Importance

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Abstract

An implant assist apparatus is disclosed for implanting material such as a suture in tissue to reapproximate or reinforce the tissue. A cannula is provided having a hollow body and an open proximal and distal end. Point means is detachably fixed to the open proximal end of the cannula for penetrating tissue. A method of implanting the material in tissue for reapproximating or reinforcing the tissue with the implant assist apparatus is also disclosed whereby a length of the implant material is attached to a guide wire for partial containment within the cannula. The cannula with detachable point is passed into the tissue at an entry point remote from one side of the defect and out an exit point on the opposite side remote from the defect such that the distal end of the hollow body extends from the entry point and a proximal end extends from the exit point. The detachable point is removed from the cannula and a guide wire with implant material attached is drawn out of the proximal end of the hollow body until the implant material is exposed at both the distal and proximal ends of the hollow body. Thereafter, the cannula is withdrawn from the tissue leaving the implant material in place and the implant material is anchored to reapproximate or reinforce the defect.

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First Claim