Importance

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Abstract

A suturing assembly is provided which includes a cannula with first and second ends. A first portion adjacent the first end defines a proximal lumen for slidably receiving a needle, a first bend and a needle exit aperture at the first bend in communication with the proximal lumen. The first lumen and the needle exit aperture define a needle path. A second portion is adjacent the second end and defines a distal lumen. The cannula defines a second bend between the first bend and the second portion. A needle entrance aperture is defined in the second portion in communication with the distal lumen and in line with the needle path. The cannula defines a first opening in the first end in communication with the proximal lumen. A needle with a piercing end is slidably disposed within the proximal lumen. The needle has a first position within the proximal lumen and a second deployed position with the piercing end in the distal lumen and the opposite end in the proximal lumen. A suture is secured to the needle and extends through the proximal lumen, the exit aperture, the entrance aperture and the second opening. Methods are also provided which include inserting the first end of the cannula into a wound so that the exit aperture contacts an inner surface of tissue surrounding the wound and deploying the piercing end of the needle through the needle exit aperture, the tissue and into the entrance aperture by applying a force on the suture extending from the second end.

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First Claim