms of the grasper may be closed upon withdrawal into the lumen of the insertion rod. The bosses 51 on the outer surface of each arm help urge the arms closed as they are impinged upon by the walls of the lumen. In FIG. 7, the snare is comprised of an arcuate branch 52 extending distally from the snare rod and a partial arcuate branch 53 extending proximally from the distal end of the first arcuate branch 52 back toward the snare rod. Many other embodiments of snares may be used.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a rotary embodiment of the suture welding device. The device comprises an insertion rod 2 with a distal end 3 and a proximal end 4. The outer tube 54 of the insertion rod houses an inner tube 55 which is rotatable within the outer tube. On the distal end of the inner tubes, heating anvil 56 and grasping surface 57 are formed from a radially extending boss. The inner and outer tubes have a small slot 58 which opens on the distal extremity of each tube. The slot defines longitudinally aligned slot wall 59 (visible in FIG. 8) and an opposing slot wall 60 (visible in FIG. 9) in the outer tube. A small notch 61 is located in the slot wall 59, opposite to the heating anvil, to receive and locate the suture in relation to the heating anvil. The heating anvil is mounting on one edge of the slot of the inner tube, and extends radially outwardly from the center axis of the tube and into the slot of the outer tube. The grasping surface of the outer tube is disposed on the slot wall of the outer tube slot which opposes the anvil, so that rotation of the inner tube rotates the anvil into mating relationship with the grasping surface of the outer tube. The proximal end of the insertion rod 2 is fitted with a handle assembly 62 which enables rotation of the inner tube 55 to bring the grasping boss 56 into contact or close proximity with the matching grasping surface 57 within the longitudinally aligned slot on the outer tube. A snare 10 is slidably and rotatably disposed within the insertion rod 2, within a lumen 63 in the inner tube 55. The snare 8 includes a snare structure 9 mounted on the distal end of the snare rod 10 and the handle 12 mounted on the distal end. The snare exits out the distal end of the insertion rod, and as illustrated exits through the open lumen of the inner tube. The snare is illustrated in the position within the inner tube, indicating that the surgeon has operated the snare to snare the suture ends, leaving the standing parts 43 and 44 outside the tube, and placing the welding portions 45 and 46 within the slot between the anvil and the grasping face. A cutting blade 64 is disposed on the inner edge of the heating anvil, and provides an easily accessible blade for cutting the suture ends from the weld. The handle assembly 62 includes a pistol grip with a trigger switch 65 which is operated by the surgeon to apply electrical energy to the anvil. An aperture 66 through the proximal end of the barrel 2 and handle assembly accommodates a boss 67 which protrudes from the inner tube 55. The boss is fixed to the inner tube, so that the surgeon may push the boss downward to rotate the inner tube, and thereby close the grasping boss 56 upon the matching grasping surface 57 to grasp and melt the suture as described above.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a step in the operation of the rotating suture welding device of FIG. 8. Again, the surgeon has tensioned the sutures as desired by pulling the appropriate amount of suture into the insertion rod and/or twisting the suture weld portions together. Tensioning can be accomplished by twisting the standing parts of the suture and/or drawing the suture proximally in to the rod until the desired degree of tension is obtained. The surgeon has drawn the suture end into the insertion rod, and has trapped the welding portions of the suture between the anvil 56 and the grasping surface 57 by rotating the inner tube relative to the outer tube. Closure of the anvil upon the grasping surface also results in closure of the blade 64 on the suture, severing the suture ends from the weld portions. (Again, the blade may be omitted where the suture used with the device is easily separable during welding, so the formation of the weld combined with light tension on the loose ends of the suture results in separation of the standing part from the loose ends.) The weld is made such that the standing portion is of appropriate tension. After the weld is complete, the suture ends may be removed be pulling the snare rod proximally from the device.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates the suture with a meltable component that may be used with the suture welding devices. The suture 74 is comprised of a meltable core 75 covered by a melt-resistant porous sheath 76. Upon application of heat sufficient to melt the core, the core material flows through the porous sheath and flows into core material flowing from adjoining suture segments. The temperature is maintained below the melting point of the sheath material, so that the sheath does not melt and remains in tact so that the suture does not break or separate upon melting of the core. Preferably, the core melts at temperatures above body temperature but below temperatures which would significantly damage surrounding body tissue, such as the range of 40° C. to 270° C. (these temperatures can be achieved briefly in the heating elements without causing harmful heating in the surrounding body tissue). The porous sheath preferably melts at temperatures above the temperature range in which the core melts, preferably being melt resistant to temperatures exceeding the melting temperature of the core material. The core may be made of the following materials: polyethylene (120° C.), polypropylene, nylon (200° C.), polyethylene terepthalate (255-270° C.), polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and ePTFE (Teflon®), polyglycolic acid, polyvinylidene, polylecaprone, polydioxanone, polyglectin, polygalactin, polyvinylidene fluoride and many other thermoplastics. The porous sheath may be made of the materials such as silk, cotton, catgut, stainless steel, polyamide, PTFE, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and any one of the above-mentioned core materials that melts at a higher temperature than the selected core material. It should be appreciated that many combinations of core and porous sheath materials can be achieved.
  • Thus, while the preferred embodiments of the devices and methods have been described in reference to the environment in which they were developed, they are merely illustrative of the principles of the inventions. Other embodiments and configurations may be devised without departing from the spirit of the inventions and the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (10)

1. A device for securing a plurality of segments of suture together, said device comprising:
an insertion rod having a distal and a proximal end, said distal end adapted to be inserted into an endoscopic work space;
a first means for grasping the suture, said first means being capable of snaring loose suture ends within an endoscopic work space, said first means for grasping suture being slidably disposed within the insertion rod and being operable from the proximal end of the insertion rod to grasp at least one segment of suture;
a second means for grasping the suture, said second means being disposed near the distal end of the insertion rod, said second means for grasping including means for heating the suture.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein the second means for grasping comprises:
a pair of grasping jaws disposed on the distal tip of the insertion rod, said jaws being operable from the proximal end of the insertion rod to open and close upon a segment of suture.
