DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURING

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle. 1. A suturing needle having an arcuate body with a leading tip and a trailing end , wherein the arcuate body defines a first notch along an inner radial region needle and a second notch having a projection that lies within a plane that is defined by a central curved axis of the needle , and further wherein the first notch and second notch intersect.2. The suturing needle of claim 1 , wherein the needle further includes a generally square cross-section.3. The suturing needle of claim 2 , wherein the needle body includes a portion with a round cross section that separates a main portion of the needle with a generally square cross section from a tail portion with a generally square cross section.4. The suturing needle of claim 1 , wherein the needle further defines a third notch in the needle proximate its trailing end for receiving a portion of a drive pawl.5. The suturing needle of claim 1 , further defining an arcuate keel along its length. This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/909,606, filed Oct. 21, 2010 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,993,354 Aug. 9, 2011, which in turn claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/388,648, filed Oct. 1, 2010 ...

NEEDLE FOR SUTURING INSTRUMENT

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. 117-. (canceled)18. A needle for use in suturing comprising:a) an arcuate body with a pointed end and a second end, the arcuate body defining a central arcuate axis along the centerline of the arcuate body, the central arcuate axis in turn defining at least in part a circular plane, the arcuate body having an upper arcuate face and a lower arcuate face, the upper arcuate face and lower arcuate face meeting at the circular plane;b) a gap between the pointed end and the second end;c) a first notch defined in the needle located along the upper arcuate face of the arcuate body toward the pointed end, the first notch being defined by at least one surface, the at least one surface of the first notch extending laterally across the needle from a radially inner region of the needle to a radially outer region of the needle;d) a second notch defined in the needle located along the upper arcuate face of the arcuate body toward the second end of the needle, the second notch being defined by at least one surface, the at least ...

Devices and methods for surgical fastening

An apparatus and a method for surgical fastening is disclosed. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR STERNOTOMY CLOSURE

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a drive mechanism at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the drive mechanism is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the drive mechanism, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis. 1. A tissue closure device comprising:(a) a handle having a proximal end and a distal end, the handle defining an enclosable compartment therein, the enclosable compartment being adjustable from an open condition wherein the compartment is exposed to the environment outside the compartment to an enclosed condition wherein the enclosable compartment defines a sterile barrier that isolates the enclosable compartment from the environment outside the compartment;(b) a pusher assembly extending from the distal end of the handle, the pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a drive mechanism at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the drive mechanism is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a split ring suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end around a circular needle track about a rotational axis; and (i) a power source for providing power to the electronic module;', '(ii) a motor and a gear box adapted to provide a rotational force to rotate the drive shaft and the drive mechanism to rotate the suturing needle; and', '(iii) an ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TISSUE CLOSURE

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a needle driver at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the needle driver, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis. 1. An automated surgical suturing device , comprising:a needle defined at least in part by a leading end, a trailing end, an arced body between the leading and trailing ends, and at least one engagement surface formed into the needle;a length of suture material connected to the needle; anda needle rotation drive including an electric motor that reciprocates between a driven position and a returned position, the needle rotation drive being adapted to engage the at least one engagement surface of the needle to rotate the needle in a circular path in a first rotational direction along a circular needle track defined by a portion of the suturing device, wherein the leading end of the suturing needle is positioned within a protective housing of the surgical suturing device after a complete rotation of the suturing needle; anda control system for operating said needle rotation drive, said control system including a controller including a processor, said controller being operably coupled to a Hall Effect sensor, said Hall Effect sensor being configured and arranged to detect the ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TISSUE CLOSURE

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a needle driver at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the needle driver, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis. 1. A method of directing a wire suture through bone , comprising disposing a gap in a needle track of a suturing device having a split ring circular suturing needle about the bone , driving a needle along the needle track through the bone , the needle having a wire suture coupled to a trailing end of the needle.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising pulling the wire suture through the bone after the needle has passed through the bone.3. A method for tissue re-approximation comprising:(a) releasably engaging a cartridge having a protective housing and a suturing needle to a cartridge holder assembly of a tissue closure device;(b) placing the tissue closure device having the cartridge and the suturing needle to cause an aperture in the cartridge to span a first bony tissue segment, wherein a pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about a rotational axis;(c) activating an electronic module coupled to a pusher assembly that releasably engages the suturing needle to cause ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:a) a cartridge having a curved needle and suture, the curved needle having a pointed end and a blunted end, the needle being defined by a toroidal surface, the needle and cartridge cooperating to facilitate travel of the needle in a forward direction along a circular needle track defined in the cartridge and across a tissue receiving gap defined by the cartridge, wherein the pointed end of the needle leads the needle when the needle is moving in the forward direction;b) an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end;c) an actuator connected to the proximal end of the elongate shaft;d) a receiver connected to the distal end of the elongate shaft, the receiver including a stationary jaw and a pivoting jaw having a closed position adapted to receive and retain the cartridge and an opened position adapted to release the cartridge, the pivoting jaw having a second opened position spaced further from the stationary jaw than in the opened position.2. The surgical ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:a needle defined at least in part by a leading end, a trailing end, an arced body between the leading and trailing ends, and at least one engagement surface formed into the needle;a length of suturing material connected to the needle;a needle rotation drive including a needle driver that reciprocates at least 180 degrees between a driven position and a returned position, the needle driver adapted to engage the engagement surfaces of the needle to rotate the needle in a circular path in first rotational direction along a circular needle track defined by a portion of the suturing device; andan anti-rotate pawl that remains stationary with respect to the needle along the needle track as the needle is advanced in the first rotational direction by the needle driver, the anti-rotate pawl being configured to engage the at least one engagement surface of the needle to prevent the needle from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction to ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURING

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle. 1. A suturing device comprising:an arced needle having a leading end, a trailing end, and a length of suture, the arced needle being disposed within a suturing head located at a distal end of the suturing device;an arced needle track defined in the suturing head for receiving the needle, the arced needle track defining a circular path;a needle driver configured to drive the needle along the circular path in a first rotational direction; anda plurality of pawls projecting into the arced needle track, the plurality of pawls being spaced a from one another along the circular path defined by the needle track, each pawl being configured to engage the trailing end of the needle to prevent the needle from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction when the trailing end of the needle has passed each respective pawl, wherein the needle driver reciprocates between a drive stroke and a return stroke, and further wherein the drive stroke drives the needle about 180 degrees along the needle track.2. The suturing device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of pawls are spaced a multiple of about 90 degrees from one another along the circular path defined by the needle track.3. The suturing device of claim 2 , wherein the ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TISSUE CLOSURE

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a needle driver at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the needle driver, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis. 1. A suturing needle comprising:a) a curved generally toroidal body with a first sharp pointed end defined by a plurality of facets converging at the first sharp pointed end and a second end, wherein the curved body has an arcuate extent less than about 330°;b) at least one substantially planar engagement surface defined on the generally toroidal body displaced from a radially inner region of the generally toroidal body, the engagement surface being adapted and configured to receive a needle rotation drive of a suturing mechanism to facilitate driving the needle through a circular path; andc) suturing material including a flexible leader engaged to a wire suture connected to the second end of the needle.2. The suturing needle of claim 1 , wherein the flexible leader has a diameter larger than a diameter of the wire suture.3. The suturing needle of claim 1 , wherein the flexible leader is a wire cable.4. The suturing needle of claim 1 , wherein the engagement surface is formed at least in part by a notch formed in the generally toroidal body.5. The suturing needle of claim 1 , ...

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch.

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:an arced needle including a length of suture;a needle driver operable to engage and rotate the needle in a circular path, the needle driver reciprocating between a drive stoke wherein the needle is rotated and a return stroke;a trigger operably connected to the needle driver, wherein moving the trigger in a first direction actuates the needle driver through the drive stroke, and moving the trigger in a second direction actuates the needle driver through the return stroke; anda ratchet preventing the trigger from moving in the second direction until the needle driver has been actuated through the drive stroke, wherein the ratchet is bi-directional preventing the trigger from moving in the first direction until the needle driver has been actuated through the return stroke.2. The surgical suturing device of claim 1 , wherein the drive stroke rotates the needle through an angular arc.3. The surgical suturing device of claim 2 , wherein the angular arc is about 180 degrees.4 ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURING

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle. 1. (canceled)2. A method of performing a suturing operation , comprising:providing a suturing device that is configured to receive an arced needle;providing a needle loader containing an arced needle therein, wherein the arced needle is to be loaded into the suturing device;positioning the needle loader around at least a portion of the suturing device; andtransferring the arced needle from the needle loader into the suturing device.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein positioning the needle loader around at least a portion of the suturing device comprises at least partially surrounding a distal portion of the suturing device with the needle loader.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein transferring the arced needle from the needle loader to the suturing device comprises displacing an actuator arm of the needle loader from a first position to a second position.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the actuator arm of the needle loader is displaced from the first position to the second position by being rotated at least in part about a pivot.6. The method of claim 2 , wherein transferring the arced needle from the needle loader into the suturing device comprises actuating an actuator arm to cause the arced needle to be transferred into an arced needle track ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. 1. A method for suturing tissue comprising:providing a suturing device having a reciprocating needle rotation drive configured to drive an arcuate suturing needle having a first pointed end and a second end in a forward direction led by the first pointed end in successive 360-degree revolutions in a circular orbit;placing the suturing device proximate tissue to be sutured;removably engaging a first portion of the reciprocating drive with the suturing needle at a reciprocating drive starting position;actuating the reciprocating drive by engaging an actuator to advance the suturing needle from a home position to a driven position that is greater than about 180 degrees along the circular orbit;disengaging the first portion of the reciprocating drive from the suturing needle;returning the first portion of the reciprocating drive to the starting position; andactively preventing the needle from moving in a rearward direction while the first portion of the reciprocating drive returns to the starting position.2. The ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:a needle defined at least in part by a leading end, a trailing end, an arced body between the leading and trailing ends, and at least one engagement surface formed into the needle;a length of suturing material connected to the needle;a needle rotation drive that reciprocates between a driven position and a returned position, the needle rotation drive being adapted to engage the at least one engagement surface of the needle to rotate the needle in a circular path in a first rotational direction along a circular needle track defined by a portion of the suturing device, wherein the leading end of the suturing needle is positioned within a protective housing of the surgical suturing device after a complete rotation of the suturing needle; andan anti-rotate pin that remains stationary with respect to the needle along the direction of the needle track as the needle is advanced in the first rotational direction by the needle rotation drive, the anti-rotate pin being configured to engage the needle to prevent the needle from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:a) a cartridge having a curved needle and suture, the curved needle having a pointed end and a second end, the suture being connected to the needle proximate the second end of the needle, the needle being defined by a toroidal surface, the needle and cartridge cooperating to facilitate travel of the needle in a forward direction along a circular needle track defined in the cartridge and across a tissue receiving gap defined by the cartridge, wherein the pointed end of the needle leads the needle when the needle is moving in the forward direction, and further wherein the pointed end of the needle is positioned within the cartridge after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about a rotational axis in the forward direction by a needle drive;b) an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end;c) an actuator connected to the proximal end of the elongate shaft;d) a receiver connected to the distal end of the elongate shaft, the receiver including a clip adapted to releasably receive and retain the cartridge.2. The surgical suturing device of claim 1 , wherein the clip is dimensioned and adapted ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A method for suturing tissue comprising:releasably engaging a cartridge to a cartridge holder assembly of a suturing device;placing the suturing device having the cartridge with a protective housing and a suturing needle to cause an aperture in the cartridge to surround at least a portion of a tissue segment, wherein a pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the protective housing after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about a rotational axis; andactivating an actuator coupled to a needle drive that releasably engages the suturing needle to cause movement of the suturing needle across the aperture and advance the suturing needle through the tissue segment.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising releasing the actuator to permit the needle drive to return to a home position where the needle drive can re-engage the suturing needle.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising deactivating the actuator to permit the needle drive to return to a home position where the needle drive can re-engage the suturing needle.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the suturing needle includes a suture attached thereto claim 1 , ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device including an actuator attached to a reciprocating needle drive configured to advance an arcuate suturing needle along a circular needle track and across a gap in the needle track through tissue to be sutured , the suturing needle including:a) an arcuate body with a pointed end and a second end, the arcuate body defining a central arcuate axis along the centerline of the arcuate body, the central arcuate axis defining a circular plane, the arcuate body having an upper arcuate face and a lower arcuate face, the upper arcuate face and lower arcuate face meeting at the circular plane;b) a gap between the pointed end and the second end;c) a first notch defined in the needle located along the upper arcuate face of the arcuate body toward the pointed end, the first notch being defined by at least one surface, the at least one surface of the first notch extending laterally across the needle from a radially inner region of the needle to a radially outer region of the needle, the first notch ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A minimally invasive method for suturing tissue comprising:releasably engaging a cartridge to a cartridge holder assembly of a minimally invasive suturing device, the minimally invasive suturing device having an elongate shaft;placing the minimally invasive suturing device having the cartridge with a protective housing and a suturing needle to cause an aperture in the cartridge to surround at least a portion of a tissue segment, wherein a pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the protective housing after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about a rotational axis;activating an actuator coupled to a needle drive that releasably engages the suturing needle to cause movement of the suturing needle across the aperture and advance the suturing needle through the tissue segment.2. The minimally invasive method for suturing tissue of claim 1 , wherein a working end of the minimally invasive suturing device is disposed at the end of the elongate shaft.3. The minimally invasive method for suturing tissue of claim 2 , wherein the working end of the minimally invasive suturing device can be oriented in a preferred direction.4. ...

