Patent ID: 8137364
Filing Date: 2012-03-20
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A suturing device comprising: a housing, the housing having a proximal end, a distal end, a hollow body, an opening disposed toward the distal end and into the housing, and a blade guard partially extending over the opening from a proximal end toward a distal end of the opening and terminating proximal the distal end of the opening; a needle actuation handle disposed at the proximal end of the housing; a movable handle; a shaft at least partially disposed within a portion of the housing and extending distally from the distal end of the housing; a needle movable within a needle lumen associated with the shaft and that extends toward a proximal end of the housing, the needle being attached to a length of suture, the needle having a tapered tip, the tapered tip being initially oriented toward the distal end of the housing; and a stationary suture cutting blade positioned on the housing and protruding through the opening and the hollow body, the stationary suture cutting blade being disposed beneath the blade guard, the stationary suture cutting blade extending distally toward the distal end of the housing and having a cutting edge facing toward the distal end of the housing, the suture cutting blade being configured to sever the suture drawn across the stationary suture cutting blade.