3. The device of claim 2 wherein the means for heating the suture comprises a heating element disposed on at least one of the grasping jaws.
4. The device of claim 3 further comprising a snare rod slidably disposed within the insertion rod and operatively connected to the first means for grasping the suture, wherein the snare rod is operable from the proximal end of the insertion rod.
5. The device of claim 4 wherein the first means for grasping the suture comprises two arcuate branches, with each branch extending distally from the snare rod to curve first outwardly from the long axis of the snare rod and then inwardly towards the long axis of the snare rod such that each branch is joined together at their distal tips.
6. The device of claim 4 wherein the first means for grasping the suture comprises:
a first arcuate branch extending distally from the snare rod; and
a second arcuate branch extending proximally from the distal end of the first arcuate branch, said second arcuate branch extending only partially towards the snare rod.
7. A device for securing a plurality of segments of suture together, said device comprising:
a barrel having a distal and a proximal end;
a first means for grasping the suture, said first means being capable of snaring loose suture ends, said first means for grasping suture being slidably disposed within the barrel and being operable from the proximal end of the barrel to grasp at least one segment of suture;
a second means for grasping the suture, said second means being disposed near the distal end of the barrel, said second means including means for heating the suture.
8. The device of claim 7 wherein the second means for grasping comprises:
a pair of grasping jaws disposed on the distal tip of the barrel, said jaws being operable from the proximal end of the barrel to open and close upon a segment of suture.
9. The device of claim 8 wherein the means for heating the suture comprises a heating element disposed on at least one of the grasping jaws.
10. The device of claim 9 wherein the first means for grasping the suture is operatively attached to a snare rod, wherein the snare rod is slidably disposed within the barrel and the snare rod is operable from the proximal end of the barrel.
US11/080,056 1999-04-05 2005-03-15 Suture welding device Abandoned US20050159763A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/080,056 US20050159763A1 (en) 1999-04-05 2005-03-15 Suture welding device

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/286,484 US6077277A (en) 1999-04-05 1999-04-05 Suture welding device
US09/596,487 US6432115B1 (en) 1999-04-05 2000-06-19 Suture welding device
US10/215,679 US6866672B2 (en) 1999-04-05 2002-08-10 Suture welding device
US11/080,056 US20050159763A1 (en) 1999-04-05 2005-03-15 Suture welding device

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/215,679 Continuation US6866672B2 (en) 1999-04-05 2002-08-10 Suture welding device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20050159763A1 true US20050159763A1 (en) 2005-07-21

Family

ID=23098809

Family Applications (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/286,484 Expired - Lifetime US6077277A (en) 1999-04-05 1999-04-05 Suture welding device
US09/596,487 Expired - Lifetime US6432115B1 (en) 1999-04-05 2000-06-19 Suture welding device
US10/215,679 Expired - Fee Related US6866672B2 (en) 1999-04-05 2002-08-10 Suture welding device
US11/080,056 Abandoned US20050159763A1 (en) 1999-04-05 2005-03-15 Suture welding device

Family Applications Before (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/286,484 Expired - Lifetime US6077277A (en) 1999-04-05 1999-04-05 Suture welding device
US09/596,487 Expired - Lifetime US6432115B1 (en) 1999-04-05 2000-06-19 Suture welding device
US10/215,679 Expired - Fee Related US6866672B2 (en) 1999-04-05 2002-08-10 Suture welding device

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (4) US6077277A (en)
EP (1) EP1168966B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4705718B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE455502T1 (en)
AU (1) AU767693B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2366775C (en)
DE (1) DE60043722D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2339325T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2000059383A1 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050209639A1 (en) * 2004-03-08 2005-09-22 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Fused suture knot
US20140364907A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2014-12-11 Arthrocare Corporation Independent suture tensioning and snaring apparatus
US20180028215A1 (en) * 2011-09-28 2018-02-01 Mitracore Technologies Inc. Apparatuses and methods for cutting a tissue bridge and/or removing a heart valve clip or suture
CN108814666A (en) * 2013-11-18 2018-11-16 爱德华兹生命科学股份公司 Repeatedly percussion compression bonding apparatus
WO2019213275A1 (en) 2018-05-04 2019-11-07 Arch Day Design, Llc Suture passing device
US10667804B2 (en) 2014-03-17 2020-06-02 Evalve, Inc. Mitral valve fixation device removal devices and methods
US10736632B2 (en) 2016-07-06 2020-08-11 Evalve, Inc. Methods and devices for valve clip excision
US11071564B2 (en) 2016-10-05 2021-07-27 Evalve, Inc. Cardiac valve cutting device

Families Citing this family (249)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050216059A1 (en) 2002-09-05 2005-09-29 Bonutti Peter M Method and apparatus for securing a suture
US6045551A (en) 1998-02-06 2000-04-04 Bonutti; Peter M. Bone suture
US6447488B2 (en) * 1998-03-19 2002-09-10 Biolink Corporation Apparatus for the dialysis of blood, method for fabricating the same, and method for the dialysis of blood
EP0979635A2 (en) 1998-08-12 2000-02-16 Origin Medsystems, Inc. Tissue dissector apparatus
US7485092B1 (en) 1998-08-12 2009-02-03 Maquet Cardiovascular Llc Vessel harvesting apparatus and method
US7534243B1 (en) 1998-08-12 2009-05-19 Maquet Cardiovascular Llc Dissection and welding of tissue
US7695470B1 (en) 1998-08-12 2010-04-13 Maquet Cardiovascular Llc Integrated vessel ligator and transector
US6077277A (en) * 1999-04-05 2000-06-20 Starion Instruments, Inc. Suture welding device
