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Abstract

An endoscopic suturing device comprises an endoscope and a needle having a spring bias construction tending to bend the needle into an arcuate configuration. The endoscope includes an elongate flexible outer tubular member and a biopsy channel extending longitudinally through the tubular member. A flexible inner tubular member is disposed inside the biopsy channel of the outer tubular member, while the needle is disposed in a straightened configuration at least part partially inside the inner tubular member at a distal end thereof. The surgical instrument further comprises an ejector device in the form of an elongate flexible rod member slidably disposed inside the inner tubular member proximally of the needle for ejecting the needle from the inner tubular member. A suture is provided with an end attached to a proximal end of the needle, while a closure device in the form of a forceps is provided for closing the suture upon an ejection of the needle from the biopsy channel by a distally directed motion of the rod member and a subsequent assumption by the needle of the arcuate configuration.

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First Claim