Patent ID: 7429266
Filing Date: 2008-09-30
Classification: A61B,B29C,B29K

Abstract:
1. A method of securing a suture relative to body tissue comprising: providing a suture retainer having positioning a suture through body tissue; tensioning the suture; positioning the suture between said first and second portions; providing a first tool member having a rigid surface comprising an ultrasonic energy effector; providing a second tool member having a rigid surface comprising a member selected from the group consisting of an anvil or an ultrasonic energy effector; compressing said retainer by engaging said first portion with said first tool member and engaging said second portion with said second tool member, and compressing said first and second portions between said first and second tool members by bringing said first and second tool members towards each other with a predetermined force; and applying ultrasonic energy to the suture retainer to thereby bond said first and second portions, whereby the suture is secured to the suture retainer.