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

METHODS OF SURGICAL FASTENING

An apparatus and a method for surgical fastening is disclosed. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 15-. (canceled)6. A method of performing a surgical procedure , comprising:providing a surgical instrument for performing a surgical procedure, the device including a trigger operably connected to a driver and to a ratchet;moving the trigger in a first direction to actuate the driver through a drive stroke; and the ratchet prevents the trigger from moving in the second direction until the driver has been actuated through the drive stroke;', 'the ratchet includes a pawl configured and arranged to mesh with an arcuate toothed rack along an arcuate path of travel; and', 'the ratchet is bi-directional to prevent the trigger from moving in the first direction until the driver has been actuated through the return stroke., 'moving the trigger in a second direction to actuate the driver through a return stroke, wherein7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the surgical procedure includes a soft tissue attachment procedure.8. The method of claim 6 , wherein the surgical procedure includes an anastomosis procedure.9. The method of claim 6 , wherein the surgical procedure includes attachment of a graft to tissue.10. The method of claim 6 , wherein the pawl pivots ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURING

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

Implementations of an apparatus and a method for surgical suturing are disclosed. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a second end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device including an arcuate suturing needle and an actuator attached to a reciprocating needle drive configured to advance the arcuate suturing needle along a circular needle track and across a gap in the needle track through tissue to be sutured , the arcuate suturing needle including:a) an arcuate body with a pointed end and a second end, the arcuate body defining a central arcuate axis along the centerline of the arcuate body, the central arcuate axis defining a circular plane, the arcuate body having an upper arcuate face and a lower arcuate face, the upper arcuate face and lower arcuate face meeting at the circular plane;b) a gap defined between the pointed end and the second end;c) a first indentation defined in the needle located along the upper arcuate face of the arcuate body toward the pointed end, the first indentation being defined by at least one surface, the first indentation being configured to receive a drive pawl of the reciprocating needle drive; andd) a second indentation defined in the needle located along the upper arcuate face of the arcuate body toward the second end of the needle, the ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing cartridge having a curved needle and suture , the curved needle having a pointed end and a second end , the suture being connected to the needle proximate the second end of the needle , the needle being defined by a toroidal surface , the needle and cartridge cooperating to facilitate travel of the needle in a forward direction along a circular needle track defined in the cartridge and across a tissue receiving gap defined by the cartridge , wherein the pointed end of the needle leads the needle when the needle is moving in the forward direction , and further wherein the pointed end of the needle is positioned within the cartridge after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about a rotational axis in the forward direction by a needle drive.2. A surgical suturing device having the cartridge of claim 1 , and further comprising:a) an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end;b) an actuator connected to the proximal end of the elongate shaft; andc) a receiver connected to the distal end of the elongate shaft, the receiver including a clip having a closed position adapted to receive and retain the cartridge ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:a) a cartridge having a curved needle and suture, the curved needle having a pointed end and a second end, the suture being connected to the needle proximate the second end of the needle, the needle being defined by a toroidal surface, the needle and cartridge cooperating to facilitate travel of the needle in a forward direction along a circular needle track defined in the cartridge and across a tissue receiving gap defined by the cartridge, wherein the tissue receiving gap of the cartridge passes completely through the cartridge along a direction from below the needle toward a direction above the needle;b) an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end;c) an actuator connected to the proximal end of the elongate shaft;d) a receiver connected to the distal end of the elongate shaft, the receiver including a clip adapted to receive and retain the cartridge and an opened position adapted to release the cartridge.2. The surgical suturing device of claim 1 , wherein the actuator includes a handle.3. The surgical suturing device of claim 2 , further comprising a pin extending into the needle track ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL SUTURING

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. 1. A surgical suturing device , comprising:a needle defined at least in part by a leading end, a trailing end, an arced body between the leading and trailing ends, and at least one engagement surface formed into the needle;a length of suturing material connected to the needle; anda needle rotation drive that reciprocates between a driven position and a returned position, the needle rotation drive being adapted to engage the at least one engagement surface of the needle to rotate the needle in a circular path in a first rotational direction along a circular needle track defined by a portion of the suturing device, wherein the leading end of the suturing needle is positioned within a protective housing of the surgical suturing device after a complete rotation of the suturing needle.2. The surgical suturing device of claim 1 , wherein the needle is disposed in a removable cartridge that is removably attached to a cartridge holder assembly of the surgical suturing device.3. The surgical suturing device of claim 2 , wherein the cartridge holder assembly is configured to releasably engage the cartridge and to bring the needle rotation drive into ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TISSUE CLOSURE

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a needle driver at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the needle driver, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis. 1. A motorized suturing device for tissue closure comprising:a handle having a proximal end and a distal end, said handle defining and surrounding an enclosable elongate compartment therein, said enclosable elongate compartment being adjustable from an open condition wherein said enclosable elongate compartment is exposed to the environment outside said enclosable elongate compartment to an enclosed condition wherein said enclosable elongate compartment defines a sterile barrier that isolates said enclosable elongate compartment from the environment outside said enclosable elongate compartment;a pusher assembly extending distally from said distal end of said handle, said pusher assembly having (i) a drive arm extending distally from a drive shaft and (ii) a needle driver at a distal end of said drive arm, wherein said needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and advancing an arcuate suturing needle having a pointed end and a second end around a circular needle track about a rotational axis;a removable needle cartridge having a protective housing for receiving the arcuate ...

Suturing instrument with thread management

A suturing instrument for suturing tissue comprises an elongated housing having opposite ends. A curved suturing needle having a pointed end and a second end to which a suture is attached and supported at one end of the housing for rotational motion about an axis. A driver mechanism in the housing rotates said needle about said axis through successive revolutions, and a suture tensioner in the housing applies tension to the suture to draw the suture toward the other end of said housing following each revolution of said needle. In its operation, the instrument thus emulates the actions of a surgeon suturing manually.

Apparatus and method for tissue closure

A suturing needle comprising a curved generally toroidal body, at least one substantially planar engagement surface defined on the generally toroidal body displaced from a radially inner region of the generally toroidal body, and suturing material including a flexible leader engaged to a wire suture connected to the second end of the needle. The curved generally toroidal body has a first sharp pointed end and a second end. The curved body has an arcuate extent less than about 330 degrees. The engagement surface is adapted and configured to receive a needle rotation drive of a suturing mechanism to facilitate driving the needle through a circular path.

Apparatus and method for tissue closure

A suturing needle comprising a curved generally toroidal body, at least one substantially planar engagement surface defined on the generally toroidal body displaced from a radially inner region of the generally toroidal body, and suturing material including a flexible leader engaged to a wire suture connected to the second end of the needle. The curved generally toroidal body has a first sharp pointed end and a second end. The curved body has an arcuate extent less than about 330 degrees. The engagement surface is adapted and configured to receive a needle rotation drive of a suturing mechanism to facilitate driving the needle through a circular path.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURING Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. A suturing needle having an arcuate body with a leading tip and a trailing end, wherein the arcuate body defines a first notch along an inner radial region needle and a second notch having a projection that lies within a plane that is defined by a central curved axis of the needle, and further wherein the first notch and second notch intersect.

