Patent ID: 6866672
Filing Date: 2005-03-15
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A device for securing a plurality of segments of suture together, said device comprising: an insertion rod having a distal end and a proximal end, said distal end adapted to be inserted into an endoscopic work space; a first means for grasping the suture, said first means being capable of snaring loose suture ends within an endoscopic work space, said first means for grasping being slidably disposed within the insertion rod and being operable from the proximal end of the insertion rod to grasp at least one segment of suture; a second means for grasping the suture operably attached to the insertion rod, said second means being disposed near the distal end of the insertion rod, said second means for grasping including means for heating the suture; wherein the second means for grasping comprises: wherein the means for heating the suture comprises a heating element disposed on at least one of the grasping jaws; wherein the a first means for grasping further comprises a snare rod slidably disposed within the insertion rod and operatively connected to the first means for grasping the suture, wherein the snare rod is operable from the proximal end of the insertion rod; and a plurality of diverging arms extending from the snare rod such that the two diverging arms form a Y-shape with the snare rod, wherein the diverging arms have an outer surface and an inner surface.