Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus for suturing a wound in a body cannula having an axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end. A handle is disposed at the proximal end and a pair of needles disposed at the distal end, the needles being movable between a proximal position and a distal position. A suture manipulator carried by the cannula is insertable through the wound and operable to manipulate the suture into an engaging relationship with the needles on the far side of the body wall. A finger tab is movable on the handle in a single distal direction through multiple stage. In a first stage the needles are deployed; in a second stage, the suture manipulator is activated to thread the needles; and in a third stage the suture is released from a tensioning mechanism. In an associated method the needles are threaded on the far side of the body wall and withdrawn from the wound providing access to the suture ends on the near side of the body wall. Tying the suture ends closes the wound.

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First Claim