Importance

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Abstract

A device for snaring cord-like objects and a methods for using same to pass portions of the cord-like objects through tissue are provided. The device includes a shaft containing a wire assembly having an object capturing device at its distal end. The wire assembly is reciprocally movable relative to the shaft between a first position wherein the capturing device is located within the distal portion of the shaft, and a second position wherein the capturing device extends distally outwardly from the distal end of the shaft. An activation device is attached to the proximal end of the shaft and the proximal end of the wire assembly so as to allow the controlled axial movement of the wire assembly relative to the shaft, and so as to allow the shaft and the wire assembly to be rotated as a unit about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The methods include snaring and grasping a length of cord-like material and passing the cord-like material through one or more layers of tissue. More particularly, the shaft may be inserted through the tissue, grasp the cord-like material and pull the cord-like material back through the tissue as the shaft is disengaged therefrom. Alternatively, the cord-like material may be grasped by the device, inserted through the tissue along with the distal portion of the shaft, released from the distal end of the shaft, and left extending through the tissue when the shaft is withdrawn. Further, various combinations of these alternatives may be utilized in order to lace the cord-like material through the tissue in any particularly desired manner.

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First Claim