US6488689B1 (en) 1999-05-20 2002-12-03 Aaron V. Kaplan Methods and apparatus for transpericardial left atrial appendage closure
ATE329531T1 (en) 1999-07-02 2006-07-15 Quickpass Inc SURGICAL SEWING DEVICE
US6596015B1 (en) * 1999-07-13 2003-07-22 Loma Linda University Medical Center Methods and apparatus for annealing sutures
US6447516B1 (en) 1999-08-09 2002-09-10 Peter M. Bonutti Method of securing tissue
US6368343B1 (en) * 2000-03-13 2002-04-09 Peter M. Bonutti Method of using ultrasonic vibration to secure body tissue
US6635073B2 (en) 2000-05-03 2003-10-21 Peter M. Bonutti Method of securing body tissue
US8932330B2 (en) 2000-03-13 2015-01-13 P Tech, Llc Method and device for securing body tissue
US9138222B2 (en) * 2000-03-13 2015-09-22 P Tech, Llc Method and device for securing body tissue
US7329263B2 (en) * 2000-03-13 2008-02-12 Marctec, Llc Method and device for securing body tissue
US7094251B2 (en) * 2002-08-27 2006-08-22 Marctec, Llc. Apparatus and method for securing a suture
WO2001087165A1 (en) * 2000-05-17 2001-11-22 Axya Medical, Inc. Suture welder
US6733509B2 (en) 2000-08-25 2004-05-11 Sutura, Inc. Suture cutter
US6558313B1 (en) 2000-11-17 2003-05-06 Embro Corporation Vein harvesting system and method
US7842050B2 (en) * 2001-02-26 2010-11-30 Diduch David R Suture passing devices
US7048748B1 (en) 2001-03-21 2006-05-23 Uestuener Emin Tuncay Automatic surgical suturing instrument and method
JP2005502423A (en) * 2001-07-27 2005-01-27 スタリオン・インストゥルメンツ・コーポレイション Apparatus and method for polypectomy
US6616659B1 (en) 2001-07-27 2003-09-09 Starion Instruments Corporation Polypectomy device and method
US6937899B2 (en) 2001-08-30 2005-08-30 Medtronic, Inc. Ischemia detection
ATE554824T1 (en) 2001-08-30 2012-05-15 Medtronic Inc DEVICE FOR DETECTING MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA
US6942672B2 (en) * 2001-10-23 2005-09-13 Vascor, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching a conduit to the heart or a blood vessel
US7181268B2 (en) * 2001-12-03 2007-02-20 Medtronic, Inc. Ischemia detection
US6719765B2 (en) 2001-12-03 2004-04-13 Bonutti 2003 Trust-A Magnetic suturing system and method
US6746457B2 (en) 2001-12-07 2004-06-08 Abbott Laboratories Snared suture trimmer
US8211123B2 (en) 2001-12-21 2012-07-03 Abbott Laboratories Suture trimmer
US7582097B2 (en) * 2001-12-18 2009-09-01 Ethicon, Inc. Suture welding system and method
US9155544B2 (en) 2002-03-20 2015-10-13 P Tech, Llc Robotic systems and methods
FR2843291B1 (en) 2002-08-06 2005-06-03 Univ Aix Marseille Ii SEMIAUTOMATIC DEVICE FOR REALIZING SUTURE USING SURGICAL WIRE
US20040087974A1 (en) * 2002-09-16 2004-05-06 Bittar Edward S. Suture welding device and method of welding
US20040122451A1 (en) * 2002-12-23 2004-06-24 Wood Timothy J. Method and device for closing and fusing suture loops
US7330889B2 (en) * 2003-03-06 2008-02-12 Actional Corporation Network interaction analysis arrangement
US8066718B2 (en) * 2003-03-18 2011-11-29 Depuy Mitek, Inc. Expandable needle suture apparatus and associated handle assembly
US8585714B2 (en) 2003-03-18 2013-11-19 Depuy Mitek, Llc Expandable needle suture apparatus and associated handle assembly with rotational suture manipulation system
US7497864B2 (en) 2003-04-30 2009-03-03 Marctec, Llc. Tissue fastener and methods for using same
US20040225301A1 (en) * 2003-05-05 2004-11-11 St. Jude Medical, Daig Division, Inc. Loop closure apparatus and method
EP1663014B1 (en) * 2003-09-11 2008-08-13 NMT Medical, Inc. Suture sever tube
US7846168B2 (en) 2003-10-09 2010-12-07 Sentreheart, Inc. Apparatus and method for the ligation of tissue
US7608092B1 (en) 2004-02-20 2009-10-27 Biomet Sports Medicince, LLC Method and apparatus for performing meniscus repair
US20080039873A1 (en) 2004-03-09 2008-02-14 Marctec, Llc. Method and device for securing body tissue
US7457823B2 (en) 2004-05-02 2008-11-25 Markmonitor Inc. Methods and systems for analyzing data related to possible online fraud
US9203648B2 (en) 2004-05-02 2015-12-01 Thomson Reuters Global Resources Online fraud solution
US7870608B2 (en) 2004-05-02 2011-01-11 Markmonitor, Inc. Early detection and monitoring of online fraud
US8041769B2 (en) 2004-05-02 2011-10-18 Markmonitor Inc. Generating phish messages
US7913302B2 (en) 2004-05-02 2011-03-22 Markmonitor, Inc. Advanced responses to online fraud
US7992204B2 (en) 2004-05-02 2011-08-02 Markmonitor, Inc. Enhanced responses to online fraud
US7862583B2 (en) * 2004-05-27 2011-01-04 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Fusible suture and method for suturing therewith
US8475476B2 (en) * 2004-06-01 2013-07-02 Cook Medical Technologies Llc System and method for accessing a body cavity
AU2005277073A1 (en) * 2004-08-24 2006-03-02 Depuy Mitek, Inc. Expandable needle suture apparatus and associated handle assembly with rotational suture manipulation system
US7435251B2 (en) * 2004-08-31 2008-10-14 Green David T System for securing a suture
US8628519B2 (en) 2004-09-17 2014-01-14 The Spectranetics Corporation Rapid exchange bias laser catheter design
US8545488B2 (en) * 2004-09-17 2013-10-01 The Spectranetics Corporation Cardiovascular imaging system
US9173647B2 (en) 2004-10-26 2015-11-03 P Tech, Llc Tissue fixation system
US20060089646A1 (en) 2004-10-26 2006-04-27 Bonutti Peter M Devices and methods for stabilizing tissue and implants
US9271766B2 (en) 2004-10-26 2016-03-01 P Tech, Llc Devices and methods for stabilizing tissue and implants
US9463012B2 (en) * 2004-10-26 2016-10-11 P Tech, Llc Apparatus for guiding and positioning an implant
US8244355B2 (en) * 2004-10-29 2012-08-14 Medtronic, Inc. Method and apparatus to provide diagnostic index and therapy regulated by subject's autonomic nervous system
US7905904B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2011-03-15 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Soft tissue repair device and associated methods
US9017381B2 (en) 2007-04-10 2015-04-28 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Adjustable knotless loops
US7857830B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2010-12-28 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Soft tissue repair and conduit device
US20060189993A1 (en) 2004-11-09 2006-08-24 Arthrotek, Inc. Soft tissue conduit device
US7601165B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2009-10-13 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for forming a self-locking adjustable suture loop
US7909851B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2011-03-22 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Soft tissue repair device and associated methods
US8303604B2 (en) 2004-11-05 2012-11-06 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Soft tissue repair device and method
US8840645B2 (en) 2004-11-05 2014-09-23 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US8088130B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2012-01-03 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US7905903B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2011-03-15 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method for tissue fixation
US8361113B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2013-01-29 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US8118836B2 (en) 2004-11-05 2012-02-21 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US8128658B2 (en) 2004-11-05 2012-03-06 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to bone
US8298262B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2012-10-30 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method for tissue fixation
US8137382B2 (en) 2004-11-05 2012-03-20 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling anatomical features
US7749250B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2010-07-06 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Soft tissue repair assembly and associated method
US9801708B2 (en) 2004-11-05 2017-10-31 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US8998949B2 (en) 2004-11-09 2015-04-07 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Soft tissue conduit device
US20120059415A1 (en) * 2005-02-07 2012-03-08 Sklar Joseph H Knotless suture anchor for securing soft tissue to bone
US9089323B2 (en) 2005-02-22 2015-07-28 P Tech, Llc Device and method for securing body tissue
WO2006110734A2 (en) 2005-04-07 2006-10-19 Sentreheart, Inc. Apparatus and method for the ligation of tissue
AU2006262498B2 (en) 2005-06-20 2011-11-03 Nobles Medical Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for applying a knot to a suture
US20160001064A1 (en) 2005-07-22 2016-01-07 The Spectranetics Corporation Endocardial lead cutting apparatus
US7993359B1 (en) 2005-07-27 2011-08-09 The Spectrametics Corporation Endocardial lead removing apparatus
US8097012B2 (en) * 2005-07-27 2012-01-17 The Spectranetics Corporation Endocardial lead removing apparatus
US9538998B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2017-01-10 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for fracture fixation
US8652172B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2014-02-18 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Flexible anchors for tissue fixation
US9271713B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2016-03-01 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for tensioning a suture
US8968364B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2015-03-03 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for fixation of an ACL graft
US8771352B2 (en) 2011-05-17 2014-07-08 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for tibial fixation of an ACL graft
US8562647B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2013-10-22 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for securing soft tissue to bone
US11311287B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2022-04-26 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method for tissue fixation
US8562645B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2013-10-22 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for forming a self-locking adjustable loop
US8801783B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2014-08-12 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Prosthetic ligament system for knee joint
US8251998B2 (en) 2006-08-16 2012-08-28 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Chondral defect repair
US10517587B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2019-12-31 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for forming a self-locking adjustable loop
US8506597B2 (en) 2011-10-25 2013-08-13 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for interosseous membrane reconstruction
US11259792B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2022-03-01 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling anatomical features
US8652171B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2014-02-18 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for soft tissue fixation
US8597327B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2013-12-03 Biomet Manufacturing, Llc Method and apparatus for sternal closure
US7959650B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2011-06-14 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Adjustable knotless loops
US9078644B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2015-07-14 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Fracture fixation device
US9149267B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2015-10-06 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US8574235B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2013-11-05 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method for trochanteric reattachment
US9468433B2 (en) 2006-02-03 2016-10-18 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for forming a self-locking adjustable loop
US11278331B2 (en) 2006-02-07 2022-03-22 P Tech Llc Method and devices for intracorporeal bonding of implants with thermal energy
US11253296B2 (en) 2006-02-07 2022-02-22 P Tech, Llc Methods and devices for intracorporeal bonding of implants with thermal energy
US7967820B2 (en) 2006-02-07 2011-06-28 P Tech, Llc. Methods and devices for trauma welding
US8496657B2 (en) 2006-02-07 2013-07-30 P Tech, Llc. Methods for utilizing vibratory energy to weld, stake and/or remove implants
