Patent ID: 8715301
Filing Date: 2014-05-06
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A system for transdermal repair of soft tissue, said system including an instrument comprising: an instrument shaft having an axis; a flexible cable grasper disposed within said instrument shaft and being capable of advancing and retracting in a generally axial direction; a suture source disposed on the distal side of said instrument, and comprising a suture cartridge having a length of suture pre-loaded thereon, said suture cartridge being separate and apart from said flexible cable grasper and comprising the sole source of suture for said instrument, such that no suture originates from any source apart from said suture cartridge, and said instrument shaft extending proximally from said suture cartridge, wherein said suture cartridge comprises a redirecting curve portion with a curved surface that is structured and configured to guide said flexible cable grasper outside of said instrument as said instrument shaft is retracted; a needle disposed within said instrument shaft which is capable of advancing and retracting in a generally axial direction; and a needle support tube which is capable of advancing and retracting in coordination with said needle in a generally axial direction.