Patent ID: 7144401
Filing Date: 2006-12-05
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A suturing device comprising: a flexible elongated tubular member adapted to extend from a proximal end to a distal end of a flexible endoscope and to be bendable with the flexible endoscope; a needle for suturing which is adapted to pierce tissue and which is provided on a distal end of the flexible elongated tubular member separately from the flexible elongated tubular member; an engaging element provided on said needle so as to engage a suturing thread; a catching device provided at a distal end side of the suturing device for retrieving at least a portion of said suturing thread after the needle pierces the tissue; a wire which is adapted to operate the needle and which is provided in the flexible elongated tubular member; and a protective member which covers at least a part of the needle, and which includes an opening extending along both a front end portion of the protective member and one lateral side portion of the protective member; wherein the needle is rotatable to be positioned in: (i) a first state in which the needle is accommodated in the protective member, (ii) a second state in which a tip of the needle extends out from the front portion of the protective member through the opening, and (iii) a third state in which the tip of the needle extends out from said one side portion of the protective member through the opening.