Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A laparoscopic needle holder comprising a longitudinally extending outer sheath and a longitudinally extending inner rod. The inner rod terminates in a generally J-shaped hook sized to grapple a curved surgical needle. The inner rod is adapted to be reciprocally received within the outer sheath such that the J-shaped hook can be moved between (1) a first position wherein the end of the hook's return is positioned relative to the forward end surface of the outer sheath so that a curved surgical needle can be grappled by the hook; (2) a second position wherein the end of the hook's return is positioned relative to the forward end surface of the outer sheath so that a curved surgical needle grappled by the hook will be slidably captured to the outer sheath; and (3) a third position wherein the end of the hook's return is positioned relative to the forward end surface of the outer sheath so that a curved surgical needle captured by the hook is prevented from rolling out of a preselected plane either toward or away from the sheath. Elements are also provided for selectively moving the sheath and the rod among the first, second and third relative positions, and for severing suture carried by an end of the curved surgical needle adjacent to the surgical site.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim