Importance

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Abstract

A staple and thread assembly to be driven into the bone by a power-driven stapler while the thread is attached thereto, the stapler having a head section at its forward end formed with a pointed tip for penetrating the bone when driven into it, and a shank section rearwardly of the head. The longitudinal axis of the shank section is offset from the axis of the head section and is formed with a pair of transverse holes through which the thread is secured such that the thread exits from the holes. The head section forms a protective shroud shielding the thread when driven with the staple into the bone. The thread is secured to the shank section of the staple at a point closer to the staple tip than the rear end of the staple. The staple is constructed from a metal possessing shape memory characteristics, and deforms from a straight configuration at room temperature, to a curved configuration upon being subject to body heat upon implantation into the body. The suture thread is secured to the shank section and, preferably, a recess is provided to the shank section to protect the thread.

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First Claim