Patent ID: 6270472
Filing Date: 2001-08-07
Classification: A61M,A61N

Abstract:
An apparatus for depositing implants having an implant length L.sub.s in soft tissue, said apparatus comprising:an introducer comprising an elongated tube having a distal end insertable into the soft tissue and a passage extending from a proximal end to said distal end in which a plurality of implants are adapted to be retained;an obturator slidable within said passage in said introducer from said proximal end and bearing against said implants;a sleeve through which said introducer slidably extends; andan operating mechanism comprising means repetitively, incrementally withdrawing said introducer reward relative to said sleeve a distance L and means automatically coupling said obturator to said introducer after said introducer has been withdrawn a distance L.sub.s equal to the length of the implant to withdraw said obturator with said introducer for the remainder of said distance L equal to L.sub.p, whereby implants are deposited in said soft tissue with a spacing equal to L.sub.p.