US7749249B2 (en) 2006-02-21 2010-07-06 Kardium Inc. Method and device for closing holes in tissue
US20070198032A1 (en) * 2006-02-22 2007-08-23 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for fastener removal
US7572265B2 (en) * 2006-03-21 2009-08-11 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for passing a suture
US11246638B2 (en) 2006-05-03 2022-02-15 P Tech, Llc Methods and devices for utilizing bondable materials
US9770230B2 (en) 2006-06-01 2017-09-26 Maquet Cardiovascular Llc Endoscopic vessel harvesting system components
US8449605B2 (en) 2006-06-28 2013-05-28 Kardium Inc. Method for anchoring a mitral valve
US7837610B2 (en) 2006-08-02 2010-11-23 Kardium Inc. System for improving diastolic dysfunction
US8672969B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2014-03-18 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Fracture fixation device
US8500818B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2013-08-06 Biomet Manufacturing, Llc Knee prosthesis assembly with ligament link
US11259794B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2022-03-01 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method for implanting soft tissue
US9918826B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2018-03-20 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Scaffold for spring ligament repair
US20080086147A1 (en) * 2006-10-05 2008-04-10 Knapp Thomas P Shape memory filament for suture management
US9072514B2 (en) 2006-10-05 2015-07-07 Thomas P. Knapp Shape memory filament for suture management
US7947053B2 (en) * 2006-10-10 2011-05-24 Mckay Raymond G Suturing device and technique
US8906044B2 (en) * 2006-10-20 2014-12-09 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Knot pusher device
US8114128B2 (en) 2006-11-01 2012-02-14 Depuy Mitek, Inc. Cannulated suture anchor
US8592730B2 (en) * 2006-12-20 2013-11-26 Tomier, Inc. Heater assembly for suture welder
US8617185B2 (en) 2007-02-13 2013-12-31 P Tech, Llc. Fixation device
WO2008121738A2 (en) 2007-03-29 2008-10-09 Sutura, Inc. Suturing devices and methods for closing a patent foramen ovale
PL2574287T3 (en) 2007-03-30 2015-10-30 Sentreheart Inc Devices for closing the left atrial appendage
US7799040B2 (en) * 2007-04-04 2010-09-21 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7951159B2 (en) * 2007-04-04 2011-05-31 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7815653B2 (en) * 2007-04-04 2010-10-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7722628B2 (en) * 2007-04-04 2010-05-25 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7803166B2 (en) * 2007-04-04 2010-09-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US8702754B2 (en) 2007-09-14 2014-04-22 Depuy Mitek, Llc Methods for anchoring suture to bone
US8882801B2 (en) * 2007-09-14 2014-11-11 Depuy Mitek, Llc Dual thread cannulated suture anchor
EP3272297B1 (en) * 2007-09-20 2020-04-22 Sentreheart, Inc. Devices for remote suture management
JP5848125B2 (en) 2008-05-09 2016-01-27 ノーブルズ メディカル テクノロジーズ、インコーポレイテッド Suture device and method for suturing anatomic valves
US20090287304A1 (en) 2008-05-13 2009-11-19 Kardium Inc. Medical Device for Constricting Tissue or a Bodily Orifice, for example a mitral valve
US20110257663A1 (en) * 2008-07-18 2011-10-20 Unsworth John D Suture system for manual and robotic surgery with suture thread gatherer and fuser and double pointed suture needle for one hand application (3)
US20100023026A1 (en) * 2008-07-25 2010-01-28 Zeiner Mark S Reloadable laparoscopic fastener deploying device with disposable cartridge for use in a gastric volume reduction procedure
US20100023025A1 (en) * 2008-07-25 2010-01-28 Zeiner Mark S Reloadable laparoscopic fastener deploying device with disposable cartridge for use in a gastric volume reduction procedure
US20100023022A1 (en) * 2008-07-25 2010-01-28 Zeiner Mark S Reloadable laparoscopic fastener deploying device with disposable cartridge use in a gastric volume reduction procedure
US8025855B2 (en) * 2008-07-25 2011-09-27 Continental Plastic Corp. Semen container with specialized tip
US10016196B2 (en) * 2008-09-11 2018-07-10 Covidien Lp Tapered looped suture
US20100204729A1 (en) * 2008-09-11 2010-08-12 Ahmad Robert Hadba Tapered Looped Suture
US8056599B2 (en) * 2008-09-24 2011-11-15 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp System and method of making tapered looped suture
US9023058B2 (en) * 2008-10-07 2015-05-05 Kardium Inc. Surgical instrument and method for tensioning and securing a flexible suture
US8888791B2 (en) 2008-10-07 2014-11-18 Kardium Inc. Surgical instrument and method for tensioning and securing a flexible suture
US8403017B2 (en) * 2008-10-27 2013-03-26 Covidien Lp System, method and apparatus for making tapered looped suture
EP2400899A4 (en) 2009-02-24 2015-03-18 P Tech Llc Methods and devices for utilizing bondable materials
EP2410923B1 (en) * 2009-03-23 2019-10-02 Linvatec Corporation Suture passing apparatus
US8590588B2 (en) * 2009-04-29 2013-11-26 Covidien Lp System and method for making tapered looped suture
US9038688B2 (en) 2009-04-29 2015-05-26 Covidien Lp System and method for making tapered looped suture
US8343227B2 (en) 2009-05-28 2013-01-01 Biomet Manufacturing Corp. Knee prosthesis assembly with ligament link
US9179905B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2015-11-10 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for re-attaching the labrum to the acetabulum, including the provision and use of a novel suture anchor system
US11246585B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2022-02-15 Stryker Puerto Rico Limited Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system
US10136884B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2018-11-27 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system, including a retractable sheath
US11197663B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2021-12-14 Stryker Puerto Rico Limited Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system
US10058319B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2018-08-28 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system, including a novel locking element
