Patent ID: 6527785
Filing Date: 2003-03-04
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
A tool for joining a first layer of material to a second layer of material, said tool comprising:a handle; an end effector mounted on said handle and defining therein: a first channel for retaining a wire guide; a second channel extending from the first channel for supporting a suture wire extending from the wire guide; a passageway for retaining a cutter bar; and an end recess; said second channel being curved to impart a looping configuration to portions of the suture wire passed therethrough; and said end recess having a curved surface at a bottom of said end recess, such that the end recess is adapted to receive the looped suture wire emerged from said second channel; a wire advancing actuator mounted on said handle for moving the suture wire through said second channel and through the material first and second layers; and a wire cutting actuator mounted on said handle for moving the cutting bar into cutting engagement with the suture wire.