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Abstract

An improved suturing apparatus for continuous suturing of incised or ruptured tissues is disclosed, the preferred form including a curved or arcuate suturing needle and an appendage at the nonpointed end protruding from the needle in a direction opposite the needle tip. A slotted, arcuate sleeve with flanged ends partially encases the needle while permitting internal sliding arcuate movement, the extent of which is dictated by the length of the slot through which the needle appendage slides. A pointed needle cap having suturing thread attached thereto is placed on the tip of the suturing needle. During suturing, the needle cap with attached suturing thread is pushed through the tissues moving in an arcuate path. A grasping device in the needle sleeve retains the needle cap after the needle passes through the tissue and as the suturing needle is withdrawn from the tissue. The suturing needle extends beyond the suture into the needle sleeve end holding the needle cap and engages the needle cap, whereupon the grasping device releases the needle cap, and the suturing needle is retracted, preparing the apparatus for the next suture.

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First Claim