US9149268B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2015-10-06 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system
US10238379B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2019-03-26 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system
US10426456B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2019-10-01 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for re-attaching the labrum to the acetabulum, including the provision and use of a novel suture anchor system
FR2951348B1 (en) * 2009-10-12 2012-02-03 Tornier Sa HEATING ELEMENT AND SURGICAL APPARATUS EMPLOYING THE SAME
US9220523B2 (en) 2009-09-14 2015-12-29 The Spectranetics Corporation Snaring systems and methods
WO2011041571A2 (en) 2009-10-01 2011-04-07 Kardium Inc. Medical device, kit and method for constricting tissue or a bodily orifice, for example, a mitral valve
US10743854B2 (en) 2010-01-20 2020-08-18 Micro Interventional Devices, Inc. Tissue closure device and method
US10959840B2 (en) 2010-01-20 2021-03-30 Micro Interventional Devices, Inc. Systems and methods for affixing a prosthesis to tissue
CA2825186A1 (en) * 2010-01-20 2011-07-28 Michael P. Whitman Tissue repair implant and delivery device and method
US9980708B2 (en) 2010-01-20 2018-05-29 Micro Interventional Devices, Inc. Tissue closure device and method
US10058314B2 (en) 2010-01-20 2018-08-28 Micro Interventional Devices, Inc. Tissue closure device and method
US8968362B2 (en) 2010-04-08 2015-03-03 Covidien Lp Coated looped suture
WO2011129893A1 (en) 2010-04-13 2011-10-20 Sentreheart, Inc. Methods and devices for treating atrial fibrillation
US8940002B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2015-01-27 Kardium Inc. Tissue anchor system
US9072511B2 (en) 2011-03-25 2015-07-07 Kardium Inc. Medical kit for constricting tissue or a bodily orifice, for example, a mitral valve
CN103889345B (en) 2011-04-15 2016-10-19 心脏缝合有限公司 For sewing up stitching devices and the method for anatomy lobe
US9943392B2 (en) 2011-05-04 2018-04-17 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Implants, tools, and methods for treatment of pelvic conditions
CN103747751B (en) 2011-06-08 2016-12-28 森特里心脏股份有限公司 Knot of tissue bundling device and tensioner thereof
EP2726001A4 (en) 2011-06-29 2015-08-12 Pivot Medical Inc Method and apparatus for re-attaching the labrum to the acetabulum, including the provision and use of a novel suture anchor system
US9357991B2 (en) 2011-11-03 2016-06-07 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method and apparatus for stitching tendons
US9370350B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2016-06-21 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US9381013B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2016-07-05 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Method for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US9314241B2 (en) 2011-11-10 2016-04-19 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a bone
US9259217B2 (en) 2012-01-03 2016-02-16 Biomet Manufacturing, Llc Suture Button
US9833228B2 (en) 2012-01-24 2017-12-05 Cook Medical Technologies Llc Suture and anchor engagement methods and resulting devices
US9421544B2 (en) 2012-02-29 2016-08-23 Gary Chorng-Jyh Wang Three-dimensional digital microfluidic system
US20150133968A1 (en) 2012-05-01 2015-05-14 Jon Einarsson Suturing device for laparoscopic procedures
EP2852332B1 (en) 2012-05-11 2019-06-26 Heartstitch, Inc. Suturing devices for suturing an anatomic structure
US20140148826A1 (en) * 2012-11-28 2014-05-29 Pergolas, Llc Minimally invasive surgical kit
US10076377B2 (en) 2013-01-05 2018-09-18 P Tech, Llc Fixation systems and methods
US20140207188A1 (en) 2013-01-23 2014-07-24 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Surgical suture retrieving and passing system
US9757119B2 (en) 2013-03-08 2017-09-12 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Visual aid for identifying suture limbs arthroscopically
EP3378416B1 (en) 2013-03-12 2020-07-29 Sentreheart, Inc. Tissue ligation devices
US9623211B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2017-04-18 The Spectranetics Corporation Catheter movement control
US10758308B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2020-09-01 The Spectranetics Corporation Controller to select optical channel parameters in a catheter
US9918827B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2018-03-20 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Scaffold for spring ligament repair
US9757200B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2017-09-12 The Spectranetics Corporation Intelligent catheter
US11642169B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2023-05-09 The Spectranetics Corporation Smart multiplexed medical laser system
US10292694B2 (en) 2013-04-22 2019-05-21 Pivot Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone
EP3473189A1 (en) 2013-07-02 2019-04-24 Med-venture Investments, LLC Suturing devices for suturing an anatomic structure
EP3062711B1 (en) 2013-10-31 2023-06-21 AtriCure, Inc. Devices for left atrial appendage closure
JP6469109B2 (en) 2013-12-06 2019-02-13 メッド − ベンチャー インベストメンツ、エルエルシー Suture method and apparatus
CN105828729B (en) 2013-12-09 2018-07-31 泰利福医疗公司 Slide suture grasper
AU2014362199B2 (en) 2013-12-12 2019-07-11 Stryker Puerto Rico Limited Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system
US9687225B2 (en) 2013-12-20 2017-06-27 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Suture passer with tissue reinforcement positioner
US10136886B2 (en) 2013-12-20 2018-11-27 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Knotless soft tissue devices and techniques
WO2015178182A1 (en) * 2014-05-21 2015-11-26 オリンパス株式会社 Thread affixation system
US10987168B2 (en) 2014-05-29 2021-04-27 Spectranetics Llc System and method for coordinated laser delivery and imaging
US9615822B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-04-11 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Insertion tools and method for soft anchor
US9700291B2 (en) 2014-06-03 2017-07-11 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Capsule retractor
