Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods of use for reducing bleeding from the situs of a percutaneous arterial puncture in a living being, with the opening in the arterial wall having been closed by a closure including at least one portion of a suture extending out of the puncture. The apparatus basically comprising a mass of material which inhibits the flow of blood therethrough, e.g., collagen, a carrier for carrying the suture portion through the mass of material, and means for holding the mass of material with respect to the suture portion so that it closely engages tissue contiguous with the puncture tract. The means for holding may comprise a knot in the suture portion, or can be a releasably securable member for location on the suture portion. In one embodiment the carrier comprises a piercing member, e.g., a needle, arranged for location within the interior of the artery for passage thereout through the wall of the artery and through the mass of material to carry the suture portion therethrough. In another embodiment the carrier comprises an elongated member, e.g., a flexible filament, arranged to selectively grasp the suture portion to carry it through the mass of material. A housing is provided for retaining the mass of material while the carrier extends the suture portion through it. A tamper may be provided for tamping the mass of material into intimate engagement with the contiguous tissue.

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First Claim