Methods of surgical fastening

An apparatus and a method for surgical fastening is disclosed. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURING Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. A suturing needle having an arcuate body with a leading tip and a trailing end, wherein the arcuate body defines a first notch along an inner radial region needle and a second notch having a projection that lies within a plane that is defined by a central curved axis of the needle, and further wherein the first notch and second notch intersect.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one separated tissue segment forming a stitch.

Apparatus and method for surgical suturing with thread management

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch.

Systems and methods for tissue closure

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a needle driver at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the needle driver, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis.

Apparatus and method for surgical suturing with thread management

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch.

Apparatus and Method for Surgical Suturing with Thread Management

Apparatus and method for surgical suturing with thread management

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management (72). An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge (24) having a suturing needle (26) having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle (26) capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly (9) comprising a cartridge holder (20) having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge (24) and rotating the suturing needle (26) about the axis; and an actuator (12) capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device (1) having a cartridge (24) containing a suturing needle (26) to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator (12) to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle (26) through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator (12) to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle (26) to cause a suturing material (100) to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch.

Apparatus and method for tissue closure

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a drive mechanism at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the drive mechanism is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the drive mechanism, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis.

SURGICAL SEWING INSTRUMENT WITH SEWING ARRANGEMENT SYSTEM

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

A suturing needle disposed in a deployable needle track. The needle has an arcuate body with leading tip and trailing end, a notch along an inner radial region needle and another notch having a projection that lies on a plane of a central curved axis of the needle, with the notches intersecting. The main and tail portions have round and square cross sections, respectively. A drive pawl is connected to a third notch at a trailing end. An arcuate keel along the needle's length stabilizes its movement in the suturing device.

Apparatus and method for tissue closure

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a drive mechanism at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the drive mechanism is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the drive mechanism, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis.

Apparatus for tissue closure

SURGICAL SEWING INSTRUMENT WITH SEWING ARRANGEMENT SYSTEM

Devices for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Apparatus for surgical suturing with thread management

A removable cartridge (24) for a suturing device comprising a curved housing having a first end and a second end separated by an aperture (56) in a wall of the curved housing (48), wherein the housing includes a track (58) defined in the wall of the curved housing, the track being adapted and configured to support an arcuate suturing needle (26) having a first end and a second end separated by a needle gap, wherein the width of the aperture in the housing is comparable to needle gap so that the needle does not project materially into the aperture, permitting the needle to reside within the housing.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

Implementations of an apparatus and a method for surgical suturing are disclosed. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a second end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

Apparatus and method for tissue closure

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a needle driver at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the needle driver is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the needle driver, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis.

Suturing needle

A tissue closure device includes a pusher assembly having a drive arm extending from a drive shaft and a drive mechanism at a distal end of the drive arm, wherein the drive mechanism is capable of releasably engaging and rotating a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end about a rotational axis and a cartridge having a protective housing and the suturing needle, the cartridge extending from a distal end of a cartridge holder assembly and releasably attached to the cartridge holder assembly. A pointed end of the suturing needle may be positioned within the protective housing before and after a complete rotation of the suturing needle about the rotational axis. A removable electronic module may be provided controlled by an actuator that mechanically engages the drive shaft to rotate the drive shaft and the drive mechanism, thereby rotating the suturing needle about the rotational axis.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for surgical suturing

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing

Devices and methods for minimally invasive suturing are disclosed. One suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes a proximal section a distal end, and an intermediate region therebetween. The device includes a suture head assembly having a suturing needle with a pointed end and a second end. The suturing needle is capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to deployment of guides that are adapted and configured to guide the needle around a circular path when advanced by a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.

Needle for suturing instrument

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch.

Needle for suturing instrument

An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management is provided. An apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge with a suturing needle that includes a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly including a cartridge holder with a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue with the apparatus is also provided.