US10178993B2 (en) 2014-07-11 2019-01-15 Cardio Medical Solutions, Inc. Device and method for assisting end-to-side anastomosis
US10039543B2 (en) 2014-08-22 2018-08-07 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Non-sliding soft anchor
US9731113B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2017-08-15 The Spectranetics Corporation Collapsing coil coupling for lead extension and extraction
US10646118B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2020-05-12 Regents Of The University Of Minnesota Laser catheter with use of reflected light to determine material type in vascular system
US10646275B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2020-05-12 Regents Of The University Of Minnesota Laser catheter with use of determined material type in vascular system in ablation of material
US9884184B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2018-02-06 The Spectranetics Corporation Wire hook coupling for lead extension and extraction
US10105533B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2018-10-23 The Spectranetics Corporation Multi-loop coupling for lead extension and extraction
US10576274B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2020-03-03 Spectranetics Llc Expanding coil coupling for lead extension and extraction
US10646274B2 (en) 2014-12-30 2020-05-12 Regents Of The University Of Minnesota Laser catheter with use of reflected light and force indication to determine material type in vascular system
US10512457B2 (en) * 2015-01-16 2019-12-24 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Delivery tools for medical implants and methods of using the same
US9955980B2 (en) 2015-02-24 2018-05-01 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Anatomic soft tissue repair
US9974292B2 (en) * 2015-03-06 2018-05-22 Phyllis D. O'Neal Fisherman's knot tying tool
CN107530070B (en) 2015-03-24 2021-09-28 森特里心脏股份有限公司 Device and method for left atrial appendage closure
WO2016154488A2 (en) 2015-03-24 2016-09-29 Sentreheart, Inc. Tissue ligation devices and methods therefor
US9974534B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2018-05-22 Biomet Sports Medicine, Llc Suture anchor with soft anchor of electrospun fibers
US11684358B2 (en) 2015-04-20 2023-06-27 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Fusible biodegradable sutures utilizing tissue soldering technology
CN107771049B (en) 2015-05-27 2020-06-12 安布股份有限公司 Endoscope comprising a chassis with a housing structure
EP3302213B1 (en) 2015-05-27 2022-11-23 Ambu A/S Endoscope
WO2016188539A1 (en) 2015-05-27 2016-12-01 Ambu A/S An endoscope
US10624531B2 (en) 2015-05-27 2020-04-21 Ambu A/S Endoscope
US10617284B2 (en) 2015-05-27 2020-04-14 Ambu A/S Endoscope
EP3302216B1 (en) 2015-05-27 2019-04-17 Ambu A/S An endoscope
US10646107B2 (en) 2015-05-27 2020-05-12 Ambu A/S Endoscope with a tool
JP6180694B2 (en) * 2015-08-04 2017-08-16 オリンパス株式会社 Suture device
US10058393B2 (en) 2015-10-21 2018-08-28 P Tech, Llc Systems and methods for navigation and visualization
US11090040B2 (en) * 2015-12-28 2021-08-17 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Delivery tools for medical implants and methods of using the same
JP7137472B2 (en) 2016-02-26 2022-09-14 センターハート・インコーポレイテッド Device and method for left atrial appendage closure
US10687801B2 (en) 2016-04-11 2020-06-23 Nobles Medical Technologies Ii, Inc. Suture spools for tissue suturing device
EP3641660A1 (en) 2017-06-19 2020-04-29 Heartstitch, Inc. Suturing devices and methods for suturing an opening in the apex of the heart
EP3668415B1 (en) 2017-08-18 2023-10-25 Nobles Medical Technologies II, Inc. Apparatus for applying a knot to a suture
US10905411B2 (en) * 2017-11-03 2021-02-02 Covidien Lp Surgical suturing and grasping device
US11446021B2 (en) 2017-11-14 2022-09-20 Egan Design LLC Electrically weldable suture material, and apparatus and method for forming welded suture loops and other welded structures
US10772621B2 (en) 2018-02-02 2020-09-15 Abbott Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Suture management devices, methods, and systems
KR102196498B1 (en) * 2018-11-21 2020-12-29 (주)와우메디칼 Barbed suture handling device using for shaping breast
CN114533156A (en) * 2019-02-07 2022-05-27 伊根设计有限责任公司 Electrically weldable suture material and apparatus and methods for forming welded suture loops and other welded structures
US10993764B1 (en) 2020-01-14 2021-05-04 Microline Surgical, Inc. Insulating grips for minimally invasive surgical instruments

Citations (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3980861A (en) * 1973-03-26 1976-09-14 Akio Fukunaga Electrically heated miniature thermal implement
US4662068A (en) * 1985-11-14 1987-05-05 Eli Polonsky Suture fusing and cutting apparatus
US5226908A (en) * 1989-12-05 1993-07-13 Inbae Yoon Multi-functional instruments and stretchable ligating and occluding devices
US5336221A (en) * 1992-10-14 1994-08-09 Premier Laser Systems, Inc. Method and apparatus for applying thermal energy to tissue using a clamp
US5417697A (en) * 1993-07-07 1995-05-23 Wilk; Peter J. Polyp retrieval assembly with cauterization loop and suction web
US5417700A (en) * 1992-03-30 1995-05-23 Thomas D. Egan Automatic suturing and ligating device
US5565122A (en) * 1994-06-29 1996-10-15 Eric Hulsman Suture cutting and cauterizing method using radiant heat
US5713908A (en) * 1995-01-09 1998-02-03 Jameel; Irfan Mufty Laparascopic suturing instrument
US5735875A (en) * 1990-06-28 1998-04-07 Peter M. Bonutti Surgical devices assembled using heat bondable materials
US5759188A (en) * 1996-11-27 1998-06-02 Yoon; Inbae Suturing instrument with rotatably mounted needle driver and catcher
US5814052A (en) * 1995-06-29 1998-09-29 Nakao; Naomi L. Surgical cauterization snare with ligating suture
US5914062A (en) * 1998-06-15 1999-06-22 Von Der Heyde; Christian P. Tick removal device
US6120513A (en) * 1998-01-09 2000-09-19 Bailey; Robert W. Laparoscopic surgery instrumentation and method of its use
US6142957A (en) * 1993-09-20 2000-11-07 Boston Scientific Corporation Multiple biopsy sampling device
US6217591B1 (en) * 1997-08-28 2001-04-17 Axya Medical, Inc. Suture fastening device
