Patent ID: 8361089
Filing Date: 2013-01-29
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A suturing instrument comprising: an elongate body member defining a longitudinal axis and including a distal portion defining a needle exit port and a needle receiving port distal to the needle exit port, at least a portion of the elongate body member adapted to bend in one or more directions relative to the longitudinal axis; a suture holder at least partially disposed within the needle receiving port and configured to retain a suture; and a needle deployment mechanism configured for deploying a needle between an extended position with the needle extending from the needle exit port into the needle receiving port, and a retracted position with the needle pulled back through the needle exit port, the needle deployment mechanism comprising a linear drive rod and the needle coupled to the linear drive rod via a linking member: the linking member comprising a rotational element coupled to a second member; the rotational element mechanically coupled to the linear drive rod such that movement of the drive rod causes rotation of the rotational element; the rotation of the rotational element translates into movement of the second member to move the needle from the retracted position to the extended position and back to the retracted position; and the needle including a substantially straight shaft having a first diameter and a distal portion comprising a tissue penetrating tip, the distal portion configured to capture and pull the suture out of the needle receiving port and having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, the second diameter being proximal to the tissue penetrating tip.