US6286746B1 (en) * 1997-08-28 2001-09-11 Axya Medical, Inc. Fused loop of filamentous material and apparatus for making same
US20020035371A1 (en) * 2000-05-17 2002-03-21 Westhaver Paul A. Suture welder
US6432115B1 (en) * 1999-04-05 2002-08-13 Starion Instruments Corporation Suture welding device

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5383883A (en) * 1992-06-07 1995-01-24 Wilk; Peter J. Method for ultrasonically applying a surgical device
US7483743B2 (en) * 2000-01-11 2009-01-27 Cedars-Sinai Medical Center System for detecting, diagnosing, and treating cardiovascular disease
US7149587B2 (en) * 2002-09-26 2006-12-12 Pacesetter, Inc. Cardiovascular anchoring device and method of deploying same
US7515970B2 (en) * 2004-08-18 2009-04-07 Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. Transeptal lead

Patent Citations (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3980861A (en) * 1973-03-26 1976-09-14 Akio Fukunaga Electrically heated miniature thermal implement
US4662068A (en) * 1985-11-14 1987-05-05 Eli Polonsky Suture fusing and cutting apparatus
US5226908A (en) * 1989-12-05 1993-07-13 Inbae Yoon Multi-functional instruments and stretchable ligating and occluding devices
US5735875A (en) * 1990-06-28 1998-04-07 Peter M. Bonutti Surgical devices assembled using heat bondable materials
US5417700A (en) * 1992-03-30 1995-05-23 Thomas D. Egan Automatic suturing and ligating device
US5336221A (en) * 1992-10-14 1994-08-09 Premier Laser Systems, Inc. Method and apparatus for applying thermal energy to tissue using a clamp
US5417697A (en) * 1993-07-07 1995-05-23 Wilk; Peter J. Polyp retrieval assembly with cauterization loop and suction web
US6142957A (en) * 1993-09-20 2000-11-07 Boston Scientific Corporation Multiple biopsy sampling device
US5565122A (en) * 1994-06-29 1996-10-15 Eric Hulsman Suture cutting and cauterizing method using radiant heat
US5713908A (en) * 1995-01-09 1998-02-03 Jameel; Irfan Mufty Laparascopic suturing instrument
US5814052A (en) * 1995-06-29 1998-09-29 Nakao; Naomi L. Surgical cauterization snare with ligating suture
US5759188A (en) * 1996-11-27 1998-06-02 Yoon; Inbae Suturing instrument with rotatably mounted needle driver and catcher
US6217591B1 (en) * 1997-08-28 2001-04-17 Axya Medical, Inc. Suture fastening device
US6286746B1 (en) * 1997-08-28 2001-09-11 Axya Medical, Inc. Fused loop of filamentous material and apparatus for making same
US6120513A (en) * 1998-01-09 2000-09-19 Bailey; Robert W. Laparoscopic surgery instrumentation and method of its use
US5914062A (en) * 1998-06-15 1999-06-22 Von Der Heyde; Christian P. Tick removal device
US6432115B1 (en) * 1999-04-05 2002-08-13 Starion Instruments Corporation Suture welding device
US20020035371A1 (en) * 2000-05-17 2002-03-21 Westhaver Paul A. Suture welder

Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050209639A1 (en) * 2004-03-08 2005-09-22 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Fused suture knot
US20140364907A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2014-12-11 Arthrocare Corporation Independent suture tensioning and snaring apparatus
US9687219B2 (en) * 2008-06-30 2017-06-27 Arthrocare Corporation Independent suture tensioning and snaring apparatus
US10624664B2 (en) * 2011-09-28 2020-04-21 Evalve, Inc. Apparatuses and methods for cutting a tissue bridge and/or removing a heart valve clip or suture
US20180028215A1 (en) * 2011-09-28 2018-02-01 Mitracore Technologies Inc. Apparatuses and methods for cutting a tissue bridge and/or removing a heart valve clip or suture
US11602367B2 (en) 2011-09-28 2023-03-14 Evalve, Inc. Apparatuses and methods for cutting a tissue bridge and/or removing a heart valve clip or suture
CN108814666A (en) * 2013-11-18 2018-11-16 爱德华兹生命科学股份公司 Repeatedly percussion compression bonding apparatus
US10667804B2 (en) 2014-03-17 2020-06-02 Evalve, Inc. Mitral valve fixation device removal devices and methods
US10736632B2 (en) 2016-07-06 2020-08-11 Evalve, Inc. Methods and devices for valve clip excision
US11071564B2 (en) 2016-10-05 2021-07-27 Evalve, Inc. Cardiac valve cutting device
US11653947B2 (en) 2016-10-05 2023-05-23 Evalve, Inc. Cardiac valve cutting device
WO2019213275A1 (en) 2018-05-04 2019-11-07 Arch Day Design, Llc Suture passing device
EP3787526A4 (en) * 2018-05-04 2022-01-19 Arch Day Design, LLC Suture passing device
US11395649B2 (en) 2018-05-04 2022-07-26 Arch Day Design, Llc Suture passing device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6866672B2 (en) 2005-03-15
DE60043722D1 (en) 2010-03-11
WO2000059383A1 (en) 2000-10-12
US20020188304A1 (en) 2002-12-12
US6077277A (en) 2000-06-20
AU4069300A (en) 2000-10-23
CA2366775C (en) 2007-07-10
JP2002540834A (en) 2002-12-03
EP1168966A4 (en) 2003-08-13
US6432115B1 (en) 2002-08-13
CA2366775A1 (en) 2000-10-12
JP4705718B2 (en) 2011-06-22
ATE455502T1 (en) 2010-02-15
AU767693B2 (en) 2003-11-20
ES2339325T3 (en) 2010-05-19
EP1168966B1 (en) 2010-01-20
EP1168966A1 (en) 2002-01-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6866672B2 (en) Suture welding device
EP0809469B1 (en) Automatic suturing and ligating device
US7947053B2 (en) Suturing device and technique
US7905892B2 (en) Suture cutter
US6488690B1 (en) Suture knot sealing instruments and methods of using the same
US5336230A (en) Endoscopic suture tying method
US20220079585A1 (en) Electrically weldable suture material, and apparatus and method for forming welded suture loops and other welded structures
US6331182B1 (en) Medical twisting device and method for forming a surgical closure
US20230050983A1 (en) Electrically weldable suture material, and apparatus and method for forming welded suture loops and other welded structures
US20220142639A1 (en) Electrically weldable suture material, and apparatus and method for forming welded suture loops and other welded structures
WO2013165942A1 (en) Suturing device for laparoscopic procedures
WO2020163687A1 (en) Electrically weldable suture material, and apparatus and method for forming welded suture loops and other welded structures
AU694766C (en) Automatic suturing and ligating device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION