Patent Publication Number: US-11660087-B2

Title: Needle receptacle for increased operating room efficiency

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/301,108, filed Mar. 25, 2021, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,413,037, issued Aug. 16, 2022, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/782,825, filed Feb. 5, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,987,100, issued Apr. 27, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/566,704, filed Sep. 10, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,603,033, issued Mar. 31, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/167,369, filed Oct. 22, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,478,177, issued Nov. 19, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/895,896, filed Feb. 13, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,485,534, issued Nov. 26, 2019, which is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2016/059599, filed Oct. 28, 2016, published as WO 2017/075548 on May 4, 2017, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/248,029, filed Oct. 29, 2015, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by this reference. 
     The subject matter of the present application is related to U.S. application Ser. No. 14/697,050, filed on Apr. 27, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,451,949, issued Sep. 27, 2016, and International Application No. PCT/US2015/027659, filed Apr. 24, 2015, published as WO 2015/164830 on Oct. 29, 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The use of an operating room can present expensive medical service costs. It is estimated that operating room time can cost between about $30 to $100 per minute. An operating room must be sterilized before each operation and the medical staff must also prepare for the operation. Because each employee is usually paid for their time in the operating room, the operating room use costs can be very high. By increasing the efficiency of the employees within the operating room, the time for each procedure can be reduced and the cost of the surgery can also be reduced. Further, it is important to account for surgical objects such as needles and sponges during a surgical procedure. If a needle becomes lost during the surgery, steps need to be taken to ensure patient safety and that the needle has not been accidently left in the patient. Accounting for needles during a surgical procedure in an accurate manner can be time-consuming. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide improved ways to keep track of used needles in an operating room. Also, needle puncture through a surgical glove can present risks to operating room personnel. 
     The process of loading a needle holder is often carried out by those personnel assisting the surgeon in the process of surgery. A scrub technician or surgical assistant can pass the loaded needle holder to the surgeon. Both unused needles not yet having been used and those already used needles can be maintained on an instrument tray such as a Mayo stand, and an accounting of the needles is often made by the surgical assistant and circulating nurse during the course of surgery. 
     At the time of surgical incision wound closure, or other tissue repair, during which multiple armed sutures are to be utilized, the surgical assistant can be fully focused on the needs of the surgeon. The assistant passes the loaded needle holder to the surgeon&#39;s hand for use. 
     Used needles may be dispensed and accounted for in a less than optimal and safe manner. As a substitute for having the loaded needle driver passed to the surgeon, the surgeon may awkwardly load the armed suture himself. This often requires the surgeon turning to the instrument tray (e.g., Mayo stand), locating the suture package, and grasping and orienting the package such that the needle can be effectively and properly loaded onto the needle holder, which takes additional time and movement than would be ideal and undesirably directs the surgeons attention away from the patient. 
     In prior neutral zone approach, objects and instruments that are passed between a scrub tech and a surgeon must be placed in a neutral zone area. The process may require a scrub tech to place the object into the neutral zone and the surgeon cannot pick up the object until the scrub tech&#39;s hands are removed from the neutral zone. Similarly when the surgeon no longer needs a surgical object, it is placed in the neutral zone and the surgeon&#39;s hand removed. This system is less than ideal because the surgeon and scrub tech must often be very careful and clearly communicate and look at the neutral zone, away from the site of the operation, when any objects are passed. This can be particularly difficult when trying to perform actions quickly which can easily happen in an operating room procedure, for example when attempting to save a patient&#39;s life. 
     In many currently used suture handling methods and systems, the surgeon can be handed a needle driver with an armed suture needle. The surgeon may drive the needle through the flesh of the patient and then hands the needle driver with used needle to the scrub tech. The scrub tech then moves the used needle away from the surgical field and removes the used needle. The scrub tech then places a new armed needle in the needle driver and then hands the surgeon the needle driver. The described process is repeated, and results in more movement than would be ideal. 
     In addition to being highly inefficient, such systems can also have poor micro-ergonomics. 
     In light of the above, improved methods and apparatus are needed to improve operating rooms. Ideally such methods and apparatus would provide improved efficiency, outcomes, needle handling, counting, and safety. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention relates to systems and methods for increasing operating room efficiency. Although specific reference is made to dispensing and securing needles, the embodiments described herein are well suited for use with many types of objects used in an operating room, such as sharp objects. 
     Systems and methods for improving operating room efficiency as described herein improve the manner in which surgeons&#39; access and dispose of objects used in surgery such as sutures and needles. The methods and apparatus disclosed herein can improve safety by decreasing the number of needle passes between the surgeon and assistant, and by placing needles in a receptacle prior to being passed from the surgeon to the assistant. 
     Many embodiments relate to the dispensing and loading of surgical needles that can be facilitated and made more efficient and ergonomic by associating the needles, sutures and the packaging onto the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist, and/or hand. Furthermore and in many embodiments, the invention relates to the association of used needle temporary storage device as associated with the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist, and/or hand. The association of the surgeon&#39;s forearm wrist and/or hand can be accomplished in many ways, such as with mounting onto the surgeon&#39;s forearm wrist or hand, mounting to a surgical instrument such as forceps, or with a support extending into a near surgical field of the surgeon, and combinations thereof. Packaging and devices as described herein facilitate the safe and efficient dispensing of armed sutures in the proper orientation from the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist, and/or hand for use by the surgeon. Alternatively or in combination, the sutures can be dispensed from a support coupled to a surgical instrument such as forceps and the dispensed needles subsequently placed in the receptacle. The methods and apparatus disclosed herein allow the physician to self-load the needle into the needle driver, self-place the dispensed needle into a used needle receptacle, and optionally install the suture in the patient, which have the benefits of decreasing reliance on assistants, improving operating room efficiency and the safety of needle handling. In many embodiments, one or more needles can be secured in the receptacle prior to passing the needle to an assistant, which increases safety by placing the needle in the receptacle prior to passing to the assistant. A plurality of needles can be surgeon dispensed and surgeon placed in the container, such that the safety and efficiency can be increased by decreasing the number of passes between the surgeon and assistant. 
     In many embodiments, an “armed” suture comprises a suture that has a surgical needle attached. Furthermore, packages of armed sutures often contain more than one such suture and needle. The package may contain not only one, but also perhaps five and possibly more such as 8 or more sutures and needles. In the course of surgery, many such armed sutures can often be used, each needing to be “loaded” onto the needle holder or “needle driver”. The surgeon can hold the needle driver in his dominant hand and a tissue forceps in the non-dominant hand in order to manipulate and hold tissues to be sutured. Thus the surgeon can use both hands when suturing to self-dispense and self-secure the dispensed needles. 
     By associating the suture packaging and the enclosed armed sutures onto the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist or hand, the surgeon can more efficiently access armed sutures for loading onto the needle driver. Furthermore, the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist or hand can also provide a location for attachment of a used needle temporary or permanent storage device. In many embodiments, by associating the suture package to the volar or dorsal-radial region of the surgeon&#39;s non-dominant forearm, wrist, or hand, the mechanics of grasping the needle with the needle holder can be facilitated. Such an approach allows the surgeon to instantly reorient the suture pack and into a more appropriate position such that grasping the needles with the needle holder is facilitated. Associating the package with the surgeon&#39;s non-dominant extremity can allow the surgeon to, without significant body motion or without needing to grasp the package with his non dominant hand, reposition the needle package and needles in space such that they are readily accessible to be grasped with the needle driver. 
     In many embodiments a forearm-mounted system comprises a needle trap that can include an integrated suture pack mount that can be easily attachable to and detachable from a needle puncture resistant barrier worn on a forearm. The puncture resistant barrier provides a stable surface for dispensing of new sutures/needles from a standard suture pack and securement of contaminated needles after the stitch is completed. A benefit of the integration of the suture pack mount with the needle trap is that this configuration can enable real time proximity reconciliation within the near surgical field of used and unused needles. Integration of the suture pack mount with the needle trap within the near surgical field enables the surgeon to maintain focus on the incision closure process without having to divert visual attention to locate the needle securement container and deposit the used needles. 
     In many embodiments, the puncture resistant barrier provides protection to at least the volar surface of a forearm from inadvertent needle sticks and may also provide additional protection to the dorsal surface of a forearm. The puncture resistant barrier can also provide additional mounting surfaces for tool holders, running-suture spools, or other procedure specific materials that are optimally located in the near surgical field. The puncture resistant barrier can provide protection from sharps and can be comfortable, anatomically conformal, lightweight, unobtrusive, and quickly attachable to the surgeon&#39;s forearm with one hand. 
     The present disclosure provides multiple concepts, technologies and devices by which currently available armed sutures and the packages from which they are dispensed can be associated with the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist or hand for easier and more efficient loading by the surgeon, reducing the need for assistance from the scrub technician. Furthermore, disclosed herein are newly designed suture packages or modifications to currently available packages, which can incorporate concepts and technologies that allow for easy and efficient attachment of single or multiple suture packages to the support platform on the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist or hand or other support. The embodiments disclosed herein are well suited for use when the surgeon is gowned and gloved. The needle storage devices for dispensed used needles can also be associated with the surgeon&#39;s forearm, wrist or hand, as well as protective barriers and mechanisms that decrease the likelihood of needle stick to the surgeon. 
     The methods and apparatus disclosed herein allow a person who is closing an incision or wound with suture needles to reconcile needles dispensed from a suture pack with needles secured in a needle receptacle, in order to ensure that all needles used in a surgical procedure are accounted for. In many instances, the surgeon closing the incision can dispense suture needles from a suture pack in the near surgical field and place needles removed from the suture pack into a secure container within the near surgical field, and count the needles removed from the suture pack and the needles placed in the needle receptacle while the suture pack and needle receptacle remain in the near surgical field in order to reconcile the needles in the near surgical field. The reconciled needles secured in the receptacle and any remaining needles in the suture pack can then be passed from the near surgical field to another person outside the near surgical field or to a neutral zone. This needle reconciliation within the near surgical field allows the surgeon and others to act quickly if a needle is not accounted for and to take corrective action, for example by finding the missing needle. In many instances, needle reconciliation within the near surgical field also allows the surgeon to notice the missing needle sooner than reconciliation outside the near surgical field, and can make it easier to find the missing needle because the needle is missing for a shorter time. Needle reconciliation within the near surgical field also allows the surgeon or other person closing an incision or wound to have greater control over the surgical procedure, and also decreases the staffing requirements for surgery and associated costs. Although reference is made to needle reconciliation within the near surgical field outside of the patient, the methods and apparatus disclosed herein are well suited for needle reconciliation within the patient, for example within the patient during laparoscopic and robotic surgery. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide barriers for placement on a forearm of a user. An exemplary barrier may comprise a curved shell defining a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end, with the curved shell extending with curvature about the longitudinal axis. 
     In many embodiments, the proximal end of the shell defines a cross-section with a long axis and a short axis, the distal end of the shell defines a cross-section with a long axis and a short axis, and the long axis of the proximal end is rotated about the longitudinal axis relative to the long axis of the distal end. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier long axis of the distal end is rotated relative to the long axis of the proximal end when placed on a forearm of a user, the proximal end is located toward an elbow of the user, and the distal end is located toward a wrist of the user when placed. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a pre-formed self-supporting barrier shaped to define the long axis on the proximal end and the short axis on the distal end as opposing edges of the barrier are urged toward each other. 
     In many embodiments, the long axis of the proximal end is longer than the long axis of the distal end. 
     In many embodiments, the proximal end comprises a short axis and the distal end comprises a short axis, and the short axis of the proximal end is longer than the short axis of the distal end. The long axis of the distal end may be shorter than the short axis of the proximal end. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprise a thermoformed sheet of material having substantially uniform thickness. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a preformed self-supporting structure. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a dorsal aspect having a dorsal length extending between the proximal end and the distal end, a radial aspect having a radial length extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a volar aspect having a volar length extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The radial aspect may be disposed between the dorsal aspect and the volar aspect. The radial length may be shorter than the dorsal length and the volar length. The barrier may comprise indicia on the radial aspect for a user to align the barrier with a radial ridge of the forearm of the user. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may further comprise a proximal tab having a proximal tab length and a distal tab having a distal tab length, the proximal tab longer than the distal tab. The distal tab length may be within a range from about 25% to about 75% of the proximal tab length. The proximal tab and the distal tab may be preformed to have a curved shape extending around the longitudinal axis in a free standing configuration. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier is shaped to fit a left forearm of a user or a right forearm of a user. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a dorsal taper on a dorsal side between the proximal end and the distal end and a volar taper on a volar side between the proximal end and the distal end. The volar taper may be greater than the dorsal taper. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a placed configuration when opposite edges on opposite sides have been drawn toward each other. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a placed configuration when opposite edges on opposite sides have been drawn toward each other and wherein dorsal, volar and radial aspects of the barrier define a proximal center at the proximal end and a distal center at a distal end, an intermediate portion of the barrier defines an intermediate center with intermediate dorsal volar and radial aspects, and the center of the intermediate portion is located away from a straight line extending between the proximal center and the distal center. The plurality of intermediate dorsal, radial, and volar portions may define a plurality of intermediate centers. The proximal center, the intermediate center, and the plurality of intermediate centers may define a curved path extending between the proximal center and the distal center. A perpendicular cross-section of the proximal portion through the proximal point may define a plane and an orthogonal axis extending from the proximal center perpendicular to the plane. The distal center may be offset from the orthogonal axis by an amount within a range from about 1 cm to about 4 cm. 
     The barrier may be in a variety of dimensions. The barrier may comprise a thickness within a range from about 0.4 mm to about 5 mm. The may comprise a longitudinal length within a range from about 6 inches to about 11 inches. The barrier may comprise a ratio of the distance across the proximal end to the distance across the distal end within a range from about 1.1 to about 1.5. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprises a pre-formed shaped barrier. The barrier may comprise a volar edge on a volar side and a dorsal edge on a dorsal side. The volar edge may separate from the dorsal edge when advanced over the forearm for placement. An amount of force to separate the volar edge from the dorsal by about one inch from a free standing configuration may be within a range from about 25 grams to about 400 grams, or from about 50 grams to about 150 grams. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a shell and an underlying foam which extends distally beyond the distal border of the shell of the barrier. The foam may curve over a leading distal edge of the shell to pad the interface of the shell when the barrier impinges on the wrist to provide comfort. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a shell and an underlying foam which extends distally beyond the distal border of the shell of the barrier to pad the interface of the shell when the barrier impinges on the wrist to provide comfort. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprise a shell and an underlying foam which curves over a leading distal edge of the shell to pad the interface of the shell when the barrier impinges on the wrist to provide comfort. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprise a shell and a distal edge of the shell has a curvature with a diameter equal to the thickness of the shell. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprise a shell and a distal end of the shell curves away from the forearm of a user, such as with a radius of curvature of between 2 mm and 5 mm. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a shell having a radial curvature at a distal edge of shell with displacement within a range from about 3 mm to 1.5 cm to distribute a load of the barrier on a wrist of a user. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a shell and a foam padding the distal edge of the shell. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprise a thickened distal edge. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may be configured to distribute a load when device abuts the dorsal or radial or volar aspect of the wrist with motion of the wrist. 
     Aspects of the present invention include barriers for placement on a forearm of a user. An exemplary barrier may comprise a curved shell defining a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The curved shell may extend with a curvature about the longitudinal axis. The proximal end of the shell may define a cross-section. The distal end of the shell may define a cross-section. The barrier may comprise a pre-formed shaped barrier. The barrier may comprise a volar edge on a volar side and a dorsal edge on a dorsal side. The volar edge may separate from the dorsal edge when advanced over the forearm for placement. An amount of force to separate the volar edge from the dorsal by about one inch from a free standing configuration may be within a range from about 25 grams to about 400 grams, or from about 50 grams to about 150 grams. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide a method comprising providing a barrier as disclosed herein. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure that has an entry zone and a secure zone, an upper structure that has a secure zone, a needle slot for receiving one or more suture needles between the lower structure and the upper structure, and an upper needle driver slot that extends through a portion of the upper structure and a lower needle driver slot that extends through portion of the lower structure. A lower protrusion on a bottom side of the lower structure may comprise a height sufficient to provide clearance for the needle driver when a needle grasped away from a tip of the needle driver advances along the needle slot. The lower protrusion may comprise a standout extending along the lower needle driver slot. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a housing comprising a lower structure and an upper structure. The upper structure may comprise an optically transmissive material and the lower structure may comprise an optically transmissive material in order to view needles within a secure zone of the receptacle with backlight illumination. The upper portion may comprise a transparent material to view the needles, and the lower portion may comprise a translucent material to pass backlight illumination light to the needles. The needle receptacle may further comprise a slot through the upper structure in order to view needles within a secure zone of the receptacle. The upper structure may have a longitudinal slot to receive a needle driver. The secure zone may comprise an elongate needle slot to receive a plurality of needles. The elongate needle slot may extend between the upper structure and the lower structure. The needles in the needle slot can be viewed through the top structure with backlight illumination through the lower structure. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure that has an entry zone and a secure zone, an upper structure that has a secure zone, and a needle slot for receiving one or more suture needles between the lower structure and the upper structure. A plurality of protrusions may extend along the needle slot with a periodicity in order to provide tactile feedback to a user to indicate a positon of the needle along the needle slot. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure that has an entry zone and a secure zone, an upper structure that has a secure zone and a needle driver slot extending along the secure zone, and a needle slot for receiving one or more suture needles between the lower structure and the upper structure. A plurality of protrusions may extend along the needle driver slot to provide tactile feedback to a user as to the depth of the needle driver along the needle driver slot. The plurality of protrusions may comprise one or more of teeth, inclined teeth, ratchet teeth or circular cutouts. The plurality of protrusions may comprise one or more of teeth, inclined teeth, ratchet teeth or circular cutouts, flaps, bristles, or filaments. The plurality of protrusions may be arranged with periodicity to provide an indication of depth of the needle driver along the needle driver slot. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure that has an entry zone and a secure zone, an upper structure that has a secure zone, and a needle slot for receiving one or more suture needles between the lower structure and the upper structure. A plurality of asymmetric protrusions may extend along the needle slot in order to inhibit removal of the needle along the needle slot. Each of the plurality of asymmetric protrusions may comprise a base extending to a peak. The base may comprise a distal edge toward an entrance of the slot and a proximal edge toward a stop on a proximal end of the slot. The peak may be located closer to the proximal edge than the distal edge. The plurality of asymmetric protrusions may comprise one or more of bristles or fibers inclined proximally toward a stop in order to facilitate movement toward the stop and inhibit movement toward an opening of the slot through which the needle is passed for placement in the secure zone. The entry zone may be at a distal end of the needle receptacle and the secure zone may be at a proximal end of the needle receptacle. The plurality of asymmetric protrusions may comprise one or more of bristles or fibers inclined towards a stop in order to facilitate movement toward the stop and inhibit movement toward an opening of the slot through which the needle is passed for placement in the secure zone. 
     Another needle receptacle may comprise a structure to receive a needle with resistance or force to remove the needle, wherein an amount of resistance or force to remove the needle is within a range from about 5 grams to 250 grams, within a range from about 15 grams to about 150 grams, within a range from about 25 grams to about 100 grams, or within a range from about 30 grams to about 90 grams. The amount of force to remove the needle may be greater than the amount of force to insert the needle. The needle receptacle may comprise a needle slot, and the amount of force may comprise an amount of force to advance the needle along the needle slot. The needle receptacle may comprise a needle driver slot, and the amount of force may comprise an amount of force to advance the needle driver along the needle driver slot to secure the needle in the needle slot. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide a method comprising a step of inserting a needle into a needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may resist insertion of the needle with an amount of force within a range from about 5 grams to 250 grams, within a range from about 15 grams to about 150 grams, within a range from about 25 grams to about 100 grams, or within a range from about 30 grams to about 90 grams. The amount of force to remove the needle may be greater than the amount of force to insert the needle. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide needle traps. An exemplary needle trap may comprise a landing zone and a secure zone. The landing zone may be substantially coplanar with the secure zone. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide a method comprising steps of moving a needle to a landing zone of a needle receptacle and sliding the needle from the landing zone into a secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide a receptacle comprising a slotted structure that allows a tip and a tail of the needle to be substantially enclosed while suspending a mid-portion of the needle in the slot. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide a needle receptacle comprising a slot along a secure zone. The slot may be sized smaller than a finger tip having a size of about 10 mm. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide a needle receptacle comprising a needle groove having a thickness small enough to inhibit rotational movement of the needle out of the needle groove. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide sterile barrier kits. An exemplary sterile barrier kit may comprise a sterile package and a sterile barrier contained within the package. The kit may be configured for one or more of regional anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, emergency room suturing, or intravenous (IV) line placement. The kit may be configured to one or more of regional anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, emergency room suturing, intravenous (IV) line, arterial line, or central line placement. 
     In the needle receptacles disclosed herein, the receptacle may be sized to a range of needles, and may optionally comprise a smaller slot for smaller needle drivers, in which the slot comprises a width of no more than a diameter of a largest needle for which the trap is designed to store. 
     A longitudinal slot for the needle driver may comprise a through and through slot, in which the slot extends though both sides of the receptacle. 
     A longitudinal slot or groove for the needle driver may comprise a lower solid wall, in which the wall is located at a sufficient depth to allow the tip of the needle driver to protrude beyond the needle securement slot plane. The needle driver groove or slot may extend beneath the needle slot by a distance within a range from about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm. 
     In the needle receptacles disclosed herein, the receptacle may comprise a longitudinal slot bounded by a structure to one or more sides of the slot that creates a varying resistance to translation as the needle is drawn along the slot. Optionally, the varying resistance may be provided with one or more of discrete or asymmetric features that protrude into the needle slot, in order to increase compression of the needle and provide tactile feedback as the needle is drawn along the slot. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a secure zone, can be applied to the forearm, and may comprise a width of less than 12 cm and a length of less than 26 cm. 
     A compressive member may be configured to secure a needle and provide resistance to movement of the needle against an apposed surface. The foam structure may comprise a gap of less than 2 mm between the foam and the apposed surface. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method of inserting a needle into a needle receptacle. The method may comprise steps of placing the needle at an entry zone of the needle receptacle coupled to a forearm and moving the needle along a plane of the forearm to secure the needle within a housing of the needle receptacle. 
     The barrier may comprise a recess in an outer surface of the barrier. The recess may be configured to receive at least a portion of a needle receptacle therein to couple the needle receptacle to the barrier in a low profile. 
     The barrier may comprise an integrated needle receptacle such that the needle receptacle is provided on the barrier in a low profile. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a needle driver slot cover configured to at least partially cover a longitudinal needle driver slot of the needle receptacle to reduce risk of exposure of needle tips through the needle driver slot. The needle driver slot cover may comprise one or more flexible strips configured to elastically deform when a needle driver tip is translated along the needle driver slot. The needle driver slot cover may comprise a flexible strip disposed over the needle driver slot. The flexible strip may comprise a longitudinal slit positioned over the needle driver slot and extending longitudinally along the needle driver slot. The flexible strip may further comprise a plurality of vertical slits disposed over a length of the needle driver slot and extending orthogonally with respect to the longitudinal slit. The needle driver slot cover may comprise a transparent material. The needle driver slot cover may be slidably coupled to the needle receptacle and configured to slide to expose or cover the needle driver slot when the needle driver tip is translated along the needle driver slot. The needle driver slot cover may be configured to slide along a longitudinal axis of the needle driver slot. The needle driver slot cover may be configured to slide along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the needle driver slot. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a compressive member mounted laterally along a first longitudinal edge of a needle driver slot. The compressive member may be configured to be displaced by translation of a needle driver tip along the needle driver slot. Upon removal of the needle driver tip from the needle driver slot, exposed ends of a needle may be compressively pushed toward a second longitudinal edge of the needle driver slot opposite the first edge. The compressive member may be configured to provide a compressive force in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the needle driver slot. 
     A housing of the needle receptacle may comprises a light guide. The needle receptacle may be coupled to a light source configured to transmit light to the light guide to provide backlighting. 
     A housing of the needle receptacle may comprise a light scattering material or surface to provide for non-uniform light transmission therethrough. The light scattering surface may comprise a surface of the lower or upper structure. The light scattering surface may comprise a roughened surface. The light scattering surface may comprise a sandblasted surface. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide apparatuses for dispensing and securing a swaged needle. An exemplary apparatus may comprise a housing and a swaged needle. The housing may comprise a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall. The swaged needle may be coupled to the top portion of the housing. The swaged needle may comprise an attached suture. The attached suture may be wrapped around the side wall. A leading end of the swaged needle may be covered. The housing may comprise a spindle configured to allow rotation of the housing about a central axis of the housing. The apparatus may further comprise a mounting mechanism to mount the apparatus to a barrier. A height of the housing may be in a range from about 0.3 mm to about 15 mm, such as a range from about 1.5 cm to about 8 cm. The apparatus may be configured to couple to another identical apparatus in a stacked configuration. The housing may comprise a lid coupled to the top portion. The swaged needle may be covered by the lid. The top portion of the housing may comprise a slot to receive the leading end of the swaged needle and secure the swaged needle thereto. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide apparatuses for dispensing and securing a swaged needle. An exemplary apparatus may comprise a housing, a plurality of spindles, and a swaged needle. The housing may comprise a bottom portion and a side wall extending from the bottom portion. The plurality of spindles may extend from a surface of the bottom portion. The swaged needle may be coupled to the housing. The swaged needle may comprise an attached suture. The attached suture may be wrapped around at least two of the plurality of spindles. The plurality of spindles may be arranged on the bottom portion in pairs and the suture may be wrapped around a first pair of spindles. The apparatus may further comprise a second swaged needle coupled to the housing. The second swaged needle may comprise an attached second suture. The second suture may be wrapped around a second pair of spindles. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide needle receptacles for mounting to a surgical tool. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a housing, a tool-mounting interface, and a coupling mechanism. The housing may comprise a planar needle slot to receive a needle and secure the needle therein. The tool-mounting interface may be configured to couple to a distal end of the surgical tool. The coupling mechanism may be configured to couple the housing to the tool-mounting interface. The housing may be configured to receive at least 5 needles therein. The tool-mounting interface may comprise an elastomeric cap configured to fit over the distal end of the surgical tool. The housing may comprise a rigid enclosure configured to receive a plurality of needles in a planar array aligned along a length of the rigid enclosure. The housing may comprise a circular array of compartments. Each compartment may be configured to receive a single needle therein. The circular array of compartments may be configured to rotate about a central axis of the housing to allow access to each compartment. 
     A needle driver slot may comprise an upper groove and a lower groove. The upper groove and the lower groove may comprise rounded edges. 
     A needle driver slot may comprise an upper groove and a lower groove. A width of the upper groove may be greater than a width of the lower groove. 
     A needle driver slot may comprise an upper groove and a lower groove. The upper groove and the lower groove may comprise beveled edges. 
     A needle driver slot may comprise an upper groove and a lower groove. The edges of the upper groove and lower groove may be angled and collinear. 
     In the needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot may comprise an upper groove and a lower groove. The edges of the upper groove and lower groove may correspond to a subsection of a prolonged curving plane. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide needle handling systems. An exemplary needle handling system may comprise a needle dispensing unit, a needle receptacle, and a barrier mounting base. The needle dispensing unit may comprise a plurality of sterile needles secured therein. The needle receptacle may comprise a planar needle slot configured to receive a plurality of used needles in a planar array. The barrier mounting base may comprise a top side and a bottom side. The top side may be configured to couple to the needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle. The bottom side may be configured to couple to a barrier. The barrier mounting base may comprise a first portion configured to couple to the needle dispensing unit and a second portion configured to couple to the needle receptacle. The barrier mounting base may further comprise a hinge disposed between the first portion and the second portion to allow the first portion to bend with respect to the second portion. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a first compressive member and a second compressive member. The first compressive member may be configured to engage a leading end of a needle. The second compressive member may be configured to engage a trailing end of the needle so as to entrap the needle between the compressive members. 
     A needle receptacle as in any one of the preceding claims, the needle receptacle comprising one or more clips configured to receive and enclose one or more ends of a needle and apply compressive force to the one or more ends to secure the one or more ends therein. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a needle receptacle comprising a housing and a rotatable cover coupled to the housing. The housing may comprise a plurality of compartments. Each compartment may be configured to contain a single needle therein. The rotatable cover may be coupled to the housing. The rotatable cover may comprise a window. The rotatable cover may be configured to rotate about a central axis of the housing to align the window with a single compartment to allow access to the single compartment through the window. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise associating a combination of both dispensing unit and used needle repository on the forceps. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein more than one setup of a suture package and needle receptacle may be ready for use. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise a sterile disposable forceps, a needle and suture package in combination with a used needle receptacle. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, a sterile disposable forceps, a needle, and suture package in combination with a used needle receptacle may be co-manufactured into a common package. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, a balanced surgical forceps may have an attached needle retention device onto the forceps. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, a configuration may comprise a back to back relationship of the suture package and needle receptacle on opposing sides. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the suture package and needle receptacle may be attached to the forceps to allow for containment, coverage, securement, of both tip and end (tail) of one or more needles. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, a forceps mounted needle receptacle may promote an organized deposition or array of used needles to facilitate counting and reconciliation of needle count. 
     In the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured with a size and shape for five needles and may comprise five zones, one for each needle. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise five tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 2-20 tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 5-8 tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 3-10 tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may be further configured for back lighting to enhance needle profile contrast. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise five zone specific light sources and may be configured to provide one light source on per needle into the receptacle. Light sources may be located on the needle receptacle. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise five light sources or sensors on a trap in a receptacle. The light sources may be coupled with the barrier. The barrier may be configured with five lights sources that light up according to a number of needles in the trap in the receptacle. 
     The methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise a translational slot cover with ratcheted counting mechanism. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a needle apparatus which may comprise a pair of opposing needle receptacles. Each needle receptacle may have a front side and a back side and an opening to receive needles on the front side. The back sides may be oriented toward each other and the front sides may be oriented away from each other. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a needle apparatus which may comprise a pair of opposing suture packages. Each suture package may have a front side and a back side. The front side may be open to access a plurality of needles therefrom. The back sides may be oriented toward each other and the front sides may be oriented away from each other. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a needle apparatus which may comprise a needle receptacle and a suture package. The needle receptacle may have a front side and a back side and having an opening to receive needles on the front side. The suture package may have a front side and a back side. The front side may be open to access a plurality of needles therefrom. The back sides may be oriented toward each other and the front sides may be oriented away from each other. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may further comprise an interface to mount the needle apparatus on a surgical instrument. The interface may optionally comprise a slot to receive a proximal end of the instrument. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may further comprise an interface to mount the needle apparatus on forceps and the interface may optionally comprise a slot to receive a proximal end of the forceps. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may further comprise an interface to mount the needle apparatus on tweezers. The interface may optionally comprise a slot to receive a proximal end of the tweezers. The interface may comprise an adhesive. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may have opposing back sides which are rotatable about a common axis. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may have opposing back sides which are independently rotatable about a common axis. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may further comprise a pair of disposable forceps. 
     A needle apparatus as disclosed herein may be sterile and contained within a sterile package. 
     A barrier as disclosed herein may comprise a padding layer and a mechanical barrier layer. One or more magnets may be coupled to a surface of the mechanical barrier layer facing the padding layer such that the one or more magnets are disposed between the padding layer and the mechanical barrier layer. 
     A barrier as disclosed herein may comprise a mechanical barrier layer comprising a polymer material. 
     A barrier as disclosed herein may barrier comprise a polymer material with a thickness in range from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide methods for handling suture needles. In an exemplary method, a suture needle may be grasped with a needle driver to dispense the suture needle from a suture package mounted on a support. The dispensed suture needle may be placed into a needle receptacle mounted on the support. A tip of the dispensed suture needle may be oriented away from a surgeon during the grasping step and the placing step. 
     The dispensed suture needle may travel a variety of distances. The dispensed suture needle may travel less than two feet from the grasping step to the placing step. The suture needle may travel a round trip distance of less than four feet from the grasping step to the placing step. The suture needle may travel no more than two feet from the suture pack to a wound and no more than two feet from the wound to the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the dispensed suture needle remains within a near surgical field during the steps of grasping and placing. The near surgical field may be bounded by a length extending from a front side of a torso of a surgeon to an incision, a width extending between forearms of the surgeon in a neutral rotation position, and a height extending vertically from a height of the incision to shoulders of the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon with respect to an anatomical neutral plane of the arm. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon beyond a coronal plane of the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon beyond a plane perpendicular to the coronal plane of the surgeon at the surgeon&#39;s shoulder. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon beyond a sagittal plane that bisects the coronal plane at the surgeon&#39;s shoulder. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon beyond a mid-sagittal plane of the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the near surgical field comprises a space disposed within one or more of about 2 feet of the incision, 1.5 feet of the incision or about 1 foot of the incision. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are attached to the support. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises repeating the steps of grasping and placing until a plurality of suture needles has been dispensed from the suture package and placed into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the dispensed suture needle is attached to a suture, and the method further comprises installing the suture into a patient with the dispensed suture needle and the needle driver. The steps of grasping, installing, and placing may be repeated until a plurality of sutures have been installed in the patient. 
     In many embodiments, the suture pack and the needle receptacle are arranged for a surgeon to perform the steps of grasping and placing with one hand. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a movable support controlled by a surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a structure located to place into a stable configuration one or more reels of suture coupled to a swaged on needle in order to dispense suture of the swaged needle from the one or more reels stably supported on the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the suture pack comprises a structure located to place into a stable configuration one or more reels of suture each coupled to a swaged on needle in order to dispense the one or more reels of suture and needle from the structure stably supported on the suture pack. 
     In many embodiments, the suture pack comprises a structure located to place into a stable configuration one or more reels of suture coupled to a swaged on needle in order to dispense suture of the swaged needle from the one or more reels stably supported on the suture pack. 
     In many embodiments, a suture attached to the dispensed suture needle is cut with one hand. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a barrier supported by a surgeon. The barrier may be coupled to a limb of the surgeon. The barrier may be releasably coupled to a limb of the surgeon. The suture package may be selected among a plurality of suture packages supported on a tray, and the suture package may be placed on the barrier. The needle receptacle may be selected among a plurality of needle receptacles supported on a tray, and the needle receptacle may be placed on the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package, the needle receptacle, and the support are sterile. One or more of the support or the barrier is configured for placement on a back portion of a hand of a surgeon with one or more structures extending from the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle comprise a self-contained package capable of being passed together from a surgeon to an assistant and vice versa with a plurality of innocuous needles supported with the suture package and the needle receptacle. The suture package may be attached to the needle receptacle. The suture package may be flexibly attached to the needle receptacle with a hinged support member. A combination of the suture package and needle receptacle may be attached to a support on an extremity of the surgeon. A combination of the suture package and needle receptacle may attach conformably to the support on an extremity of the surgeon. 
     The suture pack may comprise a planar suture package, and the needle receptacle may lie at an oblique angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the planar suture package. The suture package and the needle receptacle may each in contact with the support so as to decrease a profile of the needle receptacle. The suture package may be assembled together on the support. 
     The suture package and the trap may at least partially overlap in order to decrease size on barrier. The suture package and the trap may at least partially overlap in order to decrease a footprint of the suture package and the trap on barrier. The package and the needle receptacle trap may overlap in a proximal to distal direction. The suture package and the needle receptacle may overlap in a medial to lateral direction. The suture package and the needle receptacle may comprise an attachment mechanism. The suture package may comprise a standard commercially available needle package. 
     A needle receptacle attachment mechanism may allow attachment of the suture package to one or more of a lateral border or a distal border of the needle receptacle. 
     The step of coupling the barrier to a limb of the surgeon may comprise placing the barrier over a volar portion of a forearm of the surgeon. 
     The needle receptacle may be placed over a volar forearm of the surgeon. The needle receptacle may comprise a planar structure placed over the volar forearm. The needle receptacle may comprise a planar structure placed over the volar forearm and optionally the planar structure may be placed over a medial portion of the volar forearm. The needle receptacle may be arranged over the volar forearm to allow easy insertion of a used needle when a hand holding needle holder is slightly supinated. The needle may be placed in the receptacle with rotation of an arm holding a needle driver with shoulder joint rotation in order to align and place the used needle into an opening of the needle receptacle. 
     The needle receptacle may be arranged over the volar forearm to allow easy insertion of a used needle when a hand holding needle holder is slightly pronated. The needle may be placed in the receptacle with rotation of an arm holding a needle driver with shoulder joint rotation in order to align and place the used needle into an opening of the needle receptacle. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a longitudinal length, a transverse width, and a height. The length may be greater than the width and the height. The width may be greater than the height. The length may be within a range from about 4 cm to about 15 cm, the width may be within a range from about 3 cm to about 6 cm, and the height may be within a range from about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm. 
     The step of coupling the barrier to the limb of the surgeon may comprise steps of providing legs that extend from sides of the barrier and engaging the legs on the limb of the surgeon to stabilize the barrier on the forearm of the surgeon. The step of engaging the legs on the limb of the surgeon may comprise a step of engaging one or more of a distal portion or a proximal portion of a forearm of the surgeon. The legs may comprise at least a plurality of legs for stable placement on one or more the first portion or the second portion. The legs may comprise slap bracelets. The legs may comprise a first leg and a second leg. The method may further comprise a step of securing a first coupling mechanism on the first leg to a second coupling mechanism on the second leg to secure the barrier to the limb of the surgeon. 
     The method may further comprise a step of coupling the suture package to the barrier. The method may further comprise a step of coupling the needle receptacle to the barrier. One or more of the support or the barrier may comprise a barrier layer configured to protect the limb of the surgeon from contact with the suture needles. 
     The support may comprise a surgical tool held by a surgeon. The surgeon may perform the steps of grasping and placing with one hand, while holding the surgical tool with the other hand. 
     A plurality of suture packages may be mounted on the support. 
     The step of placing the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle may comprise a step of rendering innocuous both ends of the dispensed suture needle within the needle receptacle. 
     The step of placing the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle may comprise a step of compressing a component of the needle receptacle against a tip of the dispensed suture needle. 
     The step of placing the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle may comprise a step of placing the dispensed suture needle in contact with a foam material in the needle receptacle. 
     The step of placing the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle may comprise placing a tip of the dispensed suture needle into a tapered structure that guides the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle. 
     The method may further comprise a step of actuating a lever coupled to a door of the needle receptacle to open the door. The method may further comprise a step of inserting the dispensed suture needle through the door in the needle receptacle. The method may further comprise a step of actuating the lever to close the door. 
     The method may further comprise a step of rotating the support so that the suture package faces the needle drive before grasping the suture needle with the needle driver. 
     The method may further comprise a step of rotating the support so that the needle receptacle faces the needle driver before placing the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle with the needle driver. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a plurality of channels separated by dividers. The step of placing the dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle may comprise a step of placing the dispensed suture needle into one of the plurality of channels. A plurality of suture needles may be dispensed from the suture package. The step of placing the suture needle into the needle receptacle may comprise placing each of the plurality of dispensed suture needles into a different one of the plurality of channels. The dividers may surround one or more of a proximal end or a distal end of the dispensed suture needle. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a transparent structure. 
     The support may be coupled to a proximal portion of surgical forceps. 
     One or more of the suture package or the needle receptacle may be coupled to a proximal portion of surgical forceps. 
     The suture package and the needle receptacle may be arranged for a surgeon to count a plurality of undispensed needles and a plurality of dispensed needles within a near surgical field. 
     The suture package and the needle receptacle may be arranged for a surgeon to maintain a needle inventory within a near surgical field. 
     The suture package and the needle receptacle may be arranged for a surgeon to reconcile a needle inventory within a near surgical field. 
     The step of placing the dispensed suture needle into a needle receptacle mounted on the support may further comprise a step of securing the needle to the needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide apparatuses for handling suture needles. The apparatus may comprise a suture package, a needle receptacle, and a support. The suture package may be configured to dispense a plurality of suture needles. The needle receptacle may be configured to store a plurality of dispensed suture needles. The support may be configured to support one or more of the suture package or the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is arranged to place the suture needle in the receptacle with a tip of the suture needle oriented away from the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is arranged to place the suture needle in the receptacle with a tip of the suture needle oriented away from a direction of translation of the suture needle into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the suture needle comprises a curved suture needle and the needle receptacle is arranged to place the suture needle in the receptacle with each end of the suture needle oriented away from the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a structure to receive the suture package and stably support the suture package. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon with respect to an anatomical neutral plane of the arm. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package and the needle receptacle are arranged for the surgeon to dispense a plurality of needles from the suture package and place the plurality of needles in the needle receptacle without an external rotation of an arm of a surgeon outside a near surgical field of the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a structure located to place into a stable configuration one or more reels of suture coupled to a swaged on needle in order to dispense suture of the swaged needle from the one or more reels stably supported on the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a structure located to place into a stable configuration one or more reels of suture each coupled to a swaged on needle in order to dispense suture of the swaged needle from the one or more reels stably supported by a common base mounted to one of the group selected from: the a barrier on an arm of a surgeon, a drape over the patient, and a support. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a cutter arranged with the support in order to cut a suture of the suture needle with one hand. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a sterile tray having a plurality of suture packages supported thereon. 
     In many embodiments, the suture package, the needle receptacle and the support are sterile. 
     In many embodiments, one or more of the support or the platform is configured for placement on a back portion of a hand of a surgeon with one or more structures extending from the platform. 
     In many embodiments, the support is configured to attach to the suture package and to the needle receptacle in order to stably support the suture package and the needle receptacle on the support and in order to inhibit sliding or falling of the suture package and the needle receptacle from the support when the support is inverted or inclined and wherein the support is configured to release the suture package and the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the suture pack and the needle receptacle are arranged for a surgeon to perform the steps of grasping and placing with one hand. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a movable support configured to be controlled by a surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a platform configured to be supported by a surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a platform configured to be supported by one of the group selected from: a surgeon, a drape, and, a mount coupled to the surgical table, and a stable mount. The platform may comprise a coupling configured to couple the platform to a limb of the surgeon. The coupling may comprise one or more legs that extend from sides of the platform. The legs may be configured to engage the limb of the surgeon. The coupling may comprise slap bracelets. One or more of the support or the platform may comprise a barrier configured to protect the surgeon from contact with one or more ends of a dispensed suture needle. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a platform coupled to an adjustable support structure to place the platform within a near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments, the support comprises a platform is within a near surgical field and coupled to one of the group consisting of: an adjustable support structure, a stable mount, and a drape. 
     In many embodiments, the support is configured to couple to surgical forceps configured to engage tissue with pinching motion. The support may be configured to couple to a proximal end of the surgical forceps. The surgical forceps may comprise one or more of Adson forceps or Bonney forceps. The apparatus may weigh less than 45 grams. The apparatus may further comprise a coupling to couple the suture package and the needle receptacle to a proximal portion of the surgical tool. The apparatus may further comprise a suture package holder configured to support one or more suture packages. The suture package holder may be coupled to a proximal portion of the surgical tool. The needle receptacle and the suture package may be supported on opposite sides of the surgical tool. The suture package holder and the needle receptacle may be supported on a same side of the surgical tool. The coupling may comprise a tool attachment pocket and the proximal portion of the surgical tool may be placed in the tool attachment pocket. The tool attachment pocket may be coupled to the surgical tool with an adhesive layer. The apparatus may comprise two suture packages coupled to the proximal portion of the surgical tool. The needle receptacle may be sandwiched between the two suture packages. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a tool holder mounted on the support for holding a needle driver. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a tool holder mounted on the support for holding scissors. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is configured to contain both ends of a dispensed suture needle placed into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a mechanism that compresses a component of the needle receptacle against a tip of a dispensed suture needle placed into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a tapered structure that guides a tip of a dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a tapered structure that guides a portion of a dispensed suture needle into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the portion of the dispensed suture needle is a tip of the needle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a foam material shaped to contact a tip of a dispensed suture needle placed into the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a door coupled to a lever for opening and closing the door. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle weighs less than 45 grams. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a plurality of channels for storing the plurality of dispensed suture needles. The needle receptacle may further comprise a power source, a first conductor electrically coupled to the power source, and a first visual indicator electrically coupled between the power source and a second conductor. The first visual indicator may indicate the presence of a first dispensed suture needle in a first channel of the plurality of channels when the first dispensed suture needle is placed in contact with both the first conductor and the second conductor. The power source may comprise a battery. The first visual indicator may comprise a first light. The needle receptacle may further comprises a second visual indicator electrically coupled between the power source and a third conductor. The second visual indicator may indicate the presence of a second used needle in a second channel of the plurality of channels when the second used needle is placed in contact with both the second conductor and the third conductor. The second visual indicator may comprise a second light. The needle receptacle may further comprise numerical markings for the plurality of channels. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is configured to render innocuous both ends of the suture needle when placed in the receptacle. The needle receptacle may comprise a structure to view the needle with both ends rendered innocuous. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is configured to receive the suture needle and to stabilize the surgical needle within the needle receptacle on a needle receptacle support. The needle receptacle support may comprise one or more of a magnet, an adhesive, or a deflectable material to stabilize the suture needle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is configured to receive the suture needle with sliding movement and corresponding resistance to the sliding movement in order to stabilize the surgical needle within the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a transparent cover to view a plurality of suture needles rendered innocuous therein. The needle receptacle may comprise an opening to place the plurality of suture needles within the suture needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a structured array to arrange a plurality of needles along the array for counting. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide methods for securing of a suture needle by a surgeon. A suture needle may be inserted into an opening of a needle receptacle with a needle driver. The suture needle may be rotated inside the needle receptacle to insert an end of the needle into a material. The suture needle may be released from the needle driver. With the inserting step, the needle may be translated away from a leading end. With the rotating step, a trailing end of the needle may be inserted into the deformable structure. The material may comprise one or more of a deformable material, an adhesive material or an elastic material. The material may comprise one or more of a foam, elastic membrane, or an adhesive. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide methods for securing of a suture needle by a surgeon. A suture needle may be inserted into an opening of a needle receptacle with a needle driver. The suture needle may be secured inside the needle receptacle. The suture needle may be released from the needle driver. The needle receptacle may be configured to store a plurality of suture needles. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is located within a near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises an entry zone and a secure zone. The inserting step may comprise placing the suture needle on the entry zone of the needle receptacle. The securing step may comprise sliding the suture needle from the entry zone into a needle slot in the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is coupled to a second needle receptacle. The method may further comprise steps of placing a second suture needle on a second entry zone of the second needle receptacle, and sliding the second suture needle from the second entry zone into a second secure zone of the second needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the secure zone comprises a needle driver slot and the inserting step comprises moving a distal portion of the needle driver along the needle driver slot to place the suture needle in the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the secure zone comprises a compressive member that compresses against at least a portion of the suture needle during the securing step. 
     In many embodiments, the secure zone comprises a compressive member that applies a force against at least a portion of the suture needle during the securing step. 
     In many embodiments, secure zone comprises a plurality of protrusions that extend into the needle slot. The securing step may comprise moving the suture needle against a plurality of protrusions in the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the method may further comprise steps of detecting the suture needle placed into the needle receptacle, determining a number of suture needles disposed within the needle receptacle, and displaying the number of the sutures needles disposed within the needle receptacle on a visual display. The needle receptacle may comprise a first conductor and a second conductor that are electrically coupled to a power source. The suture needle may be disposed within the needle receptacle is in contact with both the first conductor and the second conductor. The detecting step may comprise measuring an electrical current through the first conductor and the second conductor. 
     In many embodiments, securing step may comprises a step of rotating a first suture needle within the needle receptacle so that an end of the suture needle is pressed into a first surface of a first structure mounted to the needle receptacle. The first structure may comprise one or more of a deformable material, an adhesive material or elastic structure, the first structure comprising one or more of a foam, elastic membrane, or an adhesive. The needle receptacle may comprise an offset zone between the opening and the first structure. During the insertion step, the first suture needle may be moved through the offset zone before performing the rotating step. The method may further comprise steps of inserting a second suture needle through the opening of the needle receptacle with the needle driver and rotating the second suture needle within the needle receptacle so that an end of the second suture needle is pressed into a second surface of the first structure mounted to the needle receptacle. The first suture needle may be rotated in a clockwise direction about a longitudinal axis of the needle driver. The second suture needle may be rotated in a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis of the needle driver. The first structure may comprise one or more of a foam or an adhesive or a deformable material. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of viewing the suture needle through a wall of the needle receptacle, wherein the wall is transparent, and counting suture needles disposed within the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may be mounted on a proximal portion of a surgical tool. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure, an upper structure, a needle slot, and a needle driver slot. The lower structure may have an entry zone and a secure zone. The upper structure may have a secure zone. The needle slot may be for receiving one or more suture needles between the lower structure and the upper structure. The needle driver slot may extend through a portion of the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot is perpendicular to the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, a long axis of the needle driver slot is perpendicular to a long axis of the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot extends through a portion of the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a compressible member that is adjacent to the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a plurality of protrusions that are adjacent to the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises comprising a needle counting mechanism configured to detect a number of suture needles disposed in the secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a power source, a first conductor electrically coupled to the power source, a second conductor electrically coupled to control circuitry, and a visual display electrically coupled to the control circuitry. The visual display may indicate the number of suture needles disposed in the secure zone when the suture needles are placed in contact with both the first conductive element and the second conductive element. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is coupled to a second needle receptacle through a coupling in direct contact with both the needle receptacle and the second needle receptacle. The coupling may comprise a tool slot adapted to fit over a proximal end of a surgical tool. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a camera for obtaining a photographic image of the suture needle in the secure zone. The needle receptacle may further comprise a transmitter for transmitting the photographic image of the suture needle to a receiver. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle may further comprise a camera for obtaining a photographic image for the presence of the suture needle in the secure zone. The needle receptacle may further comprise a transmitter for transmitting the photographic image for the presence of the suture needle to a receiver. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a housing having an opening and an interior volume and a first elongated member coupled to an interior surface of the housing. The first elongated member may have a needle insertion surface that extends inward from the interior surface of the housing. 
     In many embodiments, the first member comprises one or more of a deformable material, an adhesive material, or elastic structure. The deformable material may comprise one or more of a foam, elastic membrane, or an adhesive. The interior volume may be substantially cylindrical. The first deformable member may extend from the interior surface substantially radially inward into the interior volume. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle may further comprise a second elongated member coupled to the interior surface of the housing. The first member and the second deformable member may be on opposite sides of the interior surface of the housing. The second member may comprise one or more of a deformable material, an adhesive material, or elastic structure. The first member may comprise one or more of a foam, elastic membrane, or an adhesive. 
     In many embodiments, the opening comprises an elongated slot that is longer than a length of the needle. 
     In many embodiments, the housing is transparent. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide apparatuses for protecting a limb of a surgeon from contact with a needle. An exemplary apparatus may comprise a barrier having a curved cross section and a coupling to couple the barrier to the limb of the surgeon. The barrier may be configured to support one or more of a suture package or a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a barrier mount. The barrier mounting base may be configured to support one or more of a suture package or a needle receptacle. The barrier may be configured to support the barrier mount. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a sterile barrier and the coupling comprises a sterile coupling. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises an extension sized to extend over a dorsal side of a hand of a surgeon. The extension may comprise a stiffness to support one or more of a suture package or a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises an extension sized to extend over a dorsum of a hand of a surgeon. The extension may comprise a deflection to allow movement of the hand to a dorsal radial side of the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises an extension sized to extend over a hand of a surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling comprises one or more of a first leg or a second leg. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling comprises a first leg and a second leg. The first leg may extend outward from a distal portion of the barrier in a first direction. The second leg may extend outward from the distal portion of the barrier in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling comprises a plurality of proximal legs. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling comprises one or more slap bracelets. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling comprises a strap configured to wrap around a portion of a forearm of the surgeon. The strap may be coupled to opposite edges of the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling comprises a thumb loop disposed on a distal portion of the barrier. The thumb loop may be configured to couple to a thumb of the surgeon. The thumb loop may be made of a flexible material. The thumb loop may be formed in the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier may comprise a malleable material configured to deform to curve around the limb. The barrier may comprise a plurality of grooves extending in a parallel to a length of the limb. The barrier may comprise an inner foam layer configured to be compressed against the limb. The barrier may be configured to support a needle receptacle on a volar portion of the barrier. The barrier may be configured to support a suture package with one or more of a volar or a radial portion of the barrier. The dorsal portion of the barrier may comprise a tool holder. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises the curved cross section in a free standing configuration. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier comprises a curved thermoformed barrier material. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method comprising the steps of providing a needle receptacle comprising a housing having a needle slot and a needle driver slot wherein the needle driver slot intersects a side portion of the needle slot, grasping an end portion of a suture needle with a needle driver, moving the suture needle along the needle slot by sliding the needle driver along the needle slot, and releasing the suture needle within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver moves through the needle driver slot in a straight path or a spiral path. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver moves through the needle driver slot in a circular path. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of providing a compressive member adjacent to the needle slot and compressing the compressive member against the needle. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of applying a rotational torque about a center axis to the needle driver. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of viewing the end portion of the needle within the needle driver slot and determining a number of the needles within the needle receptacle based upon the viewing step. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of detecting the suture needle placed into the needle slot, determining a number of the needles within the needle receptacle, and displaying the number of the needles within the needle receptacle on a visual display. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of providing a barrier and coupling the needle receptacle to the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the barrier is adapted to be placed on a limb of a surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling of the needle receptacle to the barrier is via a magnetic coupling or a hook and loop coupling. 
     In many embodiments, the method further comprises steps of providing one or more straps that extend from the barrier. The straps may be adapted to secure the barrier to a limb of a surgeon. 
     Aspects of the present invention may provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a housing, a needle slot, a first needle driver slot, and a second needle driver slot. The housing may have a cross section having a width and a thickness. The needle slot may be for storing used suture needles within the cross section of the housing. The first needle driver slot may extend through the thickness of the housing. The first needle driver slot may intersect a side portion of the needle slot. The needle driver slot may extend through a portion of the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot is substantially perpendicular to the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot has a circular portion or a spiral portion. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further a compressible member that is adjacent to the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a needle counting mechanism for detecting a number of needles in the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may further comprise a power source and a visual display electrically coupled to needle counting circuitry. The visual display may indicate a number of needles in the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a barrier, and the needle receptacle is attached to the barrier. The needle receptacle may further comprise a suture pack holder for holding suture packs attached to the barrier. The needle receptacle may further comprise one or more straps that extend from side of the barrier adapted to secure the barrier to a limb of a surgeon. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for handling suture needles, the apparatus comprising a support configured to receive a suture package and a needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for handling suture needles, the apparatus comprising a platform to attach a suture package and a used needle holder. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for handling suture needles, the apparatus comprising a platform to attach a suture package and a used needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for receiving a plurality of contaminated surgical suture needles, each needle having a tip, a trailing end and a needle body extending between the tip and the trailing end. The apparatus may comprise a housing having a top and a bottom, at least one opening between the top and the bottom configured and dimensioned to receive a contaminated surgical needle inserted therethrough, a window, and an innocuous zone within the housing to hold the plurality of contaminated surgical needles in an arrangement for counting through the window with each tip and trailing end. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for receiving a contaminated surgical suture needle, the needle having a tip, a trailing end and a needle body extending between the tip and the trailing end. The apparatus may comprise a housing having a top and a bottom, at least one opening between the top and the bottom configured and dimensioned to receive a contaminated surgical needle inserted therethrough, and a secure zone within the housing to hold the contaminated surgical needle in an orientation with the needle tip secured. 
     In many embodiments, the orientation comprises a predetermined orientation. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one opening is configured and dimensioned to receive the contaminated surgical needle in a lateral orientation. 
     In many embodiments, wherein the at least one opening is configured and dimensioned to receive the contaminated surgical needle in a transverse orientation. 
     In many embodiments, the surgical needle is a curved needle and at least a portion of the curved needle body enters the opening before the tip or the trailing end thereof. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a first side connected to and extending between the top and the bottom, a second side connected to and extending between the top and the bottom, a first end, and a second end. The at least one opening may be disposed in the first end. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are circular in shape. 
     In many embodiments, the secure zone is configured and dimensioned to receive a plurality of contaminated surgical needles. 
     In many embodiments, at least a portion of the top is sufficiently transparent to permit visualization of contaminated needles disposed in the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus includes a window permitting inspection and counting of a plurality of contaminated surgical needles contained therein. The plurality of contaminated surgical needles may comprise at least five surgical needles. 
     In many embodiments, the housing top includes a slot configured and dimensioned to receive a tip of a needle driver, facilitating insertion of the contaminated surgical needle into the housing under control of the needle driver. 
     In some embodiments, the slot is offset to view a trailing end of the needle. 
     In some embodiments, the slot is linear. 
     In some embodiments, the slot is curved. 
     In some embodiments, the slot is straight and is oriented along the center of the top. 
     In some embodiments, the slot is straight and is oriented off the longitudinal axis of the top. 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a plurality of slots. 
     In some embodiments, the slot is configured and dimensioned to orient the needle driver into a specific orientation relative to the slot. 
     In many embodiments, the secure zone includes needle retention features to hold a plurality of contaminated surgical needles in a predetermined orientation. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises needle retention features to hold the contaminated surgical needle between the top and bottom. The needle retention features may comprise foam disposed between the top and bottom, such as urethane foam. 
     In some embodiments, the needle retention features comprise loop and hook fasteners disposed between the top and bottom. 
     In some embodiments, the needle retention features comprise a plurality of protrusions extending from one or both of the top and bottom. The plurality of protrusions may comprise dimples, protuberances, or filaments. The plurality of protrusions may be angled away from the at least one opening to permit the needle to pass into the secure zone and to resist movement of the needle toward the at least one opening. The needle retention features may comprise flaps disposed between the top and bottom. 
     In some embodiments, the needle retention features comprise gel disposed between the top and bottom. 
     In some embodiments, the needle retention features comprise hemispherical nubs disposed between the top and bottom. 
     In some embodiments, the needle retention features comprise angled bristles disposed between the top and bottom. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further includes a sterile mounting member attached to the housing for mounting the apparatus in the near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are injection molded. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom snap fit together. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are welded together, such as ultrasonically welded together. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are adhesively connected. 
     In many embodiments, the top surface is comprised of clear polycarbonate. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are comprised of polycarbonate. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a slot through the top surface. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are flexible. 
     In many embodiments, the top and bottom are rigid. 
     In many embodiments, one or both of the top and bottom define an entry zone, a transition zone, and a secure zone. The entry zone may define a landing zone which is wider than the entry zone to facilitate movement of the needle toward the entry zone. The entry zone may include at least one structure to urge a needle driver holding a contaminate needle toward a slot in the top surface. The structure may include a V-shaped entry edge of the entry zone. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a sterile package containing the apparatus. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatus may further include a sterile mounting member attached to the housing for mounting the apparatus in the near surgical field. The mounting apparatus may comprises a barrier configured and dimensioned to be mounted to a forearm of a surgeon. The barrier may be configured and dimensioned to support a sterile package of surgical needles and sutures. 
     In many embodiments, the innocuous zone within the housing is configured to hold the plurality of contaminated surgical needles in an arrangement for counting through the window with either of each tip and trailing end beneath the window. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising one or more of a sterile surgical gown, a sterile glove, or a sterile cover configured with a barrier to inhibit needle sticks and a surface configured to stably support one or more of a suture pack or a needle receptacle over one or more of a hand, a radial forearm or a volar forearm. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising one or more of a sterile surgical gown, a sterile glove, or a sterile cover configured with a barrier to inhibit needle sticks and a surface configured to stably support one or more of a suture pack or a needle receptacle over one or more of a hand, a radial forearm, a volar forearm, a dorsal forearm, a ulnar forearm, and wrist. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising one or more of a sterile cover or a sterile drape configured with a barrier to inhibit needle sticks and a surface configured to stably support one or more of a suture pack or a needle receptacle in a near surgical field. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a surgical suturing kit comprising a sterile enclosure that may contain a sterile package of sterile sutures and a sterile apparatus for receiving at least one contaminated surgical suture needle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a surgical suturing kit comprising a sterile enclosure that may contain a sterile package of sterile sutures and a sterile apparatus for receiving at least one contaminated surgical suture needle. The needle may have a tip, a trailing end, and a needle body extending between the tip and the trailing end. The sterile apparatus may comprise a sterile housing having a top and a bottom, at least one opening between the top and the bottom configured and dimensioned to receive a contaminated surgical needle inserted therethrough, and a secure zone within the housing to hold the contaminated surgical needle in a predetermined orientation with the needle tip secured. 
     The surgical kit may further comprise a barrier configured and dimensioned to support the package of sterile sutures and the apparatus for receiving the at least one contaminated surgical suture needle. 
     The barrier layer may be configured and dimensioned to be mounted to a forearm of a surgeon. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method comprising a step of placing a needle in a used needle holder. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising a used needle holder. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising means for securing a used needle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for handling sutures, comprising a sterile housing, a suture dispensing portion disposed within the housing, the suture dispensing portion configured to support one or more sterile suture needles, and a needle receptacle portion disposed within the housing, the needle receptacle portion configured to secure a plurality of dispensed suture needles. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising needle receptacle means for stabilizing and rendering innocuous a dispensed needle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising needle receptacle means for stabilizing and rendering innocuous a dispensed needle and barrier means for supporting the needle receptacle means in order to place dispensed needles in the needle receptacle means. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus comprising needle receptacle means for stabilizing and rendering innocuous a dispensed needle and a barrier means for supporting the needle receptacle means in order to place dispensed needles in the needle receptacle means. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for use in a sterile operating room. The apparatus may comprise a dispensed needle receptacle, a suture package, and a barrier to support one or more of the dispensed needle receptacle or the suture package and inhibit needle penetration through the barrier. The dispensed needle receptacle, the suture package, and the barrier may be arranged within a near surgical field of a surgeon. 
     The apparatus may comprise a barrier mounting base to support one or more of the dispensed needle receptacle or the suture package and inhibit needle penetration through the barrier. The barrier may be to support the barrier mounting base. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may an apparatus for use in a sterile operating room comprising a dispensed needle receptacle comprising five or more dispensed surgical needles. The dispensed surgical needles may be stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may comprise one or more of an opening, a window, or a transparent material for counting the stabilized innocuous dispensed needles. The needles may be arranged for counting within the receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method of securing dispensed needles, comprising a step of receiving a dispensed needle receptacle comprising five or more dispensed surgical needles from a neutral zone. The dispensed surgical needles may be stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may comprise one or more of an opening, a window, or a transparent material for counting the stabilized innocuous dispensed needles. The needles may be arranged for counting within the receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method of securing dispensed needles comprising a step of receiving a dispensed needle receptacle comprising five or more dispensed suture needles from a neutral zone. The dispensed surgical needles may be stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may comprise one or more of an opening, a window, or a transparent material for counting the stabilized innocuous dispensed needles. The needles may be arranged for counting within the receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method of securing dispensed needles comprising a step of receiving a dispensed needle receptacle comprising five or more dispensed suture needles from a near surgical field. The dispensed surgical needles may be stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may comprise one or more of an opening, a window, or a transparent material for counting the stabilized innocuous dispensed needles. The needles may be arranged for counting within the receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method of securing dispensed needles comprising steps of inserting a suture needle into an opening of a needle receptacle with a needle driver and releasing the dispensed needle from the needle driver. The needle receptacle may be configured to store a plurality of five or more dispensed needles. The dispensed needle may be stabilized, innocuous, and arranged with four or more stabilized innocuous dispensed needles for counting in the container though one or more of a channel, an opening, a window, or a transparent material. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide an apparatus for handling needles. The apparatus may comprise a suture package configured to dispense a plurality of needles, a needle receptacle configured to store a plurality of dispensed needles, and a support configured to support one or more of the suture package or the needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method for handling suture needles. The method may comprise steps of grasping a needle with a needle driver to dispense the needle from a suture package mounted on a support and placing the dispensed needle into a needle receptacle mounted on the support. 
     The apparatuses or method disclosed herein may comprise a barrier comprising a weight of no more than about 6 ounces (170 grams) and a needle receptacle comprising a capacity of at least about 5 needles, an overall thickness of no more than about 0.5 inches (12.5 mm), a length of no more than about 5″ (127 mm), and a width of no more than about 2.5″ (63.5 mm) to receive and store the at least about 8 needles in a linear array. 
     The apparatuses or method disclosed herein may comprise a barrier comprising a weight of no more than about 6 ounces (170 grams) and a needle receptacle comprising a capacity of at least about 5 needles, an overall thickness of no more than about 0.5 inches (12.5 mm), a length of no more than about 5″ (127 mm), and a width of no more than about 2.5″ (63.5 mm) to receive and store the at least about 5 needles in a linear array or an arcuate array. 
     The apparatuses or method disclosed herein may comprise a barrier comprising a weight of no more than about 6 ounces (170 grams) and a needle receptacle comprising a capacity of at least about 8 needles, an overall thickness of no more than about 0.5 inches (12.5 mm), a length of no more than about 5″ (127 mm), and a width of no more than about 4″ (101.6 mm) to receive and store the at least about 8 needles in an arcuate array. 
     The apparatuses or method disclosed herein may comprise a barrier comprising a weight of no more than about 6 ounces (170 grams) and a needle receptacle comprising a capacity of at least about 8 needles, an overall thickness of no more than about 0.5 inches (12.5 mm), a length of no more than about 5″ (127 mm), and a width of no more than about 4″ (101.6 mm) to receive and store the at least about 8 needles in a linear array. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may comprise a channel having an elongate cross section sized to receive a plurality of suture needles in an ordered array and a slot extending into the channel to receive a needle driver and advance a suture needle of the plurality along the channel for placement among the plurality of needles of the ordered array. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may further comprise one or more of a sterile surgical gown, a sterile glove, or a sterile cover configured with a barrier to inhibit needle sticks and a surface configured to stably support one or more of a suture pack or a needle receptacle over one or more of a hand, a radial forearm or a volar forearm. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, one or more of a sterile cover or a sterile drape may be configured with a barrier to inhibit needle sticks and a surface configured to stably support one or more of a suture pack or a needle receptacle. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may enable passing of a plurality of suture needles into and out of a near surgical field, thereby eliminating passing of individual suture needles between a surgeon and a surgical assistant. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may enable passing of a plurality of secured into and out of a near surgical field, thereby eliminating passing of individual suture needles between a surgeon and a surgical assistant. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may enable passing of a plurality of innocuous needles into and out of a near surgical field, thereby eliminating passing of individual suture needles between a surgeon and a surgical assistant. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may enable passing of a plurality of used needles into and out of a near surgical field, thereby eliminating passing of individual suture needles between a surgeon and a surgical assistant. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may comprise a step of dispensing of a suture needle by a surgeon from a near surgical field. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may comprise a means for mounting one or more suture needle packages within a near surgical field. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may comprise a needle resistant barrier mounted on a surgeon&#39;s arm. The needle resistant barrier may be configured to provide a mounting surface for one or more suture needle packages. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may comprise a light weight material and may be configured to conform to one or more of a surgeons arm, wrist, or hand. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may comprise a thin, puncture-resistant material integrated with a flexible web. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may be configured to adjust in order to accommodate a range of forearm sizes. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may comprise a plurality of bi-stable springs connected by a flexible web. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may comprise a malleable metal material having one or more grooves to control bending of the malleable metal material. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may comprise a plastic material having one or more hinges. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may be configured to be donned and doffed quickly with one hand. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may comprise a plurality of stacked bi-stable springs to adjust a compressive force. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may be configured to provide a modular mounting surface on a dorsal side of one or more of a forearm or a wrist. The modular mounting surface may be configured to support one or more surgical tools or materials. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a suture needle package may be configured to mount on one or more of a surgeon&#39;s arm, wrist, or a back of a hand. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a suture needle package may be configured to mount on the needle receptacle. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a needle resistant barrier may be configured to provide protection to a volar side of one or more of a forearm or a wrist. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to couple to a surgical drape. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to couple to a needle resistant barrier mounted on a surgeon&#39;s forearm. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to attach and detach from a needle resistant barrier with one hand. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to attach to a surgical tool 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to attach to a surgical tool, and the needle receptacle may be configured to accommodate a variety of handle widths and thicknesses of a surgical tool. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to couple to a needle resistant barrier integrated into a surgical apparel. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to couple to a needle resistant barrier integrated into a surgical gown, a gown sleeve, or an extended glove. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to provide protection from both leading and trailing ends of a plurality of used suture needles by one or more of encapsulating or covering. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to inhibit one or more of unintentional removal or dislodgment. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to facilitate needle insertion into the needle receptacle by allowing needles to be inserted with minimal hand-eye precision. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to facilitate needle insertion into the needle receptacle by allowing needles to be inserted with gross motor movement. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be configured to facilitate needle insertion into the needle receptacle by allowing needles to be inserted with only articulation or rotation of the shoulder and elbow joints. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may comprise means for counting needles during and after the procedure. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may comprise means for reconciling needles during or after the procedure. 
     In the methods disclosed herein, a first set of needles from a first suture pack may be reconciled before a second suture pack enters the near surgical field. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle is low-profile and lightweight. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein the needle receptacle may be configured to receive needles held in needle drivers in various positions. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein the needle receptacle may be is configured to inhibit magnetizing the needle driver. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein the needle receptacle may be is configured to receive at least about 5 needles. 
     The apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein may further comprise a step of cutting of a suture by a surgeon using a cutter disposed in a near surgical field. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may be mounted on a surgeon&#39;s finger. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may be mounted on a needle resistant barrier. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may comprise retractable scissors on a cable with take up spool. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may comprise an integrated and recessed blade. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may be mounted on a surgical tool. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may comprise may be integrated with a needle receptacle. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, a cutter may comprise may be configured to prevent unintentional damage to a surgeon&#39;s glove. 
     In the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may be arranged over the volar forearm to allow easy insertion of a used needle when a hand holding needle holder is slightly pronated. The needle may be placed in the receptacle with rotation of an arm holding a needle driver with shoulder joint rotation in order to align and place the used needle into an opening of the needle receptacle. The needle may comprise a curved needle having a tip and a tail, and the length may be defined as a straight-line distance between the tip and the tail. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier, curved shell conforms to the shape of a volar surface of the forearm. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier, the curvature of the curved shell extending with curvature about the longitudinal axis conforms to a shape of a volar surface of the forearm. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier, the pre-formed shaped barrier conforms to the shape of a volar surface of the forearm. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier, the pre-formed shaped barrier is straight along the dorsal edge. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier, the curved shell is straight along the dorsal edge. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure and an upper structure above the lower structure to define a needle slot between the upper structure and the lower structure. The needle slot may comprise a secure zone to secure needles. The upper structure may comprise a first edge and a second edge arranged to define a deformable needle driver slit that extends through a portion of the upper structure, wherein the slit deforms to receive a needle driver. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a housing having a cross section having a width and a thickness, a needle slot for storing used suture needles within the cross section of the housing, and a deformable needle driver slot that extends through a portion of the upper structure. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may be for receiving a surgical suture needle, the needle having a tip, a trailing end and a needle body extending between the tip and the trailing end. The needle receptacle may comprise a housing, at least one opening, a secure zone, and a deformable driver needle slit. The housing may have a top and a bottom. The at least one opening between the top and the bottom may be configured and dimensioned to receive a surgical needle therethough. The secure zone within the housing may be configured to hold the surgical needle in an orientation with the needle tip secured. The secure zone may be in communication with the opening. The deformable needle driver slit may extend through the top of the housing and within the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the first edge separates from the first edge to receive the needle driver. 
     In many embodiments, the deformable needle driver slit includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge. 
     In many embodiments, the first edge and the second edge contact each other in a non-deformed free standing state without a needle driver extending therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, the first edge and the second edge are spaced apart from each other in a non-deformed state, with a gap being defined between the first edge and the second edge. 
     In some embodiments, the gap is less than 1 mm. 
     In some embodiments, the gap is less than 2 mm. 
     In some embodiments, the gap is less than 0.5 mm. 
     In some embodiments, the upper structure comprises a stiff portion and a deformable portion, with the deformable portion being proximate to and including the needle driver slit. 
     In some embodiments, the upper structure is deformable. 
     In some embodiments, the lower structure is deformable. 
     In some embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are both deformable. 
     In some embodiments, the lower structure comprises a landing zone, and the upper and lower structures define an entry zone and a second zone, the entry zone located between the landing zone and the secure zone and wherein separation of the slit increases proximate a needle driver when the needle driver advances along the slit. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a portion of a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a mid-body portion a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a portion of a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot in the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a mid-body portion a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot visible through the needle driver slot in the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a portion of a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot in the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a mid-body portion a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot visible through the needle driver slot in the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a portion of a needle body is visible through both the needle driver slot in the lower structure and the needle driver slot in the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a mid-body portion a needle body is visible through the needle driver slot visible through both the needle driver slot in the lower structure and the needle driver slot in the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure provides for non-uniform light transmission therethrough. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure comprises a translucent material. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure comprises a light scattering material selected from the group consisting of a translucent material, a diffuse material, a rough material, and light scattering particles. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure is semi opaque. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure is opaque. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may be configured to non-uniformly transmit light. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may be configured to non-uniformly transmit backlight illumination. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may be configured to diffuse light from backlight illumination in order to provide more uniform backlight illumination of suture needles. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure is dyed. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure is colored. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the lower structure provides includes a roughened surface for non-uniform light transmission therethrough. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise a flap extending into or along the needle driver slot from an edge of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise flaps extending into or along the needle driver slot from an edge of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the flaps are deformable. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and the flaps extend from one of the first and second edges. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and the flaps extend from both the first edge and the second edge. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise flaps extending into the needle driver slit from an edge of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the flaps are deformable. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slit includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge and wherein the flaps extend from one of the first and second edges. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slit includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and wherein the flaps extend from both the first edge and the second edge. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise flaps extending into the needle driver slit from an edge of the needle driver slit. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise protrusions that extend into the needle driver slot from an edge of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and wherein the protrusions extend from one of the first and second edges. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and wherein the protrusions extend from both the first edge and the second edge. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise that extend into the needle driver slit from an edge of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slit includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and wherein the protrusion extend from one of the first and second edges. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slit includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and wherein the protrusions extend from both the first edge and the second edge. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise protrusions that extend into the needle driver slot from an edge of the needle driver slit. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the resistance of the needle driver along the needle driver slot is less than the resistance of the needle along the needle slot when the needle is advanced along the slot with a needle driver. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the resistance of the needle receptacle against the needle driver is less than the resistance of the needle receptacle against the needle. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the force imparted by the needle driver slot against movement of the needle driver is less than the force imparted by the needle slot against movement of the needle. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the force imparted by the needle receptacle against movement of the needle driver is less than the force imparted by the needle receptacle against movement of the needle. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the friction force between the needle driver slot or slit and the needle driver is less than the friction force between needle slot and the needle. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the friction force between the needle receptacle and the needle driver is less than the friction force between the needle receptacle and the needle. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, a width of the needle driver slot varies along the length of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge that is opposite the first edge, the first edge and the second edge being separated by a width, and wherein the width varies along the length of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge that is proximate the first edge, the first edge and the second edge being separated by a width, and wherein the width varies along the length of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot has a first end and a second end along a length of the needle driver slot and a width of the needle driver slot at the first end is greater than a width of the needle driver slot at the second end. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the first end is closed and the second end is open for receiving a needle driver therethough. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle driver slot has a first end and a second end along a length of the needle driver slot and a width of the needle driver slot at the second end is greater than a width of the needle driver slot at the first end. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the first end of the needle driver slot is closed and the second end of the needle driver slot is open for receiving a needle driver therethough. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the first end of the needle driver slot is proximate the secure zone and the second end of the needle driver slot is proximate the transition zone. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and needle receptacles disclosed herein, the first end of the needle driver slot is a greater distance from the entry zone than the second end of the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 2-20 tactile bumps along the needle driver slot or the needle slot to facilitate localization into a plurality of zones. The tactile bumps may be sized to engage the needle driver moving along the needle driver slot or the needle moving along the needle slot. Each of the plurality of tactile bumps may define a boundary between adjacent zones in order to decrease bunching of a plurality needles when placed. 
     In many embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 5-8 tactile bumps along the needle driver slot or the needle slot to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     In many embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 5 tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     In many embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 3-8 tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     In many embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein may further comprise 3-6 tactile bumps to facilitate localization into individual zones. 
     In many embodiments of the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the tactile bumps are pairs of tactile bumps. 
     In many embodiments of the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the tactile bumps are arranged along a length of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments of the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the tactile bumps are arranged along a length of the needle driver slot or needle driver slit. 
     In many embodiments of the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the tactile bumps are arranged along a length of the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the tactile bumps are arranged a first distance from each other along the length. The first tactile bump or bumps may be a second distance from an entrance to the needle slot, the second distance being greater than the first distance. 
     In many embodiments of the methods, apparatuses, receptacles, kits, and barriers disclosed herein, the needle receptacle is configured to be mounted on a barrier mounting base and the barrier mounting base is configured to be mounted on a barrier. The apparatus, method, or needle receptacle may further comprise a suture pack mounted to the barrier mounting base. The apparatus, method, or needle receptacle may further comprise a suture pack mounted to the needle receptacle. The apparatus, method, or needle receptacle may further comprise a suture pack mounted to the needle receptacle and the barrier mounting base. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, or needle receptacles disclosed herein, the suture pack is mounted to a barrier mounting base and the barrier mounting base is mounted to a barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, or needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprises a needle receptacle mounted to the barrier mounting base. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, or needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise a needle receptacle mounted to the suture pack. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, or needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise a needle receptacle mounted to the suture pack and the barrier mounting base. 
     In many embodiments, adhesion of the needle receptacle to the mounting base is greater than the adhesion of the mounting base to the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, adhesion of the mounting base to the barrier is sufficiently weak to allow manual removal of the mounting base from the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, the adhesion of the needle receptacle to the mounting base is sufficiently weak to allow removal of the needle receptacle from the mounting base. 
     In many embodiments, adhesion of the suture pack to the mounting base is greater than the adhesion of the mounting base to the barrier. 
     In many embodiments, adhesion of the suture pack to the needle receptacle is greater than the adhesion of the mounting base to the barrier. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method comprising the steps of orienting a needle with respect to a needle receptacle with the tip of the needle directed away from a direction of translation of the needle and moving a needle in the direction of translation to an entry zone of a needle receptacle and into a secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method of inserting a needle into a needle receptacle. The method may comprise the steps of placing the needle at an entry zone of the needle receptacle coupled to a forearm and moving the needle along the needle receptacle in the direction of translation to secure the needle within a housing of the needle receptacle. The needle may be oriented with respect to a needle receptacle with tips of the needle directed away from a direction of translation of the needle into the needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method for securing of a suture needle by a surgeon. The method may comprise the steps of orienting a suture needle with respect to a needle receptacle with tips of the needle directed away from a direction of translation of the needle, inserting the suture needle into an opening of a needle receptacle with a needle driver by moving the needle in the direction of translation, securing the suture needle inside the needle receptacle, and releasing the suture needle from the needle driver. 
     In many embodiments, the body of the needle leads the needle tip in the direction of translation. 
     In many embodiments, wherein the needle receptacle inhibits translation of the needle into the needle slot when the needle tip leads the needle body in the direction of translation. 
     In many embodiments, a translation force to translate the needle within the needle slot is twice a great when translating the needle with the tip leading the body as compared to translating the needle with the body leading the tip. 
     In many embodiments, a translation force to translate the needle within the needle slot is greater when translating the needle with the tip leading the body as compared to translating the needle with the body leading the tip. 
     In many embodiments, a translation force to translate the needle within the needle slot is greater when translating the needle with the tip leading the body as compared to translating the needle with the body leading the tip. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation extends between an entry zone of the needle receptacle and a secure zone of a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation along a longitudinal axis of a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is along a length of a needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is along a length of a needle driver slit. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is along a length of a user&#39;s forearm. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation extends between a wrist and an elbow of a user&#39;s arm. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is parallel to a length of a needle driver slot or slit. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation starts proximate a user&#39;s wrist in a direction towards a user&#39;s elbow. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is towards a secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is towards a closed end of a needle driver slot or slit. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is towards a proximal end of a needle driver slot or slit. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is away from a landing zone. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is away from a entry zone. 
     In many embodiments, the direction of translation is away from transition zone. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a flexible upper structure, a flexible lower structure, and a needle driver receiving slot. The flexible upper structure and the flexible lower structure may be coupled to each other to define a needle slot to receive needles. The needle driver receiving slot may be formed through the flexible upper structure extending from the perimeter of the upper flexible sheet material. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a sheet material, a needle slot, and a needle driver. The sheet material may extend between a first end and a second end and may be folded onto itself at a fold to form an upper structure and a lower structure, the upper structure and lower structure having substantially parallel planar surfaces in a narrow profile configuration. The substantially parallel planar surfaces can extend within about ten degrees of each other, and can extend within about five degrees of parallel to each other. The needle slot may be defined between the upper structure and the lower structure. The needle driver receiving slot may be formed though the upper structure and extending from the first end towards the fold. 
     Another exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a first flexible sheet material forming an upper structure, a second flexible sheet material forming a lower structure, and a slot formed through the first flexible sheet material and extending from the perimeter of the first flexible sheet material. The first flexible sheet material and the second flexible sheet material may be coupled to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle is mounted to a rigid structure. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the needle tip. The needle may be selected from the group consisting of a tapered suture needle and a cutting suture needle. The force may be selected from the group consisting of at least 2 pounds, at least 3 pounds and at least 4 pounds. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.5 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.5 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle. 
     In many embodiments, upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.5 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure comprise sufficient strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle. The needle may comprise a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are configured to flex together in order to increase a distance of the needle slot between the upper structure and the lower structure from a first distance in a narrow profile configuration for placement inside sterile packaging to a second distance in an expanded profile configuration outside the sterile packaging with the second distance greater than the first distance in order to receive the needles. 
     In some embodiments, the first structure contacts the second structure in the narrow profile configuration. 
     In some embodiments, the first structure contacts the second structure in the narrow profile configuration. 
     In some embodiments, the first structure and the second structure comprise sufficient thickness to hold the needles between the first structure and the second structure. 
     In some embodiments, the first structure and the second structure comprise sufficient thickness to secure the needles in a secure zone between the first structure and the second structure. 
     In some embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are substantially flat in the narrow profile configuration. The upper structure and lower structure may be curved in the expanded profile configuration. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a length, a width, and a height, the length being greater than width and the width being greater than the height. The thickness in the narrow profile configuration may be selected from the group consisting of no more than 5 mm, no more than 4 mm, no more than 3 mm, no more than 2 mm, no more than 1 mm, and no more than 0.5 mm. A difference between the first distance and the second distance may be selected from the group consisting of no more than 3 mm, no more than 2 mm, no more than 1 mm, and no more than 0.5 mm. 
     In some embodiments, the upper structure and the lower structure each comprise a thickness within a range selected from the group consisting of 0.1 mm to 2.5 mm, 0.2 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 2 mm and 0.5 mm to 1 mm. 
     In some embodiments, the receptacle comprises a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The upper structure may be connected to the lower structure at a first coupling region along the first side and a second coupling region along the second side. The needle slot may extend between the first coupling region and the second coupling region. A distance between the first coupling region and the second coupling region may define a width of the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, first surface is connected to the second coupling surface along a third coupling region defining an end of the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises a first open end and a second open end opposite the second open end with the needle slot extending between the first open end and the second open end. The first structure and the second structure may comprise sufficient stiffness to secure the needles in the needle slot between the first region and the second region. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle may further comprise a strip of material along a lower surface of the lower structure to adhere the needle receptacle to a support. The strip of material may be oriented along a long axis with a long axis of the needle slot to allow the lower structure to flex with the upper structure when the distance increases from the first distance to the second distance. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide sterile kits. An exemplary sterile kit may comprise a sterile packing comprising a sterile barrier, a plurality of needles, and a needle receptacle. The plurality of needles may be contained within a needle package. A tip to tip distance of each of the plurality of needles may be less than a width of the needle slot. The plurality of needles and the needle receptacle may be sterile and contained within the sterile barrier of the sterile kit. 
     In many embodiments, the tip to tip distance of each of the plurality of needles is within a range selected from the group consisting of 75% to 100% of the width of the needle slot, 80% to 99% of the width of the needle slot, and 85% to 98% of the width of the needle slot and 90 to 97% of the width of the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the tip to tip distance of each of the plurality of needles is within a percentage of the width of the needle slot in the expanded configuration, the percentage within range selected from the group consisting of 75% to 100% of the second width of the needle slot, 80% to 99% of the second width of the needle slot, and 85% to 98% of the second width of the needle slot and 90 to 97% of the second width of the needle slot. The needle slot may comprise a length, a width, and a height, the length being greater than the width and the width being greater than the height. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and the lower structure each comprise a needle driver slot to receive a needle driver. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are connected to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are parallel to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are adhered to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure forms an upper portion of a secure zone and a transition zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure forms a lower portion of the secure zone and the transition zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure forms a landing zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure that forms the landing zone of the needle receptacle extends from the transition zone away from the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle has a length that extends between a first end and a second end. The entry zone may include the first end and the secure zone may include the second end. The transition zone may be between the first end and the second end. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure of the entry zone is a landing zone configured to receive a needle and a needle driver tip. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot extends from an edge of the upper structure in the transition zone into the secure zone, partitioning the upper structure and the edge into separate first and second portions within the transition zone. 
     In many embodiments, first and second portions of the upper structure within the transition zone are deformed towards the lower structure, displacing the upper structure from the lower structure and forming an opening in the needle slot therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, first and second portions of the upper structure within the transition zone are folded towards the lower structure, displacing the upper structure from the lower structure and forming an opening in the needle slot therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, first and second portions of the upper structure within the transition zone are folded away from the lower structure, displacing the upper structure from the lower structure and forming an opening in the needle slot therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, the first and second sheet material is flexible. 
     In many embodiments, the first and second sheet material chosen from the group consisting of: ABS, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, thermoformable plastic, and PETG. 
     In many embodiments, the kit further comprises at least one needle. 
     In some embodiments, the needle has a length and the needle slot has a width, the length of the needle being substantially similar to, but less than the width of the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the needle has a length and the needle receptacle has a width, the length of the needle being substantially similar to, but less than the width of the needle receptacle. 
     In some embodiments, the length of the needle and the width of the needle slot are such that the needle deforms the needle slot when the needle is in the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the length of the needle and the width of the needle slot are such that the upper structure and the lower structure of the needle receptacle apply a compressive force on the needle when the needle is in the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the length of the needle and the width of the needle slot are such that the needle deforms the upper structure and the lower structure when the needle is in the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the needle is a curved needle having a tip and a tail, and the length is defined as a straight-line distance between the tip and the tail. 
     In some embodiments, the length of the needle is the defined as a straight-line distance between the two ends of the needle. 
     In some embodiments, the lower structure includes a flap that is foldable over the upper structure to close the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the lower structure includes a flap that is foldable over the upper structure to seal the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the flap includes at least a portion of the lower structure extending beyond the transition zone away from the secure zone. 
     In some embodiments, the flap includes at least a portion of the entry zone of the lower structure. 
     In some embodiments, the kit further comprises an adhesive on the flap. 
     In some embodiments, the adhesive on the flap adheres to the upper structure to close the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the adhesive on the flap adheres to the upper structure to seal the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the apparatuses, methods, needle receptacles, and kits disclosed herein may further comprise a stiff structure configured to receive the needle receptacle. The stiff structure may include an open side shaped to receive the needle receptacle. The stiff structure may include a needle driver slot that aligns with a needle driver slot of the needle receptacle when the needle receptacle is within the stiff structure. The stiff structure may be in the shape of a hexahedron. The stiff structure may include an upper structure coupled to a lower structure, with the stiff structure configured to receive and hold the needle receptacle between the upper structure and the lower structure. The stiff structure may include an upper structure coupled to a lower structure, with the upper structure and lower structure configured to exert a clamping force on the needle receptacle to hold the needle receptacle to the stiff structure. The stiff structure may include an upper structure, a lower structure, and a wall structure, with the wall structure coupling the upper structure and the lower structure together. The stiff structure may comprise a receiver configured to receive the needle receptacle. 
     The stiff structure may include a first stiff member having first and second ends, a second stiff member extending from the first end of the first stiff member, and a third stiff member extending from the second end of the first stiff and in a same plane as the second stiff member. The stiff structure may be configured to receive a needle receptacle of any of the preceding claims between the second and third stiff members. 
     In some embodiments, the distance between the second and third member at an end proximate the first member is less than a distance between the second and third member at a distal end such that when the needle receptacle is received within the stiff structure. The second and third members may impart a force on the needle receptacle, deforming the needle receptacle and enlarging an entry to the needle slot of the needle receptacle. 
     In some embodiments, a width of the needle receptacle at an entry zone is greater than a width of the needle receptacle at a secure zone such that when the needle receptacle is received within the stiff structure. The second and third members may impart a force on the needle receptacle, deforming the needle receptacle and enlarging an entry to the needle slot of the needle receptacle. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a first sheet of stiff material forming an upper structure, a second sheet of stiff material forming a lower structure, and a slot formed through the second stiff sheet material and extending from the perimeter of the second stiff sheet material. The first sheet stiff material and the second stiff sheet material may be coupled to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are parallel to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are adhered to each other at their respective perimeters. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure and lower structure are coupled to each other via walls that extend from the perimeter of the lower structure to the perimeter of the upper structure. 
     In many embodiments, the lateral opening is configured to receive a needle therethrough. 
     In many embodiments, the upper structure forms an upper portion of a secure zone and a transition zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure forms a lower portion of the secure zone and the transition zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure forms a landing zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure that forms the landing zone of the needle receptacle extends from the transition zone away from the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle has a length that extends between a first end and a second end. The entry zone may include the first end and the secure zone may include the second end. The transition zone may be between the first end and the second end. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure of the entry zone is a landing zone configured to receive a needle and a needle driver tip. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot extends from an edge of the upper structure in the transition zone into the secure zone, partitioning the upper structure and the edge into separate first and second portions within the transition zone. 
     In many embodiments, first and second portions of the upper structure within the transition zone are deformed towards the lower structure, displacing the upper structure from the lower structure and forming an opening in the needle slot therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, first and second portions of the upper structure within the transition zone are folded towards the lower structure, displacing the upper structure from the lower structure and forming an opening in the needle slot therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure includes a flap that is foldable over the upper structure to close the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure includes a flap that is foldable over the upper structure to seal the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the flap includes at least a portion of the lower structure extending beyond the transition zone away from the secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the flap includes at least a portion of the entry zone of the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises an adhesive on the flap. 
     In many embodiments, the adhesive on the flap adheres to the upper structure to close the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the adhesive on the flap adheres to the upper structure to seal the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises one or more needle retainers within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers include at least one magnet. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one magnet is coupled to one or both of the upper structure and the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one magnet is within one or both of the upper structure and the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers include at least one adhesive tab. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one adhesive tab is coupled to one or both of the upper structure and the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one adhesive tab extends into the needle slot from one or both of the upper structure and the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one adhesive tab includes opposite first and second sides, the first side facing an opening in the needle slot and being non-adhesive and the second side facing away from the opening in the needle slot and being adhesive. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainer include a compliant material within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the compliant material includes a first foam structure that extends from the lower structure towards the upper structure and applies a retention force to the upper structure through a needle within the needle slot to retain the needle within the slot. 
     In many embodiments, the compliant material includes a first foam structure that extends from the upper structure towards the lower structure and applies a retention force to the lower structure through a needle within the needle slot to retain the needle within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the compliant material includes a first foam structure that extends from the upper structure towards the lower structure and a second foam structure that extends from the lower structure towards the upper structure. A gap may be defined between the first foam structure and the second foam structure. The first foam structure and the second foam structure may exert a force on each other through a needle within the gap to retain the needle within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers include a mechanical divider that allows needles to enter the needle slot and resists needles exiting the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers include at least one mechanical divider. The divider may comprise a leading structure, a following structure, and a pivot structure. The pivot structure may couple the leading structure to the following structure. The divider may be configured to permit needles to move into the needle slot, but resist movement of needles out of the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the at least one divider separates one needle from another needle in an ordered array within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the leading structure and the following structure extend from the pivot structure at a right angle to each other. 
     In many embodiments, the leading structure and the following structure extend from the pivot structure at an obtuse angle to each other. 
     In many embodiments, in an initial configuration, the following structure rests against the lower structure of the needle receptacle and the leading structure extends into the needle slot from the pivot structure, the pivot structure being coupled to the lower structure of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the pivot structure includes a spring that holds the following structure against the lower structure of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the spring is a helical spring. 
     In many embodiments, in a retention configuration, the following structure extends into the needle slot form the pivot structure forming a barrier between a needle within the needle slot and the entry zone of the needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers retain the needles in a planar array within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers retain the needles in such that they do not overlay with each other within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers retain the needles in an array within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers retain the needles in an unstacked configuration within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retainers retain the needles within the needle slot such that each of the needles is separated for each other of the needles. 
     In many embodiments, the retaining features are magnetic. 
     In many embodiments, the one or more clips extending along the length of the needle slot and facing the lateral opening of the needle slot, the one or more clips coupled to the needle receptacle at the lateral opening, such that a needle placed into the needle slot is directed into the one or more clips, and held securely between the upper and lower portions of the clips as the needle is translated away from the lateral opening and towards the closed end. 
     In many embodiments, each clip comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, and a hinge portion that connects the upper and lower portions, wherein the clip is configured to apply a compressive force against a needle placed between the upper and lower portions. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the upper structure and the lower structure are separated by a first distance at a first end of the secure zone proximate the transition zone and a second distance at a second end of the secure zone distal the transition zone, the first distance being less than the second distance such that the upper and lower structures exert a clamping force on a plurality of needles arranged between the first and the second end within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle further comprises a ratcheting cover, engaged with the needle receptacle and configured to translate longitudinally in a first direction towards the entry zone and resist translation away from the entry zone. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the ratcheting cover covers the needle driver slot as the cover translates towards the entry zone. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle further comprises a needle receiver, the needle receiver comprising an elongated body having an upper surface and shaped to be received within the secure zone of a needle receptacle, and receiving tabs extending from the upper surface of the elongated body. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the receiving tabs are configured to be engaged with a needle. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle engages one or more receiving tabs and translates into the secure zone of the needle slot, the needle pulls a portion of the needle receiver into the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle further comprises an aperture though the lower structure and within the entry zone or transition zone, the needle receiver configured to pass from underneath the lower structure, though the aperture, and into the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the receiving tabs are affixed to the upper surface of the needle receiver. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the receiving tabs are formed by cutting a slit though the needle receiver and plastically deforming the receiving tab formed by the slit in a direction though the upper surface of the needle receiver. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the receiving tabs are formed by cutting a slit though the needle receiver and deflecting the receiving tab formed by the slit in a direction though the upper surface of the needle receiver. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receiver is configured to ratchet into the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receiver is configured to permit movement of the needle receiver into the needle driver slot and resist movement of the needle receiver out of the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the receiving tabs are configured to hold the needles within the needle slot in a spaced-apart array. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the array is an ordered array. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the array is a planar array. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle further comprises blocking tabs extending from a respective one or both of the upper surface or lower surface towards the other of the upper surface or lower surface and being configured to permit entrance of a needle under load provided by a needle driver but retain the needles within the needle slot when not under load. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacles, apparatuses, barriers, and methods disclosed herein, the stiff portion comprises a rigid portion. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacles, apparatuses, barriers, and methods disclosed herein, the stiff structure comprises a rigid structure. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacles, apparatuses, barriers, and methods disclosed herein, the stiff material comprises a rigid material. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacles, apparatuses, barriers, and methods disclosed herein, the slot comprises a slit. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a method comprising providing an apparatus, needle receptacle or barrier as disclosed herein. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure and an upper structure above the lower structure to define a needle slot between the upper structure and the lower structure. The needle slot may comprise a used needle secure zone to secure used needles and a new needle secure zone to secure new needles. The needle slot may extend from a first end of the needle receptacle at an entry to the needle slot to a second end of the needle receptacle at the new needle secure zone. The upper structure may comprise a first edge and a second edge arranged to define a needle driver slot that extends through the upper structure from the new needle secure zone to the used needle secure zone. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise an upper structure, a lower structure, and a slot. The upper structure and the lower structure may be coupled to each other at their respective perimeters. The slot may be formed through the upper structure and may extend from the perimeter of the upper structure at a first end to the perimeter of the upper structure at a second end. 
     In many embodiments, the first end of the upper structure is at an entry to the used needle secure zone and the second end of the upper structure is at an exit to the new needle secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, new needles are secured in the new needle secure zone and dispensed through the exit to the new needle secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, used needles are secured in the used needle secure zone and received through the entry to the new needle secure zone. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle may further comprise a stop between the new needle secure zone and the used needle secure zone. The stop may be configured to resist translation of needles between the new needle secure zone and the used needle secure zone. The stop may extend from the lower structure and into the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments, the lower structure of the entry zone is a landing zone configured to receive a tip of a needle driver. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a sterile kit. The sterile kit may comprise a sterile packing comprising a sterile barrier, a suture pack, a needle receptacle of as disclosed herein, and a barrier mounting base. The suture pack and needle receptacle may be coupled to the barrier mounting base. The sterile kit may further comprise a sheet structure. The barrier mounting base may be coupled to the sheet structure. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a sterile kit. The sterile kit may comprise a sterile packing comprising a sterile barrier, a suture pack, a needle receptacle as disclosed herein, a barrier mounting base, and a sheet structure. The suture pack, needle receptacle, and the barrier mounting base may be coupled to the sheet structure. The barrier mounting base or the sheet structure may include a living hinge. 
     The needle receptacles disclosed herein may further comprise needle retention features within the needle slot to hold contaminated surgical needles therein. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retention features comprise foam disposed between upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the foam comprises urethane foam. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retention features comprise loop and hook fasteners disposed between upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retention features comprise a plurality of protrusions extending from one or both of upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of protrusions comprise dimples. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of protrusions comprise protuberances. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of protrusions comprise filaments. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of protrusions are angled away from the at least one opening to permit the needle to pass into the secure zone and to resist movement of the needle toward the at least one opening. 
     In some embodiments, the needle retention features comprise flaps disposed between upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retention features comprise gel disposed between upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retention features comprise hemispherical nubs disposed upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the needle retention features comprise angled bristles disposed upper and lower surfaces within the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier disclosed herein, the barrier may includes a ferrous metal or magnet to magnetically couple to a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacles disclosed herein, the needle receptacle includes a ferrous metal or magnet to magnetically couple to a barrier. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted to a drape over the over a patient. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted within the near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted to a table within the near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted to a stand within the near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted at a location opposite the surgeon from an incision. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted proximal the incision of the patient. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted distal the incision of the patient. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted superior the incision of the patient. 
     In many embodiments of the methods disclosed herein, the support is mounted inferior the incision of the patient. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier mounting base disclosed herein, the barrier mounting base includes a flat surface for coupling one or more of a needle receptacle and a suture pack either directly or indirectly. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier mounting base disclosed herein, the barrier mounting base includes a concave surface shaped to receive a barrier therein. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier mounting base disclosed herein, the concave surface is opposite the flat surface. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier mounting base disclosed herein, the barrier mounting base further comprises torsional stiffeners extending from a surface of the barrier mounting base and is configured to increase the torsional rigidity of the barrier mounting base as compared to the barrier mounting brace without the torsional stiffeners. 
     In many embodiments of the barrier mounting base disclosed herein, the barrier mounting base further comprises first and second extensions along respective first and second sides of the barrier mounting base and configured to couple with a barrier. A lower surface of the barrier mounting base may contact a curved surface of the barrier at a first location and the first and second extensions may contact the curved surface of the batter at respective second and third locations. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the support comprises a sheet structure including a first hinge separating a base of the support from a mounting surface of the support. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the base is configured to couple the support to a surgical drape and the mounting surface is configured to couple to a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the base is configured to couple the support to a surgical drape and the mounting surface is configured to couple to a needle receptacle. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the mounting surface is at an angle with the base of between 30 degrees and 90 degrees. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the mounting surface is at an angle with the base of between 60 degrees and 75 degrees. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the mounting surface is at an angle with the base of between 45 degrees and 75 degrees. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the mounting surface is at an angle with the base of between 45 degrees and 90 degrees. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the support comprises a sheet structure including a first hinge separating a base of the support from a mounting surface of the support. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the support comprises a sheet structure including a second hinge separating the mounting surface of the support from a adjustment structure that extends from the hinge and engages with the base. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the support comprises a plurality of stops that extend from a surface of the base and are engagable by the adjustment structure to adjust an angle of the mounting surface. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the support further comprises a third hinge between the adjustment structure and a fourth section, the fourth section coupleable to the base. 
     In many embodiments of the support disclosed herein, the hinge is a living hinge. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatus disclosed herein, the top and bottom of the spindles may include a coupling the top coupling having a first shape and the bottom coupling being shaped to receive the top coupling. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatus disclosed herein, the top and bottom of the spindles may include a coupling the top coupling having a first shape and the bottom coupling may be shaped to engage with the first shape of the top coupling. 
     In many embodiments of the apparatus disclosed herein, the top of the spindle may include an extension and the top of the spindle includes a recess shaped to receive the extension. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a needle receptacle comprising a lower structure that has a secure zone, an upper structure that has an entry zone and a secure zone, a needle slot for receiving one or more suture needles between the lower structure and the upper structure, a ramp structure that forms a lower entry zone, and an upper needle driver slot that extends through a portion of the upper structure and a lower needle driver slot that extends through portion of the lower structure and the ramp structure. The ramp structure may include a surface that is angled away from the needle slot and the upper structure. The entry zone of the upper structure may be angled away from the needle slot and the ramp structure. The needle receptacle may further comprise a compliant structure within the needle slot. The compliant structure may apply a holding force against a needle within the needle slot and the secure zone to resist translation of the needle out of the needle slot and the secure zone. The upper structure may apply a holding force against a needle within the needle slot and the secure zone to resist translation of the needle out of the needle slot and the secure zone. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise first and second elongated members, a first needle retention slot, and a second needle retention slot. The first and second elongated members may have a first end coupled to a wall, the first and second members being parallel to each other and extending from the wall, the first elongated member having a first surface that faces the second elongated member and the second elongated member has a second surface that faces the first elongated member. The first needle retention slot may be formed in the first surface of the first elongated member and may extend along the length of the first elongated member. The second needle retention slot may be formed in the second surface of the second elongated member and may extend along the length of the second elongated member. The first and second needle retention slots may together form a secure needle zone for securing used suture needles therein. 
     The first and second elongated members may apply a compressive force to the used suture needles. 
     A needle driver slot may be formed between the first and second elongated members. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure may provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a housing and a cavity. The housing may have an upper portion and a lower portion coupled together by a hinge portion. The upper portion, lower portion, and hinge portion may form a u-shape. The cavity formed between the upper portion and the lower portion may be configured storing a plurality of needles. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the hinge portion is spring-loaded to bias the upper and lower portion of the housing towards one another, such that the needles can be secured within the needle slot by the compressive forces exerted by the upper and lower portions. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, each of the upper portion and the lower portion comprises a first arm and a second arm and forming a needle driver slot therebetween. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the lower portion further comprises an extension that extends away from hinge. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the extension forms a landing zone for a needle to be secured in the housing. The needle may be placed in contact with an upper surface of the extension with the needle driver tip aligned with the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle driver slot in the lower portion extends into the extension. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle driver slot in the lower portion extends through the extension. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle driver slot is closed at an end of the first or second portion proximate the hinge and open at an end of the first or second portion away from the hinge. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may further comprise blocking tabs extending from a respective one or both of the upper portion or lower portion towards the other of the upper portion or lower portion and being configured to permit entrance of a needle under load provided by a needle driver but retain the needles within the needle slot when not under load. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the needle receptacle may further comprise lateral walls disposed over outer lateral edges of housing. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the lateral walls are integrated with the housing. 
     In many embodiments of the needle receptacle disclosed herein, the lateral walls are be removably coupled to outer lateral edges of housing. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure provide needle receptacles. An exemplary needle receptacle may comprise a lower structure having a channel formed in an upper surface thereof, an upper structure formed from a stiff material and a flexible material, a needle slot formed between the upper structure and the lower structure for securing used suture needles therein, and a needle driver slot formed by the upper structure between the stiff material and the flexible material and being above the channel of the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle receptacle further comprises a compliant material within the needle slot between the stiff material of the upper structure and the lower structure. The compliant material may comprise foam. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot formed in the upper structure is parallel to the channel formed in the upper surface of the lower structure. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge. 
     In many embodiments, the flexible material includes the first edge of the needle driver slot and the stiff material includes the second edge of the needle driver slot 
     In many embodiments, the first edge separates from the second edge to receive the needle driver. 
     In many embodiments, the first edge and the second edge contact each other in a non-deformed free standing state without a needle driver extending therebetween. 
     In many embodiments, the first edge and the second edge are spaced apart from each other in a non-deformed state, a gap being defined between the first edge and the second edge. 
     In many embodiments, a portion of the lower structure extends beyond an end of the upper structure, forming a landing zone. The needle may be placed in contact with an upper surface of the extension with the needle driver tip aligned with the needle driver slot. 
     In many embodiments, receiving a needle receptacle comprises receiving five or more dispensed surgical needles from a surgeon, wherein the dispensed surgical needles are stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle when received from the surgeon. 
     In many embodiments, receiving a needle receptacle comprises receiving five or more reconciled dispensed surgical needles from a person who reconciled the surgical needles when the needles were within a near surgical field, and wherein the dispensed surgical needles are stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle when received. In many instances, the needles were within the needle receptacle when reconciled and reconciled with surgical needles of a needle pack within the near surgical field. 
     INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. 
     INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     All patents, applications, and publications referred to and identified herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety and shall be considered fully incorporated by reference even though referred to elsewhere in the application. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which: 
         FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  illustrate a surgical field and a near surgical field. 
         FIGS.  1 C- 1 F  illustrate a method of using a suture handling apparatus in accordance with embodiments. 
         FIG.  2 A  illustrates a top view of a suture package with needles. 
         FIG.  2 B  illustrates adhesive strips. 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a top view of a suture package attached to a glove with adhesive strips. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a side view of a suture package attached to a glove with adhesive strips. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a top view of a suture package with adhesive regions for holding the perimeter of the suture package to a glove. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a side view of a suture package with adhesive regions for holding the perimeter of the suture package to the glove. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a top view of a suture package with needles. 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a bottom view of a suture package with an adhesive. 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a side view of a “C” shaped suture package holder. 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a top view of a “C” shaped suture package holder. 
         FIG.  11    illustrates a top view of a “C” shaped suture package holder worn over a glove. 
         FIG.  12    illustrates a side view of a “C” shaped suture package holder with a suture package worn over a glove. 
         FIG.  13    illustrates a top view of a platform holding sutures attached with straps to a glove. 
         FIG.  14    illustrates a side view of a platform holding sutures attached with straps to a glove. 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a top view of a magnetic platform attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  16    illustrates a side view of a magnetic platform attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  17    illustrates a top view of a multi-layer suture package. 
         FIG.  18    illustrates a side view of a multi-layer suture package. 
         FIG.  19    illustrates a top view of a multi-layer suture package attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  20    illustrates a side view of a multi-layer suture package attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  21    illustrates a top view of a multi-layer suture package with a hook and loop attachment mechanism. 
         FIG.  22    illustrates a side view of a multi-layer suture package with a hook attachment mechanism. 
         FIG.  23    illustrates a side view of a lower hook attachment mechanism. 
         FIG.  24    illustrates a bottom view of a lower hook attachment mechanism. 
         FIG.  25    illustrates a top view of a multi-layer suture package attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  26    illustrates a side view of a multi-layer suture package attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  27    illustrates a top view of a used suture container and a suture package attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  28    illustrates a side view of a used suture container and a suture package attached to a glove. 
         FIG.  29    illustrates a front view of an elastic band. 
         FIG.  30    illustrates a top view of an elastic band. 
         FIG.  31    illustrates a top view of a suture package held around a wrist portion of a glove with elastic bands. 
         FIG.  32    illustrates a side view of a suture package held around a wrist portion of a glove with elastic bands. 
         FIG.  33    illustrates a top view of a glove having a pocket for holding a suture package and a hole for accessing the sutures. 
         FIG.  34    illustrates a side view of a glove having a pocket for holding a suture package and a hole for accessing the sutures. 
         FIG.  35    illustrates a front view of a flip pack suture package. 
         FIG.  36    illustrates a side view of a flip pack suture package. 
         FIG.  37    illustrates a top view of a glove holding a flip pack suture package. 
         FIG.  38    illustrates a top view of a platform that includes: tool holders, suture packages and a used needle holder. 
         FIGS.  39  and  40    illustrate side views of different embodiments of platforms having modular attachments. 
         FIG.  41    illustrates a side view of a platform with an enlarged hand portion. 
         FIG.  42    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a used needle holder. 
         FIG.  43    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a used needle holder. 
         FIG.  44    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a used needle holder. 
         FIG.  45    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a used needle holder. 
         FIG.  46    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a used needle holder. 
         FIG.  47    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a used needle holder. 
         FIG.  48    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a multi-layer platform. 
         FIG.  49    illustrates an embodiments of a platform holding a plurality of suture packs, a used suture needle receptacle and tool holders. 
         FIGS.  50 - 52    illustrate side views of different embodiments of multi-layer platforms. 
         FIG.  53    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a multi-layer platform having modular attachments. 
         FIGS.  54 - 57    illustrate top views of embodiments of tool holders on multi-layer platforms. 
         FIGS.  58  and  59    illustrate a top view of an embodiment of a suture pack carrier on a multi-layer platform. 
         FIGS.  60 - 63    illustrate top views of an embodiment of a suture pack carrier for holding multiple stacked suture packs. 
         FIGS.  64 - 67    illustrate side views of embodiments of suture pack carriers on multi-layer platforms. 
         FIGS.  68 - 70    illustrate side views of embodiments of multi-layer apparatus that include a dorsum platform and a volar platform. 
         FIG.  71    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a multi-layer apparatus that include a dorsum platform and a volar platform. 
         FIG.  72    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a platform that includes a suture pack holder and a used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  73    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a platform coupled to an arm having an adjustable joint. 
         FIG.  74    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a platform coupled to a flexible arm. 
         FIGS.  75  and  76    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a platform coupled to an “A” frame structure. 
         FIG.  77    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly. 
         FIGS.  78 - 79    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly. 
         FIGS.  80 - 81    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  82    illustrates a back view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  83    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  84    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  85    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  86    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  87    illustrates a back view of an embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture packet assembly on a surgical tool. 
         FIGS.  88  and  89    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a platform with an inflection point on an arm. 
         FIG.  90    illustrates a flow chart of a process for using an arm mounted platform apparatus that includes a suture pack and a needle sharps container. 
         FIG.  91    illustrates a flow chart of a process for using a tool mounted platform apparatus that includes a suture pack and a needle sharps container. 
         FIG.  92    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIGS.  93 - 95    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIG.  96    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIG.  97    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIG.  98    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIG.  99    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIG.  100    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIG.  101    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a repository housing. 
         FIGS.  102  and  103    illustrate side views of embodiments of sharps containers with perpendicular orientation needles. 
         FIG.  104    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a used needle receptacle with parallel orientation needles. 
         FIG.  105    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  106    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  107    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  108    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIGS.  109  and  110    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  111    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIGS.  112  and  113    illustrate side views of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  114    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIGS.  115  and  116    illustrate side views of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  117    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIGS.  118  and  119    illustrate side views of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  120    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIGS.  121  and  122    illustrate side views of an embodiment of suture packs attached to a multi-layer used needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  123    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  124    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  125    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  126    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  127    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  128    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  129    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  130    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  131    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  132    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  133    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  134    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  135    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  136    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  137    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  138    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  139    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  140    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a sharps container. 
         FIG.  141    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a suture pack. 
         FIG.  142    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a sharps container coupled to a suture pack. 
         FIG.  143    illustrates an embodiment of a sharps container coupled to a suture pack. 
         FIG.  144    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sharps container coupled to a suture pack on a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  145    illustrates a back view of an embodiment of a sharps container coupled to a suture pack. 
         FIG.  146    is a block diagram of an integrated suture packet and needle receptacle  308 , in accordance with embodiments. 
         FIGS.  147 A- 149    illustrate embodiments of cartridge type sharps containers. 
         FIG.  150    illustrates a cartridge sharps container mounted on a surgical tool held by a hand. 
         FIGS.  151  and  152    illustrate an embodiment of a sharps container that includes needle locking mechanisms and needle insertion lights. 
         FIGS.  153  and  154    illustrate an embodiment of a sharps container that includes a locking mechanism. 
         FIGS.  155  and  156    illustrate an embodiment of a sharps container that includes needle locking mechanisms and needle insertion indicators. 
         FIGS.  157 - 159    illustrate embodiments of connection mechanisms for coupling surgical tools to cartridge type sharps containers. 
         FIGS.  160 - 166    illustrate embodiments of needle receptacles that include foam covering holes in a receptacle housing. 
         FIG.  167    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a suture pack holder coupled via a hinge. 
         FIG.  168    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having suture pack holders. 
         FIG.  169    illustrates an exploded top perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a suture pack holder. 
         FIG.  170    illustrates an exploded side view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a suture pack holder. 
         FIG.  171    illustrates an exploded bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a suture pack holder. 
         FIG.  172 A  illustrates a top perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIGS.  172 B- 172 D  show top, side and end views, respectively, of the needle trap of  FIG.  172 A . 
         FIG.  173    illustrates a top perspective view of an embodiment of an upper structure component of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  174    illustrates a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of an upper structure component of a needle trap. 
         FIGS.  175  and  176    illustrate top perspective views of an embodiment of a lower structure component of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  177    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  178    illustrates a cross section side view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  179    illustrates a cross section top view of an embodiment of a needle slot. 
         FIGS.  180  and  181    illustrates a block diagram an embodiment of an electrical needle detection system. 
         FIGS.  182 - 184    illustrate an embodiment of a mechanical needle counting system. 
         FIG.  185    illustrates an embodiment of a dye based needle counting system. 
         FIG.  186    illustrates an embodiment a scanner based needle counting system. 
         FIG.  187    illustrates an embodiment a camera based needle counting system. 
         FIG.  188    illustrates an embodiment a pressure based needle counting system. 
         FIG.  189    illustrates an embodiment of a needle counting system with remote monitoring. 
         FIG.  190    illustrates an embodiment of a needle retainer. 
         FIG.  191    illustrates an embodiment of a covered needle retainer. 
         FIG.  192    illustrates an embodiment of a covered needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  193 - 194    illustrate an embodiment of a covered needle retainer. 
         FIG.  195    illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  196 - 197    illustrate an embodiment of a magnetic and foam needle retainer. 
         FIG.  198    illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic and foam needle retainer. 
         FIG.  199    illustrates an embodiment of a magnetic needle retainer with a cover and suture pack clip. 
         FIGS.  200 - 201    illustrate an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer. 
         FIG.  202    illustrates an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  203 - 204    illustrate an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  205    illustrates an embodiment of a needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  206 - 209    illustrate embodiments of needle retaining systems. 
         FIGS.  210 - 214    illustrate an embodiment of a modular needle retaining system. 
         FIGS.  215 - 217    illustrate an embodiment of a modular needle retaining system. 
         FIGS.  218 - 219    illustrate embodiments of dome type needle retainers. 
         FIG.  220    illustrates an embodiment of a needle retainer system. 
         FIGS.  221 - 222    illustrate an embodiment of a needle retainer system. 
         FIGS.  223 - 225    illustrate an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  226 - 228    illustrate an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  229 - 230    illustrate an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  231 - 232    illustrate an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer. 
         FIGS.  233 - 234    illustrate an embodiment of an insert and rotate needle retainer mounted on a forearm barrier. 
         FIG.  235    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a barrier. 
         FIG.  236    illustrates a top perspective view of an embodiment of a barrier placed on a forearm. 
         FIG.  237    illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a barrier. 
         FIG.  238    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a barrier. 
         FIGS.  239 - 241    illustrates top perspective views of an embodiment of a barrier with a needle trap and suture packs mounted on the barrier. 
         FIGS.  242 - 244    illustrate top perspective view of an embodiment of a barrier with needle retainers, suture pack clips and a tool holder. 
         FIGS.  245 - 248    illustrate perspective views of an embodiment of a needle retaining and suture pack clip assembly coupled to a tool mounting interface. 
         FIG.  249    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a barrier. 
         FIGS.  250 - 252    illustrates an embodiment of method for securing a barrier to a forearm. 
         FIG.  253    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap and suture pack carriers mounted on a barrier. 
         FIG.  254    illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a barrier. 
         FIGS.  255 - 256    illustrate an embodiment of a barrier placed on a forearm. 
         FIG.  257    illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a tool mounting interface coupled to a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  258    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a tool mounting interface coupled to a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  259    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a tool mounting interface coupled to a surgical tool. 
         FIG.  260    an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap assembly having a tool mounting interface. 
         FIG.  261    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of surgical gown having barriers attached to the sleeves. 
         FIG.  262    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a sleeve having a barrier. 
         FIGS.  263 - 265    illustrate cross section views of barriers coupled to surgical gown fabrics. 
         FIGS.  266 - 267    illustrate an embodiment of a blade ring. 
         FIG.  268    illustrates an embodiment of a blade ring. 
         FIGS.  269 - 271    illustrate an embodiment of a surgical tool cap suture cutter. 
         FIGS.  272 - 273    illustrate an embodiment of a surgical tool having an integrated suture cutter. 
         FIG.  274    illustrates an embodiment of a surgical tool mounted scissors. 
         FIGS.  275 - 278    illustrate an embodiment of a retractable cable mounted scissors. 
         FIGS.  279 - 280    illustrate an embodiment of a barrier mounted suture cutter. 
         FIG.  281    illustrates an embodiment of a scissors within a safety guard. 
         FIGS.  282 - 285    illustrate an embodiment of a suture cutter. 
         FIGS.  286 - 289    illustrate different embodiments of surgical gloves. 
         FIG.  290    illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  291    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  292    illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  293    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIGS.  294 - 297    illustrate cross sectional side views of embodiments of needle traps. 
         FIG.  298    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  299    illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  300    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIGS.  301 - 302    illustrate cross sectional side views of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  303    illustrates a cross sectional side view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  304    illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIGS.  305 - 306    illustrate cross sectional side views of an embodiment of a needle trap. 
         FIG.  307    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an integrated suture needle dispensing and securing apparatus. 
         FIG.  308    is a block diagram of a sterile suturing kit in accordance with embodiments. 
         FIG.  309    shows a suture pack and needle receptacle coupled to a barrier mounting base. 
         FIG.  310    shows the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  309   .  FIG.  310    shows a top oblique view of the needle receptacle in a fully assembled configuration. 
         FIG.  311    shows a top exploded view of the needle receptacle with needles coupled to the barrier mounting base. 
         FIG.  312    shows a bottom exploded view of the needle receptacle with needles coupled to the barrier mounting base as in  FIGS.  310  and  311   . 
         FIG.  313    shows a top oblique view of the top shell of the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  312   . 
         FIG.  314    shows a bottom oblique view of the top shell as in  FIG.  313   . 
         FIG.  315    shows a close-up bottom oblique view of the top shell as in  FIG.  314   . 
         FIG.  316    shows a top oblique view of the bottom shell of the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  310   . 
         FIG.  317    shows a bottom oblique view of the bottom shell as in  FIG.  316   . The lower needle driver slot is shown extending along a long axis of the needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  318    shows a top oblique view of the bottom shell as in  FIG.  317    with compressive members placed thereon. 
         FIG.  319    shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the top and bottom shell as in  FIG.  310    without the compressive members. 
         FIG.  320    shows the fully assembled needle receptacle with the needle in a transverse cross-sectional view for the needle receptacle as shown in  FIG.  310   . 
         FIG.  321    shows advancement of the needle positioned into the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  310   . 
         FIGS.  322 A and  322 B  show a needle stabilized in the needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  323    shows dimensions of the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  310   . The needle receptacle comprises a cross-sectional dimension of the needle driver slot that is shown with dimension. 
         FIGS.  324 A and  324 B  show a needle containment groove defined with a housing similar to  FIG.  310   . 
         FIGS.  325 A- 325 C  show needles placed in a needle receptacle as in  FIG.  324 A . 
         FIGS.  326 A- 326 D  show needles placed in a needle receptacle as described herein, for example, with reference to  FIGS.  310  and  324   . 
         FIG.  327 A  shows ratcheting along the groove of the needle driver slot for example with reference to  FIGS.  310  and  324   . 
         FIG.  327 B  shows varied apertures along the needle driver slot. 
         FIG.  328    shows a chiral barrier for placement on the left forearm of the surgeon. 
         FIG.  329    shows a top plan view of the barrier of  FIG.  328    prior to thermal forming. 
         FIG.  330    shows axes of the pre-formed barrier. 
         FIG.  331    shows a view from the proximal end of the barrier toward the distal end of the barrier. 
         FIG.  332    schematically illustrates structures of chiral barrier. 
         FIG.  333    shows outer surface profiles of the barrier and the curved path of the center of the barrier. 
         FIGS.  334 A- 334 C  illustrate the use of a needle handling system as described herein. 
         FIG.  335    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle comprising a cover for the needle driver slot. 
         FIG.  336    illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle comprising a cover for the needle driver slot. 
         FIGS.  337 A- 337 D  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle comprising a cover for the needle driver slot. 
         FIG.  338    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle comprising a compressive cover for the needle driver slot. 
         FIG.  339    illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle comprising a compressive cover for the needle driver slot. 
         FIGS.  340 A- 340 C  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle comprising a compressive cover for the needle driver slot. 
         FIGS.  341 A- 341 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a backlit needle receptacle. 
         FIGS.  342 A- 342 F  schematically illustrate various configurations of a needle driver slot of a needle receptacle. 
         FIGS.  343 A- 343 G  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a swaged needle device for dispensing and securing a swaged needle. 
         FIGS.  344 A- 344 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a tool-mounted needle receptacle. 
         FIGS.  345 A- 345 D  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a tool-mounted needle receptacle. 
         FIG.  346    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  347 A- 347 D  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  348 A- 348 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  349 A- 349 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  350 A- 350 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  351 A- 351 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  352 A- 352 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  353    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a clip assembly for securing a needle, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  354 A- 354 G  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  355 A- 355 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  356    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  357 A- 357 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  358    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  359    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a needle, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  360 A- 360 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  361 A  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  361 B  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  362 A- 362 D  illustrate an embodiment of a needle receptacle with a rotatable cover. 
         FIG.  363    illustrates another embodiment of a needle receptacle with a rotatable cover. 
         FIG.  364    illustrates another embodiment of a needle receptacle with a rotatable cover. 
         FIGS.  365 A- 365 D  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a swaged needle device for dispensing and securing a swaged needle, comprising a rotatable cover. 
         FIGS.  366 A- 366 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an integrated suture needle dispensing and securing apparatus. 
         FIG.  367    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a suture needle dispensing device. 
         FIGS.  368 A- 368 B  illustrate an exemplary configuration for coupling a needle receptacle to a suture package. 
         FIGS.  369 A- 369 C  illustrate another exemplary configuration for coupling a needle receptacle to a needle dispensing unit. 
         FIG.  370 A  schematically illustrates an exemplary configuration of a needle dispensing unit and a needle receptacle mounted on a barrier. 
         FIG.  370 B  schematically illustrates another exemplary configuration of a needle dispensing unit and a needle receptacle mounted on a barrier. 
         FIGS.  371 A- 371 B  illustrate an exemplary configuration of a needle receptacle mounted on a barrier. 
         FIGS.  372 A- 372 B  illustrate exemplary labels that may be provided for commercially available suture packages to be used with a needle handing system described herein. 
         FIGS.  373 A- 373 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a forearm barrier comprising sliding longitudinal panels. 
         FIGS.  374 A- 374 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a forearm barrier comprising sliding c-shaped sections or “bracelets”. 
         FIG.  375    illustrates a barrier comprising one or more plug-ins for electrically powered surgical tools. 
         FIGS.  376 A- 376 D  illustrate a barrier comprising one or more tool loops for supporting one or more surgical tools. 
         FIGS.  377 A- 377 B  illustrate exemplary embodiments of surgical gowns comprising integrated forearm barriers. 
         FIGS.  378 A- 378 B  illustrate exemplary staging devices suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. 
         FIGS.  379 A- 379 C  illustrate exemplary kits for suture handling systems. 
         FIGS.  380 A- 380 B  illustrate exemplary needle receptacles suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. 
         FIGS.  381 A- 381 B  illustrate exemplary needle receptacles suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. 
         FIGS.  382 A- 382 D  illustrate optional configurations of a needle receptacle as in  FIGS.  380 A- 381 B . 
         FIGS.  383 A- 383 C  show an exemplary needle receptacle configured to store a plurality of needles in an ordered array. 
         FIGS.  384 A- 384 B  show another exemplary needle receptacle configured to store a plurality of needles in an ordered array. 
         FIGS.  385 A- 385 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of devices for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  386 A- 386 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of devices for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  387 A- 387 D  illustrate longitudinal cross-sectional views of exemplary internal spring dividers suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. 
         FIG.  388    illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. 
         FIGS.  389 A- 389 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles comprising internal filaments, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  390 A- 390 E  illustrate exemplary embodiments of needle driver slot covers suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. 
         FIGS.  391 A- 391 B  illustrate exemplary embodiments of devices for securing a plurality of needles with a ratcheting cover, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  392 A- 392 F  illustrate exemplary embodiments of devices for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
       FIGS.  392 A 1 - 392 A 12  illustrate exemplary embodiments of devices for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
       FIGS.  392 B 1 - 392 B 5  illustrate exemplary embodiments of devices for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  393 A- 393 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  394    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  395    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIG.  396    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  397 A- 397 B  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a device for dispensing and securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  398 A- 398 D  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a barrier mounting base with a needle dispenser and needle trap mounted to a barrier for dispensing and securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  399 A- 399 D  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a device for dispensing one or more swaged needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  400 A- 400 D  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a device for dispensing one or more swaged needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  401 A- 401 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a base for mounting one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  402 A- 402 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a base for mounting one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  403 A- 403 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a base for mounting one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  404 A- 404 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a base for mounting one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  405 A- 405 B  illustrate exemplary mounting positions of a base for mounting one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  406 A- 406 C  illustrate exemplary kits including one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  407 - 413    illustrate an exemplary embodiment of needle receptacle, in accordance with many embodiments. 
         FIGS.  414 - 418    illustrate an exemplary embodiment of needle receptacle, in accordance with many embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for improving the efficiency of operating rooms. The embodiments disclosed herein are well suited for combination with many prior systems and methods, such as prior suture packs, prior needle holders, and prior operating rooms and personnel. 
     Although specific reference is made to the placement of used needles in a used needle container, the embodiments disclosed herein are well suited for use with needles dispensed from a suture pack and placed in a used needle container without suturing the patient, for example. 
     Definitions 
     Secure—The needle is secure means that the tip of the needle is prevented from compromising sterility or coming into contact with skin of the patient or surgical staff. When used with the sharps container, the used needle is physically secured from falling out of container. Sharps can include needles and tools or other objects which have one or more sharp surfaces that can puncture the skin of the patient or surgical staff. 
     In many embodiments, a secure needle as described herein is secured to prevent both the leading and trailing ends or tips of the needle from coming into contact with skin, gloves, surgical apparel of the surgical staff, surgical drape, or patient. 
     As used herein like characters such as letters and numerals refer to like elements. 
     As disclosed herein, a used suture needle encompasses a suture needle dispensed from a suture pack. 
     As used herein the terms “needle driver” and “needle holder” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “armed sutures” and “armed needles” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “used needle holder”, “needle receptacle”, “used needle receptacle, “used suture needle receptacle”, “sharps container”, “needle trap”, and “needle receptacle means” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “suture package”, “suture pack” and “suture package means” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “barrier” and “barrier means” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “support” and “support means” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “platform” and “platform means” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein “secure” means fixed or fastened so as not to give way, become loose, or be lost. 
     As used herein “innocuous” means incapable of contact with a human finger. 
     One approach for improving operating room efficiency is to reduce the dependence of the surgeon on the surgical assistant. For example, a surgical procedure can include performing a surgical procedure and then closing a patient&#39;s surgical incisions after the procedure is completed. The closing generally includes installing surgical sutures to hold the patient&#39;s body tissue together after the surgery. This surgical suture procedure can include needles loaded with sutures that are stored in a needle package and a needle driver. When needed, the surgeon uses a needle driver to grasp and remove a needle from the suture package. The needle point is pressed into the flesh, advanced along the trajectory of the needle&#39;s curve until it emerges, and pulled through. The trailing thread is then tied into a knot, usually a square knot or surgeon&#39;s knot. Ideally, sutures bring together the wound edges, without causing indenting or blanching of the skin, since the blood supply may be impeded and thus increase infection and scarring. Placement varies based on the location, but the distance between each suture generally is equal to the distance from the suture to the wound edge. The most common stich is a simple interrupted stitch with the suture thread cut between each individual stitch. Because each stitch may require a separate needle and the patient may require many stitches, the surgeon may need to handle many different needles. The size and shape of the needles may also vary depending upon the patient&#39;s needs. 
     An embodiment, the present invention is directed towards a system for improving efficiency by eliminating the need for the assistant to provide needles to the surgeon when closing a patent&#39;s surgical wounds. Eyed or reusable needles are needles with holes or eyes, which are supplied separate from their suture thread. The suture must be threaded on site, as is done when sewing at home. The advantage of this is that any thread and needle combination is possible to suit the job at hand. Swaged, or atraumatic, needles with sutures comprise a pre-packed eyeless needle attached to a specific length of suture thread. The suture manufacturer swages the suture thread to the eyeless atraumatic needle at the factory. The chief advantage of this is that the doctor or the nurse does not have to spend time threading the suture on the needle, which may be difficult for very fine needles and sutures. Also the suture end of a swaged needle is narrower than the needle body, eliminating drag from the thread attachment site. In eyed needles, the thread protrudes from the needle body on both sides, and at best causes drag. When passing through friable tissues, the eye needle and suture combination may thus traumatize tissues more than a swaged needle, hence the designation of the latter as “atraumatic”. 
     There are several shapes and sizes of surgical needles. These include: Straight, ¼ circle, ⅜ circle, ½ circle, ⅝ circle, compound curve, half curved (also known as ski), half curved at both ends of a straight segment (also known as canoe), etc. Subtypes of the ½ circle needle shape include, from larger to smaller size, CT, CT-1, CT-2 and CT-3. The ski and canoe needle design allows curved needles to be straight enough to be used in laparoscopic surgery, where instruments are inserted into the abdominal cavity through narrow cannulas. Needles may also be classified by their point geometry, examples include: taper (needle body is round and tapers smoothly to a point), cutting (needle body is triangular and has a sharpened cutting edge on the inside curve), reverse cutting (cutting edge on the outside), trocar point or tapercut (needle body is round and tapered, but ends in a small triangular cutting point), blunt points for sewing friable tissues, side cutting or spatula points (flat on top and bottom with a cutting edge along the front to one side) for eye surgery, etc. Atraumatic needles may be permanently swaged to the suture or may be designed to come off the suture with a sharp straight tug. These “pop-offs” are commonly used for interrupted sutures, where each suture is only passed once and then tied. 
     In an embodiment, operating room efficiency can be improved by allowing the surgeon to load suture needles to a needle driver. A surgeon may use a dominant hand to hold the needle driver and one or more suture packets can be attached to the non-dominant limb of the surgeon. The surgeon can then grasp the new suture needles from the suture packet on the non-dominant limb. 
     For example, if the user is right handed, the surgeon may attach the suture package to the left arm or hand and use the right hand to handle a needle driver. The user can grasp a portion of a needle with the needle driver and remove the needle from the suture package. The user can then use the needle driver to press the needle point into the flesh of the patient. The needle is advanced along the trajectory of the needle&#39;s curve until it emerges from the flesh, and the needle and suture are pulled through. The trailing thread is then tied into a knot, usually a square knot or surgeon&#39;s knot. 
     It has been estimated that there are over one billion passages of needles per year in the US. This high needle use results in a serious risk of injury. The inventive system reduces this risk because the needles are only handled by the surgeon. Because there is a reduced number of passes of sharp needles between surgical personnel there are fewer chances of having accidentally dropped needles, drape penetration or retained foreign objects within the patient. 
       FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  illustrate a surgical field and a near surgical field.  FIG.  1 A  illustrates a perspective view and  FIG.  1 B  illustrates a top view of a surgeon performing an operation within the near surgical field, using methods and apparatuses in accordance with embodiments. The surgeon of  FIG.  1 A  is shown holding a needle driver with his dominant right hand, while holding a tissue forceps with his non-dominant left hand. A suture handling apparatus in accordance with embodiments is shown mounted on the surgeon&#39;s non-dominant left forearm. The surgeon of  FIG.  1 B  is shown holding a needle driver with his dominant left hand, while holding a tissue forceps with his non-dominant right hand. A suture handling apparatus in accordance with embodiments is shown mounted on the surgeon&#39;s non-dominant right forearm. As shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the suture handling apparatus as described herein can be supported on a surgeon&#39;s non-dominant limb so that the surgeon may perform maneuvers for an operation using his dominant hand, regardless of whether the surgeon is right-handed or left-handed. This configuration can allow the surgeon or other user to move the needle less than two feet from the suture pack to the wound (such as a surgical incision) and less than two feet from the wound to the needle receptacle. This decreased range of travel of the suture from dispensing to suturing to secure provides improved safety. 
     A “surgical field” can include a space within an operating room where the patient and surgeon are located during surgery. A “near surgical field”  313  can be a much smaller space that is in close proximity to the incision  317  on the patient  315  and the surgeon. The near surgical field  313  may comprise a space disposed between the surgeon  319  and the incision  317 . For example, the near surgical field can comprise a length  316  extending between a surgeon and an incision of a patient and a width  318  extending transverse to the length, the width comprising no more than about 24 inches (61 cm) across. The entire near surgical field can also be within the field of view  311  of the surgeon  319 . 
     The near surgical field may be conceptualized as the space bound by the neutral planes  320  of the surgeon&#39;s arms, such that no external rotation of the arms or the shoulders beyond a position of neutrality is necessary for the surgeon to reach an object positioned within the near surgical field. For example, the near surgical field can comprise a space wherein the surgeon&#39;s arms retain some degree of bending and can rotate internally from the neutral planes  320  (in the direction shown by arrows  322  in  FIG.  2 B ). Frequently, a surgeon&#39;s arms may be in a neutral position, for example with the arms positioned at the sides and the elbows bent at about 90 degrees. From this neutral position, the near surgical field  313  can comprise the space between the edges of the elbows to the tips of the fingers, and about 6 inches beyond the tips of the fingers. Generally, the surgeon does not have to engage gross motor control in order to reach an object positioned within the near surgical field. On the other hand, to reach for an object positioned outside the near surgical field, a surgeon would generally be required to engage gross motor control. Since a surgeon usually engages only fine motor control during the performance of a surgical operation, it is desirable that the surgeon not be required to reach for an object positioned outside of the near surgical field during the operation, in order to prevent interruptions to the surgeon&#39;s workflow. The practice of passing individual suture needles between a surgeon and an assistant often requires the surgeon to reach outside of the near surgical field, therefore breaking the surgeon&#39;s workflow, in addition to exposing both the surgeon and the assistant to risks of needle-stick injury during the passing of the needles. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the embodiments described herein can allow a surgeon  319  to work within the near surgical field  313  without having to pass individual suture needles in and out of the near surgical field. The surgeon can be provided with a support comprising platform  145  as described herein, shown mounted on the volar forearm of the surgeon  319  in  FIGS.  1 A and  2 B . Platform  145  can support a suture pack  101  and a dispensed needle receptacle  157 , for example. In many embodiments, when the platform  145  is used by the surgeon  319  to install sutures, the platform  145 , incision  317  and the surgical tools  201  will all be within the near surgical field  313  and the field of view  313  of the surgeon  319 , for example. In many embodiments, the near surgical field  313  is within about 2 feet of the incision  317 . Alternatively or in combination, the near surgical field  313  can be within about 1.5 feet of the incision  317 . The near surgical field  313  can be within 1 foot of the incision  317 , for example. According to present embodiments, the surgeon can perform procedures requiring the use of suture needles by dispensing suture needles from the suture pack  101  mounted within the near surgical field  313  (e.g., on surgeon&#39;s forearm), and securing dispensed needles in a needle receptacle  157  also mounted within the near surgical field. 
     In many embodiments, a needle trap or needle receptacle as described herein is configured such that a user can slide a needle into the receptacle and have the needle be secured the moment the needle is released from the needle driver. The needle can be released using a single maneuver, and the needle can be immediately secured within the needle receptacle. 
       FIGS.  1 C- 1 F  illustrate a method of using a suture handling apparatus  305  in accordance with embodiments.  FIG.  1 C  shows a surgeon grasping an unused suture needle  103  from a suture pack  101 , using a needle driver  327  usually held with the user&#39;s dominant hand.  FIG.  1 D  shows the needle driver  327  holding the dispensed suture needle  104 , having suture  155  attached to the trailing end  325  of the suture needle. The leading end  323  of the suture needle can be inserted into the tissue  321  near the site of an incision  317 , to install the suture and therefore close the incision.  FIG.  1 E  shows the suture needle  104  having been advanced into the tissue  321  through the incision  317 , to install the suture  155  in the tissue. The needle driver  327  can be used to grasp the leading end  323  of the suture needle  104  as the needle emerges out from the tissue, and pull the needle up and out of the tissue.  FIG.  1 F  shows the surgeon securing the suture needle  104 , held by the needle driver  327 , into a needle receptacle  331 . For example, the user can place the needle  104  in an entry zone  333  of the needle receptacle  331 , align the tip of the needle driver  327  with a slot  343  in the needle receptacle  331 , then move the needle  104  into a secure zone  337  of the needle receptacle by moving the needle driver  327  in the direction shown by arrow  329 . As shown by the workflow illustrated in  FIGS.  1 C- 1 F , using the apparatus  305 , a surgeon can dispense a suture needle and securely store the dispensed suture needle by himself, without having to receive a fresh needle passed from, or pass the used needle back to, an assistant located outside the near surgical field. 
     In addition to the improved safety, the inventive system improves the efficiency of surgical procedures, which can result in reduced time for procedures in the operating room. For example, the time of the surgical procedures can be reduced because the scrub tech no longer needs to assist the surgeon with needle loading/unloading, providing needle holders and scissors. Rather than assisting the surgeon, the scrub tech can perform other tasks reduce the time needed in the operating room. For example, the scrub tech can perform a sponge count with the circulating nurse or begin the breakdown of the back table to facilitate a faster operating room turnover thereby decreasing the time spent between surgical procedures. This extra free scrub tech time may also lead to more accurate and reliable sponge count thereby decreasing the risk of retained foreign object. The overall effect of the inventive system and apparatus is faster time of closures (room turnover from one surgical case to the next) because the scrub tech is also now free to begin “breaking down” the back table where instruments are kept). The work flow in the operating room is more efficient because there are fewer steps and no reliance on the support of a scrub tech. Rather than coordinating the movement of the needles and tools, the surgeon can simply reach for the needed objects without having to wait for anyone else. There is no need to reach for tools and there is no transfer of sharp objects. The platform can be configured with the proper instruments and/or with needles in an optimum position for removal from the suture packs. 
     Because the surgeon does not need to worry about the coordination of transferring tools and needles, the surgeon can maintain eye contact on surgical field. Time lost to looking away from the surgical field or refocusing the eyes to see where the tools and needles are located during an object transfer can be reduced. Body rotation of the surgeon can be decreased, as well as crossover of one forearm over the other. The movements can be more circular, of lesser excursion. Thus, the micro-ergonomics can be improved. 
     Further, the present embodiments can allow the surgeon to track his own needle usage and inventory, since the surgeon himself can dispense fresh needles and secure used needles. When needles are passed back and forth between a surgeon and an assistant, it can be difficult for the surgeon to know how many more suture needles remain inside an opened suture pack, how many suture packs are opened, etc., while it can be similarly difficult for the assistant to know how many and/or what types of needles have been used by the surgeon. Such lack of clarity regarding the inventory of available needles can necessitate an ongoing dialogue between the surgeon and the assistant, which can be distracting, inefficient, and prone to producing errors. By contrast, when the surgeon is able to track his own needle usage, as with the methods described herein, he can easily determine when a particular suture pack needs to be replaced, and communicate his needs to his assistant in a more precise manner. Referring again to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , preferably, one or more new suture packs  101  may be provided on an instrument tray  307  (e.g., Mayo stand) located just outside the near surgical field  313 . The suture packs may be labeled or color-coded to facilitate the identification of their contents, so that a surgeon can precisely point out to the assistant which suture pack he needs. The assistant can then readily hand the requested suture pack to the surgeon, or the surgeon may reach for and grab the necessary suture pack himself. 
     With reference to  FIG.  2 A , a top view of a suture package  101  is illustrated. The suture package  101  can contain needles  103  threaded or swaged to sutures. The needles  103  can be releasably attached to suture package  101  that can include a flat surface that can be flexible to bend to a contour that matches a portion of the user&#39;s limbs.  FIG.  2 B  illustrates steri-strips which can be adhesive tape  105  or film that can be used to secure the suture package  101  to a glove  107  of a user as shown in  FIG.  3    which illustrates a top view of a glove  107  and  FIG.  4    which illustrates a side view of the suture package  101  on the glove  107 . The adhesive side of the tape  105  can be attached over the edges of the suture package  101  and portions of the glove  107 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  5  and  6    another embodiment of the suture package  101  is illustrated. In this embodiment, a film adhesive or an adhesive  109  applied to the back surface perimeter of the suture package  101 .  FIG.  5    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  6    illustrates a side view of the glove  107  and at least a portion of the perimeter of the suture package  101  attached to the glove  107  with the adhesive  109 . Alternatively with reference to  FIGS.  7  and  8   , an adhesive  111  can be applied directly to the back of the suture package  101 .  FIG.  7    illustrates a top view of the suture package  101  and  FIG.  8    illustrates a bottom view of the suture package  101  with the adhesive  111  applied. In all of these examples, the adhesive that can be used to attach the suture package  101  directly to the glove  107 . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a front view and  FIG.  10    shows a top view of an embodiment of a “C” shaped holder  113  that can be used to hold suture packets  101 . The “C” shaped holder  113  can wrap around a portion of the user&#39;s hand as shown in  FIGS.  11  and  12   .  FIG.  11    shows a top view and  FIG.  12    illustrates a side view of “C” shaped holder  113  on a glove  107  on the user&#39;s hand. The holder  113  can be made of a flexible material that inherently retains its C shape and includes a clip  115  on an outer surface. The holder  113  can be placed on the hand and a suture package  101  can be attached to the clip  115 , which can include a spring and a hinge  117 . The clip  115  can hold the suture package  101  in place so that the needles  103  can be grasped with the needle driver as described above. If the user runs out of needles  103 , the original suture package  101  can be removed from the clip  115  and replaced with a new suture package  101  with additional needles  103 . 
       FIGS.  13  and  14    illustrate another embodiment of the suture package  101  system, which can include a platform  119 , and straps  121  that wrap at least partially around the glove  107  on the user&#39;s hand.  FIG.  13    shows a top view and  FIG.  14    illustrates a side view of the platform  119 , and straps  121  that wrap at least partially around the glove  107 . The suture package  101  can be attached to the platform  119  in various ways, such as with an adhesive, straps, etc. The needles  103  can be grasped as described above. If the user runs out of needles  103 , a new suture package  101  can be attached to the platform or the used platform can be replaced with a new platform having additional needles  103 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  15  and  16   , in another embodiment, a magnetic system can be used to secure the suture pack  101  to the glove  107 .  FIG.  15    shows a top view and  FIG.  16    illustrates a side view of the magnetic system used to secure the suture pack  101  to the glove  107 . A first permanent magnet  123  can be secured to the glove  107  and a corresponding polarity permanent magnet  125  can be attached to the suture pack  101 . The polarities of the permanent magnets  123 ,  125  can be arranged so the back of the suture pack  101  is attracted to the glove  107 . The magnets  123 ,  125  can be attached to the glove  107  and suture package  101  with any suitable connection mechanism including adhesives, pockets, clips, etc. When the suture pack  101  runs out of suture needles, the surgeon can remove the empty suture pack  101  by pulling the suture pack  101  with a force greater than the magnetic force and placing a new full suture pack  101  on the magnet  125 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  17  and  18   , the suture pack  101  can include multiple layered sheets of materials with each sheet holding a set of needles  103  and sutures.  FIG.  17    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  18    illustrates a side view of the multiple layered suture package  101 . This multiple layer suture package  101  can be attached to the glove  107  as shown in  FIGS.  19  and  20    in any manner described above.  FIG.  19    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  20    illustrates a side view of the multiple layer suture pack  101  attached to the glove  107 . The user can use the needles  103  on the top layer of the suture package  101 . When these first layer needles  103  are used, the user can remove and discard the depleted top layer suture package  101 . The underlying layer can then be exposed and the needles  103  stored on the second layer of the suture package  101  can be used. This process can be repeated until all of the layers of the suture package  101  are used. 
     In an embodiment shown in  FIGS.  21 - 24   , a suture pack  101  can have a hook and loop connection mechanism to couple the suture pack  101  to the glove  107 .  FIG.  21    illustrates a top view of the suture pack  101  and  FIG.  22    illustrates a side view of the suture pack  101 . In this embodiment, a hook or loop material can be attached to the back of the suture package  101  and a corresponding loop or hook material can be attached to the outer surface of the glove where the suture package  101  is to be attached. In the illustrated embodiment, the hook material  127  is attached to the bottom of the suture package  101 .  FIG.  23    illustrates a side view of the loop material  129  and  FIG.  24    illustrates a bottom view of the loop material  129  with an adhesive  131  applied to the back of the loop material  129 .  FIG.  25    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  26    illustrates a side view of the suture pack  103  attached to the glove  107  with the hook and loop connection mechanism. When the needles  103  in the suture package  101  are depleted, the suture package  101  can be replaced. 
     In an embodiment shown in  FIGS.  27  and  28   , a needle storage unit  133  can be secured to the hand in addition to the suture package  101 . The operating efficiency can be further improved by having the suture packs  101  and used needle storage unit  133  in close proximity to the surgeon. The platform  145  can be attached to the non-dominant limb of the surgeon. The surgeon can then grasp a needle  103  and suture from a suture packet  101  on the platform  145 . The surgeon can install the suture on the patient and then place the used needle  104  in the used needle storage unit  133 . The surgeon can then grasp the new suture needles  103  from the suture packet  101  on the platform  145  worn on the non-dominant limb. 
     The needle storage unit  133  can hold the used needles  104  after the suture has been knotted and the needle is no longer needed. The needle storage unit  133  eliminates the need to place the used needle  104  in the neutral zone and picked up by the surgical staff after it has been used. The user can simply complete the suture stitch, cut the suture and place the used needle  104  in the needle storage unit  133  with the needle driver. The user can then grasp the next needle  103  from the suture package  101 . The needle storage unit  133  can greatly increase the efficiency of the surgical procedure. In an embodiment, the needle storage unit  133  can include an internal volume and internal walls with a hole or slot for inserting the used needles  104 . The housing may be transparent so the user can see that the used needles  104  are fully inserted and trapped within the needle storage unit  133 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  29  and  30    elastic bands  135  can be used to secure the suture package  101  to the glove  107  or wrist of the user. The elastic bands  135  can be a uniform loop or elongated structures that have a connection mechanism such as a strap buckle or a hook and loop connection so that the tension of the elastic bands  135  can be adjusted around the user&#39;s hand and/or arm. The bands  135  can be attached to opposite edges of the suture package  101  as shown in  FIGS.  31  and  32   . 
     In an embodiment, the suture package  101  can be held in a pocket  137  in the glove  107  as shown in  FIGS.  33  and  34   . The suture package  101  can be placed into the pocket  137  through a slot  139  so that at least the pocket material covers some of the suture package  101 . A window  141  or windows can be formed in the pocket so that the needles  103  are accessible. The pocket  137  can securely hold the suture package  101  and allow a user to remove the needles  103  from the suture package  101  as described above. If additional needles  103  are required, the suture package  101  can be removed from the glove pocket  137  and replaced with a new suture package  101 . 
     In an embodiment shown in  FIGS.  35  and  36   , the suture package  103  can include multiple layers that each holds a set of needles  103 . The layers can be attached to a hinge unit  106  so that the user can flip through the different layers like a “Rolodex.” As discussed above, there are many different types and shapes of needles  103 . In an embodiment, different needles  103  can be stored on the different layers of the suture package  102 . With reference to  FIG.  37   , the multi-layered suture package  102  can be attached to the glove  107  in any of the ways described above. For example, a bottom layer of the suture package  101  can be held in a slot  139  pocket formed in the glove  107 . A mechanism such as a hook and loop connection can be used to hold the bottom layer in the pocket. 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIGS.  13  and  14   , a platform having a suture package can be attached to a glove on a hand. In other embodiments, the platform can include various other components including: tool holders, suture packs and used needle holders. For example with reference to  FIG.  38    a top view of a multiple component platform  145  is illustrated. The platform  145  can include a first tool holder  147  for holding a first tool  151  and a second tool holder  147  for holding a second tool  151 . During a procedure the surgeon can insert a first tool  151  into a first tool holder  147  and remove a second tool  151  from a second tool holder  147 . Because the first and second tools  151  are easily accessible, there is no need for an assistant to handle the tools  151  as the surgeon switches between the tools  151 . A suture pack  101  holding suture  103  and a used needle storage unit for storing used needles  104  can also be attached to the platform  145 . 
     In an embodiment, the tools  151  can be needle drivers that have handle at a proximal end and a thin tip at a distal end. The tool holders  147  can be holes or slots that are wider than the distal portion of the tool  151 . The distal ends of the tools  151  can be inserted into the holders  147  in the platform but the handle portions of the tools  151  can be wider than the holes or slots. The center of balance of the tools  151  can be inserted through the holes or slots so that when the platform is upright, the tools  151  will be held in the tool holders  147 . In an embodiment, the slots can be between about 0.5 to about 2.0 inches in width. 
     A surgeon can use a platform for holding suture packages during a medical procedure. The suture holders can be attached to a platform  145  that is secured to the glove  107  around the hand/arm  143  of the user. In an embodiment, the platform  145  can be much larger than a single suture package  101 . In these embodiments, multiple suture packages  101  can be attached to different areas of the platform  145 . A surgeon can have a plurality of suture packages  101  on the dorsal surface of the left hand glove  107 . The right hand is holding a needle driver, which is holding a needle. The right hand is also holding a tool. The surgeon can complete a stitch and then release the needle. The needle driver can grasp a new needle from the suture package  101 . 
       FIG.  38    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a platform  145  secured around an arm that includes modular attachments. In this example, a tool holder  147 , suture package  101  and a used needle holder  149  are mounted on the platform  145 .  FIGS.  39 - 41    illustrate side views of different embodiments of platforms  145  that are secured to arms  143  of surgeons.  FIG.  39    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the platform  145  with the tool holder  147 , suture package  101  and a used needle holder  149  are mounted on the platform  145 . The platform  145  can be a thin structure that can have planar surfaces for mounting the modular attachments in any locations desired by the surgeon. The portion of the platform  145  that is on the forearm  143  can be secured close to the dorsal surface up the wrist portion of the arm  143 . However, the platform  145  may also include a wrist and hand portion  146  that is angled away from the upper dorsal surface of the hand  144 . This spaced configuration allows the user to move the hand  144  freely without contacting the bottom surface of the platform  145 . In an embodiment, the bottom surface of the platform  145  can be between about 1 to 4 inches away from the upper surface of the hand  144  in the normal straight position. 
       FIG.  40    illustrates a side view of a platform  145  with a first suture package  101 , a used needle holder  149 , a second suture package  101  and a swaged needle holder  153  with an attached suture. In this example, the swaged needle holder  153  can be include a permanent magnet that holds the needle temporarily and the end of the needle  103  can protrude from the needle holder  153  so the needle  103  can be easily grasped again. The surgeon can place the needle  103  on the swaged needle holder  153 , release the needle  103  and tie the suture  155 . The surgeon can then grasp the needle  103  with the needle driver and insert another stitch through the patient and repeat the described process. The platforms  145  can have various different curvatures so that a surgeon can select a platform  145  that best suits the personal preference.  FIG.  41    illustrates a side view of a platform  145  having a substantially different size and curvature shape. 
     Different structures can be mounted on the platforms  145  depending upon the preference of the surgeon. For example with reference to  FIG.  40   , the platform  145  can include a two suture packages  101  arranged side by side and a needle container  149  on the hand portion of the platform  145 . Using the illustrated platform, the surgeon can select different types of needles and then place the used needles  104  in the needle container  149  after each is used. The surgeon can then grasp additional needles as they are needed. Alternatively in other embodiments, the platform  145  can include a suture package area on the proximal portion of the platform  145 , a tool holder at a wrist portion of the platform  145  and a needle container  149  on the hand portion  146  of the platform  145 . 
     As discussed above, the surgeon can place used needles  104  into the needle container  149  and then use a second tool as needed.  FIGS.  42 - 47    illustrate different embodiments of the used needle holders. It is extremely important to account for all needles during the surgical procedure. If a needle becomes lost during the surgery, the needle must be found and it may become necessary to x-ray the patient to determine if the needle has been left within the body. The used needle holder can provide various features, which can make the used needle count easier. 
       FIG.  42    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  43    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a used needle holder  149  having a plurality of individual needle receptacles  157 . Each receptacle  157  can include a conical hole that can easily accept the tip of the needle  104 . The lower portion of the conical hole can clam around the sides of the needle  104 . This mechanism can allow the needle  104  to be inserted but prevent the needle  104  from being removed. The needle holder  149  can also include an elastic material that can allow a needle  104  to be pressed into the material but may resist the movement/removal of the needle  104 . The needle holder  149  may also include a magnet, which can attract the needle  104 . These features can be mixed and matched or omitted in any combination to provide an effective means for holding used needles  104 . The surgeon can press the needles  104  fully into the used needle holder  149  and release the needle  104 . Once fully inserted the needle holder  149  will not release the used needles  104 . The surgeon can preferably insert the used needles  104  sequentially. The number of needles  104  can easily be counted. In this example, needle receptacles  157  are arranged in two rows of 10 receptacles  157 . In other embodiments, any other receptacle configuration can be used and the receptacles  157  can be labeled with numbers. 
       FIG.  44    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  45    illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a used needle holder having a tapered needle receptacle  161  and a permanent magnet  163  mounted on a base  164 . The needles  104  are held at a proximal end with a needle driver and the surgeon can place the tips of the used needles  104  into the side opening of the used needle holder. The needles  104  can be placed flat against the permanent magnet  163 . The magnet  163  can provide a raised needle holder surface so that the proximal end can be held until the needle  104  is held flat against the permanent magnet  163 . The surgeon can then release the needle  104  knowing that the used needle  104  is securely in the used needle holder  161 . The used needle holder  161  can be constructed of clear plastic so that the number of used needles  104  in the used needle holder  161  can be seen and counted. 
       FIG.  46    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  47    illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a used needle holder  165 . The needle holder  165  can include a housing that has an interior volume and a needle slot. The surgeon can align the used needle  104  with the slot  167  and insert the needle  104  into the housing with the needle driver approximately perpendicular to the length of the slot  167 . The surgeon can then rotate the used needle  104  so that it is out of alignment with the slot  167  and place the needle  104  against a permanent magnet  163  within the housing. The magnet  163  can provide a raised needle holder surface so that the proximal end can be held until the needle  104  is held flat against the permanent magnet  163 . The surgeon can then release the used needle  104  and remove the needle driver. The used needle  104  will be held against the permanent magnet  163  and even if the needle  104  comes loose it will be held within the needle holder  165  housing. 
     In an embodiment, a platform can be used by the surgeon to hold tools, sutures, needles, suture packs, sharps container, etc. The platform can be secured to a forearm and/or hand and/or forearm and/or fingers on one or more dorsum surfaces of the surgeon so that the objects can be easily accessed without the need for any interaction with anyone else such as a scrub technician. Thus, when using the platform, the surgeon does not need to interact with anyone else. The surgeon can remove objects from the platform that are needed and place and store objects on the platform that are no longer needed. The elimination of interaction between multiple individuals to handle the sharp objects simplifies the surgical procedure and reduces the chances of cuts or other injuries such as lacerations, punctures, abrasion, break in the skin, etc. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  48  and  49   , the inventive platform  145  can have a multi-layered construction. The main structural element can be a structural layer  169  which can be malleable and may also function as a barrier. The ability to plastically deform the structural layer  169  can allow the surgeon to easily adjust the shape of the platform  145  to provide any desired fit and configuration. An example of a suitable structural layer  169  material can be aluminum and aluminum alloys which provides a durable, lightweight, ductile and malleable metal material. The thickness of the aluminum structural layer  169  can be between about 0.01 and 0.10 inches. Any portion of the aluminum structural layer  169  can be easily bent by hand into the desired shape resulting in plastic deformation so the structural layer  169  will retain the bent shape. In other embodiments, any other material that has similar characteristics can be used. 
     In addition to providing a stable platform  145  for tools and objects, the structural layer  169  can also provide a protective barrier for the surgeon from sharp objects. If a surgeon accidentally directs a sharp object towards the dorsum of the forearm, the structural layer  169  of the platform  145  will block the sharp object and prevent any injury to the portions of the forearm and wrist and hand covered by the platform  145 . Aluminum is a material that is softer than steel. Thus, a tool or sharp object that is pressed against the structural layer  169  will tend to not be scratched or otherwise damaged by the contact with the softer structural layer  169  material. 
       FIG.  48    illustrates a side view of a multi-layer platform  145 . A lower or inner surface of the structural layer  169  can be bonded to an inner elastic foam layer  171 . When the platform  145  is attached to the forearm of the surgeon, the inner foam layer  171  can be placed on the forearm and hand dorsum of the surgeon. The inner foam layer  171  can have a porous open cell structure. Because the foam does not contain gas bubbles, it can be more compressible than closed cell foams. However, both closed and open cell foams can be used. The inner foam layer  171  can provide improved comfort and conformability. The elasticity of the inner foam layer  171  allows the structural layer to be bent as described above. A suitable inner foam material is natural rubber latex. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  48  and  49   , the structural layer  169  can include bendable legs  175  that extend outward from the sides of the platform  145 . These legs  175  can be bent to wrap around the forearm of the surgeon. The inner foam layer  171  provides a conforming fit to variable anatomy that is securely attached to the forearm. The inner foam layer  171  also provides a comfortable padded surface that disperses the compressive forces of the legs on the forearm. Because the malleable structural layer  169  is plastically deformed to any shape, the legs of the platform  145  can be accurately fitted to any forearm. Because there can be various configurations and sizes that best suit specific applications, the size and shape of the platform  145  can be any suitable dimensions. The inventive platform is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  50 - 53   , various shape multi-layer embodiments of the platform  145  are illustrated. These multi-layer platforms  145  include a structural layer  169  secured to an inner layer  171  and an outer layer  173 . Legs  175  can extend from the platforms  145  and wrap around the surgeon&#39;s arm  143 . In the illustrated embodiments, the surface area and shape of the platform  145  over the hand portion of the arm  143  can vary dramatically. The inventive platform  145  is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. With reference to  FIG.  53   , the multi-layer platform  145  with legs  175 , an inner layer  171 , a structural layer  169  and an outer layer  173 . The platform  145  is illustrated with a tool holder for holding tools  151 , suture pack holder for holding suture packs  101  and a used needle holder  149  for holding used needles  104 . 
     Although the inner elastic foam layer has been described as being bonded to the structural layer, there can be portions of the inner foam layer that are not bonded to the structural layer. For example, in some embodiments, the platform can include tool holders that are located at holes formed in the structural layer. The tools such as needle drivers can be placed in the holes with the thin body of the needle driver distal to the tool finger holes. The thin body can be placed through the hole while the handle finger holes of the needle driver cannot pass through the hole because it is wider than the diameter of the hole. Thus, the handle will hold the tool in place and prevent it from passing completely through the hole. The holes can be oriented such as to properly orient the tools for easy grasping by the contralateral hand. For example the holes may be oriented as slots with the long axis parallel or at a specific angle to the long axis of the forearm such that the finger loops of the needle holder can be easily grasped by the contralateral hand without the need for contralateral forearm motion. In an embodiment, the tools are held in the tool holders of the platform with the structural layer between the center of gravity of the tool and the handle or finger hole portion of the tool. As discussed, the inner and/or outer foam layers that are bonded to the structural layer can provide friction which can prevent the movement of the tool. Thus, the tools can be held in the tool holders by a combination of gravity and friction. 
     In some embodiments, the upper and lower foam material adjacent to the holes is removed. However, in other embodiments, the foam layers can be left over the holes. For example with reference to  FIG.  54   , in the inner foam of the tool holder holes, a smaller hole  177  can be formed within an hole  179  in the barrier material. The tool can be pressed through the smaller hole  177  and because the inner foam is elastic, the smaller hole  177  can expand as the tool is pressed through the hole  177 . The static friction of the expanded foam hole  177  circumference which is in tension against the sides of the tool can prevent accidental removal of the tool from the platform. The foam can also act as a dampening device that prevents the tools from knocking or sliding against the inner diameter of the hole  179  in the structural layer which can create noise and vibrations. This dampening feature can be important during delicate surgical procedures. 
     It is also possible to have a smaller hole  178  ( FIG.  55   ) or larger hole  178  ( FIG.  56   ) formed in the upper outer layer foam over the tool holes  179  in the barrier layer. Again, the upper layer foam can provide a friction force that can hold the tools in the tool holes  179 . In yet other embodiments with reference to  FIG.  57   , the upper and lower foam layers may have smaller holes  177 ,  178  that are not aligned with each other. By offsetting the alignment the foam layers can cause the tools to be angled relative to the platform. This can provide more clearance so the ends of the tools are not rubbing against the forearm of the surgeon. 
     In other embodiments the inventive surgical platform can include another outer elastic foam layer that is bonded to the outer surface of the structural layer opposite the inner surface. The outer foam layer can have different physical properties than the inner foam layer. As discussed above, the platform can be used to hold tools, sutures, suture packs, needles, sharps containers, etc. The sharps containers can include various embodiments including: sponges, enclosures, magnetized surfaces and/or combinations of different embodiments. In an embodiment the outer foam layer can have physical characteristics that will improve the connection between the objects and the platform. For example, the outer surface of the outer foam layer can have a greater surface area for better anti-slip surface that provides a high static coefficient of friction with the objects that effectively grip the contact surfaces of the object. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  58 - 63   , the structural layer  169  can have tabs  181  that can be bent upward from the plane of the structural layer  169 . An object  108  such as a suture pack can be placed adjacent to one or more of the tabs  181  and the tabs  181  can be bent over an exposed surface of the object  108  to hold the object  108  against an edge of the outer foam layer  173 . As discussed, the malleable structural layer  169  material may be plastically deformed and the bent tabs  181  can hold the object  108  against the platform  145 . The horizontal force of the tab  181  against the object  108  can cause a compressive force between the object  108  and the outer foam layer  173  as shown in  FIG.  64   . 
     It can be very important to hold objects  108  in a secure manner to the platform  145 . In an embodiment, the outer foam layer  173  can be a high friction material that prevents or resists movement between the object  108  and the outer layer  173 . The friction force between the objects  108  and the outer surface of the outer foam layer  173  can be described or quantified based upon the static coefficient of friction (COF), which can be symbolized by the Greek letter μ S . The static COF is a dimensionless scalar value that describes the ratio of the force of friction between two bodies and the force pressing them together. The coefficient of friction depends on the materials used. For example, slippery materials such as Teflon on smooth surfaces can have a low coefficient of friction, while rubber on a suture package surface can have a higher coefficient of friction. Coefficients of friction range from near zero to greater than one. In an embodiment, the static coefficient of friction between the outer surface of the outer layer  173  of foam and the object  108  coupled to the platform is greater than 0.3. The friction force is quantified by the static friction=μ S ×compression force. 
     The compression force can be applied by a clamp, a tab  181 , elastic material, a clip, a spring and/or any other suitable mechanical device. The compression force can also be provided by the foam. The compression force can be stored in the foam material by manually bending the tab  181  over and onto the suture packet. The compressed foam will try to expand and this foam expansion force can help to hold the suture packet in place. The compression force can prevent any vertical movement of the suture packet and the friction force can prevent any horizontal movement relative to the platform surface. In an embodiment, the compression mechanism is attached to the platform and applies a force to compress the object against the outer foam layer. The compressive force results in a friction force that prevents a sliding movement of the object over the surface of the outer foam layer. 
     With reference to  FIG.  49   , in an embodiment, the outer foam material  173  can provide a functional structure. For example, after needles are used they must be stored and accounted for. In an embodiment, a portion such as the used suture needle region  192  of the outer foam  173  can be marked with individual needle regions. Each of the individual needle regions can be marked with a number  259  and adjacent needle regions can be marked with sequential numbers  259 . As the needles  103  are used, the surgeon can place the used needles  104  in the used needle region  192 . A first used needle  104  can be placed in a region marked  1 , a second used needle  104  can be placed in a region marked  2 , etc. The outer foam  173  can be made of a thick material that allows the needles  104  to be securely captured until the surgical procedure is completed. Because the needles  104  are placed in numbered  259  regions, it is easy to visually account for all needles  104  used during the surgery by simply looking at the numbers  259  in the used needle regions  192 . 
     The described sharps container  255  can provide various benefits to the users. The sharps container  255  is easily accessed and secured to any portion of the platform  145  over the forearm and hand. The used needles  104  are highly visible in the repository for easy used needle  104  counting. The demarcations can assist in the counting of the used needles  104 . The foam  173  in the sharps container securely holds the tips of the needles  104 . The tips are also adjacent to the structural layer  169  and cannot cause damage even if the needles  104  are accidentally contacted or pressed further into the foam  173 . The used needles  104  can be secured, treated and maintained in control of the surgeon until a “group transfer” occurs. More specifically, the used needles  104  are secured to the sharps container  255 . The used needles  104  can also be treated by mechanically cleaning the distal portions and chemically disinfected. The securing of the used needles  104  can be in constant contact and can be maintained in control of the surgeon until a “group transfer” occurs. The “group transfer” can include the transfer of a group of surgical tools from the surgeon to the scrub tech. The surgical tools in the group transfer can include: the needle driver, the forceps, the used sharps container, the sharps container and other objects. 
     In an embodiment, outer foam layer  173  can include different areas that have different physical properties. For example, first area may be designed to support suture packs  101  and a second area may be designed to function as a sharps container  255  as described above. The first area that supports the suture packs  101  can be made of a thinner less elastic foam material with a higher COF exposed surface than the second area. The suture packs  101  can be compressed against the first area and the high COF can prevent movement of the suture packs. This feature can be important because the surgeon must manually place the proximal ends of the needles  103  in needle driver. Any unwanted movement of the needles  103  can make this task more difficult. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  58 - 59    in an embodiment, the structural layer can have one or more tabs  181  that can be used to secure objects to the platform  145 . The outer foam layer  173  can be removed from the structural layer  169  which can be exposed. Bendable tabs  181  can be formed in a suture pack carrier  183  area of the exposed structural layer  169 . These bendable tabs  181  can be cut in the structural layer  169  and can remain planar with the structural layer  169  before being used. The tabs  181  can be arranged in a staggered manner so that objects such as suture packs can be secured to the suture pack carrier  183  area of the structural layer  169  with the tabs  181  that most closely fit the objects. 
       FIG.  58    illustrates a suture pack carrier  183  before suture packs  101  are secured and  FIG.  59    illustrates a suture pack carrier  183  after suture packs  101  have been secured. For example, a suture pack or suture packs  101  may be substantially planar rectangular structures that are held to the platform with the tabs  181 . The suture packs  101  can be placed on the platform  145  and the tabs  181  can be bent up and over one more side edges of the suture packs  101 . The suture packs  101  can come in various different sizes. Thus, the suture pack carrier  183  on the platform  145  can have multiple tabs  181  can be set in different locations to accommodate the variety of suture pack  101  sizes. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  60 - 63    in other embodiments, multiple suture packets  101  can be stacked over the same suture packet carrier  183 .  FIG.  60    illustrates a suture pack carrier  183  before suture packs  101  are secured and  FIG.  61    illustrates a suture pack carrier  183  after multiple layers of suture packs  101  have been secured.  FIG.  62 - 63    illustrate a suture pack carrier  183  after multiple layers of suture packs  101  have been secured and some suture packs  101  have been removed. Different tabs  181  can be used to hold each of the layered suture packets  101 . After all needles  103  of a suture packet are removed, the suture packet  101  can be removed to expose the underlying suture packet  101 . In a preferred embodiment, the surgeon can grasp a side of upper depleted suture packet  101  with the needle driver and remove it from the suture packet carrier  183 . The underlying suture packet  101  will then be exposed and the needles  103  will be accessible to the surgeon. This process can be repeated until the bottom suture packet  101  is exposed and all necessary needles  103  are used by the surgeon. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the tabs  181  hold one or more of the suture packs  101  to the platform  145 . Some of the tabs  181  are oriented to be substantially perpendicular to the edges of the suture packets  101  while other tabs  181  can be oriented at various other angles. In the illustrations, the tabs  181  on the lower right are oriented to be about 45 degrees to the side edges of the suture packets  101 . 
     In an embodiment, the multi-layer platform can have a suture pack carrier.  FIGS.  64 - 67    illustrates side views of various suture pack carriers  183 . With reference to  FIG.  64   , the upper foam layer  173  can be partially removed from some areas of the platform which can expose the structural layer  169 . The objects, such as a suture pack  101 , can be pressed against the edges of the upper foam layer  173 . This force on the object can compress the object into side of the upper layer foam  173 . The compression force creates a friction force that can hold the edge of the object to the platform adjacent to the structural layer  169 . One or more sides of the object can be compressed into different surfaces of the upper foam layer  173 . One or more tabs  181  can be secured over the sides of the object opposite the side of the object pressed into the upper layer foam  173 . 
     In the illustrated embodiments, the suture pack retaining structures can adapt to wide range of suture pack  101  sizes. Suture packs  101  can vary in size from about 1″×3″ to about 3″×4″. The suture packs  101  can have a “flat” conformation. The tabs  181  can provide an easy and secure system for attaching or locking the suture packs  101  onto the barrier platform. The platform can accommodate multiple suture packs  101  and the packs can also be easily removed from the platform. 
     With reference to  FIG.  65   , in an embodiment, the tabs  181  can extend through the upper foam layer  173 . The suture pack  101  can be placed between the tabs  181  and the ends are bent over the edges of the suture pack  101  to hold it against the upper foam layer  173 . With reference to  FIG.  66   , in an embodiment, the upper foam layer  173  can be partially removed. Tabs  181  can be wrapped over the edges of the suture pack  101  to hold it against the structural layer  169 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  67   , in yet another embodiment, holes that are slightly smaller than the perimeter shape of the suture packs  101  are formed in the upper foam layer  173 . The suture packs  101  can be pressed into the holes until they are against the structural layer  169  or the lower surface of the hole. The compression of the suture packs  101  may cause them to bow upward. In order to prevent this motion, fasteners  185  can be placed in a center portion of the suture pack  101  to hold it in place. In other embodiments, where the suture pack  101  is made of a stronger material that does not deform under compression, the fastener  185  may not be necessary. 
     The inventive platform has been described with various system components: tool holders, tools, suture pack holders, suture packs, armed needles, used and sharps containers, all mounted on a platform. Although these components can be set at predetermined locations on the platform, in other embodiments, the inventive system can have a modular configuration. In these embodiments, the system components: tool holders, tools, suture pack holders, suture packs, armed needles  103 , sharps container can be independent and modular. The user can mix and combine these individual components and place them in any desired positions on the apparatus and platform. The individual components can have various connection mechanisms such as: hook and loop (Velcro), snaps, tack features, screw fasteners, tabs, or any other suitable connection mechanisms such as elastic bands and adhesives. Once the surgical procedures are completed, the system components can be removed from the inventive platform. It may be possible to clean and sterilize the platform, attach new modular components and reuse the platform. 
     The present platform invention can address several operating room issues including improved safety and efficiency. As discussed, the structural layer of the platform can create a barrier that prevents needle sticks to forearm and dorsum of hand. Thus, both the surgeon&#39;s hand and forearm can be protected. The platform can be held against the forearm but can be spaced away from the hand, which may allow for full movement of the surgeon&#39;s (wrist, hand, fingers) hand. The platform also does not interfere with the elbow range of motion. 
     The inventive platform system provides various benefits. The bendable legs allow the platform to adapt readily and securely to variable forearm sizes. The platform allows the surgical tools and needles to be oriented in any desired position. Ideally, the system can minimize unnecessary forearm motion. The suture pack(s) can be placed on any portion of the platform including the radial border of forearm and the volar forearm. The platform provides a protective barrier to the hand and forearm while still allowing full hand range of motion. The angle of the hand cover portion of the platform relative to forearm portion can be about 10-45 degrees. However, the hand element can be flexible and the angle and shape of the hand element can be adjusted to any desired shape. The inflection point may be: a living hinge, a mechanical hinge or any other suitable articulation movement mechanism. 
     For example, with reference to  FIGS.  88  and  89   , a multi-layer platform is illustrated that includes a movable inflection point  207 . When the hand is in a straight position, the platform can assume a normal shape. However, then the hand is moved up relative to the forearm, the hand can contact the bottom of the portion of the platform and the hand portion  146  of the platform can rotate with the hand as shown in  FIG.  89   . 
     In preferred embodiments, the sharps container can be physically adjacent to or in close proximity with the suture packet holder and the suture packets. The sharps container and the suture packets can be on the same support structure such as a platform. This configuration facilitates improved surgical work flow and condenses several complex coordinated motions into more streamlined simplified actions performed by the surgeon. As discussed, the platform with the suture packet holders secured to suture packets and the sharps container can be on the same platform apparatus mounted on a non-dominant arm of the surgeon. When a suture is required, the surgeon can grasp an armed needle having an attached suture from the suture packet and use the suture on the patient. When the stitch is completed, the surgeon can then place the used needle in the sharps container and then easily grasp a new armed needle from the suture packet. 
     Various sharps container designs can combine with the inventive system. In an embodiment, the sharps container can be a soft open or closed cell elastic material such as foam or a sponge which can be marked with a sequence of numbered regions. The used needles can be inserted into the soft cell material which will hold the used needles in place. In an embodiment, the sharps container cell material can be adjacent or bonded to one or more layers of a thin elastic homogeneous material such as a soft plastic or rubber that can be easily pierced by the used needles without substantially deforming the soft elastic cell material. The homogeneous material can provide a friction force that can increase the resistance to inserted needle movement that can further prevent the accidental removal of the used needles from the sharps container. It can also be easier to print the number markings on a solid rubber material than on a soft elastic cell material such as foam. 
     A potential problem with used needles is their ability to transmit viruses when a used needle accidentally breaks the skin on an operating room surgical member. However, if the used needle is cleaned and/or disinfected the used needles are much less likely to spread viruses. In yet another embodiment, the soft open or closed cell elastic material can be coated and/or saturated with a disinfectant such as bleach or other antimicrobial materials. The disinfectants can be in the form of a high viscosity gel that can be held within the foam material but will not easily be removed from the elastic cell material. In an embodiment, a portion or all of the soft open or closed cell elastic material of a sharps container can be surrounded by a layer(s) of the thin elastic homogeneous material in order to help retain a disinfectant liquid within the soft cell sharps container material (may need to elaborate, clarify). 
     With reference to  FIGS.  102 ,  103    the inventive system can clean and disinfect the used needles  104  as they are inserted into the soft open or closed cell elastic material  251 ,  253 . As the used needles  104  pierce the soft cell material  251 ,  253  and/or the solid elastic material layer(s)  250 ,  252 , that can be cleaned by wiping the outer surfaces against these materials. The used needles  104  can be disinfected when they are exposed to the disinfectant. Thus, if any of the used needles  104  are accidentally removed from the described sharps container  255 , they are cleaned and disinfected and are much less likely to spread viruses. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  96 - 99    in other embodiments, the sharps container  235  can include an enclosure having a door mechanism  237  that is opened to received used needles and closed to prevent used needles from exiting the sharps container  235 . Different mechanisms can be used to control the position of the door  237 . For example, in an embodiment, the position of the door  237  can be manually controlled with a switch mechanism. The door control mechanism can be coupled to a spring  245  which can hold the door  237  in the closed position and a manual actuator such as a lever  243 . When user presses against the lever  243 , the spring  245  can be compressed and the door(s)  237  can be open. The user can drop the used needles into the repository and the release the lever  243  to close the door  237 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the door  237  mechanism is coupled to a pair of rotational members  246  on opposite sides of the sharps container  235 . A lever  243  can extend away from the receptacle housing. When no force is applied to the lever  243 , a torsional spring  245  or any other suitable spring mechanism can exert a counter clockwise torque about one or both of the rotational members  246 . This torque can hold the door  237  in the closed position against a stop  247 . When a downward force is applied to the lever  243 , a clockwise torsional force can be applied to the door  237  mechanism that is greater than the counter clockwise spring  245  force. The door  237  mechanism can rotate clockwise and open to allow used needles  104  to be deposited in the receptacle  235 . Once the used needle  104  is captured, the use can release the lever  243  and the door  237  can return to the closed position against the stop  247 . 
     The manually controlled door configuration can allow the user to carefully control the door  237  to prevent used needles from escaping the sharps container  235 . The repository housing can include an opening at the top surface and the door  237  mechanism can be mounted on two rotational members  246  on opposite sides of the housing that define a rotational axis. The doors  237  can be above the rotational axis  246  and a spring  245  can normally hold the door  237  in a closed position against a rotational stop  247 . The lever  243  can be coupled to the door  237  mechanism and exit a side of the housing that is easily accessible to the user such as the side of the housing closest to the user. Actuating the lever  243  can cause the door  237  mechanism to rotate about the rotational axis and open. When the lever  243  is released, the spring  245  will rotate the door  237  mechanism back to the closed position. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  100  and  101    in an embodiment, the door  237  can be coupled to an automatic control system  249  which includes an accelerometer(s), a processor, a power supply and an actuator. The accelerometer(s) can detect the orientation of the needle receptacle  235  based upon the gravitational forces. When the accelerometers detect that the needle receptacle  235  is substantially upright in position, the processor can control the actuator to open the door  237  and when the needle receptacle is not properly oriented, the processor control the actuator to close the door  237 . In an embodiment, the system can be programmed or set to open the door  237  at a specific range of orientations that can correspond to the optimum limb or tool positions which can allow for the needle to be dropped into the receptacle  235 . The system can also detect abnormal situations which can indicate an accident. For example, if the detected acceleration is significantly greater than the gravitational force, the system can interpret this as an accidental impact with the sharps container and the processor can control the actuator to close the door  237 . 
     Alternatively the position of the door can be automatically controlled by gravity. When the sharps container is used on a forearm-mounted platform, the door can be at the top of the repository and open when the repository is in an upright position. However, when the sharps container is rotated, the doors can close to prevent used needles from exiting. 
       FIGS.  92 - 95    in an embodiment, the repository housing  235  can include an opening at the top surface. The door  237  mechanism can be mounted on two rotational members  246  on opposite sides of the repository housing  235  that define a rotational axis. The doors  237  can be above the rotational axis and a counter weight(s)  239  below the rotational axis. The door  237  mechanism can open when the repository housing  235  is upright relative to the rotational axis within a range of about 0 to 30 degrees. At rotational positions greater than 30 degrees or more away from vertical alignment, the doors  237  can close to prevent used needles  104  from escaping the repository  235 . In use, the repository  235  can be vertically oriented relative to the rotational axis to open the door and the used needle  104  can be dropped in the repository  235  through the open door  237 . The surgeon can then rotate the forearm out of vertical alignment to close the door  237  and grasp a new needle from the suture packet. The process can be repeated after the needle is used. 
     Because the suture packets and the sharps container are in close proximity, the surgeon&#39;s movement of releasing a used needle  104  and picking up a new needle is simple and short. Thus, this configuration has micro-ergonomic benefits over other suture packet and sharps container methods. As discussed above, the sharps container can be an elastic foam or other material into which used needles  104  are inserted with the sharp points directed towards a structural layer which blocks the needle from further movement and protects the surgeon&#39;s forearm from the used needle. It has also been found that mounting the used needle  104  on the dorsum on the forearm can also resist injury to the surgeon from the exposed suture ends of the needles. The dorsum of the forearm can rotate with the hand. However, the forearm is not easily moved into a position where the dorsum of the forearm faces the body. The forearm is inherently configured with the volar and palmar surfaces facing the body while the dorsum faces away from the body. This human anatomy limitation provides another safety feature for the inventive forearm mounted platform with sharps container. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  68 - 71    in an embodiment, the platform apparatus may include a platform  187  on the dorsum of the forearm onto which a sharps container is mounted and suture packet holders  183  mounted on a surface or platform  189  of the apparatus on the volar side of the forearm  143 . In this configuration, the surgeon can supinate the non-dominant assisting limb to rotate the suture packet mounted on the volar side into any desired orientation before grasping a new armed needle. As discussed, the human anatomy allows for a wider range of natural movement when the volar side of the forearm  143  is facing the body. Thus, the surgeon can more easily and precisely move the needle to the desired position before grasping the new needle with the needle holder. The needles are securely attached to the suture packs  101  and require a physical force to be removed. Gravity will not cause the needles to come loose from the suture packs  101  and the placement of the suture packs  101  below the forearm  143  will not cause new armed needles to be accidentally released. In contrast, it may not be desirable to mount the tool holders and sharps container on the volar side of the limb. 
     With the used sharps container on a dorsal side and suture packs  101  on the volar side, the movement and micro-ergonomics are slightly different because the surgeon will rotate the forearm  143  after the used needle is placed in the sharps container and while the new armed needle is being grasped. However, because the suture packet  101  and sharps container are still in close proximity, for example within less than 7 inches, the movement of the surgeon is still very efficient. This configuration also has the benefit of a safe used needle  104  position and a more adjustable suture packet  101  position. 
     The described process used with a medical apparatus on a forearm of a user can be illustrated with reference to flow chart shown in  FIG.  90   . A medical apparatus can have a platform on a dorsal side of the forearm and a volar platform on the volar side of the forearm. A used needle repository can be attached to the dorsal platform on the dorsal side of the medical apparatus and a suture pack holder can be attached to the volar side of the medical apparatus  209 . A suture pack can be placed in the suture pack holder and the medical apparatus can be worn on a first arm of a user who can be surgeon, which can be the non-dominant arm  211 . The user can move the first arm to adjust the position of the suture pack and the user can grasp a suture needle with a needle driver held by the second arm of the user which can be the dominant arm  213 . The user can then remove the suture needle from the suture pack and use the needle to install a suture on a patient  214 . Once the suture is installed and possibly knotted, the user can move the used needle less than one foot from the suture insertion point on the patient and place the used needle in the sharps container by the surgeon only  215 . The surgeon can determine if additional sutures are needed  217 . If more sutures are needed, the steps  213 ,  214  and  215  can be repeated until all sutures have been installed on the patient. Once no more sutures are needed this process is done  219 . As discussed, the benefit of this process is that only the surgeon handles the sutures and needles and the movement of the needle can be, for example, within one foot from the suture insertion point which can improve efficiency and prevent injury from sharps. 
     The sutures and needles can remain within the near surgical field during the installation of the sutures. 
     In yet another embodiment, the suture packet holder (with a suture packet) and a sharps container can be mounted on a surgical tool on the same plane, facing the same direction, or on opposite planes. The suture packet holder and the sharps container can be held by the surgeon&#39;s non-dominant hand. In the illustrated examples shown in  FIGS.  81  and  83    the suture packet  101  and the sharps container  191  can be mounted on opposite sides of a surgical tool  201  such as forceps. When the suture packet holder  183  and the sharps container  191  are mounted opposite each other, the surgeon can rotate the suture packet  101  toward the needle driver so a new armed needle can be grasped. When the suture has been installed, surgeon can rotate the tool between about 90-270 degrees so the sharps container  191  faces the used needle and the surgeon can deposit the used needle in the sharps container  191 . The surgical tool can be rotated between about 90-270 degrees back to its original position so a new armed needle can be grasped and the process can be repeated. In other embodiments, the suture packets and sharps container can also all be on same plane, facing the same direction with the unused and used needles side by side. 
     An embodiment of this process can be illustrated with reference to the flow chart shown in  FIG.  91   . A medical apparatus such as forceps can have a used needle repository on a first side of a proximal end portion and a suture pack holder on an opposite side can be provided to a user who can be surgeon  221 . A suture pack can be placed in the suture pack holder and the medical apparatus can be held with a first hand of the user  223 . The user can adjust the position of the suture pack by movement of the first hand and the user can grasp a needle with a needle driver held by the second hand of the user  225 . The user can then remove a needle from the suture pack and used the needle to install a suture on a patient  227 . Once the suture has been installed, the user can rotate the medical apparatus so that the needle repository faces the second hand and the used needle moves less than a foot to place the needle in the used needle repository which can be a sharps container by the surgeon only  229 . If more sutures are needed, the steps  225 ,  227  and  228  can be repeated until all sutures have been installed on the patient. When no more sutures are needed this process is done  233 . Again, this process can be performed by only the surgeon and the needles may move less than one foot from the incision which can improve efficiency and prevent injury from sharps. 
     In other embodiments, various types of sharps containers can be used to hold used needles. For example with reference to  FIG.  150   , the sharps container  255  can have a door  237  that is coupled to a lever  243 . When the lever  243  is actuated, the door  237  can open to allow a used needle to be inserted into the sharps container  255 . When the lever  237  is released, the door  237  can close to prevent the used needles from escaping. In an illustrated embodiment, the user can simultaneously hold the forceps  201  and actuate the lever  243  to open/close the door  237  to the sharps container  255 . For example, the user can hold and actuate the forceps  201  between the thumb and long finger. The index finger can independently contact and actuate the lever  243  to open the door  237 . The index finger can also allow the user to apply additional downward force to the forceps  201  if necessary. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  77  and  78   , in the illustrated embodiment, the suture pack  101  and sharps container  191  are coupled to each other along a top side and two vertical sides to form a needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205 . The bottom edge can be open so that the structure forms a tool attachment pocket  204 . The inner sides of the suture pack and sharps container can be coated or attached to an adhesive layer  203  that is covered with a release paper  202  prior to installation on a tool. The user can squeeze the two vertical sides of the suture pack  101  and sharps container assembly as shown in  FIG.  77    to open the pocket shown in  FIG.  78   . The user can then remove the release paper  202  to expose the adhesive  203  as shown in  FIG.  79   . A tool  201  such as a proximal end of forceps can be inserted into the pocket  204  against the adhesive surfaces  203  as shown in  FIG.  80   . The suture pack  101  and sharps container assembly  191  can be pressed together to secure the device to the end of the tool  201  as shown in  FIG.  81   . Because the inventive structure is being attached to a surgical instrument  201 , it can be important to use lightweight materials so that the feel and balance of the tool is not significantly reduced when the system is used. In many embodiments, the weight of the structure is less than 0.100 lbs or 45 grams. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  82 - 84    various view of a needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  204  mounted on a surgical tool  201  are illustrated.  FIG.  82    illustrates a front view of the needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205  with the suture holder  183  with a plurality of suture packs  101  holding suture needles  103  is illustrated. The suture packs  101  can be held to the suture holder  183  with tabs  181 . With reference to  FIG.  83   , a side view of the needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205  is illustrated with the suture packs  101  on a front side and the used needle receptacle  191  on the opposite side. With reference to  FIG.  84   , a back view of the needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205  with used needles  104  placed in the needle receptacle  191 . 
     In an alternative embodiment, the back surfaces of the suture packets can be attached to a foam needle repository and the opposite side of the needle repository can be attached to the tool. In yet another embodiment of a needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205  as shown in  FIGS.  85 - 87   , the tool  201  can be attached to one or between two foam needle repositories  191  that are sandwiched between two suture pack holders  183 . In this embodiment, the used needles  104  are inserted into the exposed sides of the foam needle repository  191 . This provides a much deeper used needle  104  insertion because the foam extends across the entire width of the structure rather than the thickness. In the illustrated embodiment, the needle areas can be marked with a sequence of numbers so that the used needle  104  count can be easily performed.  FIG.  85    illustrates a front view of the needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205  facing one of the suture pack holders  183 .  FIG.  86    illustrates a side view of the needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  205  facing one of the foam needle repositories  191  and  FIG.  87    illustrates a back view facing the second suture pack holder  183 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  72 - 76   , in other embodiments, a platform  145  with suture packet holders  183  that can include tabs  181  for holding suture packets  101  and a sharps container  191  can be mounted on a mechanical arm at a fixed or movable location in the surgical field. For example, the platform  145  can be a separate structure mounted to an arm having an adjustable joint  193  as shown in  FIG.  73    or a flexible arm  195  that can be moved to any desired position as shown in  FIG.  74   . The base of the arms  193 ,  195  can be clamped to a fixed surface  197  such as a table. 
     In other embodiments a solid platform is secured to the surgical drape on the fringe of the surgical incision. In an embodiment the device is mounted opposite the surgeon if the surgeon has no assistance or on the adjacent side to the surgeon&#39;s dominant hand. In an embodiment illustrated in  FIGS.  75  and  76   , the platform  145  with suture packet holders holding suture packets  101  and a sharps container can be mounted on an “A” frame structure  199  that allows the angle of the platform  145  surface to be adjusted. For example, the platform  145  can mount the suture packets  101  and suture repository  191  at an angle to the surface of about 0-50 degrees that most easily facilitates the grasping of the new armed needles and used needle deposition motions. The platform structure  199  can be attached to the surgical drape with staples or tape. A platform  145  with the suture packet(s)  101  and sharps container  191  adjacent to the needle holder securely mounted to the within the surgical field will facilitate the improved and more efficient surgical workflow. In this embodiment as illustrated in  FIG.  72   , the proximity of the suture packet holders holding suture packets  101  and a sharps container  191  can be within about 4 inches. 
     A common feature among the inventive devices described above is that they combine armed and/or unarmed needle and/or suture pack(s) with a used needle retention device on the same structure. The armed and/or unarmed needle and/or suture pack(s) with a used needle retention device can be fixed to the structure permanently and/or in frangible association. This configuration allows for improved micro-ergonomics. The surgeon can hold a needle driver in one hand and another tool such as forceps in the second hand. The surgeon does not have to let go of the needle driver or the forceps when needles are removed from the suture packs or when the used needles are placed in the used needle retention device. Since the surgeon does not have to remove the fingers from the instruments, the procedures can be a more efficient and safer since there is much less likelihood of accidentally dropping an instrument. 
     The use of the forearm for needles and used retained needles can provide improved efficiency, safety, and better micro-ergonomics. Using such a system, the surgeon always knows where used needles are located. It is also is very difficult to accidentally jab the surgeon&#39;s body with the used needles unless the surgeon crosses forearms to appose the dorsum of non-dominant forearm to another part of your body. If used needles are on the surgical field it is much easier for the surgeon&#39;s hand to accidentally be placed on them. Having the new and used needles on the in close proximity allows for apposition. The installation of sutures in a patient is done with a circular motion by the surgeon. The surgeon can more easily, drop a used needle off in the sharps container and grab the next new needle. 
     As illustrated in the top view of an embodiment of the inventive platform shown in  FIG.  49   , the system can include tool holders  177 , suture pack holders  183  and a sharps container  191 . In an embodiment, one of the tools stored in the tool holder  177  can be a bulb irrigator, which can be a hollow container that stores saline for irrigation of the surgical wound. The surgeon can point the nozzle of the bulb irrigator at the wound and squeeze the bulb portion to control the flow and direction of the saline. By storing the bulb irrigator on the platform  145 , the surgeon can access this tool at any time. The scrub tech who is observing the surgery can assess, and thereby anticipate that the next step might be: bone wax or gelfoam application (as required during certain procedures, such as lumbar decompression) or cottonoid in that stepwise function. For example, the surgeon can reach for the bulb irrigator, perform the irrigation and upon placing it back on the platform  145  the scrub tech can know to be ready with the next step. Since the surgeon is handling the bulb irrigator, the surgeon will know how much saline is left in the bulb. The surgeon can feel and see the quantity of saline in the bulb irrigator and ask for more saline when a refill is needed. Alternatively, the scrub tech can spend more time watching the surgeon and less time passing objects to the surgeon. By watching the surgeon handle the bulb irrigator, the scrub tech can see when the fluid level is running low and anticipate the need for more saline. Because the actions of the surgeon and scrub tech are more independent, all parties can be more focused on the surgery and communications can be improved. These same benefits would apply to the needle handling processes of the inventive system described above. 
     In some of the illustrated embodiments, the used needles are inserted into a foam sharps container coupled to a planar mounting surface such as a platform with the lengths of the needle approximately perpendicular to the mounting surface as shown in  FIGS.  102  and  103   . In other embodiments with reference to  FIG.  104   , the sharps container  257  can be oriented so that the used needles  104  are inserted into sides of the sharps container  257  so that the needles  104  are more parallel to the mounting surface. In an embodiment, sides of a container  257  structure can surround the foam, except for the used needle insertion side of the container  257 . The container  257  can be made of a clear material and marked with numberings  259  for needle counting. The container  257  can prevent the sharp tips of the needle  104  from exiting the sharps container  257  and the increased insertion depth prevents the needles from escaping. Both of these features increase the safety of the device. 
     In other embodiments, suture packs  101  can be placed on the upper surface of the sharps container  257 . With reference to  FIG.  105    a side view of the sharps container  257  with suture packs  101  mounted on a front surface are illustrated.  FIG.  106    illustrates a front view of the suture packs  101  holding sutures  103  mounted on the sharps container  257 . 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIG.  107   , multiple layers of needle repositories  257  can be stacked together with the inner repository  257  attached to a mounting surface which can be on a protective platform or a tool. The opposite exposed side of the sharps container can be used to mount one or more stacked suture packets  101  that can be held together with an adhesive. Needles can be removed from the outermost suture packet and the used needle  104  can be inserted into the side of the sharps container  257 . The used needles  104  can be inserted into the side of the sharps container  257  into a foam material  263  that can be marked with numberings  259  for needle counting. When the suture packet  101  is out of needles it can be removed to expose an underlying suture packet  101 . Because the suture packets  101  and sharps container  257  are in very close proximity, the micro-ergonomics of the surgical procedure are improved. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  108 - 110   , the sharps container  257  can include a material that the used needles  104  are inserted into a single piece needle holding material through multiple surfaces. In the illustrated example, a foam material  263  can be placed within a container structure  257  which includes a plurality of elongated openings  364  and numerical markings  258 . The used needles  104  can be inserted into an exposed top surface as well as a side surface. The used needles  104  inserted through the top surface can be oriented at a shallow diagonal angle relative to the mounting surface and the used needles  104  inserted through the side surface can be more parallel to the mounting surface. In another embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  111 - 113   , dividers  261  can be placed in the container structure  257  which separate the adjacent needle holding material pieces. In this embodiment, each used needle  104  is inserted into a specific used needle passageway which can help to improve needle count accuracy. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  114 - 116    in other embodiments, the sharps container  257  can be configured with access only through the side surfaces with multiple layers so that the used needles  104  are placed in multiple planes and mounted between one or more stacked suture packets  101  and a mounting surface. The assembly components can be held together with an adhesive and the assembly can be attached to the mounting surface with an adhesive. The mounting surface can be a tool surface or a platform surface. The new needles  103  can be removed from the outermost suture packet  101 . When all needles  103  are removed from the outermost suture packet  101 , the user can peel away the depleted suture packet  101  to exposed a full underlying suture packet  101 . 
     In other embodiments, the suture packet  101  and used needle receptacle  257  can be configured in a diagonal manner like layered shingles. In the illustrated example shown in  FIGS.  117 - 119   , a plurality of suture packets  101  are stacked on a left side of the assembly  205 . Needles  103  are removed, used and then placed in the needle receptacle  257 . The suture packets  101  can be held in place with an adhesive and when the needles  103  are depleted, the outermost suture packet  101  can be peeled away and discarded to expose the next suture packet  101 . The used needle receptacle  257  can have a single piece foam structure or multiple foam  263  pieces which can have a plurality of diagonally oriented dividers  261  separating the multiple foam  263  pieces. The dividers  261  can direct the needles  104  in a diagonal direction relative to the lower mounting surface. This diagonal configuration increases the insertion depth and allows the user to view the insertion points on an upper surface of the assembly  205 . The exposed surfaces of the sharps container  257  can be numbered  259 . In addition to the upper surface insertion points, the used needles  104  can also be inserted into one or more layers through a side surface. In an alternative embodiment shown in  FIGS.  120 - 122   , the dividers  261  between the different layers of the sharps container  257  can be curved so that they can be similar to the curvature of the used needles  104 . This can improve the used needle insertion since the used needles  104  can follow the curvature of the dividers  257  and are less likely to collide with the dividers  257 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  123 - 125   , as discussed potential safety problem with used needles  104  is their ability to transmit viruses when a used needle  104  accidentally breaks the skin on an operating room surgical member. If the used needle  104  is cleaned and/or disinfected the used needles  104  are much less likely to spread viruses. In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  123 - 140   , the used needle receptacle  257  can include a disinfectant fluid container  264  encapsulated within a portion of the sharps container  255 . The disinfectant fluid can be a liquid, gel, powder or any other suitable antimicrobial material  266 . The portion of the sharps container  255  used to contain the antimicrobial material  266  can be a clear plastic and other transparent material. An elastic material  251  can be attached to the portion of the disinfectant fluid container  264  that can seal the antimicrobial material  266  in the disinfectant fluid container  264  portion of the sharps container  255 . The elastic material  251  can be foam, rubber, plastic or any other suitable material that can be punctured by the used needles  104 . 
     When a needle  104  is placed in the sharps container  255 , the surgeon can drive the sharp tip of the needle  104  through the elastic material  251 . The needle  104  can be covered with body fluids and may be contaminated with bacteria and/or viruses. The used needle  104  tip can pass through the elastic material  251  and into the antimicrobial material  266  in the container  264  portion. Since the container material can be transparent, the user to see the used needle  104  tips in the antimicrobial material  266 . The elastic material  251  may create a tight seal around the perimeter of the used needle  104  which can prevent the antimicrobial liquid  266  from escaping from the fluid container  264  portion of the needle receptacle  257 . 
     The portions of the used needles  104  that are inserted into the antimicrobial material  266  are cleaned and disinfected. Thus, these used needles  104  are properly treated by the act of inserting the used needles  104  into the receptacle  257 . These disinfected treated needles  104  pose much less of a threat of transferring an infection or disease in the event of subsequent human contact. If the used needle  104  is accidentally removed from the used needle receptacle  257 , the surface of the needle  104  will slide against the elastic material  251  which will further clean the needle  104  as it is removed from the needle receptacle  257  further reducing the risk of spreading an infection or disease compared to untreated used needles  104 . 
     After sutures are used to close a patient, the surgical team must perform a needle count to insure that none of the used needles  104  are in the patient. In an embodiment the used needle receptacle  257  can have a sequential series of number markings  259 . The numeric markings  259  can be on the elastic material  251  or on any other suitable portions of the receptacle  257 . The surgeon can place the used needles  104  in the numbered spaces in the marked sequence. During the needle count, the counter can easily perform the count by looking at the last numbered area of each receptacle  257  having an inserted used needle  104 . 
     The used needles  104  should be placed as far as possible into the used needle receptacle  257 . However, the proximal end will normally be exposed after the used needle  104  is inserted into the receptacle  257 . These proximal ends are not as sharp as the distal ends but can still be sharp enough to cause injury to people. With reference to  FIGS.  126 - 128   , In order to reduce the risk of injury, the used needle receptacle can include barriers  261  that are adjacent to the can extend outward from the elastic material  251 . The barriers  261  can create channels that can surround the proximal ends of the needles  104  inserted into the receptacle  257 . The channels can be open on two sides and the widths of the channels can be wide enough for the needle driver to easily insert the used needle  104  through the elastic material  251 . These channels can also prevent injury to the surgical staff. Even if the used needle receptacle  257  is pressed against a body, walls of the channels can prevent the exposed proximal ends of the needles  104  from causing injury. If the proximal end of the used needle  104  extends past the outer edge of the channels, physical contact with a proximal end will tend to safely push the needle  104  deeper into the elastic material  251  and move the proximal end into channels. 
     The suture needles  104  are generally curved in shape. Thus, it may be easier to insert the used needles  104  into the used needle receptacle if the channels are also curved or angled as shown in  FIGS.  129 - 136   . In these configurations, the surgeon can insert the used needles  104  with the convex curvature side of the needle facing the concave or inward curvature of the channel walls. When the used needle  104  is fully inserted, the ends of the used needle  104  can be aligned rather than being offset. Different users may prefer different channel angles or curvatures. For example, a right handed surgeon may prefer channels that have top ends that are angled to the left as shown in  FIGS.  129  and  130    or curved to the left as shown in  FIGS.  133  and  134   . In contrast, left handed surgeons may prefer channels that have top ends that are angled to the right as shown in  FIGS.  131  and  132    or curved to the right as shown in  FIGS.  135  and  136   . 
     In some embodiments, multiple used needle sharps containers can be used together to hold a greater number of used needles  104 . In an embodiment shown in  FIGS.  137  and  138   , the used needle sharps containers  255  can be arranged in an overlapping configuration with the channel portions of each of the sharps containers  255  exposed. The sequential numbering  259  on the channels can be clearly visible when the surgeon places the used needles  104  into the sharps containers  255 . The tip of the needle driver can fit within the channels so the proximal ends of the used needles  104  will be completely within the protective channels. It is also possible to place one or more suture packets  101  on the uncovered surface of the first sharps container  255  as described previously. In other embodiments as shown in  FIGS.  139 - 140   , the sharps containers  255  can be arranged in a vertical manner with only the used needle input ends exposed. The number markings  259  can be seen on the exposed elastic layer  251  by the surgeon. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, locking mechanisms  265  can be used with the sharps containers  255  as shown in  FIGS.  153  and  154   . The locking mechanisms  265  can allow the needles  104  to be inserted but may prevent the used needles  104  from being removed. In an embodiment, a locking mechanism  265  can be located within each of the channels of a sharps container  255 . The walls of the channel can taper to guide the tip of the needle  104  to the locking mechanism  265  and the locking mechanism  265  can include one or more hinged arms  268  that can be overlapping on opposite sides of the channel. With reference to  FIG.  154   , when the needle  104  is pressed into the locking mechanism  265 , the arms  268  can deflect downward so that the arms  268  are pressed against opposite sides of the used needle  104 . The arms  268  will then clamp down on the needle  104  to prevent it from being removed from the channel thus looking the used needle  104  into the sharps container  255 . 
     In other embodiments with reference to  FIGS.  155  and  156   , the locking mechanism  265  can include multiple cams  275 . The used needles  104  can be pressed through multiple cams  275  which are mounted on opposite sides of the channel  277 . The cams  275  can rotate downward to allow the needles  104  to enter the sharps container  255 . If an upward force is applied to the needles  104 , the cams  275  will rotate upward and clamp the opposite sides of the needle  104  at each cam  275  to prevent the needles  104  from being removed. In other embodiments, various other locking mechanisms can be used to prevent the used needles  104  from being removed from the sharps container. 
     In an embodiment, the sharps containers  255  can have indicators that indicate that the needle is properly placed in the channel  277  of the sharps container  255 . In the illustrated example, foam indicator blocks  279  can be mounted just below each of the cams  275 . The friction force of the foam  279  against the sides of the channel  277  can hold the blocks  279  in place. After the needle  104  tip passes through the cams  275 , it contact the upper surface of the foam indicator block  279  and the downward force of the needle  104  can move the foam block  279  to a lower portion of the channel  277 . Eventually, the foam block  279  may contact the bottom of the channel  277  and the used needle  104  can be further inserted into the foam block  279  without any additional movement of the block  279 . In an embodiment the foam block  279  can be concealed in the upper position and visible in the lower position so that users can easily see if the channel  277  of the sharps container  255  is filled with a used needle  104 .  FIG.  155    illustrates the sharps container  255  with the foam blocks  279  in the upper positions covered with numerical markings  259 . 
     In other embodiments, other types of locking mechanisms and indicators can be used with the sharps container. In an embodiment illustrated in  FIGS.  151 - 152   , the used needles  104  can be electrically conductive and magnetic.  FIG.  151    illustrates sharps container  255  with the electrical circuitry and locking mechanism  265  visible.  FIG.  152    illustrates the sharps container  255  with the electrical circuitry and locking mechanism  265  covered with numerical markings  259 . The channels  277  can have an upper electric circuit for a light indicator system. The upper light indicator circuit is normally open with the light  267  off. The needle  104  is placed into the locking mechanism  265 , which is electrically connected to light  267  and a positive or negative lead of the battery  269 . When the needle  104  is pressed through the locking mechanism  265  to a lower conductor  271  the electrical contact of the used needle  104  closes the circuit illuminating the channel light  267 . Because the needle  104  is locked in place, the light  267  will remain illuminated. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the lower circuit turns on the electromagnet  273  when the tip of the needle  104  is adjacent to the electromagnet. In this embodiment, the lower circuit is completed when the needle  104  which is in contact with the middle conductor  270  also touches the lower conductor  271 . This electrical connection between the middle conductor  270  and lower conductor  271  completes the circuit and causes the electromagnet to energize pulling the needle against the electromagnet  273 . It would be easy to slide the needle  104  against a charge electromagnet  273  so it should be energized once the needle  104  is in the proper position. In this embodiment, the electromagnet  273  provides a locking mechanism that prevents the needle  104  from being removed from the sharps container  255 . The electromagnetic  273  locking mechanism can be used alone or in combination with other locking mechanisms. 
     In other embodiments, the sharps container  255  can have battery  269  and control electronics that senses presence of needle  104  and keeps ongoing count and has indicator lights  267  or display that lets operator know the relative or absolute absence of needle same device can contain transmitter to communicate wirelessly with other devices and electronics including via Bluetooth or low frequency low energy transmitter including tablets, computers, mobile phones etc. Sensors may sense impedance changes, weight, electrical resistance, volumetric, etc. The sensor information can be used to indicate the number of used needles  104  in the sharps container for the purpose of providing an accurate used needle  104  count. The electromagnet  273  can work through a plastic layer. Therefore in some embodiments, the used needles  104  are not in direct contact with the electromagnets  273 . When the used needles  104  need to be removed from the sharps container  255 , the electromagnets  273  can be turned off. In an embodiment, electromagnet  273  can be used to secure the sharps container  255  to a magnetic forearm platform. 
     As discussed above, the needle receptacle and suture packet assembly can be placed on the end of a surgical tool. The prior example illustrated suture packets on the exposed sides and a used needle receptacle along the edge of the assembly. In other embodiments as illustrated in  FIG.  142   , it is also possible to have the used needle receptacles on the exposed sides and the suture packets placed on the edge of the assembly between the used needle receptacles. In the illustrated example, the proximal ends of the new needles  103  in the suture packets  101  can be exposed and extend away from the edges of the used needle receptacles  257 . In an embodiment with reference to  FIG.  141   , the portion of the suture packet  101  adjacent to the proximal ends of the new needles  103  can be bent or removed to expose the proximal ends along the dashed line. With reference to  FIGS.  144  and  145   , the suture packet  101  and the proximal end of a surgical tool  201  can then be positioned against the backs of the used needle receptacles  257  to form a used needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  258 . The used needle receptacles  257  can be secured to the proximal end of the tool  201  with an adhesive or any other suitable coupling mechanism. 
     The surgeon can grasp a proximal end of a new needle  103  from the used needle receptacle and suture pack assembly  258  and install the suture. The surgeon can then insert the used needle  104  in the next sequential space in the used needle receptacle  257 . The surgeon can then grasp another new needle  103  and repeat the process. This process is more efficient because the surgeon does not need to reply upon a scrub tech to handle needles and needle drivers. This process is also safer because there is limited, or no coordinated handling of needles between the surgeon and the scrub tech reducing the risk of mishandling. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are directed towards sharps containers that can provide a lightweight structure that securely store between about 2-20 used needles in the immediate proximity of the surgeon. The sharps container can be less than approximately 4 inches in height or length, 4 inches in width and 3 inches in thickness and can be held on a surgical tool, a platform supported by the surgeon or any other movable structure controlled by the surgeon. The inventive sharps container can have an internal volume for storing the used sharps and in an embodiment, the container can have a movable door that can be open to insert the used sharps and closed to prevent the used sharps from escaping. The shape of the sharps container can be cylindrical, box shaped or any other suitable shape that has an internal volume that is large enough to store about 2-20 used needles  104 . Because the used sharps container can be on the end of a surgical tool, the weight of the used sharps container is preferably less than 0.100 lbs. or 45 grams. 
     In many embodiments, the surgeon takes responsibility for securing the needle or group of needles prior to passing to the assistant. The suture needles can be curved solid needles that pass through tissue. Thus, these needles pass through very small holes in the tissue and the needles cannot have adaptions on the back end of the needle to slide over the needle to safely secure the sharp used needle tip in at least some embodiments. 
     In an embodiment, the present invention provides a means for safely securing the used surgical needle in the surgical field with the shortest route for the contaminated needle from tissue to a used sharps container. The process is substantially shorter because the needle only travels a short distance that is normally less than one foot, for example within the near surgical field. 
     The design and use of the inventive sharps container as described and illustrated has physical properties that do not interfere with the surgeon&#39;s workflow in closing patient wounds. Work in relation to embodiments suggests that securing used needles to a sharps container positioned on the instrument or on the surgeon&#39;s forearm or hand actually expedites the procedure, in addition to making the procedure safer. There can be no shorter physical path for the needle to a sharps container that is attached to hand/forearm or back of surgical tools on the surgeon&#39;s anatomy. Thus, the inventive system also minimizes the distance that the used needles must travel and eliminates unnecessary movement of the used needles, which increases the efficiency and reduces the required time. The inventive process has the benefits of only requiring the surgeon to perform the entire task, which minimizes the handling of a used sharp needle which increases the safety of the inventive system. 
       FIG.  146    is a block diagram of an apparatus  308  comprising an integrated suture packet and needle receptacle, in accordance with embodiments. In an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of new needles  103  can be packaged with a sharps container or needle receptacle  257  as a single integrated unit  308  that can share the same housing  309 . The needle receptacle may comprise any sharps container or needle receptacle as described herein (e.g., used needle receptacle  191 , sharps container  257 , needle trap  331 , etc.), configured to secure a plurality of dispensed suture needles  104 . The integrated suture packet and sharps container can include a predetermined number of new needles and a sharps container that includes sufficient room for at least the predetermined number of used needles. For example, in an embodiment the integrated suture packet and sharps container can contain five new needles in the suture packet within or mounted on a first portion of the housing with an optimized sharps container for the used needle that can accept between about five to seven used needles. In other embodiments, the integrated unit can have any other number of needles, for example, 10 or 20 or more. However, the integrated sharps container is preferably able to hold an equal number or more used needles than new needles. 
     In some embodiments, the integrated suture packet and sharps container  308  share a housing  309 , with the new armed needles  103  accessible from a first side  303  of the housing, and the sharps container  257  disposed on a second side  304  of the housing. For example, in a first embodiment the surgeon may use a needle driver to grasp an armed needle from a first side of the housing. The surgeon can use the suture and place the used needle in the sharps container through a door in a second side, such as the top surface, of the housing. The user can open the door to insert the used needle and then close the door to prevent the used needle from escaping. 
     In other embodiments, a protective door can be closed to shield the armed needles. This can be useful if the integrated suture packet and sharps containers are placed in storage to protect the needles. In different embodiments, the protective doors can be opened in various different ways. In an illustrated embodiment, the door may slide side to side or up/down so that the surgeon can easily open the door to access new armed needles. In other embodiments, multiple doors can open to allow access to the armed needles. In some embodiments, the protective door can be manually operated. In other embodiments, an actuator can be used to control the position of the protective door. The housing can also have an outer surface which can be used for labels or markings to provide needle and/or housing information. 
     Such an integrated configuration of a suture pack and a needle receptacle can provide improved safety and efficiency benefits described herein. Sharps containers can have many different varieties including: foam with demarcations that allow for multiple needles, foam encased in an outer shell such that needles cannot pass out the sides of the shell, foam encased in the outer shell having an aperture for introducing the used needles, the aperture is more narrow that the width of the housing such that with the bend of the needle, the housing will capture the needle tip. The foam represents a reservoir type vehicle for capturing needles in which the surgeon has flexibility on the orientation and location to place the used needles. 
     Another sharps container embodiment includes specific holes into which the needles are place by the surgeon. The used needles can go in but the mechanism captures the needle and does not allow removal of the used needles  104 . Such mechanisms can include a cone with tapered tip and malleable leaves that bend to allow needle passage but prevent removal-similar in shape to lobster trap. Another mechanism is a cam or several cams with ratchet. As a used needle is introduced the cams rotate and compress the tip of the needle. Rotation of the cams can also expose side of the cam with a color change indicating the presence of the needle. There many potential mechanisms for capturing individual needles at fixed location. 
       FIGS.  147 A- 149    illustrates exemplary embodiments of a sharps container in the form of a cartridge. The cartridge can be attached to the instruments that are typically used in the non-dominant hand such as the surgical pickups, Adsons, Bonneys, etc. The cartridge can be designed to be secure to the pickups and can include a mounting mechanism that can allow the cartridge to be easily attached and detached from the tool or structure. In addition to the sharps container, the cartridge can also include one or more needle packages and broad labeling on an outer surface of the housing that can be easily visible to the surgeon.  FIG.  150    illustrates an embodiment of a sharps container  255  coupled to a surgical instrument  201 . 
     In an embodiment, the cartridge can include an attachment mechanism(s). The attachment mechanism can be used to couple the cartridge to another object such as a tool or a platform. In an embodiment the attachment mechanism can be a slot or slots or holes in the cartridge into which the non-surgical end of the pickup attaches, or can incorporate and adaption of the surgical pickup. In other embodiments, the attachment mechanisms can include permanent magnets which can be used to secure the cartridge to the tool. With reference to  FIG.  157    in the illustrated example, the cartridge  281  has two holes  283  which correspond to two elongated rods  285  that extend from the proximal end of a forceps tool  201 . Permanent magnets  287  can also be mounted at the proximal end of the forceps tool  201  so that the magnets  287  in the cartridge  281  will be attracted to magnets  287  in the forceps tool  201  and the magnetic attraction will hold the cartridge  281  in place. The cartridge  281  can be separated with a force greater than the magnetic attraction force is applied. 
     In other embodiments, a pure mechanical locking mechanism can be used to secure the cartridge to another object. In an illustrated example  FIGS.  158 - 159   , the bottom of the cartridge  281  has two tabs  289  which can engage corresponding recesses  291  in a coupling. When pressed together, the tabs  289  can deflect inward so that the outer surfaces of tabs  289  slide against the inner surfaces of the coupling. The tabs  289  can then engage the slots  291  in the inner surfaces of the coupling to rigidly secure the cartridge  281  to the top of the forceps tool  201 . The user can squeeze the tabs  289  inward through the slots  291  to disconnect the cartridge  281  from the forceps tool  201 . 
     In different embodiments, the fresh needle side of the cartridge can have a protective cover or door that moves or slides to expose the armed needle. The protective cover or door mechanism can be actuated in any direction, up down or sideways. 
     The cartridge can have an oval cross section with the fresh needles recessed from the face. Once the cover or door is open, the fresh needles are accessible to the surgeon. 
     The sharps container can be closed cell foam on the contralateral side that also is marked and has an aperture on the face. The foam may extend to the full border of the face to facilitate the capture and retention of the used needles  104 . The walls of the cartridge are not penetrable by the needle to protect the needle from coming out of the side of the housing. 
     The sharps container can have a magnetic base that can help to prevent used sharps from accidental removal and the sharps container can also be a clear transparent structure that can allow the used needles  104  to be more easily counted. The sharps container can have a dome coverage that allows used needles  104  to pass through by rotating the needle through a small aperture so needle can enter the sharps container at any angle. The sharps container may include a magnetic base with covers that lock in place as needle placed in the container. Locking or closing the sharps container lid may expose the next new armed needle(s) or actuate and open the door covering the new needles. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  160 - 166    in yet another embodiment of the sharps container, a hole  293  is a housing  295  can be covered with a thin layer of elastic foam  263 . A larger width volume of the sharps container can be located under the hole  293 . Thus, when a needle  104  is placed into the foam  263  over the hole  293 , the needle  104  will pass through the foam  263  and the middle portion of the needle  104  may be positioned within the hole  293  and the sharp tip can be within the wider volume below the hole  293 . In an embodiment, this embodiment of the sharps container can include a layer of elastic foam  263  that can be between about 1-10 mm thick covering an underlying hole  293  that can be between about 2-50 mm in diameter or wide. The hole  293  depth can also be between about 2-50 mm. The foam material  263  can be bonded to the top of the housing  295  and can cover the hole  293  like a drum. This configuration can have several benefits. The needle  104  tip can more easily pass through the foam  263  layer with less force than a thicker foam layer. However, the thinner foam  263  layer still provides enough sliding resistance to prevent the used needles  104  from becoming dislodged by gravity. The proximal aspect of the needle  104  will still remain above the foam layer  263 . 
     Forces on the proximal aspect of the needle  104  do not need to be very large to cause the needle  104  to be further advanced through the foam  263  layer or rotate the needle  104  within the foam  263 . The foam  263  can also allow for low force angulatory displacement of the needle  104  relative to the plane of the foam  263 . Thus, if a side force is applied to the exposed proximal portion the needle  104  will simply bend relative to the plane of the foam  263 . Under the foam  263 , there is a sufficient volume for the distal tip of the needle  104  to move around within the sharps container housing  295 . Because the foam  263  can allow for movement of the needle  104  even after it has been inserted, there is a reduced risk of injury to human skin by the proximal aspect of the needle  104 . As discussed, a downward force on the needle  104  will cause it to be pushed further through the foam  263  into the sharps container and a horizontal force will cause the needle  104  to rotate about the foam  263  entrance point. 
     In different embodiments, the hole  293  size and the foam  263  thickness can both be variable. The size and physical properties of the foam  263  and hole  293  can be selected to provide optimized functionality based upon the types of needles  104  being used. Smaller needles  104  are lighter weight can use thinner lower density foam  263  over a smaller hole  293  while longer needles  104  may need thicker higher density foam  263  over a larger hole  293 . The shape of the underlying volume of the container will need to be optimized to allow for maximal needle  104  tip excursion. 
     In an embodiment, the position of the holes  293  can be indicated by corresponding circular markings  297  on the exposed side of the foam  263  so that the user can easily locate the holes  293  under the foam  263  layer. The holes  293  can be numerically marked  259  so to help with needle  104  counts. The hole  293  can be part of a tubular structure that extends into the housing  295  as shown in  FIGS.  160  and  162   . Alternatively, the hole  293  can be planar with the wall of the sharps container structure housing  295  as shown in  FIGS.  161  and  163   . 
     With reference to  FIG.  166   , in an embodiment, the sharps container can include many holes  293  that are each covered with a foam  263  layer. Each of the holes can be marked with a circular marking  297  to visually indicate the locations of the holes  293 . A sequence of numerical markings  259  can also be placed within each of the circular markings  297  to aid with the needle count. The used needles can be sequentially placed in different circular markings  259  through the foam  263  in the order of the numerical markings  297  which can simplify the counting of the used needles. 
     In other embodiments with reference to  FIGS.  164  and  165   , it is possible to modify the device above the plane of the foam  263  to further limit access to the proximal aspect of the needle  104 . For example, in an embodiment, sharps container can include protective structures  299  on opposite sides of the needle insertion hole. For example, the protective structure  299  can have two trapezoidal openings orthogonal to one another. The user can insert the used needle  104  into the trapezoidal openings, through the foam layer  263  and into the underlying hole  293 . It is also possible to have a large number of used needle holes  293  in the sharps housing  295  that are each similar to the described used needle  104  hole structures. Again, the position of the hole  293  can be visually indicated by the circular marking  297  and the numeric sequence of the hole  293  can be indicated by the numeric marking  259 . 
     In an embodiment, a modular medical device comprising a forearm-mounted puncture barrier functions as a platform upon which one or more used needle repositories and/or one or more suture packs or suture pack carriers can be mounted. The used needle repositories and the suture packs/carriers can be coupled to the forearm mounted puncture barrier by any of the coupling mechanisms described above or by any other suitable method. The used needle repositories can include various needle trap devices and the suture pack carriers can include a clip for holding a suture pack to the forearm mounted puncture barrier. The needle trap can be removable from the forearm mounted puncture barrier and is intended for replacement when the device has secured the intended number of contaminated needles. 
     An embodiment of a used needle trap is illustrated in  FIG.  168   , which is a top view of the needle trap  331  with suture pack holder  351 , which can hold suture pack  101 , and suture pack  353 . In the illustrated embodiment, the needle trap  331  can be a planar device that is comprised of several zones: 1) an entry zone  333 , 2) an entryway or transition zone  335  and 3) the secure zone  337 . The needle trap  331  can include an upper structure  339  and a lower structure  341  that are securely coupled together around an outer portion of the needle trap  331 . The needle trap  331  can have a needle driver slot  343  extending through both the upper structure  339  and a lower structure  341 , the needle driver slot configured to provide clearance for the needle driver along the entire length of the needle translation from entry zone  333  to secure zone  337 . The needle trap can further comprise a needle slot  349  that constrains the secured needles into a single needle depth array, to minimize overall depth profile and facilitate needle counting. The configuration of the needle trap  331  can be described with reference to an X axis that extends from left to right and Y axis extends up and down when viewing the front or top of the needle trap  331  from the perspective of the surgeon, and a Z axis which defines a depth position. 
     In an embodiment, the entry zone  333  of the used needle container  331  can be a partially circular flat zone or area in the X-Y plane that is an exposed part of the lower structure  341 . The surgeon can hold the used needles  104  with a needle driver and place the used needles  104  on an upper surface of the entry zone  333 . The contact and/or force of the needle  104  against the entry zone  333  can cause the curvature of the used needles  104  to be moved into a planar orientation flat against the landing zone surface X-Y plane with the convex mid-portion of the curved needle  104  facing or pointing towards the transitional zone  335 . 
     The entry zone  333  can be wider (y-axis) relative to needle slot  349  and the perimeter around the entry zone  333  can have a contrasting color to aid visual recognition. The upper surface of the entry zone  333  surface can include a low friction material. Graphic guides on the entry zone  333  surface can help to reinforce needle  104  rotational orientation. The needle driver slot  343  can extend into the entry zone  333  and the width of the needle driver slot  343  can be greater or oversized in the entry zone to facilitate fast location of the entrance to the needle trap with the needle driver. The needle driver slot can taper as it extends through the transition zone  335  towards the secure zone  337 , to provide a self-centering close fit with the tip of the needle driver in the transition zone  335  and secure zone  337 . 
     The transition zone  335  is disposed between the entry zone  333  and the secure zone  337 . In the transition zone, the compressive side load on the needles ends may be increased and the depth (z-axis) of the needle slot can narrowed as the secured needles are translated through the transition zone, constraining the needles to a single needle deep array extending longitudinally along the secure zone  337 . 
     The secure zone  337  comprises the region adjacent to the transition zone  335 , in which full compressive side loading is applied to the needle ends to prevent unintentional removal or dislodging of the needles. 
     The boundary  345  may be concave, wedge or “V” shaped, with the apex of the “V” shape pointing towards the secure zone  337  to promote proper orientation of the needles  104 . 
     In an embodiment, the transition zone  335  can include a concave, wedge or “V” shaped boundary on a side of the entry zone  333  in the upper structure  339  with the apex of the “V” shaped boundary pointing towards the secure zone  337  to promote proper orientation of the needles  104 . The secured needle  104  in the needle trap  331  can be configured to have the convex side of the needle  104  facing the secure zone  337  and the concave side, sharp point and tail of the needle  104  facing towards the entry zone  333 . Thus, the needle trap  331  can be configured to have the sharp leading and trailing ends of the needle  104  pointing away from the direction of motion, thereby reducing the risk of needle-stick injury. The transition zone  335  can have a flared cowling over a portion of the landing zone and tapered surfaces in both the Y-axis and the Z-axis, to reduce the width and height from the entry zone  337  to a single needle height and width in the used needle slot  349  as the needle  104  is moved along the longitudinal X-axis path from the transition zone  335  to the secure zone  337 . The needle driver slot  343  can intersect a portion of the needle slot  349 , such as a middle portion of the needle slot, and can be in the midline of the used needle trap  331  in the X-axis such that the distal tip of the needle driver can translate the needle  104  along the X-axis of the used needle trap  331 . Alternatively, the needle driver slot  343  can intersect the needle slot  349  off the midline or asymmetrically, such that the needle driver slot extends along an axis substantially parallel to, but not overlapping, the X-axis of the used needle trap  331 . The needles  104  can slide within the needle slot  349  deeper into the secure needle zone  337  without excessive resistance or sensitivity as to how the needles  104  are grasped by the needle holder. In an embodiment, the secure zone  337  can prevent used needles  104  from being removed from the used needle trap  331 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the needle  104  is moved into contact with the entry zone  333  of the lower structure  341  by the surgeon manipulating the tip of the needle driver in the needle driver slot  343 . The needles  104  can be pushed against the entry zone  333  and become aligned with the X-Y plane of the used needle trap  331 . The needles  104  can then be moved in translation along the longitudinal X-axis of the used needle trap  331  from the entry zone  333  into the transition zone  107  where the needles  104  slide into the used needle slot  349  with the convex side facing the secure zone  337  and the sharp tip and tail of the needle  104  facing the entry zone  333 . The needle driver can move the used needles  104  into the used needle slot  349  in the secure zone  337  until the needle driver runs into the end of the needle slot  349  or the last inserted used needle  104 , or the needle  104  contacts the end stop  363  of the needle slot  349 . 
     In an embodiment, the distal tip of the needle driver holding a needle  104  can have an elongated cross section and the width of the needle driver slot  343  can narrow in the secure zone  337  so that the distal tip of the needle driver must be oriented with the longer cross section dimension aligned with the needle driver slot  343 . This needle driver orientation can also cause the needle  104  properly aligned across the width of the secure zone  337  within the needle trap  331 . Thus, the narrowing of the needle driver slot  343  can force the needle driver to properly orient the needles  104  in the secure zone  337  as the needle driver slides against the sides of the needle driver slot  343  in the secure zone  337 . 
       FIG.  168    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap  331 . In different embodiments, the needle trap  331  can have different dimension depending upon the size of the needles  104  being stored. Thus, a small needle trap  331  used to store smaller needles  104  can have smaller dimensions than a large needle trap  331  used to store larger needles. With reference to TABLE 1 below, the ranges of dimensions of embodiments of a small and a large needle traps  331  of different sized embodiments are listed. The length can extend along the X-axis, the width can extend along the Y-axis and the thickness can extend along the Z-axis. The entry zone  333  can have a circular portion and the “entry zone radius” can be the radius range of the circular portion. The needle slot thickness can be the range of distances between the lower surface of the upper structure  339  (not including the protrusions  361 ) in the secure zone  337  and the upper surface of the compressible members  347 . In other embodiments, the needle traps  331  can have any other dimensions which will allow the storage of needles  104 . The dimensional ranges in table 1 are in inches. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Entry zone 
                 Needle slot 
               
               
                 Size 
                 Length 
                 Width 
                 Thickness 
                 radius 
                 thickness 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 Small 
                 2.5 to 4.5 
                 0.8 to 2.0 
                 0.1 to 0.5 
                 0.5 to 1.0 
                 0.01 to 0.05 
               
               
                 Large 
                 3.0 to 5.5 
                 1.0 to 3.0 
                 0.2 to 0.8 
                 0.7 to 1.5 
                 0.02 to 0.10 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     In the secure zone  337  the Z-axis depth of the needle slot  349  narrows so as to compress against and orient the used needles  104  in parallel alignment with the needles  104  positioned across the width of the needle slot  349  and center portions of the used needles  104  spanning across the needle driver slot  343 . Once the needle  104  has been fully inserted into and can proceed no further in the X direction the surgeon can release the used needle  104  in the secure zone  337  and this process can be repeated for the next used needle. The tip and trailing ends of the used needles  104  can be secured within the used needle slot  349  in the secure zone  337  between the lower structure  341  and the upper structure  339 . Once the surgery is completed or when the used needle trap  331  is full or during a medical procedure, the used needles  104  stored in the needle trap  331  can be easily counted. In  FIG.  168   , seven used needles  104  are shown in the secure zone  337 . 
       FIG.  169    illustrates a top perspective exploded view of the needle trap  331  with a suture pack  101 ,  FIG.  170    illustrates a side perspective exploded view and  FIG.  171    illustrates a bottom perspective exploded view. The needle trap  331  may comprise an upper structure  339 , lower structure  341 , compressive members  347 , foam connectors  357 , entry zone suture pack holder  351 , and adhesive pad  355 . A plurality of used needles  104  may be secured in the needle trap, and one or more suture packs, such as suture pack  101  holding one or more suture needles  103 , may be coupled to the suture pack holder  351  and/or the adhesive pad  355 . 
     The upper structure or front cover shell  339  comprises the top half portion of the needle slot  343 , and can be joined to the lower structure  341  by adhesive bonding or ultrasonic welding. The upper structure may comprise an injection molded clear polycarbonate, or other optically transparent material. The inner surface of the upper structure may have protrusions or nubs  361 , also referred to as tactile bumps, intended to provide separation between secured needles, to increase resistance against the removal of secured needles, and to provide tactile feedback during translation of needles from entry or transitional zone into the secure zone. The upper structure may includes 2-20 tactile bumps, 5-8 tactile bumps, or 3-10 tactile bumps. The inner surface of the upper structure may have a protruding needle stop  363 , intended to prevent needles from being translated beyond the needle driver slot which would prevent accurate visual counting. The upper structure that covers the transition zone  335  is flared at the boundary  345  toward the entry zone  333  to present a deeper (z-axis) spatial target for fast location of the entrance to the trap with the needle driver. 
     The lower structure or rear shell  341  comprises the bottom half portion of the needle slot  343 , and can be joined to the upper structure  339  by adhesive bonding or ultrasonic welding. The inner surface of the lower structure may have wells or recesses  359  within which the compressive members  347  may be adhesively attached. The recesses may decrease in depth within the transition zone from the entry zone to the secure zone to increase compressive side load on needle ends. The deeper recesses at the boundary of the entry and transition zones can prevent the end of the compressive members from being displaced by the needles during translation. The outer surface of the lower structure can incorporate recesses within which the foam connectors  357 , adhesive pad  355 , and secure zone suture pack holder  351  may be adhesively attached. The walls of the recesses can provide a standoff to provide separation between the needle trap and barrier mounting surface for the needle driver tip. The lower structure may comprise injection molded colored polycarbonate, or a material similar in composition to the material of the upper structure. 
     Compressive members  347  can comprise open cell urethane foam strips adhesively bonded to the lower structure  341 . The compressive members can provide side load compression on the ends of the used needles along the secure zone. 
     The foam connectors  357  can provide an attachment interface between the needle trap  331  and a barrier or platform as described herein. The foam connectors may be adhesively attached within recesses to the outer surface or underside of the lower structure  341 . Loop connectors may be adhesively attached to the exposed foam surface, which can extend above the recess walls and provide a means of attachment to corresponding hook connector adhesively attached on the exterior barrier surface. 
     The secure zone suture pack holder  351  can provide a means to permanently attach a suture pack  101  next to the needle trap  331 , providing a means for proximity reconciliation in real time by both the surgeon and operating room assistants in the near surgical field. The suture pack holder may comprise a closed cell foam pad, adhesively bonded to the outer surface of the lower structure  341 . The exposed top surface of the holder may be covered with pressure sensitive adhesive for attachment to the rear surface of a suture pack. Loop connectors can be adhesively attached to a raised surface  344  on the bottom surface of the suture pack holder, and provide a means to attach to a hook connector on a barrier or platform as described herein. 
     The suture pack holder can be configured to flex between the needle trap and attached suture pack to enable the combined assembly to assume a lower profile when mounted on the forearm by “tenting”. Alternatively or in combination, the suture pack holder can be coupled to the needle trap via a hinge  346 , as shown in  FIG.  167   . The hinge can reduce the profile of the assembly, by allowing the suture pack holder to “tent” about the hinge rather than extend straight up. 
     The adhesive pad  355  can be attached to the outer surface or underside of the lower structure  341 , underneath the entry zone. For example, the adhesive pad may be attached to the lower structure with pressure sensitive adhesive. The exposed surface of the adhesive pad can be covered with pressure sensitive adhesive providing a means to attach a suture pack  353  under the entry zone of the needle trap, along the longitudinal axis of the forearm (x-axis). An additional piece of loop connector may be attached to the underside of the suture pack  353 , to enable additional stabilization of the suture pack by attaching to a hook connector on a barrier or platform as described herein. 
     The used needles  104  can be held in the needle slot  349  between an upper structure  339  and a lower structure  341 . Compressive members  347  can be placed on the lower structure  341  below the needles  104  in the secure zone  337 . In an embodiment, an elastic and/or compressible member  347  material can be foam, rubber, elastic plastic or any other suitable material or mechanisms that can be attached to the inner surfaces of the lower structure  341  facing the needle slot  349 . In the illustrated example, compressible member  347  can have a uniform thickness and leading edges of the compressive members  347  can be bend downward at the leading edge (towards the entry zone  333 ). In the illustrated embodiments, the compressive members  347  can fit within recesses  359  in the lower structure  341 . The leading edges of the recesses  359  can be deeper than the other portions of the recesses  359  and this curvature of the compressible member  347  can provide a gradual narrowing of the needle slot  349  as the used needles  104  slide over the compressible member  347  into the secure zone  337 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  171    a series of protrusions  361  can extend downward from the upper structure  339  on both sides of the needle driver slot  343 . As the needles  104  are inserted into the needle trap  331 , the compressible member  347  can press the needles  104  against the protrusions  361 . The protrusions  361  can resist the movement of the needles  104  along the X-axis and prevent the needles  104  from accidentally sliding out of the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331 . A needle stop  363  can be positioned close to the end of the needle driver slot  343 . The needle stop  363  can prevent the needles  104  from being placed away from the needle driver slot  343 . 
     In different embodiments, the secure zone  337  can incorporate other types of retention systems. For example, the retention system can include a compressible member  347  which can be fabricated from: foam, Velcro loop or any other suitable media. The compressible member  347  can be compliant and can compress the needles  104  against the bottom side of the upper structure  339  between retention features. The compressible member  347  can have a dimensional interference with the protrusions  361 . In an embodiment, the density of the retention media material can be less than or equal to 4 lb. For example, the retention media material can be polyethylene or polyurethane foam which can provide a low coefficient of friction against a sliding needle  104 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a suture pack  101  can be attached to a suture pack holder  351  that can be can be attached to the secure zone  337  portion of the needle trap  331  with an adhesive. In another embodiment, another suture pack  353  with sutures  103  can be attached to the entry zone  333  with an adhesive  355 . The suture pack holder  351  and/or suture pack  353  can provide a rigid base under the suture pack  101  which can prevent the suture pack  101  from being bent while attached to a forearm barrier or any other structure. Bending of the suture pack  101  can result in loosening of needles  103  in their mounts which can potentially result in a lost needle  103 . The suture pack holder  351  and/or suture pack  353  can is designed to either extend from or be attach as separate pieces to the needle trap  331 . In an embodiment, the suture pack holder  351  and/or suture pack  353  and the trap  331  can be manipulated into a compact or flat space saving configuration for shipping and storage and then expanded into the illustrated configuration prior to use. 
     In an embodiment, the needle trap  331  and suture pack holder  351  and/or suture pack  353  can be attached to another structure such as a protective barrier worn on a forearm of a surgeon using various different types of connection mechanisms. For example, the needle trap  331 , suture pack holder  351 , and suture pack  353  can be attached to another structure such as a protective barrier with a hook and loop connection mechanism. At least a portion of the protective barrier can be covered with a hook material which can be adhesively bonded to the protective barrier and back portions of the needle trap  331 , suture pack holder  351 , and suture pack  353  can be adhesively bonded to a loop material. In another embodiment, the needle trap  331  can be attached to a barrier or any other object with adhesive backed foam  357 . In an embodiment the needle trap  331  can include one or more pieces coupled to a back surface of the lower structure  341 . 
     Although the needle trap has been described and illustrated as having a specific configuration, in other embodiments various other configurations of components can be used to hold the needles in the needle trap. For example in an embodiment, the compressive members  347  illustrated in  FIG.  176    can be replaced with elastic strips that are secured in the secure zone on either side of the needle driver slot. The elastic strips can include a plurality of elastic protrusions, which can extend up towards the upper structure. When the used needles are moved across the exposed surfaces of the elastic strips with the needle driver, the protrusions can push the needles up against the upper structure and the protrusions extending inward from the upper structure. These forces and protrusions can prevent the used needles from moving freely within the secure zone of the needle slot. 
     In other embodiments, other mechanisms can be used to keep the used needles in the secure zone of the needle trap. For example, the used needle container can include magnets mounted on the upper structure and/or the lower structure on opposite sides of the needle driver slot. The needle driver can be used to move the used needles into the needle slot and when the needles are released, the magnets can hold and secure the needles within the secure zone. 
     With reference to  FIG.  177   , a front view of an embodiment of a needle trap  331  is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the needle trap  331  can include elastic materials  365  such as foam or other elastic materials coupled to the upper structure  339  and the lower structure  341  on either side of the needle slot  349 . When the needles  104  are placed in the needle slot  349  the elastic foam can contact opposite sides of the needles and prevent the needles from moving within the secure zone of the needle trap  331 . 
     Although the elastic material  365  is illustrated as having flat inner surfaces, in other embodiments, the elastic material  365  can have various surface features. For example with reference to  FIG.  178    a cross section side view of the needle slot  349  of the needle trap  331  is illustrated. The surfaces of the elastic material  365  that face the needle slot  349  can include depressions or protuberances on the surface facing needle slot  349  in the secure zone  337 . In the illustrated example, the surfaces of the elastic material  365  can have ramped surfaces which can be configured to allow the needle  104  to more easily be moved into the secure zone  337  and resist the remove of the needles  104  from the secure zone  337 . The depressions and/or protuberances can cause the needles  104  to have a predisposition to seat at the proper interval positions in the secure zone  337 . The depressions and protuberances can provide positional cues for the surgeon with the subtle force reduction to place and secure needles  104  at that the designated location. 
     With reference to  FIG.  179    a top view of the secure zone  337  portion of the lower structure  341  in an embodiment of the needle trap  331  is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the opposite sides of the needle slot  349  can be lined with angled bristles  365  on opposite sides of the needle driver slot  343 . The bases of the bristles  365  can be attached to the outer side portions of the needle slot  349  and the remaining portions of the bristles  365  can bend relative to the bases. The arcuate needles  104  are moved through the secure zone  337  between the bristles  365  and the bristles  365  can bend inward away from the needle slot  349  to allow the needles  104  to be inserted into the secure zone  337 . However, the bristles  365  can prevent the needle  104  from moving in the opposite direction because the bristles  365  would engage the ends of the needle  104  which would move inward towards the needle slot  349  and resist the movement of the needle  104  out of the secure zone  337 . Thus, the bristles  365  result in less force to translate the needle  104  from the entry zone  333  into the secure zone  337  than the force required to remove the needle  104  from the secure zone  337 . 
     A feature of the needle trap  331  is the ability to easily count needles that are placed in the secure zone  337 . As illustrated in  FIGS.  168  and  172   , the used needles  104  in the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331  are visible through the needle driver slot  117  and can be easily counted. In other embodiments, the upper structure  123  can be made of a transparent or translucent material so that the used needles  104  can be viewed through the upper structure  123 . In an embodiment, the used needles  104  can be counted by a second individual (other than the surgeon) who is responsible for keeping track of the used needles  104 . The needle trap  331  can allow the secured needles  104  to be visible from a distance so that the second individual can easily count the number of needles  104  in the needle trap  331 . As discussed, the used needles  104  can be positioned in parallel in the secure zone  337  with a spacing of about 3 mm to 10 mm between adjacent needles  104  to facilitate accurate needle counting. In an embodiment, the needle trap  331  can have a chamfered or filleted needle driver slot  343  edges can be colored or painted to maximize reflectivity and provide a visual contrast to needles  104  visible through the needle driver slot  343 . For example, the edges of the needle driver slot  343  can be white. 
       FIGS.  172 B- 172 D  show top, side and end views, respectively, of the needle trap  331  of  FIG.  172 A . Needle trap  331  comprises a housing  340  to contain dispensed needles. The housing  340  comprises upper and lower structures as described herein. 
     Housing  340  defines needle slot  349 , which comprises channel slot  349  having an elongate cross section sized to receive the plurality of needles. The housing  340  comprises an overall length L, an overall thickness T, and a first width W 1  comprising an overall width, and a second width W 2 . The needle driver slot  343  comprises a width S to receive needles. The driver needle slot comprises a length dimensioned larger than a width of the slot to allow placement of a plurality of needles in the secure zone. The needle driver slot comprises a guide to guide the needle driver as the needle driver and needle are advanced along the slot. An upper flange portion F 1  and a lower flange portion F 2  extend from the housing  340 . The upper flange portion F 1  can be flared upward to facilitate needle placement in the slot. Alternatively or in combination, the lower flange portion can be flared downward. The upper and lower flange portions may define a landing zone to receive needles from a needle driver. 
     The transition zone of the needle slot is dimensioned larger than the secure zone to facilitate placement of the needles in the needle slot. The elongate needle channel slot comprises a first elongate width CW 1  near an opening of the needle slot  349 , and a second elongate width CW 2  in an interior secure zone of the needle slot. The elongate needle channel slot comprises a first thickness CT 1  near an opening of the needle channel slot  349 , and a second thickness CT 2  in an interior secure zone of the needle slot. The first thickness CT 1  can be at least about twice as thick as the second thickness CT 2 , for example. 
     The transition zone of the needle slot comprises a guide in order to facilitate placement of the needles in the needle slot. The first channel width CW 1  is dimensioned larger than the second channel width CW 2  in order to provide a larger entry zone to receive needles and facilitate placement of needles in the secure zone. The second channel width CW 2  is dimensioned to receive the plurality of needles arranged in a row in the secure zone. The needle slot channel comprises a first thickness CT 1  and a second thickness CT 2 . The first channel thickness CT 1  is dimensioned larger than the second thickness CT 2  in order to facilitate placement of needles in the secure zone comprising second thickness CT 2 . The second thickness CT 2  can be dimensioned smaller than a thickness of the needles as described herein in order to contain the needles with at least some mechanical resistance and deformation of one or more interior structures, such as a surface or protrusions of the interior surface. The first thickness CT 2  is dimensioned larger than the thickness of the needles placed therein in order to easily place the needles in the transition zone. 
     In many embodiments, the needle trap is configured to provide at least some resistance to the needle sliding along the needle slot in the secure zone, in order to stabilize and render innocuous the needle in the secure zone, such that the needle is secured. One or more of the upper or lower structures of the needle slot can be configured to deflect when the needle is advance into and placed in the secure zone, for example. Alternatively or in combination, the interior of the needle slot channel may comprise structures configured to one or more of deflect, deform, stretch or bend within the secure zone in order to stabilize the needles within the secure zone. 
     In some embodiments, the resistance of the needle driver along the needle driver slot is less than the resistance of the needle along the needle slot when the needle is advanced along the slot with a needle driver. 
     In some embodiments, the resistance of the needle receptacle against the needle driver is less than the resistance of the needle receptacle against the needle. 
     In some embodiments, the force imparted by the needle driver slot against movement of the needle driver is less than the force imparted by the needle slot against movement of the needle. 
     In some embodiments, the force imparted by the needle receptacle against movement of the needle driver is less than the force imparted by the needle receptacle against movement of the needle. 
     In some embodiments, the friction force between the needle driver slot or slit and the needle driver is less than the friction force between needle slot and the needle. 
     In some embodiments, the friction force between the needle receptacle and the needle driver is less than the friction force between the needle receptacle and the needle. 
     Although reference is made to dimensions of the needle trap having a substantially flat configuration, the needle trap can be configured in many ways. For example, the needle trap  331  may comprise a conformal material that allows the needle trap to be bent or curved, for example. 
     In other embodiments, additional devices can be used with the needle trap  331  to facilitate remote counting and tracking of needles. With reference to  FIGS.  180  and  181   , in other embodiments, the needle trap can include an electronic needle counter that can be powered by a battery  373  such as a lithium ion battery or any other suitable electrical power source. Conductive elements  371  can be mounted in the needle slot on the compressive members  347  on opposite sides of the needle driver slot. The conductive elements  371  can be pressed into physical contact with each needle  104  that is placed in the secure zone  337  by the compressive members  347 . The electrical counter mechanism can include control circuitry  375  and a visual display  377  coupled to the control circuitry  375 . 
     The electrical counter mechanism can comprise an electrical circuit with electrical current flowing through the needles  104  in the secure zone and the control circuitry  375 . The electrical resistance changes based upon the number of needles  104  stored in the secure zone in contact with both of the conductive elements  371 . The electrical circuit can have a higher electrical resistance with fewer needles  104  in the secure zone. The electrical resistance can decrease with more needles  104  in the secure zone. Each of the used needles  104  can each have an electrical resistance between the conductive elements  371  that is substantially the same. Thus, each of the used needles  104  can function as a resistor in the electrical circuit and multiple used needles  104  in the secure zone can function as a plurality of parallel resistors. 
     The basic electrical circuit equation is V=I R where V is voltage, I is current and R total  is the cumulative needle resistance. The cumulative electrical resistance can decrease with each additional stored needle in the secure zone. The equation for parallel resistors is 1/R total =1/R 1 +1/R 2 +1/R 3  . . . . However, the resistances of the needles can all be substantially equal, i.e. R 1 =R 2 =R 3  where R 1  is the electrical resistance of each used needle. The cumulative electrical resistance needles equation becomes 1/R total =N/R 1  or R total =R 1 /N where N=number of needles. Thus, the number of needles can be calculated with the electrical circuit by V=I R 1 /N or N=I R 1 /V. Changes in the cumulative resistance and impedance of the parallel needles can alter the electrical current flowing through the electrical circuit. The voltage V and R 1  values can be substantially constant. Thus, changes in the electrical current (I) are based upon the number of parallel needles in the secure zone. The control circuitry  375  can include an ammeter that measures the electric current (I) in the circuit and based upon the measured current, the control circuitry  375  can calculate the number of needles in the secure zone. The control circuitry  375  can output a signal to the visual display  377  that corresponds to the number of needles in the secure zone. In an embodiment, the number of needles N can be displayed on the visual display  377 . With reference to  FIG.  180    the visual display  377  can display the number “1” which corresponds to the single needle  104  between the conductive elements  371 . With reference to  FIG.  181   , the visual display  377  can display the number “5” which corresponds to the five needles  104  between the conductive elements  371 . In other embodiments, the visual display  377  can output any other display that can indicate the number of needles in the secure zone. For example, the display can use individual lights to represent each needle. Each needle in the secure zone can be represented by a single corresponding illuminated light. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  182 - 184   , in an embodiment, mechanical counter devices can be used with the needle trap  331  to facilitate needle counting. In the illustrated embodiment, an arm can be actuated to cause a numerical indicator to advance the number displayed. In  FIG.  182   , a single needle  104  has been placed in the needle trap  331  and the visual display  377  shows “1”. With reference to  FIG.  183   , a second needle  104  can slide through the needle slot  349  and contact the arm  379  which rotates about an axis and actuates the visual display  377  to advance the displayed number. With reference to  FIG.  184   , after the second needle  104  passes the arm  379 , the display  377  has changed to “2” and the arm  379  has reset to its normal position detect the next needle  104 . 
     As discussed, the middle portions of each of the needles in the secure zone  337  of the needle container  201  are visible through the needle driver slot  343  which can also function as a window. Counting of needles  104  can be improved by fabricating a needle container  201  from a clear casing and clear foam materials an embodiment of which is shown in  FIG.  185   . Depressions  379  in the needle slot  349  boundary surface compressive members  347  can provide individual locations for each of the used needles. In different embodiments, the compressive members  347  can be foam or any other suitable materials. The used needles  104  can sit in the depressions  379  which can be used as a visual indicator(s) of the number of needles  104  stored in the secure zone  337 . A dye may be applied such that with compression of the compressive members  347  when a needle  104  is stored can cause the color of the compressive members  347  in the compressed area in contact with or adjacent to the needles  104  to change. In the illustrated example, the needles  104  in the depressions  379  can result in a red color marking. A portion of foam or material may be normally hidden in the compressive members  347  but as the needle  104  presses against the dyed material in the depressions  379 , the dye(s) can be released, combined, actuated or any other process that can cause the surface of the depressions  379  where needles  104  are stored to be colored and become visible. 
     In another embodiment, a visible red dot can appear wherever a needle is present in the secure zone and each dot can represent a different needle in the secure zone. In other embodiments, different color dyes can be used with some or all of the needle depressions. It can be easier to count different colored dye markings or alternatively, if the dyes are arranged in a repeating sequence. For example a first needle position depression can be red, a second needle depression can be blue, a third needle depression can be green, a fourth needle depression can be purple and a fifth needle depression can be yellow. This color sequence can repeat for all subsequent depressions in groups of five or any other numeric interval of depressions. Thus, a sixth needle and eleventh needle depressions can be red, a seventh and twelfth needle depressions can be blue, etc. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIG.  186   , an optical counter mechanism can be used with the needle trap to indicate the number of store needles  104 . An optical scanner(s)  381  can be used to detect the number of needles  104  that are stored in the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331 . The scanner  381  may also be designed to operated in other areas of the radio frequency spectrum such as infrared, UV, radar etc. for the counting function. In another embodiment, a reflective scanner can be used to quantify amount of metal from strength of reflected or transmitted optical signal. In an embodiment an infrared image can detect needles in the needle trap  331  with better accuracy than visual counting from a standard optical image of the needle trap  331 . The plastics and foam components of the needle trap  331  can transmit infrared energy whereas the metal needles  104  can reflect the infrared energy. The optical scanner  381  can transmit scanned needle information to a processor  383  that can convert the scanned signal into a number representing the number of needles  104  in the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331 . The processor  383  can be coupled to a visual display  377  that can be controlled to display the number of detected needles in the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  187   , a camera(s)  385  can be used to detect the number of needles  104  that move into the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331 . The cameras can be coupled to a processor  383  that receives needle count signals as each needle  104  passes over the camera(s)  385 . The processor can count and store the needle count signals and output a needle count signal to the visual display  377  which can display the number of detected needles  104  in the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331 . In different embodiments, different types of cameras  385  can be used. For example, the needles  104  can be more visible to an infrared sensor than a visual wavelength optical camera. Thus, an infrared camera  385  may more accurately detect the movement of needles  104  into the secure zone  337 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  188   , in an embodiment the system can detect the number of needles in the secure zone  337  of the needle trap  331  based upon pressure measurements detected by transducers  387 . In the illustrated embodiment, the needle trap  331  transducers can detect compressions in the compressive member  347  caused by the needles  104 . The transducers  387  can be positioned along the length of the secure zone  337  and the protrusions  361  can create individual needle storage areas. By measuring the increased pressure in each of the needle storage areas, the number of needles  104  in the secure zone  337  can be determined. The transducers  387  can be coupled to a processor  383  which can determine the number of used needles  104  in the secure zone  337  based upon the transducer  387  signals and the processor  383  can transmit a needle count number signal to the visual display  377  which can display the needle count number. In different embodiments, different types of transducers  387  can be used to detect the needle pressure. For example, the transducers  387  can be can be piezoelectric devices that can also be used in which pressure applied to compressive member  347  and records the presence of each needle  104 . Alternatively, the transducers  387  can include a series of strain gages that may be utilized to sense the presence of needles  104  in the secure zone  337  or any other suitable pressure detecting mechanisms. 
     With reference to  FIG.  189   , in other embodiments, the needle trap  331  can be used with other components to perform needle counting. In the illustrated example, the needle trap  331  can be mounted on a barrier  403  that can be placed on a forearm of a surgeon. A needle sensor  389  can detect needle count signals and the needle count signals can be transmitted by a transmitter  391  to a receiver(s)  393  which can be coupled to a processor(s)  383  which can output needle count information to an output device  395  which can indicate the number of needles in the needle trap  331 . In the illustrated embodiment, the needle sensor  389  can be a small camera with an integrated radio frequency (RF) transmitter  391  which transmits image and/or video RF signals to receivers  393 . A processors  383  coupled to the receivers  393  can output image and/or video signals to visual displays  337  which can display the needle driver slot  343  to allow the needles  104  to be visually counted remotely. The needle sensor  389  and transmitter  391  can be within the near surgical field. In contrast, the receivers  393 , processors  383  and visual displays  337  can be well outside the near surgical field. 
     The camera can face the needle trap  331  and also possibly the suture pack(s)  101 . The images of the needle trap  331  can be transmitted to the visual display(s)  337  which can be visible to another person. For example, the remote visual display(s)  337  can be a video display mounted on an operating room wall. As discussed, a portion of each of the needles  104  is visible from the upper surface of the needle trap  331  through at least the needle driver slot  343 . Thus, a displayed image of the needle trap  331  on the surgeons forearm can show the number of used needles  104  in the needle trap  331  and new suture needles  103  in the suture pack  101 . A surgical assistant can view the display  337  and see the suture pack(s)  101  and the needle trap  331  with the secured needles  104  to track in real time. The surgical assistant can then provide additional suture packs  101  if additional needles  103  are required and provide new empty needle traps  331  as the barrier mounted needle traps  331  become full of used needles  104  and needs to be replaced. Also, if a needle  104  is lost the error can immediately be detected by someone monitoring the surgical procedures or by the processor which can detect the sequential removal of new needles  103  from the suture pack and the deliver of the used needles  104  to the needle trap  331 . Although an exemplary set of system components has been described, in other embodiments, the needle count components can include but are not limited to: dedicated receivers, electronic watches, smartphones, tables, computers, headsets, earpieces, displays, or any other suitable device for the purpose of tracking the needles. 
     As discussed, mid-bodies of needles  104  are visible through the needle driver slot  349  in the needle trap  331 . In an embodiment, the processor  393  can run a software program that can interpret the visual display signals from the needle sensor  389  (camera) and determine the number of needles  104  in the needle trap  331  as well as the needles  103  in the suture pack  101 . The processor  393  can then output this needle count number on the visual display  377  which can help with the needle counting process. In other embodiments, the needles  104  can include markings  397  or transmitters that can help track the needles  104 . In an embodiment, the markings can visual codes such as bar codes, quick response (QR) codes, color codes, numeric markings or any other markings which can provide at least some identification information about the needles  104 . The markings can be placed on the middle body portion of the needles  104 . When the needles  104  are placed in the needle trap  331 , the markings can be visually detected through the needle driver slot  349  in the needle trap  331  by an optical sensor such as a scanner or a camera. In an embodiment, an optical needle sensor  389  can detect the markings and the processor  383  can interpret the markings and determine the identifications of the needles  104  based upon the markings. This identification information can then be used for needle tracking and needle reconciliation. The identification information can also be output to the visual display  377 . 
     In other embodiments, other mechanisms can be used for needle tracking. For example, in an embodiment the needles  104  can include embedded electronic components such as a radio frequency transmitter such as a radio frequency identification tag (RFID) which can transmit an RF identification signal in response to exposure to an interrogating radio wave. In an embodiment with reference to  FIG.  189   , the needle sensor  389  can include an interrogating radio wave transmitter and an RF receiver. When exposed to the interrogating RF waves, the RFID tags on the needles  104  can emit RFID signals that can be detected by the RF receiver. The RFID information can be transmitted to the processor  383  which can then identify each needle in the needle trap  331 . 
     In other embodiments, the suture packs  101  can also have integrated tracking mechanisms. For example, the suture packs can include an active electronic sensor that can be activated when suture pack is opened. This active signal can be transmitted to a processor off the surgical field that can monitor the use of the suture packs and know which needles must be reconciled after the suture pack is used. In an embodiment, these active signals can be transmitted wirelessly from a suture pack or a suture pack sensor to a remote receiver. These active signals can be processed by a processor as described above. This feature can allow the needles to be tracked from the suture packs to the needle trap in a closed loop manner to further insure that all needles are accounted for. 
     In another embodiment, the tracking of the needles can be done more locally on the barrier which can be mounted on the forearm of the surgeon. In this embodiment, a processor can be mounted on the barrier and the processor can keep track of the locations of all needles through out the surgical procedure. An active signal can identify a suture pack that is being opened and the identities of all of the needles in the newly opened suture pack. The system can identify the movement of each of the needles from the suture pack through a patient and into the needle trap. If a needle is lost the processor that can output an error signal to an output device such as a visual display or audio output device can immediately detect the error. If possible, the surgical procedure can be temporarily stopped until the lost needle is found. The described needle tracking can also provide useful needle tracking information that can be stored in a data center and the number of needles in the near surgical field can be automatically reconciled in real time. As needles are secured in the needle trap, the system can broadcast correlation information for needle reconciliation. 
     In another embodiment, the suture dispenser and needle trap can be combined onto a single mount that attaches to the proximal end of a surgical tool such as forceps. Such configurations can allow attachment to the slotted shape of the forceps with adequate mechanical integrity such as to avoid displacement with the mechanical forces anticipated during manipulation of the tools against the needle trap. 
     In an embodiment the suture dispenser and needle trap can be attached to the surgical tool with a mechanical clip that secures a sufficient length of the suture dispenser and needle trap to the tool (forceps) base to provide rotational and translational stability. In another embodiment, the clip can contain adhesive mounts. In another embodiment, magnets can augment the secure attachment of the suture dispenser and needle trap to the forceps. 
     In other embodiments, the needle trap and/or suture dispenser can be attached to the surgical drapes covering the patient and can be positioned adjacent to the wound. In an embodiment the suture dispenser and needle trap are mounted on a protective platform that secures position on drapes and the platform can be secured to the drapes with an adhesive or any other suitable coupling mechanism. 
     The suture pack dispensers can have multiple configurations and designs. In an embodiment, suture pack dispensers can secure existing suture packs to the barrier. In other embodiments, needles with attached suture are secured in a structured array for easy access by the surgeon. In another embodiment, non pop-off suture needles are compatible with the suture packs and suture pack dispensers. The non pop-off needles can include but are not limited to swaged on needles, running suture needles, barbed running suture needles, etc. These needles can be used for creating multiple surgical knots and/or for running suture application that can be dispensed as single or double needles. 
     In an embodiment, a spool can be attached to the forearm mount or barrier for securing the running needle. This embodiment can include multiple spool mounts attached to the barrier for the forearm configuration, or to the instrument clip construct for the forceps attached device. In an embodiment the suture spools can be stack together for lower profile. In another embodiment the spool can allow for rotation for easier dispensing of the suture. Multiple mechanisms for securing the needle, which is attached to the thread wound around the spool, can includes mechanical, adhesive, magnetic mechanisms and multiple needle enclosure designs. 
     Used Needle Receptacles 
     In many embodiments, various types of used needle receptacles can be mounted on any of the disclosed barriers and platforms. With reference to  FIG.  190   , a used needle receptacle  257  can be an open top box  260  with a foam  263  layer having numeric markings  259  secured within the box  260 . Used needles  104  can be placed in the foam  263  in a sequence and areas that correspond to the numeric markings  259 . There are various problems with this type of used needle receptacle  257 . While the distal ends of the needles  104  are placed in the foam  263 , the proximal end of the needles  14  are exposed and can be dangerous. The foam  263  can have a durometer or density that is still enough to resist displacement of the needles  104  (angulatory and/or translatory) which potentiates injury. The needles  104  can protrude beyond the upper edge height limit of the open top box  260  container which can create a safety issue. If the container walls are higher than the needles  104 , this higher height can make the placement of the needles  104  more challenging especially when the box  260  is against a lateral wall. If an open top box  260  used needle receptacle  257  were placed on the user&#39;s arm without a barrier, the downward motion needed to stick the needle  104  into the foam  263  could potentiate injury and this potential injury can be more likely if the surgeon tends to “swipe” the needle  104  into the surface, foam  263 . A swipe needle  104  insertion can include a combination of horizontal translation, rotation and downward forces. The numeric markings  259  can be small target areas that not optimal or easily hit with a used needle  104  if a surgeon is trying to expedite the insertions of used needles  104 . Further, the small target areas associated with the numeric markings  259  can be easily missed. There can also be a tendency to insert a used needle  104  wherever there is an open spot on the foam  263  layer rather than the designated locations. It may be better to segregate the used needle areas on the foam  263  into limited and distinct zones that may contain five needles  104  at most. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIG.  191   , it can be possible to improve the safety of open top box  260  used needle receptacles  257  by adding a transparent dome  262  that can be coupled to multiple sides of the open top box  260  as well as open sides which can allow the placement of needles  104  into the foam  263 . The transparent dome  262  can provide many benefits over a normal open top box  260  design. The transparent dome  262  can prevent or reduce the risk of inadvertently contacting proximal needle  104  ends which are sharp enough to tear a glove. Transparent dome  262  can also enable visual counting of the used needles  104 . If needles  104  are not fully fixed into the foam  263 , the partial surrounding container provided by the dome  262  makes losing a loose needle  104  less likely. Because needles  104  are covered it can be possible to insert a crimped proximal end of the used needle  104  into the foam  263  (depending on durometer or density) and the dome  262  would prevent the sharp distal end of the needle  104  from causing injury. 
     In an embodiment, the box  260  with transparent dome  262  could be mounted on a platform or barrier on a forearm of a surgeon. When the used needle  104  is used to install a suture and is then placed in the used needle receptacle  257 , the surgeon can hold the used needle  104  with a needle driver, place the needle  104  into the used needle receptacle  257  though an opening under the dome  262 . The surgeon can then insert the needle  104  into the foam  263  and rotate the needle driver and needle  104  to fully insert the needle  104 . The initial motion of inserting the needle  104  can be tangential to the forearm and there can be a lower likelihood of missing the foam  263  and causing injury. However, there can be problems with this configuration. Because the dome  262  makes the foam  263  less accessible, it can be difficult to properly place the needles  104  in an organized manner unless significant effort and attention to needle  104  placement is performed by the surgeon. Also, the needles  104  placed closest to the dome  262  opening may possibly project the proximal ends out of the needle receptacle  257  from the opening which can potentiate injury since they may not be covered by the dome  262 . 
     In another embodiment as illustrated in  FIG.  192   , a used needle receptacle  257  can have an open top box  260  that has a smaller foam  263  area and can be covered by a transparent dome  262 . This smaller box  260  size may only allow a limited number of needles  104  to be placed in the receptacle  257 . In an embodiment, the smaller box  260  size may be limited to storing a maximum number of used needles  104 , such as 5-10 used needles  104 . The smaller size can also allow for a Lower profile dome  262 . When this used needle receptacle  257  is used, the needle  104  can be placed through the opening on the side of the dome  262  and rotated to drive the needle  104  into the foam  263 . This insertion and rotation motion can improve safety particularly when the used needle receptacle  257  is mounted on a forearm of a surgeon. However, the smaller size can limit the number of needles  104  that can be contained before the used needle receptacle  257  becomes full. Proximal ends of needles  104  that are stored close to the dome  262  opening can be exposed if the needle  104  is inserted at an angle into the foam  263 . Depending on the durometer or density of the foam  263  it may or may not be possible to insert the needles  104  proximal crimped end into the foam  263  given that the needle  104 . The clear dome  262  can allow the needles  104  to be easily counted. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  193  and  194   , another embodiment of a used needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. In this embodiment, an open top box  260  is placed within a dome  262  that is at least partially transparent. Rather than having open sides, the dome  262  can have an elongated opening  256  that can be longer than the length of the longest needle  104  to be stored. Needles  104  can be held with a needle driver and inserted through the elongated opening. The needle  104  can then be positions above the foam  263  and rotated to drive the distal end of the needle  104  into the foam  263 . Once the needle  104  is securely placed in the foam  263 , the needle  104  can be released and the needle driver can be removed from the elongated opening  256 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  195   , an embodiment of a used needle receptacle  257  can include an open top box  260  and magnets  287  mounted on a floor of the box  260 . In the illustrated example a plurality of discrete disk magnets  287  can be mounted a transparent base of the box  260  which can enable easier needle  104  counting. The spacing between adjacent magnets  287  can enable magnet-free zones so that needle driver contact magnetization is minimized. In an embodiment, the polarities of the magnets  287  poles facing outward can be alternated to also minimize magnetization of needle drivers. When inserted, the needles  104  lie flat or horizontal relative to the floor of the box  260  rather than in perpendicular orientations which can be safer because the ends of the needles  104  may not protrude above the upper edges of the box  260 . Since there is not an opening to insert the needle  104  though, this used needle receptacle  257  can accept all needle  104  sizes. It can also be easy to use by quickly dropping needles  104  onto the magnet  287  which will retain the needles  104  with magnetic attraction. However, because the needles  104  may not be stored in any order or pattern, there can be a lack of needle  104  organization making it more difficult to count the stored needles  104 . When the used needle receptacle  257  a scrub technician might need to take time to rearrange the needles  104  for counting which can require additional time and more needle  104  handling. There can be additional risks of needle  104  sticks with additional handling. The needle  104  can often be relatively orthogonal to the needle driver and it may be hard to appose the needles  104  with the box  260 . In an embodiment, the used needle receptacle  257  can be mounted on the non-dominant forearm of a surgeon and the used needle receptacle  257  can be positioned in space to facilitate needle  104  placement onto the surface of the magnets  287 . 
     In other embodiments, a used needle receptacle  257  can include both magnets  287  and foam  263 . In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  196  and  197   , the used needle receptacle  257  can also be oriented vertically relative to a forearm barrier or platform with the open top of the box  260  facing proximally. In this orientation, the needle driver can place the needle  104  substantially parallel to a planar floor of the box  260  while being held by the surgeon. The needle driver can then easily rotate so the sharp distal end of the needle  104  is driven into the foam  263 . The magnets  287  can allow the needles  104  to lie flat within the box  260  in vertical orientation. The needles  104  can be inserted and rotated into the foam  263 . In different embodiments, the used needle receptacle  257  can include any combination of magnets and foam. For example, a first embodiment can only include magnets  287 , a second embodiment, can only include foam  263  and a third embodiment can include both magnets  287  and foam  263 . The vertical orientation of the box  260  of a forearm barrier can have an improved safety aspect because the forces and motions are not directed toward the forearm. The needles  104  are I insert into the box  260  and then rotated and translated into the foam  263 . The box  260  can be made of a clear material and the clear floor of the box can allow for needle counting from both sides of the box  260 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  198   , an embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  can include a combination of magnets  287  and foam  263  in vertical orientation. In the illustrated embodiment, the box  260  can be divided into two adjacent areas. In other embodiments, the used suture needle receptacle  257  can include 3 or more adjacent needle storage areas. In other embodiments, the foam  263  can be angled to optimize ergonomics of the needle  104  rotation and fixation. In an embodiment, a needle  104  can be placed on each of the spaced magnets  287  and each of the magnets  287  can be numbered in order to maintain needle  104  organization and to facilitate needle  104  counting. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  200  and  201    another embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated which can include a half cylindrical housing  295  which can be made of a transparent material. The housing  295  can have a half circle shaped insertion slot. The needles can be placed in the used suture needle receptacle  257  in a low profile array of needles extending front to back. The used suture needle receptacle  257  can incorporate an insertion offset zone between outer opening and foam  263  inside container housing  295 . The insertion zone can be offset from foam  263  to ensure that the entire needle  104  including the proximal end is fully enclosed within the housing  295 . If the needle  104  is inserted at an angle into the foam  263 , the proximal end of the needle  104  is less likely to extend out of the housing  295  when there is a sufficient insertion offset zone. 
     The used suture needle receptacle  257  can be mounted on a platform with the opening facing away from the platform. The cylindrical geometry of the used suture needle receptacle  257  enables the housing  295  to be rotated in the mounting plate to present the foam  263  at optimal angle for both forehand and backhand needle driver rotation which can be easily used by both left and right handed users. The size of the opening may provide safety features. A hand or a fingertip is less likely to be accidentally inserted into a smaller opening than a larger opening and injury is less likely. In an embodiment, it is possible to have a larger number of smaller containers with each container limited to 5 needles per housing  295 . The illustrated design of the housing  295  can allow either end of the needle  104  to be inserted into the foam  263 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  202    another embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. An opening in the housing  295  can have an oval entry slot that can decrease the profile of the used suture needle receptacle  257  which can require the needle  104  to be tilted to enter the housing  295 . The illustrated embodiment can incorporate a needle entry offset zone between outer opening and foam  263  inside housing  295 . The foam  263  can be mounted on a top portion of the housing that enables needle  104  rotation and fixation from either side of the foam  263 . Foam  263  material can be used that has a consistency and hardness that can allow for penetration by proximal or distal ends of the needles  104 . The needles  104  can be inserted into the used suture needle receptacle  257  in an upside down orientation. Because the exposed end of the needle  104  will be below the upper surfaces of the housing  295  and close to the barrier or platform the chances of user contact with the needle  104  are minimal. Even if a proximal end of the needle is projecting from the housing  295  a hand would normally strike the needle with a downward motion and there would be little counterforce to cause the needle  104  to penetrate through a glove because the needle  104  is suspended in air. This isolation of the needle can allow lower durometer or density foam to be used which can be easier for the needles  104  to penetrate. This configuration can allow more needles  104  to be held by the used suture needle receptacle  257  because needles  104  can be inserted into opposite sides of the foam  263  rather than just through one side. Although the opening is illustrated as an oval shape, in other embodiments, the opening could be more triangular, tear drop or a keyhole. The wider base of the illustrated embodiment can provide greater stability and in different embodiments, the used suture needle receptacle  257  can be mounted on the forearm or on the surgical field, on the patient. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  203  and  204   , an embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated that can have a slot slide box housing  295 , a needle slot  349 , a needle driver slot  343 , a layer of top foam  263  and a lower of bottom foam  263  on opposite sides of the needle slot  349  and an opening for inserting the used needles  104 . In this embodiment, the user can grasp the needle  104  and place the needle  104  through the opening. Once the plane of the needle  104  is adjacent to the lower needle slot  349  surface the user can slide the needle  104  into the covered portion of the needle slot  349  with the needle driver moving through the needle driver slot  349 . The needle  104  can be compressed and held in the needle slot  349  by the top foam  263  and bottom foam  263 . The foam  263  on the top and bottom surface of the slot can enable insertion by both forehand and backhand needle driver rotation and either left- or right-handed needle driver use. The used suture needle receptacle  257  can incorporate an insertion offset zone between outer opening and foam  263  inside container. Like the needle trap embodiments, the needles  104  can be organized and stored in an array in side-side orientation allowing for thin profile. Although the opening is illustrated as being large and round, in other embodiments, the opening can be narrower keyhole shape that requires insertion and rotation through the opening before moving the needle  104  into the more secure needle slot  349 . The illustrated left and right needle slot  349  configuration can allow the needles  104  to be more easily aligned and moved into the needle slot  349 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  205   , another embodiment of the used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the needle  104  can be placed through a slot  256  in a housing  295  so that the distal sharp end is pressed into foam  263 . The housing  295  can be coupled to an angled structure that can help to guide the needle  104  into the foam  263 . Magnets  287  can be mounted under a planar structure adjacent to the slot  256  which can hold the proximal end of the needle  104  against the planar structure so avoid having proximal end of the needle  104  positioned in space which can 
       FIGS.  223 - 224    illustrate an embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  that can include a cylindrical housing  295  having an opening  256  on one end. An elongated foam  263  structure can be mounted to a bottom portion of the cylindrical housing  295 . To store a needle  104  in the receptacle  257 , the needle driver can insert the needle  104  into the housing until the needle is adjacent to the foam structure  263 . The needle driver can then rotate the needle  104  to insert the needle  104  into the foam structure  263 . Once the needle  104  is securely held by the foam  263 , the needle driver can release the needle and the surgeon can remove the needle driver from the housing  295 . This insertion process can be described very generally as “insert and rotate” meaning that the needle is first inserted and then rotated to secure the needle  104  to the foam  263  in the receptacle  257 .  FIG.  225    illustrates a side view of the housing  295 . The foam  263  can be recessed within the housing  295  away from the end opening  256 . This offset space between the outer opening  256  and the foam  263  can be known as an “insertion offset zone”. If the needle  104  is inserted at an angle into the foam  263 , the proximal end of the needle  104  is less likely to extend out of the housing  295  when there is a sufficient insertion offset zone. 
       FIGS.  226 - 228    illustrate an embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  that is very similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS.  223 - 225   .  FIGS.  226  and  227    illustrate front views of the receptacle  257  and  FIG.  228    illustrates a side view. In the illustrated embodiment, the foam  263  if mounted on an upper inner surface of the housing  295 . Thus, the needle  104  must be positioned so that the insertion end of the needle  104  is adjacent to the upper foam  263 . The placement of the foam  263  on the upper portion of the housing  295  can have some safety benefits. If the receptacle  257  is normally in the upright position, the needles  104  in the foam  263  will dangle downward and gravitational forces on the needles  104  will tend to maintain this needle orientation. If a portion of a needle  104  extends out through the opening  256  of the housing  295 , contact with the needle  104  can normally be a downward impact which can cause the needle  104  to rotate into the downward orientation and possibly move the exposed end of the needle  104  into the housing  295 . In contrast, if a portion of the needle  104  is exposed in the “lower foam”  263  embodiment, a downward impact with an exposed end can cause the needle  104  to rotate further out of the housing  295 . Further, because the portion of the needle  104  in the foam  263  can provide resistance to a downward impact, contact with the exposed portion of the needle  104  can cause injury to the object that contacts the needle  104 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  229    a front view of another embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the housing  295  can include a transparent dome  262  and foam  263  pieces on opposite sides of the transparent dome  262 . The foam  263  can include multiple surfaces into which the needles  104  can be inserted. Thus, the needles  104  can be inserted into any exposed surface of the foam  263  pieces with either the concave or convex sides facing up. With reference to  FIG.  230    a top view of the embodiment of the used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. The foam  263  can be offset inward from the opening  256  in the housing  295  by the insertion offset zone for the safety reasons described above. 
     With reference to  FIG.  231    a side view of an embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  which can have a cylindrical housing  295  with one closed end and an opening  256  which is an open end of the housing  295 .  FIG.  232    illustrates a front view of the embodiment of the receptacle  257 . An elongated strip of foam  263  can be attached to an inner surface of the housing  295  along the length of the housing  295 . In the illustrated embodiment, the foam  263  extends out of the housing  295  and wraps around the edge of the opening  256  and along a portion of the outer surface of the housing  295 . To use the receptacle  257 , a needle can be held with a needle driver such that the curvature of the needle can be aligned with the curvature of the housing. The needle driver can insert the needle through the opening and into the housing  295  with an end of the needle facing the foam  263 . When the needle is positioned at the desired insertion point, the needle driver can be rotated to drive the needle into the foam  263 . Once the needle is securely held by the foam, the needle can be released by the needle driver which can then be removed from the receptacle. 
     The needle traps  331  illustrated and described with reference to  FIGS.  223  to  232    can all utilize an insertion process can be described very generally as “insert and rotate.” Each of the illustrated needle receptacles  257  can have a housing  295  having a longitudinal axis that can extend from the opening  256  through the center of the housing  295 . A needle can be held with a needle driver in an orientation that is roughly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the needle receptacle  257 . The needle  104  insertion movement into the housing  295  can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The needle  104  can be inserted until a tip of the needle  104  is aligned with a desired insertion point on the elastic member  263  which can be made of foam or any other suitable material. At the insertion point, the needle  104  can be rotated about the longitudinal axis, meaning that the axis of rotation of the needle  104  can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the needle receptacles  257 . The needle  104  can be inserted into the elastic member  263  to secure the needle  104  within the receptacle  257  and the needle driver can release the needle  104 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  206   , a plurality of used suture needle receptacles  257  can be coupled to a movement control mechanism within a housing  295 . The housing  295  can have an opening  256  so that at least one of used suture needle receptacle  257  can be accessible through the opening  256 . In the illustrated example, the receptacles  257  move in a linear manner with the upper row moving right and the lower row moving left. The movement can be controllably moved so that the surgeon will always be able to place used suture needles in an empty or only partially full used receptacle  257  that is accessible through the opening  256 . When the exposed receptacle  257  becomes full, the movement control mechanism can be actuated to move an empty receptacle  257  under the exposed opening  256 . This movement also causes the full receptacle to move the used needles under a protective housing  295 . This movement of the movement control mechanism can be manually powered or powered by any other movement device such as but not limited to: electric motors, pneumatic power, etc. The movement of the receptacles  257  can be triggered or actuated by various means including forces effected by the same appendage as the one upon which it is being worn such as: elbow, wrist, hand, finger motion, etc. 
     With reference to  FIG.  207   , in another embodiment, the housing  295  can have a cylindrical shape and the movement of the receptacles  257  can be rotational. The housing  295  can have an opening  265  through which needles  104  can be inserted into the receptacles  257 . When the exposed receptacle  257  under the opening  265  is full, an empty receptacle  257  can be rotated under the opening and the needles  104  can be moved to a position completely within the housing  295 . 
     In other embodiments, the needles  104  can be inserted into different surfaces of the used suture needle receptacles  257 . For example, with reference to  FIG.  208   , in an embodiment, the receptacles  257  can move in translation and rotation within the housing  295 . Needle insertion surfaces of the receptacles  257  can be accessible through an opening  256  on the right side of the housing  295 . Needles  104  can be inserted into exposed surfaces of the receptacle  257 . When the receptacle  257  is full, the system can move the receptacles to expose a surface of an empty receptacle  257  and the filled receptacle  257  can be moved within the housing  295 . In an embodiment, the receptacles  257  can be pressed against each other to fully contain inserted needles  104  and this containment can prevent injury. 
     With reference to  FIG.  209   , in the illustrated embodiment a circular housing  295  can have an opening  265  on an upper surface. Needles  104  can be inserted into an exposed surface of a receptacle  257 . When the exposed receptacle is full of needles  104 , an empty receptacle  257  can be rotated to be aligned with the opening  256  and the needles previously inserted into the full receptacle  257  can be rotated to be positioned completely within the housing  295  which can prevent the needles  104  from causing injury or being lost. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  210 - 214    another embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the used suture needle receptacle  257  can have a modular design with each unit having a low profile and holding one or two needles  104 . The housings  295  of each used suture needle receptacle  257  can be transparent and foam  263  can be secured to one side of the housing  295 . In  FIG.  210   , one needle  104  has been inserted into the foam  263  at one end of the housing  295  and in  FIG.  211   , two needles  104  have been inserted into the foam  263 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  212   , once a first receptacle  257  has been filled, a second receptacle  257  can be placed against the open side of the first receptacle  257  and once the second receptacle  257  is filled, a third receptacle  257  can be placed against the open side of the second receptacle  257 . The back surface of each receptacle  257  can be placed against the open side of the prior filled receptacle  257  and can function as a closing lid that contains the used needles  104  between the adjacent housings  295  so that the only exposed needles  104  are in the outermost receptacle  257 . In an embodiment illustrated in  FIGS.  213  and  214   , the housings  295  of the adjacent receptacles  257  can be coupled with hinges  288  that can be coupled to the foam  263  side edges of the housings  295 . When the receptacle  257  is filled, the next empty receptacle  257  can rotate about the hinge  288  until it is parallel and adjacent to the filled receptacle  257 . This rotational motion can press or flatten the position of the needle  104  into the space within the housing  295  and the needle  104  can be contained by the adjacent receptacle  257 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  215  and  216    in another modular embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. In this embodiment an open sided box  260  which can have transparent walls and can be coupled to an elastic material  251  that covers the open side of the box  260 . Needles  104  can be pressed through the elastic material  251  into a chamber behind the elastic material  251 . The elastic material  251  can be made of sponge, foam or any other suitable elastic material that can support needles  104 . When the maximum number of needles  104  have been inserted into the elastic material  251  of the exposed receptacle  257 , an empty receptacle  257  can be paced over the elastic material  251  of the full receptacle  257 . The bottom surface of the box  260  of the empty receptacle  257  can be pressing against the elastic material  251  of the full receptacle  257 . This compression can secure the needles  104  to the receptacle  257  and allows the empty elastic material  251  to be available for more needles  104 . With reference to  FIG.  217    a plurality of adjacent receptacles  257  are illustrated. In this example, three receptacles  257  have been filled with needles  104  and needles  104  can be inserted into the elastic material  251  of the fourth receptacle  257 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  218   , an embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated which can include a transparent dome  262 , a magnetic  287  base and a needle slot  349  formed in an upper portion of the transparent dome  262 . The needle slot  349  can match the curvature of the needle  104  and the needle slot  349  can have a larger cross section than the needle  104 . The used needles  104  can be inserted through the needle slot  349  with a needle driver and released. The needles  104  can fall to the base of the needle receptacle  257  and magnets  287  in the base can hold the needles  104  at the bottom of the receptacle  257 . Needles  104  in the receptacle can be counted visually through the transparent dome  262 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  219   , another embodiment of a used suture needle receptacle  257  is illustrated. The illustrated receptacle  257  can include a transparent dome  262 , an internal foam  263  structure, a needle slot  349  and a needle driver slot  343 . The needles  104  can be inserted through the needle slot  349  in the transparent dome  262  and the distal end of the needle driver can be inserted through the needle driver slot  343 . The needle driver can then press the needle  104  into the cylindrical foam  263  that can be mounted at the center axis of the transparent dome  262 . In other embodiments, the foam  263  can be any other shape and mounted in any other suitable location within the transparent dome  262 . Once the needle  104  is secured to the foam  263 , the needle driver can be removed from the transparent dome  262 . In an embodiment, the foam  263  may be able to rotate relative to the needle slot  349  and a needle driver slot  343  so that needles  104  can be inserted around the entire perimeter of the cylindrical foam  263  structure. 
     With reference to  FIG.  220   , an embodiment of a needle receptacle  257  is illustrated that has a circular housing  295  having an opening  256  and a foam disk  252  that can rotate within the circular housing  295 . Needles  104  can be inserted into portions of the foam disk  252  that are exposed through the opening  256 . As the exposed area of the foam disk  252  are filled with needles  104 , the disk can be rotated within the housing  295  to expose fresh portions of the foam disk  252 . The used needles  104  inserted into the foam disk  252  can be moved to positions that are completely surrounded by the housing  295  which can prevent the enclosed needles  104  from causing injury. In an embodiment the housing  295  can be transparent so that the needles in the housing  295  can be easily counted. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  221  and  222   , another embodiment of a needle receptacle  257  can include housing  295  with an opening  256  and a spool  453  upon which a roll of foam  265  is stored. With reference to  FIG.  221   , the foam  263  can be unrolled from the spool  453  and moved in close proximity to the opening. Needles  104  can be inserted into the housing  295  through the opening  256  and pressed into the exposed foam  263  which can securely hold the needles  104 . When exposed area of foam  263  is filled with needles  104 , the spool  453  can rotate to move the needle  104  filled foam  263  into the housing  295  and expose clean foam  263  as shown in  FIG.  222   . The illustrated process can continue until all of the foam  263  has been unrolled from the spool  453 . 
     Barrier 
     As discussed, the efficiency of suture installation processes can be improved by placing used suture needles in a used needle receptacle or a used needle trap within the near surgical field. In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  233  and  234   , a used needle receptacle can be attached to a barrier  403  wrapped around a forearm of a surgeon. In this example, the barrier  403  can be a layer of puncture resistant material that has a coupling mechanism on an inner surface of an end of the barrier  403 . The coupling mechanism can be attached to the outer surface of the barrier  403  so that the barrier  403  is securely wrapped around the forearm.  FIG.  233    illustrates a top view of the forearm with the needle receptacle  257  attached to the barrier  403  adjacent to the dorsal portion of the forearm.  FIG.  234    illustrates a side view of the forearm with the needle receptacle  257  attached to the barrier  403  adjacent to the dorsal portion of the forearm and a suture pack  101  attached to the barrier  403  adjacent to the volar portion of the forearm. In this configuration, a surgeon can remove a needle and suture from the suture pack  101  with a needle driver, install the suture in the patient and place the used needle into the needle receptacle with out having the needle  104  leave the near surgical field. 
     The barrier can function as a protective layer for a user and can be made of various materials and can have various different shapes. The barrier can be worn over a limb of the user and can be made of any material that can prevent needles from passing through the barrier and contacting the covered limb of the user. With reference to  FIG.  235    a top view of an embodiment of a barrier  403  is illustrated. The barrier  403  can include a structural barrier layer  169  that can be made of a malleable and puncture resistant material such as aluminum. Grooves  404  added to surface of the structural barrier layer  169  to control bending along preferential lines to facilitate conformability to a forearm of a user. The structural barrier layer  169  can be fabricated from a flat sheet of barrier material. This flat configuration of the barrier  403  can be useful for storage and shipping because the barriers  403  can be stacked and a minimal volume of space is required for each barrier  403 . 
     When the barrier  403  is used, a user can wrap the barrier around the limb to be protected. In this example, the barrier  403  is designed to protect a forearm. With reference to  FIG.  236   , the barrier  403  is illustrated after it has been bent to wrap around the forearm of a user. In this example, the grooves  404  can be substantially perpendicular to the curvature of the bend(s). In the illustrated embodiment, a tool holder  147  is attached to the barrier  403 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  237   , bottom view of an embodiment of a barrier  403  is illustrated. The barrier  403  can include a structural barrier layer  169  and an inner foam layer  171  can be attached to an inner surface of the structural barrier layer  169 . The inner foam layer  171  can be compressed against the limb of the user and this compression can cause the barrier  403  resist sliding against the limb. 
     With reference to  FIG.  238   , in an embodiment the barrier  403  can be fabricated from a plastic material and the shape of the barrier  403  can be formed into a generally cylindrical configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier  403  has a cylindrical forearm portion  415  that fits around a forearm of a user. The hand portion  417  of the barrier  403  can have a thumb hole  419 . A thumb can be placed through the thumb hole  419  to improve the securement of the barrier  403  on the forearm and prevent rotation movement of the barrier  403  around forearm. 
     In addition to providing protection, the barriers can also provide mounting surfaces for various surgical components. With reference to  FIGS.  239 - 241   , an embodiment of a barrier  403  is shown upon which a needle trap  331  and suture packs  101  are mounted. Various mounting mechanisms can be used to attached the needle trap  331  and suture packs  101  to the outer surface of the barrier  403 . In different embodiments, the mounting mechanisms for the needle trap  331  can be flat, low profile mounting interfaces which may be hook and loop, adhesive backed foam tape, a simple dovetail mount, clasps, barbed insert, pressure sensitive adhesives or any other suitable coupling mechanism. In some embodiments, these same mounting mechanisms can be used to secure the suture packs  101  to the barrier  403 . However, in different mechanisms, different mounting mechanisms can be used for the suture packs  101 . For example, the suture packs  101  may be held to the barrier  403  with clips or any other suitable mechanical devices. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  242 - 244    another embodiment of a barrier  403  is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier can have a cylindrical curvature. A thumb loop  420  can be attached to a distal end of the barrier  403  and a strap  121  can be attached to facing edges of the barrier  403 . The user can place the barrier  403  on a forearm and place a thumb through the thumb loop  420 . The strap  121  can be an elastic structure that can provide sufficient tension to hold the barrier  403  to the forearm. Needle receptacles  257  cam be mounted on a dorsal portion of the barrier  403 . In the illustrated embodiment, the needle receptacles  257  can be positioned with the openings  256  facing towards the user. Thus, the illustrated barrier  403  can be configured to be worn on a user&#39;s left forearm. Clips  115  for holding suture packs can be attached to the volar portion of the barrier  403 . In the illustrated embodiment, a tool holder  147  for holding a tool  201  can be attached to a side of the barrier  403  that faces away from the user. 
     With reference to  FIG.  249   , a flat pattern for an embodiment of a forearm mounted puncture barrier  403  is illustrated. The barrier  403  can have a distal portion that includes legs  175  that can be wrapped around a limb of the user. The width of the barrier  403  can expand towards the proximal portion of the barrier  403 . The barrier  403  material can be made of a plastic material that is flexible but the thickness and density of the plastic material can be sufficient to prevent the sharps such as used needles, tools or other objects which have one or more sharp surfaces that can puncture the skin of the patient or surgical staff. 
     In an embodiment, the barrier  403  is needle puncture resistant, unobtrusive and conformal. The barrier  403  design and fabrication can be an optimized combination of hardness and thickness. More specifically, the barrier  403  can be hard enough to resist puncture and thin enough to remain adequately flexible to be comfortable during use. In a an embodiment, the barrier  403  can be fabricated from extruded Polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PETG) or polycarbonate which can be between about 0.010-0.04 inch in thickness. The hardness of the barrier  403  can have a hardness between about 45A and 65D (Shore hardness scale A and D, respectively). In an embodiment, the barrier  403  can be die cut from flat sheet of puncture resistant material. In another embodiment, the barrier  403  can be thermo-formed in an anatomically conformal, semi-conical shape that can be attached to the forearm and adjusted to optimize fit with a single hand. In an alternative embodiment the barrier  403  can be blow-molded and rotationally laser cut into the designed shape. In different embodiments, barriers  403  can be fabricated using various other manufacturing processes. In an embodiment, a conformal foam layer can be mounted on inner surface of the barrier  403 . This foam forearm interface surface added to the barrier can improve comfort. In some embodiments, the barriers  403  can be packaged in a flat form. However, in other embodiments, the barriers  403  can be packaged in a rolled up configuration. The barriers  403  can be packaged with one or more needle traps. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  250 - 252    illustrate an embodiment of a method for placing a barrier  403  on a left forearm of a user. With reference to  FIG.  250   , the barrier  403  can be placed over the user&#39;s forearm and the legs  175  can be wrapped around the user&#39;s wrist. The legs  175  are secured around the wrist and the barrier  403  can wrap around the forearm as shown in  FIG.  251   . The legs  175  can be secured to each other on a volar side of the wrist as shown in  FIG.  252   . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  253 - 256    an embodiment of the barrier  403  that is placed over a volar side of the forearm and uses hook material  127  and loop material  129  as a coupling mechanism that used to secure the barrier  403  to the forearm. With reference to  FIG.  253   , a top view of the outer surface of the barrier  403  is illustrated. A needle trap  331  and suture pack carriers  183  that hold a suture pack  101  containing suture needles  103  are attached to the barrier  403 . In an embodiment, various mechanisms can be used to attach the needle trap  331  and/or suture pack carriers  183  to the barrier  403 . The coupling mechanisms can include pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) backed hook and/or loop fasteners attached to the barrier  403  to provide mounting interfaces for the needle trap  331 , suture pack mount  183 , etc. 
     The suture pack mounts can be integrated with or coupled to the needle trap. In different embodiments, the suture pack mounts can be positioned in two orientations. A suture pack mount  183  can be positioned above the needle trap  331  towards the radial aspect of the forearm. In another embodiment, a suture pack mount  183  can be positioned under the needle trap  331  in a longitudinal configuration. In an embodiment, a die cut foam mount can be attached to an underside of the needle trap  331  with PSA. A hook or loop fastener on an underside of the foam mount can be attached to a mating fastener on the barrier  403  to increase stability of a suture pack  101 . Alternatively, the suture pack  101  can be attached to the needle trap  331  by means of PSA on underside of needle entry zone  333 . In an embodiment, a hook or loop fastener can be attached by to the bottom of the suture pack  101  which in turn attaches to a mating fastener on the outer surface of the barrier  403 . 
     Legs  175  or straps can extend outward from the barrier  403  at a distal portion and loop material  129  can be attached to an upper surface of one of the legs  175 . With reference to  FIG.  254   , a bottom view of the inner surface of the barrier  403  is illustrated. Hook material  127  can be attached to the inner surface of one of the legs  175  or straps. 
     With reference to  FIG.  255   , a top view of the carrier surface supporting the needle trap  331  and suture pack carriers  183  on the barrier  403  positioned over a volar surface of a forearm is illustrated. The legs  175  can wrap around the wrist to the dorsal side of the wrist.  FIG.  256    illustrates a bottom view of the dorsal side of the forearm over the barrier  403  positioned over a volar surface of a forearm is illustrated. The legs  175  can be wrapped around the wrist and the loop material  129  can be coupled to the hook material  127  to secure the barrier  403  to the forearm. The overlapping distal barrier strap surfaces can enable adjustment for range of forearm sizes and fit tightness. 
     In other embodiments a needle receptacle  257  and/or a needle trap  331  can be attached to a surgical tool  201 . With reference to  FIGS.  245 - 248    an embodiment of a needle receptacle  257  and suture pack clip  115  assembly  206  is illustrated.  FIGS.  245  and  248    illustrate perspective views of the needle receptacle  257  side of the assembly  206 . The needle receptacle  257  can include a recessed surface that can include embedded magnets  287  that can be surrounded by a wall  200 . Needles can be placed on the magnets  287  and the magnets  287  can hold the needles  104  on the recessed surface below the outer edge of the wall  200 . A suture clip  115  can be mounted on the opposite side of the needle receptacle  257 . With reference to  FIGS.  246  and  247    illustrate bottom perspective views of the needle receptacle  257  and suture pack clip  115  assembly  206 . The suture pack clip  115  can extend inward to secure a suture pack over the back surface of the needle receptacle  257 . 
     The needle receptacle  257  and suture pack clip  115  assembly  206  can also include a tool mounting interface  433  illustrated in  FIG.  245    that can include a tool slot  439  and a spring  245 . A proximal end of a tool can be inserted into the tool slot  439  and the spring  245  can compress the tool slot  439  against the proximal end of the tool secure the end of the tool to the needle receptacle  257  and suture pack clip  115  assembly  206 . 
     In other embodiments, other types of needle receptacles can be attached to surgical tool  201 . An embodiment of needle trap  331  attached to a proximal end of a surgical tool  201  is illustrated in  FIGS.  257 - 260   .  FIG.  257    illustrates a perspective view of a needle trap assembly  332  that includes needle traps  331  that can be coupled to a tool mounting interface  433  that is attached to a proximal end of a surgical tool  201 .  FIG.  258    illustrates a front view of the needle trap assembly  332 . The needle traps  331  in the assembly  332  can function in substantially the same ways that the needle trap  331  described above with reference to  FIG.  168   . The illustrated needle trap  331  can be angled towards the left relative to the axis of the tool  201 . When needles are inserted into the needle trap  311  the needle insertion force can apply a rotational and translational force on the tool  201 . With reference to  FIG.  259    a side view of the needle trap assembly  332  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the needle traps  331  can be mounted on opposite sides of the tool mounting interface  433  with the entry zones  333  of the two needle traps  331  facing in opposite directions. When a needle trap  331  is being used, the needle trap assembly  332  can be rotated so that the target entry zone  333  faces the needle being inserted. 
     With reference to  FIG.  260   , an exploded view of the needle trap assembly  332  is illustrated. The needle traps  331  can each include a front (upper) structure  339  and a back (lower) structure  341 . Rotational mounting components  367  can be used to attach the needle traps  331  to the tool mounting interface  433 . In the illustrated example, the rotational mounting components  367  can be fastened to the holes  342  in the lower elements  341  as well as the hole  434  extending through the tool mounting interface  433 . In an embodiment, the needle traps  331  can rotate relative to the tool  201  about the holes  342  in the lower elements  341 . Once the desired angular orientation of the needle traps  331  is determined, the rotational mounting components  367  can be tightened to lock the needle traps  331  in the desired angular orientation. In an embodiment, the needle traps  331  can have clips on portions of the needle traps  331  that are opposite the entry zones  333 . 
     In the illustrated embodiments, the needle traps  331  can be configured in a back-to-back orientation. The needle traps  331  can be positioned at right angles to each other, 45 degrees off set from an axis of the surgical tool  201 . Although the tool mounting interface  433  illustrates a tool slot  439  attached to the surgical tool  201 , in other embodiments the needle trap assembly  332  can be connected with any other types of connection mechanisms such as but not limited to: hook and loop, tabs, adhesives or foam etc. These various mechanisms can be used to secure the needle trap assembly  332  to various forceps geometry. 
     For clarity, all components of the needle traps  331  are not illustrated in  FIGS.  257 - 260   . However, in different embodiments, the needle traps  331  and associated components described with reference to  FIGS.  168 - 189    can also be used with the needle trap assembly described with reference to  FIGS.  257 - 260   , for example. 
     The weight of the combined needle traps and mounting structure can be within a range from about 5 grams to about 80 grams, for example within a range from about 10 grams to about 40 grams, for example. The weights within these ranges can provide balance to the surgical tool on which one or more needle traps are placed. 
     The needle trap as shown in  FIGS.  257  to  260    can be configured in many ways, and may be combined with a suture pack for ease of use, for example as described with reference to  FIGS.  80 - 84   . A needle trap and suture pack can be combined with an opposing configuration in which the suture pack is located on an opposite side from the needle trap. For example, one or more of the needle traps  331  can be replaced with one or more of the suture packages as described herein. The trap and suture pack can be mounted in an opposing configuration on the proximal end of the forceps, similar to the pair of needle receptacles. The weight of the combined needle trap and receptacle and mounting structure can be within a range from about 5 grams to about 80 grams, for example within a range from about 10 grams to about 40 grams, for example. The weights within these ranges can provide balance to the surgical tool on which the needle pack and traps are placed. 
     Alternatively, a pair of opposing suture packs can be mounted on the instrument, and used needles stored elsewhere such as the volar forearm as described herein, and for example as described with reference to  FIGS.  80 - 84   , and which may incorporate components of the mounting assembly of  FIGS.  257 - 260   . The weight of the combined used needle receptacles and mounting structure can be within a range from about 5 grams to about 80 grams, for example within a range from about 10 grams to about 40 grams, for example. The weights within these ranges can provide balance to the surgical tool on which the needle packs are placed. 
     Surgical Gown 
     In an embodiment, a surgical gown can be constructed with barrier or multiple barriers built into the sleeves of the gown. Typically the sleeves of the gown are manufactured of lightweight fabric that is impenetrable to fluids to protect surgeon and patient from cross contamination. These gown materials however may not protect a surgeon from needle or sharps penetration or tearing. In an embodiment, the gowns can be created with barrier zones on the forearms that can be impenetrable to needle perforation and can prevent tearing. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIG.  261   , a surgical gown  401  can have a barrier  403  is created on the dorsal radial aspect region of the surgical gown sleeve  402 . The barrier  403  can have a curvilinear cross section that can conform to the outer curvature of the forearm. 
     In another embodiment with reference to  FIG.  262   , sleeves  413  that include barriers  403  can be separate components that can be placed over and can be removed from the gown  401 . The sleeves  413  can have one or more circumferential elastic elements  405  on the sleeve  413  in the area of the barrier  403  that renders the sleeve conformal in the region of the zone and prevent rotation of the barrier  403  around the limb that the sleeve  403  is worn on. An elastic element  405  can also be placed around the proximal edge of the sleeves  413  to hold the proximal portion of the sleeves  413  to the gown  401 . Such elastic elements  405  can stabilize the sleeve  413  and the barrier  403  reducing movement and displacement as the surgeon moves. 
     In another embodiment the barrier  403  can be a flexible plastic shield that is substantially flat or slightly curved and conforms to the arm when the barrier  403  is attached to the forearm over the surgical gown  401 . In other embodiments, additional straps and/or tabs can be additionally used to augment the coupling of the forearm sleeve  413  to the barrier  403  and improve the connection security. For example, Velcro, wet and dry adhesives, magnets and mechanical locks or any other suitable types of connection mechanisms such tabs and straps can be used to secure the sleeve  413  and barrier  403  to the user&#39;s forearm. 
     In an embodiment, the surgical gowns can be constructed of multiple pieces, panels and/or sheets of thermoplastic materials. These pieces can be seamlessly welded together to create the surgical gowns. Such thermoplastics gown materials can be used to create zones of increased material thickness that can act as barrier zones. In an embodiment, the barrier is comprised of a thickened layer and/or multiple layers of the gown material that can be thermally heated and compressed such that the material properties of the barrier prevent needle penetration with forces that one reasonably may anticipate in surgery. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  263 - 265   , side views of the barriers in gown sleeves  402  or separate sleeve  413  structures. With reference to  FIG.  263   , a cross section of a barrier can be a thicker material  407  area of the sleeve, where the same surrounding gown material  411  is used to create a thicker more puncture resistant thicker material  407  which functions as a barrier  403 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  264   , in another embodiment the barrier  403  can be made of a different material than the gown and the barrier  403  can be thermally welded  409  to the gown or sleeve material  411 . For example, in different embodiments the barrier can be made of plastic, metal or any other suitable barrier materials. The barrier  403  can be attached with adhesive to the gown sleeve material or can be mechanically attached with seams to the surrounding sleeve material. In this example, the intersecting edges of the barrier  403  material and the gown or sleeve material  411  material are thermally welded  409  to each other. In other embodiments with reference to  FIG.  265   , the barrier  403  material can be thermally welded to the outer surface of the gown or sleeve material  411 . 
     In other embodiments, the barriers  403  illustrated in  FIGS.  263 - 265    can be used as platforms for mounting other surgical devices such as needle traps, suture packs, tool holders and other objects. These components can be attached to the barriers with various types of connection mechanisms such as: adhesives, magnetic mechanisms, mechanical connectors such as hook and loop materials, etc. For example, in an embodiment, a hook material can be attached to the bottom surface of a needle trap and a loop material can be attached to an outer surface of the barrier  403 . This configuration can allow the needle trap to be releasably coupled to the barrier on a gown or a sleeve on the forearm of a surgeon. 
     In other embodiments, various mechanisms can be used to mechanically attach one or more suture packages to the barrier mounted on the forearm of a surgeon. With reference to  FIG.  189   , suture packs  101  and a needle trap  331  are illustrated mounted on the barrier. In similar embodiments, the barrier upon which the suture packs  101  and a needle trap  331  are mounted can be a barrier that is integrated with a sleeve or gown. 
     In different embodiments, the surgical gowns with barrier zones can be disposable gowns or reusable fabric gowns. Alternatively, the gown can be constructed of a disposable gown material with the barrier device attached to the forearm of the gown. However, after use, the barrier can be removed from the disposable gown and reused. In these embodiments, the barrier can be attached to the sleeve with an adhesive, hook and loop coupling, or any other suitable releasable attachment components. 
     In an operating room, sterile sleeves  413  as illustrated in  FIG.  262    can be available to operating room personnel. If surgeon either tears or contaminates the sleeve of a surgical gown, such an extra sleeve  413  can be rolled onto the surgeon&#39;s arm. Such an overlay sleeve  413  preserves sterility and covers any potential breach of the gown. The alternative to the overlay sleeve  413  can be for the surgeon to “regown” which is a process in which the gown and multiple layers of gloves are removed, a new gown applied followed by new gloves. The overlay sleeve  413  thus saves time and is an efficient device where surgically appropriate. As discussed, the overlay sleeve  413  can have a barrier  403  in the region of the forearm. Such an overlay sleeve  413  can allow a barrier  403  to be rapidly secured to operating room personnel. 
     Glove Extensions 
     In the operating room the surgeon can wear an operating gown that extends to the wrist or palm of the surgeon. The surgeon can then place a glove or multiple layers of gloves on the fingers and hand can then pulled proximally to cover the distal extent of the sleeve of the gown. Thus, a distal portion of the sleeve of the gown can be covered a proximal portion of the gloves. 
       FIGS.  286 - 289    illustrate different embodiments of surgical gloves  480 .  FIG.  286    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a glove  480  having a glove portion  481  made of a latex type material that extends from the fingers to a middle portion of the forearm. A glove extension  483  can be attached to the proximal edge of the glove portion  481  and can extend from the forearm to a position that covers the elbow of the surgeon. The glove extension  483  material can be made of surgical gown material or any other suitable material.  FIG.  287    illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the glove  480  that has a glove portion  481  made of a latex type material that extends from the fingers to the wrist and a glove extension portion  483  that extends from the wrist to a position that covers the elbow of the surgeon. With reference to  FIG.  288   , a top view of a glove  480  having a glove portion  481  made of a latex type material that extends from the fingers to the wrist and a glove extension portion  483  that extends from the wrist to a position that covers the elbow and a barrier  403  attached to a portion of the glove extension  383 .  FIG.  289    illustrates a top view of a glove  480  having a glove portion that extends from the finger to an elbow and a barrier  403  coupled to a portion of the glove portion  481 . As discussed, the barriers  403  can protect the portions of the forearm that are covered by the barriers  403 . In an embodiment, surgical components such as needle traps, needle receptacles, suture pack carriers, tool holders, etc. 
     Embodiment of the present invention can include surgical gloves  481  designed to extend proximally up the surgeon&#39;s forearm. Gloves  480  may include a glove portion  481 , a glove extension  483  and a barrier  403 . The glove portion  481  can be fabricated with latex or latex like polymers such as but not limited to: nitrile, isoprene, or vinyl. In an embodiment, a sleeve extension  483  can be coupled to the glove portion  481  and the sleeve extension  483  can be made of a material that is different than the glove portion  480  material covering the fingers. More specifically, the fingers of the glove  481  can be made of a different material than the rest of the glove. Such glove finger materials can include but are not limited to materials usually encountered in the sleeves of gown. Such materials include fabrics and thermoplastic materials. 
     In an embodiment, a glove can have a proximal extension  483  that includes a barrier  403  zone having a barrier material that can resist and/or prevent sharps from penetrating the barrier  403  and contacting the flesh under the barrier  403 . In an embodiment the glove barrier can also allow any of the described components to be attached. For example, needle trap(s) and/or suture pack(s) can be attached to the glove barrier using any of the described attachment mechanisms such as but not limited to: adhesives, hook and loop connectors, magnets, mechanical couplings, etc. 
     In an embodiment, the glove with an integrated barrier can cover the hand and further comprise a proximal extension that extends over at least a portion of the forearm and may possibly extend to the elbow. The proximal extension can contain a barrier that can orient to the radial border of the forearm. Such a barrier can also contain one or more zones for attachment of a needle trap(s) and/or suture pack(s). 
     In an embodiment, the barrier  403  on the forearm and integrated with the glove can comprise one or more devices that can function to provide a barrier  403  for the wearer of the glove  480 . The barrier  403  material integrated with the glove  480  can be made of plastic, metal, fabric, or any other suitable material(s). In an embodiment the barrier  403  can be attached to an inside portion of the glove  480  which can be along the forearm. In another embodiment the barrier  403  sandwiches the glove between an inner and outer layer of the glove material. 
     Surgeon-Controlled Suture Cutting 
     Sutures are sometimes swaged into the trailing end of the needle and must be cut at the conclusion of a stitch. A scrub technician may traditionally cut the sutures from the needles. However, enabling the surgeon to cut the sutures can eliminate the need for a third party scrub technician to cut the suture. This procedural change can improve efficiency and safety. Ideally, the suture can be cut without imparting tension on the suture during the cutting. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  266 - 268   , scissors or a blade can be worn on the surgeon&#39;s fingers like a ring.  FIG.  266    illustrates a front view of a ring cutter  412  and  FIG.  267    illustrates side view of embodiments of the ring cutter  412 . The ring cutter  412  can have a ring  423  and a cutting blade  425  that can be oriented with the blade aligned with the finger wearing the ring cutter  412 . When a suture needs to be cut, the surgeon can press the blade  425  against the suture to cut the suture. The excess suture can be removed from the near surgical field and the ring cutter  412  can be used again when the next suture needs to be cut. In other embodiments, a suture cutter may be incorporated into the needle trap, or the barrier. 
     With reference to  FIG.  268   , an alternative embodiment of a finger-mounted blade  425  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the blade  425  can be mounted on a distal portion of a rod  427  that can be coupled to multiple rings  423  that can be placed on a finger  429 . The sutures can be cut by pressing the blade  425  against the sutures. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  269 - 271   , in an embodiment, a tool-mounted cutter  437  can be permanently or removably attached to a proximal portion of a tool  201  such as a forceps or needle driver. With reference to  FIG.  269   , the tool-mounted cutter  437  can have a tool cap  433  that has a recess that can closely fit over the proximal portion of the tool  201 . The blade housing  435  can have two portions that extend proximally that define a recessed area within the housing  435  where a blade  431  is mounted. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade  435  can have a “V” shaped cutting surface. With reference to  FIGS.  270  and  271   , the blade  435  can be aligned with the length of the tool  201 . When a suture needs to be cut, the surgeon can push the “V” shaped cutting surface against the suture to perform the cut. 
     In an embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  272  and  273   , a surgical tool  201  can have an integrated cutter. In this example, standard blades  441  can be mounted to the blade housing  445 . The standard blades  441  can include mounting holes and the blades  441  can be secured to the blade mounts  443  to rigidly secure the blades  441  to the blade housing  445 . In this embodiment, the blades  431  can be removably attached to a proximal portion of a tool  201  which can be forceps, a needle driver or any other surgical tool. When the blades  441  are worn and/or need to be replaced, the blades  431  can be removed from the blade mounts  443  and replaced. 
     With reference to  FIG.  274   , in an embodiment scissors can be mounted on the end of the surgical tool  201 . In this embodiment, the blade housing  435  can include hinges  445  that can be living hinges that can allow the blades  431  to rotate and function as scissors for cutting sutures. The hinges  445  can normally assume a straight shape so that when the scissors are normally open. In this embodiment, when the surgeon wants to cut the suture, the suture can be placed between the blades  431 . The surgeon can then squeeze to apply a compressive force to the sides of the housing  435  to move the blades  431  towards each other cut the sutures. When the compressive force applied to sides of the housing  435  is released, the blades  431  of the scissors can separate and open. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  275 - 278   , an embodiment of a retractable cutter system  451  is illustrated. The retractable cutter system  451  can include a cutter  457  which can be a fixed blade  431 .  FIG.  275    illustrates a top view and  FIG.  276    illustrates a side view of the retractable cutter system  451  in the retracted position. In the illustrate embodiment, the cutter  457  can have hinges  445  that allow the blades  431  to move and function as scissors  447 . The cutter  457  can be coupled to an end of a retractable cable  455  that can be partially wrapped around a spool  453  that can be coupled to a rotational spring  459 . In a retracted position, the retractable cable  455  can be wrapped around the spool  453 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  277   , the cable  455  can be pulled and the spool  453  can rotate to allow the cable  45  to extend away from the spool  453 . In an embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  278   , the retractable cutter system  451  can be mounted to a barrier  403  on a forearm of the surgeon. When the surgeon wants to cut a suture, the cutter  457  can be pulled from the spool  453  and press the blades  431  against the suture. When the suture is cut, the surgeon can release the cutter  457  and the spring  459  can retract the cable  455  onto the spool  453 . 
     In other embodiments with reference to  FIGS.  279  and  280   , sutures can be cut with a barrier-mounted cutter  461  that can be integrated with a forearm-mounted barrier  403 .  FIG.  280    illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of the cutter  461 . The cutter  461  can have a housing  463  and a recessed blade(s)  431  on a distal portion of the housing  463 . The blade(s)  431  can be configured in a perpendicular orientation to the surface of the barrier  403 . When the surgeon needs to cut a suture, the surgeon can pull the suture proximally to press the blade(s)  431  against the suture. In another embodiment, the barrier-mounted cutter  461  can function as scissors. In this embodiment, the housing  463  can be compressed against the barrier  403  to cause the blade(s)  431  to move and function as scissors. When the surgeon needs to cut a suture, the surgeon can place the suture between the blade(s)  431  and the surgeon can compress the housing  463  to actuate the scissors and cut the suture. 
     In other embodiments, the scissors can be actuated with a pneumatic pressure. In these embodiments, the scissors can be coupled through a pneumatic hose to a control button which can be a valve and a pneumatic pressure source. The scissors can be normally open when the control button is not actuated. For example, when the control button is pressed the air pressure can be directed through a hose to actuate the pneumatic scissors and cut an object between the blades of the scissors. When the control button is released, the air pressure can be vented and the pneumatic scissors can open the blades of the scissor. 
     In another embodiment with reference to  FIG.  281   , the blades  431  on a distal portion of scissors  447  can be mounted within a safety guard  465  which can surround the sharp tips of the scissor blades  431  but also have a slot that can allow the suture to be positioned between the blades  431 . The scissors  447  can be actuated by applying a compressive force which can cause the blades  431  to cut sutures in the slot  469  of the guard  465 . In an embodiment, the scissors  447  can be actuated by compressing opposite sides of the scissors  447 . Alternatively, in other embodiments the scissors can be actuated by other means such as but not limited to: pneumatic foot pedal coupled to a piston, electronic signal from foot pedal, proximity sensing of suture within cutting zone. If the scissors  447  are actuated by pneumatic pressure, the pneumatic scissors  447  could be coupled to a pressure source  475  and a control valve  477  with a pneumatic hose. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  282 - 285   , an embodiment of a cutter  457  that can be used to cut sutures is illustrated.  FIG.  282    illustrates a side view and  FIG.  283    illustrates a top view of the cutter  457  in the open position.  FIG.  284    illustrates a side view and  FIG.  285    illustrates a top view of the cutter  457  in the closed position. The cutter  457  can include a blade  431  coupled to a moveable piston  467  that slides within the guard  465 . The guard  465  can have a hook or “J” shaped distal end portion that the blade  431  can contact to cut sutures placed into the cutting slot. The piston  467  can be normally retracted which moves the blade  431  away from the distal end portion and opens the cutting slot between the blade  431  and the inner end of the hook or “J” shaped distal portion. When the piston  467  is actuated the blade  431  can move into a close fitting slot in the hook or “J” shaped distal end and a suture placed in the cutting slot can be cut. The piston  467  can be a pneumatic actuator that is actuated by applied air pressure supplied by a pneumatic hose. Alternatively, the piston  467  can be an electrical device such as a solenoid that can use electromagnetic forces to actuate the piston  467 . In other embodiments, the piston  467  can be actuated by pure mechanical means. 
     In various embodiments the actuation of the described cutters and scissors can be accomplished by manually squeezing the scissors as discussed above, or by other means such as but not limited to: pneumatic foot pedal coupled to a piston, electronic signal from foot pedal, proximity sensing of suture within cutting zone. 
     Needle Traps 
     Surgeons often pull the needle from the tissues after the “last throw” of the needle by grasping the tip portion of the needle. This practice is common as the tip is the portion of the needle showing from the tissues and therefore the needle tip is the easiest portion of the needle to grasp. The needle may not need to be regrasped (in a center portion) after the last throw and therefore grasping of the tip of the needle with the needle driver can provide the safety benefit of securing the tip of the needle within the jaws of the needle driver. If the needle driver and needle are handed to a scrub tech, the needle tip may not be exposed and the needle handling can be less dangerous to the scrub tech and the surgeon. However, in embodiments, the used needles can also be deposited in needle traps that can be configured to receive needles held by their tips by a needle driver. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  290 - 294    an embodiment of a needle trap  331  is illustrated.  FIG.  290    illustrates a cross sectional view and  FIG.  291    illustrates a front view of the needle trap  331 . The illustrated needle trap  331  includes a housing  295  that is configured with a needle driver slot  343  that asymmetrically intersects one side of a needle slot  349 , rather than the center of the needle slot  349 . The needle slot  349  can have compressible members  347  attached to one or both sides of the needle slot  349 . In an embodiment, the compressible members  347  can be foam. However in other embodiments, the compressible members  347  can be made of any other suitable material. Further, the needle trap can utilize any other type of needle retention systems such as those described above with reference to  FIGS.  172 - 179   . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  292  and  293    a tip of a needle driver  198  can be used to insert the needle  104  into the needle slot  349 . The needle driver  198  can be moved to the end of the needle slot  349  and in the location the needle driver  198  can release the needle  104 . Although the needle driver  198  is illustrated with the tip portion held by the needle driver  198  can be substantially parallel with the needle driver slot  343 , in other embodiments the tip portion can be moved through the needle driver slot  343  in any directional orientation. With reference to  FIG.  294   , illustrates the needle trap  331  after a plurality of needles  104  have been inserted into the needle slot  349 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  295    another embodiment of a needle trap  331  is illustrated. In this embodiment the needle driver slot  343  can be narrower. The tip of the needle driver  198  can have a cross section with a width that is longer than the thickness. When the needle driver  198  holds a needle  104 , the tip of needle driver  198  can fit within the needle driver slot  343 . However, the needle driver slot  343  can be narrower than the width of the tip of the needle driver  198  so that the needle driver  198  cannot freely rotate within the needle driver slot  343 . By forcing the needle driver  198  to assume a specific rotational orientation, the rotational positions of the needles  104  within the needle slot  349  can also be controlled. In an embodiment, the uniform positions of the needles  104  can increase or optimize the number of needles  104  that can be stored in the needle trap  331 . With reference to  FIG.  295    a side view of the needle trap  331  is illustrated where the needle driver  198  has pulled a plurality of needle  104  into the needle slot  349 . 
     Another embodiment of a needle trap  311  is illustrated in  FIG.  296   . In this embodiment, two separate needle slots  349  can be formed in the housing  295  with the needle slots  349  positioned on opposite sides of the needle driver slot  343 . Compressible members  347  can be secured to the housing  295  and adjacent to each of the needle slots  349 . The needles  104  can be inserted into either of the needle slots  349  by sliding a needle driver  198  that is grasping a needle  104  through the needle driver slot  343 . 
       FIG.  297    illustrates another two needle slot  349  embodiment of the needle trap  331 . In this embodiment, the needle driver slot  343  is narrower to that the needle driver  198  cannot rotated which can cause the needles  104  to be positioned uniformly within the needle slots  249 .  FIG.  298    illustrates a front view of the needle trap  331 . 
     In another embodiment with reference to  FIGS.  299 - 306   , the needle trap  311  can have a circular or spiral configuration. With reference to  FIG.  299   , embodiments of the needle driver slot  343  can be curved in a circular or spiral shape. The needle driver slot  343  can be concentric to the needle slot  349 . In the illustrated example, the needle driver  198  can enter the needle driver slot  343  with a needle  104 . The needle driver  198  can slide through the needle driver slot  343  and pull the needle  104  though the needle slot  343 .  FIG.  300    illustrates a front view of the needle trap  331  with the needle driver  198  in the needle driver slot  347  and the needle  104  in the needle slot  349 . With reference to  FIG.  301   , when the needle driver  198  has moved to the end of the needle driver slot  343  where the needle  104  can be released and the needle driver  198  can be pulled away from the needle trap  331 . With reference to  FIG.  302   , additional needles  104  can be inserted into the needle slot  343  in the described manner. 
     Another embodiment of a circular needle trap is illustrated with reference to  FIGS.  303 - 306   . In this embodiment, the width of the needle driver slot  343  can prevent free rotation of the needle driver  198 . The needle driver slot  343  can be slightly wider than the width of the tip of the needle driver  198 . This configuration can allow a torque to be applied between the housing  295  and the needle driver  198  which can drive the needle driver  198  through the circular portion of the needle driver slot  343 . With reference to  FIG.  303   , the needle driver  198  can enter the needle driver slot  343  pull the needle  104  into a straight portion of the needle slot  349 .  FIG.  304    illustrates a front view of the needle trap  331 . With reference to  FIG.  305   , once the needle driver  198  reaches the curved portion of the needle driver slot  343 , a torque can be applied between the needle driver  198  and the needle trap  331 . More specifically, a clockwise torque or rotational force can be applied to the needle driver  198  which can be resisted by a counter clockwise torque applied to the housing  295 . The torque can cause the needle driver  198  to rotate and slide in a clockwise motion through the needle driver slot  343  which can cause the needle  104  to similarly rotate and slide within the needle slot  349 . With reference to  FIG.  300   , once the needle driver  198  has reached the end of the needle driver slot  343 , the needle  104  can be released and the needle  198  separated from the needle trap  331 . With reference to  FIG.  306   , the described rotational insertion process can be repeated for additional needles  104  until the needle trap  331  is full. 
     For all of the needle trap embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  290 - 306   , entrances to the needle slots  349  and needle driver slots  343  can be flared to assist with aligning the needles  104  with the needle slots  349 . When the needles  104  are placed in the needle slots  349 , the tips of the needles  104  can be exposed within the needle driver slot  343 , which is visible from either side of the needle trap  331 . However, because a portion of the housings  295  is adjacent to the tips of the needles  104 , the needle trap  331  can prevent physical contact and injury. The needle traps  331  can also provide grooves in the housings adjacent to the tips of the needles  104  as illustrated in  FIG.  294    and in an embodiment, the tips of the needles  104  can be placed in these grooves to further prevent physical contact and injury. 
     In the illustrated embodiments, the number of needles stored in the needle slot  349  can be determined by counting the needles within the needle driver slot  343 . In an embodiment, some or all of the housing  295  components can be made of a transparent material so that a larger portion of the trapped needles  104  can be visible. In still other embodiments, any of the compatible needle counting systems disclosed with reference to  FIGS.  180 - 189    can also be used with the needle trap  331  embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  290 - 306    to perform needle counting. 
     In many embodiments, the needle trap  331  embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  290 - 306    can be secured to platforms and barriers that can be mounted or worn on limbs of surgeons. The coupling mechanisms described for securing the needle traps and needle receptacles to platforms and barriers can also be applied to the needle trap  331  embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  290 - 306   . 
       FIG.  307    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an integrated suture needle dispensing and securing apparatus  308 . The apparatus  308  comprises a needle dispensing portion  102  and a needle receptacle portion  334 , supported with the same housing  309 . The housing may comprise a single structure, such as a single molded plastic piece, or the housing may comprise a base  310  coupled to one or more covers  312 . The covers may comprise separate covers for each of the needle dispensing portion  102  and the needle receptacle portion  334 . Alternatively, the cover may comprise a single cover for both the needle dispensing portion and the needle receptacle version. The covers, or the upper portion of the housing, can comprise an optically transparent material, such that the user can easily see the number of fresh needles  103  or secured needles  104  supported by the apparatus  308 . The needle dispensing portion  102  can be configured to support one or more fresh suture needles  103 , for example via a foam member  110 . The new suture needles  103  may be pre-loaded with sutures  155 , and the sutures may be disposed within a pocket  324  of the housing  309 . The needle receptacle portion  334  can be configured to receive a plurality of suture needles  104 , for example using the mechanisms described herein in relation to needle receptacle  331 . In many embodiments, the apparatus  308  is sterile, and can be self-supporting and/or coupled to another support such as a platform or a surgical tool as described herein. Providing a single device that integrates the functions of suture needle dispensing and securing/storage can have the advantage of providing a highly compact system for suture needle handling. 
       FIG.  308    is a block diagram of a sterile suturing kit  500  in accordance with embodiments. The sterile suturing kit  500  comprises a sterile enclosure  505  containing a sterile package  101  of sterile sutures  103 , and a sterile apparatus  331  for receiving at least one contaminated surgical suture needle  104 . The sterile apparatus  331  may comprise any needle receptacle or sharps container as described herein, for example. The sterile needle receptacle  331  comprises a sterile housing  340  having a top and a bottom. The needle receptacle  331  further comprises at least one opening  350  between the top and the bottom of the housing  340 , configured and dimensioned to receive a contaminated surgical needle  104  inserted through the opening. The needle receptacle  331  further comprises a secure zone  337  within the housing, to hold the contaminated surgical needle  104  in a predetermined orientation with the needle tip secured. The sterile surgical kit  500  may further comprise a protective barrier as described herein, configured and dimensioned to support the sterile suture package  101  and sterile needle receptacle  331 . The barrier may, for example, be configured to be mounted to a forearm of a surgeon, as described herein. 
     The materials and structures to stabilize needles as described herein can be configured in many ways. The materials and structures may comprise one or more one or more of a deformable material, an adhesive material or an elastic material, and the material may comprise one or more of a foam, elastic membrane, or an adhesive, for example. 
     In many embodiments, a needle resistant barrier as described herein can comprise a thin, puncture-resistant material integrated with a flexible web. The barrier can comprise a plurality of bi-stable springs connected by a flexible, in order to accommodate a range of different forearm sizes. The plurality of bi-stable springs can comprise a plurality of stacked bi-stable springs, to adjust a compressive force. 
     Although the suture handling systems and methods as described herein are presented in the context of a surgeon closing a patient&#39;s wound, the systems and methods can be used in any situation involving the handling of suture needles. For example, the systems and methods may be used to safely dispense and dispose of suture needles when the dispensed suture needle is not used to install a suture in a patient. For example, a surgeon may dispense a fresh suture needle, and then decide that he does not want to use the dispensed needle. The surgeon may decide that a needle of a different size would be more appropriate, or that the dispensed needle is not needed after all, for example. The surgeon may accidentally contaminate a freshly dispensed needle before the needle is used (e.g., by touching the tip of the fresh needle against an unsterile surface), and may therefore have to dispose of the needle without using it. A need to attend to another matter may arise after the surgeon has already dispensed a fresh suture needle (e.g., blood splashed on surgeon&#39;s gloves necessitating a change of gloves), necessitating the disposal of the fresh needle before it can be used. 
     As used herein the terms “needle trap” and “needle receptacle” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “shell” and “shell structure” are used interchangeably. 
     As used herein the terms “panel” and “shell” are used interchangeably. 
     The present inventors have conducted several experimental studies to determine needle receptacles and barriers that work well in the surgical environment. Several prototypes have been built and tested, and performance metrics measured. 
     In many instances the needle receptacle is referred to with reference to the receptacle as placed on the volar forearm of the user such as a surgeon. In this regard, the term “distal” may refer to the opening of the needle receptacle that receives the needle from outside the receptacle, and the term “proximal” may refer to the secure zone into which the needle is placed after moving through the distal opening. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a front (upper) and back (lower) panel that houses the needles with a secure zone. The needle receptacle may comprise a planar needle slot or groove along which needles are conveyed and within which the needles are housed, partially encased in a parallel, back to back, single layer array, for example. A needle driver slot in the back (lower) panel allows the needle and needle driver to become aligned with the needle slot. The back (lower) needle driver slot can be located distally to the needle slot with an enlarged opening, such that the needle driver can be aligned with the needle slot prior to entry into the needle slot. The experiments of the present inventors have suggested that a back panel landing zone and needle slot having substantially planar configurations may be preferred. For example, the needle slot can be substantially parallel (e.g. generally within about ten degrees) with the front surface of the landing zone, for example coplanar. The inventors have tested a trumpet or funnel shaped landing zone having a tapered concave section, and these experiments indicated that a planar landing zone may provide improved performance. The landing zone can have a distance transverse to the longitudinal axis that defines the width of the landing zone. The maximum distance across of the width of the landing zone can be within a range from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, for example within a range from about 30 mm to about 50 mm. The width of landing zone can taper from the maximum distance to a lesser distance near the needle entry slot, for example adjacent the needle entry slot. The distance across the landing zone near the needle entry slot can be within a range from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, for example within a range from about 20 mm to about 50 mm. 
     The entry zone of the needle slot can be sized larger than the secure zone of the needle slot. As described herein, the elongate needle channel slot may comprise a first elongate width CW 1  near an opening of the needle slot  349 , and a second narrower width CW 2  within the secure zone of the needle slot. The height of the needle slot above the landing zone can be within a range from about 4-10 mm, for example from about 5-8 mm. The width CW 1  can be within a range from about 20 to about 60 mm, for example from about 30 mm to about 50 mm. The entry zone of into the needle receptacle may comprise an upward flare near the edges to provide sufficient clearance for the needle. The upward flare can provide height to the distal opening of the needle slot. The flare can be within a range from about 50 degrees to about 90 degrees relative to the surface of the landing zone. For example, within a range from about 60 degrees to about 80 degrees. 
     The needle driver slot width is designed to be sufficient to accommodate a needle driver various orientations. The needle driver slot depth of the lower slot is dimensioned to allow protrusion of the needle driver jaws when the needle driver grasps the needle away from the ends. 
     In accordance with these experiments and contemplated embodiments, the landing zone front face may be substantially planar, and needle slot of the secure zone substantially planar, for example substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the landing zone and needle slot can be substantially parallel with each other. In many embodiments, a plane defined by the landing zone extends through the secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
     The needle receptacle can suspend the needle/s while protecting the tip and tail end of the needle in a stiff protective container, for example a hard container. The landing zone and secure zone can be arranged to guide the needle and provide tactile feedback to the user. 
     The needle receptacle may maintain needles along a plane and provides the suspension of the needles such that tip and ends are between the protective stiff cover in front and stiff cover in back, for example hard cover in front and hard cover in back. This can suspend the middle of the needle in air. This configuration allows for counting and allows for access to manipulate and position the needles for counting by visual assessment. The planar orientation can be orthogonal to a user&#39;s line of sight when counting and can display the needle in full profile for easy visual assessment. Other planar organization may comprise a needle magnet or a flat adhesive strip, although these do allow for access to the needle, the needle may not be grasp and manipulated as easily. 
     The thickness of that needle slot in which the needle is housed can be dimensioned appropriately. If the needle slot is too wide, the needle could rotate/twist or come loose. The present inventors have made a limited needle slot groove width between the hard plastic shells and then further reduced this space by using foam compression, which also provides friction component. The arc of the needle can facilitate capture, although straight needles can also be captured. In many embodiments, the needle tip and end are secured within planar recesses such as grooves. Other structures are contemplated and described herein that allow for the suspension or “floating” of the mid portion of the needle, for example in air. 
     In many embodiments, a slotted structure is configured to allow the tip and tail of the needle to be substantially enclosed while suspending in the slot the mid portion of the needle. 
     A needle could be contained in the planar recess (Groove) on one end only with the needle tip for instance residing in the longitudinal slot as described herein. The needle tip can be recessed from the frontal surface of the receptacle to provide improved safety. 
     The lower trap slot can be configured with depth to accommodate the tip of the needle driver that may well extend beyond the needle slot plane. The lower or back slot may comprise a groove of sufficient depth to allow the needle driver to advance the needle along the slot. 
     The present inventors have conducted experiments to determine suitable amounts of force to advance the needle along the slot or other structure to secure the needle. Structures can be provided to provide a greater amount of force to remove the needle than insert the needle. 
     While the thickness profile of the needle receptacle can be configured in many ways, the thickness can be less than 2 cm in preferred embodiments, in which the needle receptacle comprises a longitudinal length and a cross-sectional width dimensioned greater than the thickness. The thickness profile can be especially helpful on the volar side of the forearm and other surfaces on the forearm as well. The needle retention device may have a profile above the surface of the barrier of less than 4 cm, for example. The profile can be further reduced by creating a recess in the barrier to accommodate the trap. A cutout can be provided in the barrier, in which the footprint of the cutout corresponds to the trap. Alternatively or in combination when the trap has a solid back wall to the slot and the trap fit with the barrier, the trap can be recessed. The recess may comprise a depth 2 to 5 mm, for example. 
     The barrier may comprise the receptacle as described herein in order to decrease the profile. 
     The trap can be configured to facilitate safe handling or transfer between personnel in many ways. The needle landing zone can be used to grasp the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle can be held up to a light source, such that the needles are not obscured by the fingers or hand of the user. The needle receptacle may comprise a material or dye having an orange color, red or other color, for example. The backlight illumination can highlight the profile of the needle when needle visualized through the front face, which can be transparent. The well-defined profile can be helpful for counting, for example by a person or an automated needle counter, such as a video camera coupled to a processor with appropriate software. Any needle receptacle as disclosed herein can be configured with a landing zone that can be used for dual purpose of safe handling and needle placement. 
       FIG.  309    shows a suture pack  3092  and needle receptacle  3094  coupled to a barrier mounting base  3096 . The barrier mounting base comprises a living hinge  3098 . A suture pack and a needle receptacle are coupled to the barrier mounting base. The barrier mounting base comprises the living hinge in order to allow the suture pack and needle receptacle to fit onto the barrier on the arm of the surgeon with an angle between a first portion  3096   a  of the barrier mounting base having the needle receptacle and a second portion  3096   b  of the barrier mounting base having the suture pack. The first portion of the barrier mounting base and the second portion of the barrier mounting base can be placed on the arm with the living hinge such that they are inclined at an angle with respect to each other. The suture pack and needle receptacle shown with reference to  FIG.  309    may comprise many of the structures shown with reference to  FIGS.  167  to  179   , and a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many of these embodiments are well suited for combination with each other, as well as other embodiments as shown and described herein. 
     The needle receptacle can be configured with various amounts of resistance in many ways. In many instances, the needle receptacle comprises an amount of force for insertion of the needle and a greater amount of force to remove the needle. The needle receptacle comprises a structure to receive a needle with resistance. The amount of resistance to insertion can be within a range from about 5 grams to 250 grams, for example. The amount of force can be within one or more of the following ranges: about 25 grams to about 100 grams; or about 30 grams to about 90 grams, for example. The needle receptacle may comprise a needle slot, and the amount of force may comprise an amount of force to advance the needle along the needle slot. Alternatively or in combination, the needle receptacle may comprise a needle driver slot, and the amount of force may comprise an amount of force to advance the needle driver along the needle driver slot to secure the needle in the needle slot. 
     The needle receptacle may be configured to provide an increasing amount of resistance as the needle is advanced along the needle slot. The varying resistance is provided with one or more of a discrete or asymmetric features that protrude into the needle slot, in order to increase compression of the needle and provide tactile feedback as the needle is drawn along the slot. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a compressive member configured to secure a needle and provide resistance to movement of the needle against an apposed surface, and wherein the foam structure comprises a gap of less than 2 mm between the foam and the apposed surface. 
     The needle receptacle comprises a secure zone and can be applied to the forearm and comprises a width of less than 12 cm, and a length of less than 26 cm. The appropriately sized receptacle can be applied to the forearm or a barrier as described herein. 
     The needle receptacle can also be configured to easily view the needles with various types of illumination. For example, the housing containing the needles may comprise an optically transmissive material. A lower portion of the housing may comprises an optically transmissive material in order to view needles within a secure zone of the receptacle with backlight illumination. Alternatively or in combination, the upper portion may comprise a transparent material to view the needles. The lower portion may comprise a transparent or a translucent material to pass backlight illumination light to the needles. The upper portion may comprise the upper shell, and the lower portion may comprise the lower shell as described herein, for example. 
     The needle receptacle trap may comprise a landing zone and a secure zone, in which the landing zone is substantially coplanar with the secure zone. The landing zone coplanar with the secure zone can make it easier for a user to place the needles in the trap. The needle can be placed by moving the needle to the landing zone of the needle receptacle and sliding the needle from the landing zone into the secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a slotted structure that allows a tip and a tail of the needle to be substantially enclosed while suspending a mid-portion of the needle in the slot. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise a slot along a secure zone, in which the slot is sized smaller than a finger tip having a size of about 10 mm. 
     A needle receptacle comprising a needle groove having a thickness small enough to inhibit rotational movement of the needle out of the needle groove. 
       FIG.  310    shows the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  309   .  FIG.  310    shows a top oblique view of the needle receptacle in a fully assembled configuration. The needle receptacle  3094  is configured to define the direction in which needles are moved to place the needles in the receptacle. The needle receptacle comprises an arrow tip  3101   a  and an arrow tail  3101   b . The arrow tip comprises a generally convexly curved tip in order to define one direction of movement, and the arrow tail comprises a generally concave profile to define the direction of motion. The needle receptacle comprises a top needle driver groove  3102   a  configured to receive a needle driver holding a needle. The needle receptacle comprises an entry zone  3103  configured for landing of the needle as the surgeon places the needle into the receptacle. The entry zone is sized and shaped to allow the surgeon to place the needle on the entry zone, or land the needle with an arcuate movement of the needle in the needle driver. As the surgeon rotates his or her arm, the needle driver extends with an arcuate motion onto the landing zone and into a secure zone  3104  of the needle trap. The needle trap or receptacle comprises the top needle driver groove  3102   a  and a bottom needle driver groove  3102   b  to allow the needle driver to be advanced while the needle enters the secure zone. An elevated flange  3105  extends above the entry zone to receive the needle. The elevated zone defines an entry opening sized larger than the secure zone. The elevated flange guides the needle from the entry zone into the secure zone. The needle receptacle comprises inner protrusions  3106  that engage the needle as the needle is slid along the secure zone toward a needle stop  3107  on a distal end of the receptacle. The needle stop is configured to limit movement of the needle within the secure zone to a most distal portion of the needle receptacle. The inner protrusions may comprise feedback to the user with tactile sensation of the needle with a clicking-type sensation as the needle is drawn into the secure zone to give the user feedback as to the depth of placement into the needle receptacle. Alternatively or in combination, the top needle driver groove and/or the bottom needle driver groove may comprise undulating structures that allow the user to have feedback as the needle driver is advanced along the slot toward the end of the needle secure zone. As the needle driver is drawn along the needle driver grooves and slots, the user is provided feedback by undulation from one side or the other side or both of the needle driver grooves. The lower needle driver slot  3102   b  comprises an enlarged opening within the landing zone or entry zone, such that the needle driver can be received into the lower needle driver slot as the needle is advanced in the lower needle driver slot comprises a smaller cross-section in the secure zone than in the entry zone. The entry zone of the needle receptacle comprises a bevel  3108  near the arrow tail. The bevel zone facilitates landing of the needle into the entry zone. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise an upper shell structure and a lower shell structure. The upper shell structure may comprise the top needle driver groove and the undulations in the elevated flange, the needle stop, and a portion of the arrow tip. The lower portion may comprise the entry zone, the lower needle driver slot, the arrow tail, and the bevel. The upper shell structure and the lower shell structure may comprise coupling structures  3109  to couple the upper shell structure with the lower shell structure. 
     The needle receptacle can be placed on the volar forearm of the user on a barrier as described herein. The needle receptacle can be arranged over the volar forearm to allow easy insertion of a used needle when a hand holding needle holder is slightly supinated or slightly pronated. The needle can be placed in the receptacle with rotation of an arm holding a needle driver with shoulder joint rotation in order to align and place the used needle into an opening of the needle receptacle, for example. 
     While the needle receptacle can be dimensioned in many ways, the needle receptacle may comprises a longitudinal length, a transverse width and a height. The length may be greater than the width and the height, and the width is greater than the height. The length can be within a range from about 4 cm to about 15 cm, the width is within a range from about 3 cm to about 6 cm, and the height is within a range from about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm, for example. The needle receptacle may comprise an opening to receive the needle, and the opening can be sized larger than the secure zone of the receptacle, such that the opening comprises the maximum height and width of the receptacle. 
       FIG.  311    shows a top exploded view of the needle receptacle  3094  with needles  3111  coupled to the barrier mounting base  3096 . As in  FIG.  310   , the exploded view shows the top shell structure  3112 , needles  3111 , a compressive member  3113 , a bottom shell structure  3114 , an adhesive backing  3115 , a barrier mounting base  3096 , a living hinge  3098 , a suture pack adhesive  3116 , and a mounting base adhesive  3117 . The compressive member  3113  fits into a recess in the bottom shell structure  3114 , and the compressive member may comprise a plurality of compressive members fitting into a plurality of recesses in the bottom shell structure. The compressive member is shown as a first compressive member and a second compressive member disposed on either sides of the needle driver slot. The compressive members urge the needle upward toward the top shell structure, such that the needle engages the top shell in the protrusions of the top shell structure. The compressive member is shown with a generally rounded end near the landing zone or receptacle zone of the bottom shell structure. This rounding of the compressive member or bevel or fillet can facilitate advancement of the needle into the secure zone. The adhesive backing  3115  can be used to couple the bottom shell structure to the barrier mounting base. The adhesive backing may comprise an adhesive on each side of the adhesive backing. The adhesive backing may comprise a plurality of adhesive backings, such as a first adhesive backing and a second adhesive backing disposed on either side of the lower needle driver slot. The bottom shell structure may comprise standoffs on the lower surface, as shown and described in figures herein elsewhere. The adhesive backing positions the bottom shell structure at a distance up above the barrier mounting base, with standoffs on the bottom shell structure to provide the lower needle driver slot sufficient room and depth to receive a needle in the needle driver when the needle is located away from the distal end of the needle driver. The barrier mounting base may comprise a suture pack adhesive  3116 . The lower surface of the mounting base may comprise a mounting base adhesive  3117 . The barrier mounting base may comprise a first portion  3096   a  having the needle receptacle placed thereon, and a second portion  3096   b  having the suture pack adhesive placed thereon, with a living hinge  3098  extending there between. The living hinge allows the first portion and the second portion to be inclined relative to each other when placed on the protective barrier on the forearm of the user. 
       FIG.  312    shows a bottom exploded view of the needle receptacle  3094  with needles  3111  coupled to the barrier mounting base  3096  as in  FIGS.  310  and  311   . The top shell structure  3112  of the needle receptacle comprises inner protrusions  3121 . The inner protrusions may comprise asymmetric protrusions. For example, the asymmetric protrusions can be shaped such that a needle is more readily advanced into the needle receptacle than drawn from the secure zone of the needle receptacle. The inner protrusions can be sized and shaped in many ways, and may comprise, for example, a ratcheting mechanism one engaged with the needle. The needles engage the compressive member  3113  as the needles are advanced along the receptacle, such that the needles are urged upwards by the compressive members into the inner protrusions. The bottom shell structure  3114  comprises a standout to receive the compressive members and to define the needle driver groove and also to define a recess in which the compressive members are located in the entry zone with the tips of the compressive members deflected downward such that the compressive members do not provide a gap extending upwardly from the entry zone so that the needles can advance smoothly onto the compressive members. The standout may comprise a standout  3122   a  to receive a compressive member and the standout  3122   b  for the lower needle drive groove. The upper and lower needle driver grooves extend generally along an elongate axis of the needle receptacle. The standout to receive the compressive member extends generally transverse, for example, perpendicular to the long axis of the needle receptacle. The adhesive backing  3115  is shown disposed on either side of the standout  3122   b  for the lower needle driver groove. The adhesive backing may comprise a first portion and a second portion, such as a first piece and a second piece. The adhesive backing may comprise a cutout sized and shaped to receive the standout for the compressive member. The barrier mounting base  3096  is shown beneath the adhesive backing that supports the needle receptacle. The barrier mounting base comprises a first portion  3096   a  supporting the needle receptacle and a second portion  3096   b  to support the suture pack. The first portion of the barrier mounting base may comprise a plurality of adhesive pads  3123   a  to support the first portion of the barrier mounting base, and the second portion of the barrier mounting base may comprise a plurality of adhesive pads  3123   b . The adhesive pads may comprise a first surface having an adhesive and a second opposite surface having an adhesive. The living hinge  3098  extends between the first portion of the barrier mounting base and the second portion of the barrier mounting base, to allow the first portion of the barrier mounting base and the second portion of the barrier mounting base to be mounted on the protective barrier on the arm at an angle to each other. 
       FIG.  313    shows a top oblique view of the top shell structure  3112  of the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  312   . The top shell structure may comprise components as described herein. The top shell structure comprises the upper needle driver groove  3102   a  and the inner protrusions  3106  and the needle stop  3107  as described herein. The needle protrusions generally face downward as shown in the other views. The upper flange  3105  is shaped to direct the needle driver with the needle toward the needle driver slot or groove on the upper shell structure. The upper flange comprises a first side  3105   a  and a second side  3105   b  disposed on opposite sides of the upper needle driver slot. The landing zone end of the first side and second side of the upper flange are inclined at an angle so as to guide the needle driver into the needle driver slot. 
       FIG.  314    shows a bottom oblique view of the top shell  3112  as in  FIG.  313   . The top shell structure  3112  comprises the upper needle driver groove  3102   a  and the inner protrusions  3106  along the lower surface of the upper needle driver slot. The top shell structure also comprises the needle stops  3107  on the lower surface of the top shell structure. The plurality of needle stops is shown on either side of the upper needle driver slot. The inner protrusions are shown symmetrically disposed on each side of the upper needle driver groove. The top shell structure comprises an edge  3141  shaped to engage the bottom shell structure. 
       FIG.  315    shows a close-up bottom oblique view of the top shell  3112  as in  FIG.  314   . The plurality of needle stops  3107  are shown symmetrically disposed on either side of the top needle driver slot  3102   a . The inner protrusions  3106  are shown symmetrically disposed on either side of the upper needle driver slot. The inner protrusions may comprise asymmetric protrusions. The inner protrusions can be sized and shaped in many ways. For example, the inner protrusions may comprise a ramp with an inclined surface to allow the needle to be advanced toward the needle stop. A second opposite surface of each protrusion may comprise a vertically inclined surface to inhibit movement of the needle away from the needle stop. 
       FIG.  316    shows a top oblique view of the bottom shell structure  3114  of the needle receptacle as in  FIG.  310   . The lower needle driver slot or groove  3102   b  comprises a receiving portion  3161  located within the entry zone  3103 . The needle driver slot within the entry zone comprises a cross-sectional dimension sized larger than the lower needle driver slot in the secure zone, in order to facilitate and guide the needle driver into the secure zone. The bottom shell structure comprises filleted recesses  3162  to receive the compressive member. The recesses are dimensioned to urge the needle into the protrusions with the compressive member. The recesses comprise a filleted zone  3163  near the entry zone. The bevel  3108  of the entry zone allows the needle driver to be guided into the needle receptacle. The bottom shell may comprise a raised edge or protrusion  3164  configured to engage the top shell structure to facilitate coupling of the top and bottom shells. 
       FIG.  317    shows a bottom oblique view of the bottom shell structure  3114  as in  FIG.  316   . The lower needle driver slot  3102   b  is shown extending along a long axis of the needle receptacle. Protruding standouts  3122   a  for the filleted recesses are shown extending transverse, for example perpendicular to the long axis of the needle receptacle. Standouts  3122   b  for the lower needle driver groove are shown extending along the long axis defined with the needle driver slot. The standouts extend a distance from the surface of the bottom shell structure in order to dimension the lower needle driver slot in the fillets of the recess that receives the compressive member. The standouts for the lower needle driver slot are dimensioned to allow the needle driver sufficient clearance to advance easily along the lower needle driver slot when the needle has been engaged away from the proximal end of the needle driver. The standouts for the filleted recesses extend a distance from the lower surface of the bottom shelf in order for the compressive members to be flush with the entry zone or beneath the entry zone along the upper surface of the compressive member. This configuration of the standout for the filleted recess and the compressive member allows the compressive member to gradually urge the needle upward into the upper shell structure as the needle is advanced toward the stops on the proximal end of the needle receptacle. The standouts for the filleted recesses are symmetrically disposed on either side of the lower needle driver slot. The standouts for the lower needle driver groove are symmetrically arranged on either side of the lower needle driver slot. The standouts for the lower needle driver groove may extend across the midline of the bottom shell structure. The standout for the lower needle driver groove may comprise a curved surface on either end defining the ends of the lower needle driver slot. The standout for the lower needle driver groove may comprise a single standout or plurality of standouts arranged to position in dimension the lower needle driver slot to allow the needle driver to be advanced along the lower needle driver slot when the suture is positioned away from the proximal end of the needle. 
       FIG.  318    shows a top oblique view of the bottom shell structure  3114  as in  FIG.  317    with compressive members  3113  placed thereon. The compressive members are shown disposed on either side of the lower needle driver slot  3102   b . The compressive members can be symmetrically disposed on either side of the lower needle driver slot. The compressive members comprise filleted or beveled ends  3181  that extend down into the recess of the lower shell structure. The upper surfaces of the compressive members extend down to the height of the entry zone such that the proximal most ends of the compressive members are the height below the entry zone or flush with the entry zone in order to facilitate movement of the needles toward the needle stop on the proximal end of the receptacle. The inner surfaces  3182  of the compressive members towards the needle driver slot are approximately flush with the needle driver slot. This positioning of the inner surfaces of the compressive members allows the compressive members to engage the needle in the needle receptacle when the needle extends only a little bit into the receptacle from the slot. The inner surfaces of the compressive members are generally positioned within about 2 millimeters, for example, within about 1 millimeter of the lower needle driver slot of the bottom shell structure. This arrangement of the inner surfaces of the compressive members insures that the compressive members engage the needle when advanced into the secure zone. 
     The compressive members are dimensioned to allow the needle to be readily advanced into the secure zone with decreased amounts of resistance. In this regard the cross-sectional dimensions of the compressive members are sized to provide appropriate amounts of resistance. For example, the compressive members may not extend fully outward toward the full width of the bottom shell structure. The compressive members comprise a generally cross-sectional shape having a rectangle. The rectangular shape of the cross-section may comprise a height and a width from with the height is dimensioned to urge the needle upward toward the upper shell structure and the width dimensioned with the cross-section to provide appropriate amounts of resistance. The wider the compressive member the greater the amount of force to the needle. The narrower the compressive member the less the force. 
       FIG.  319    shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the top and bottom shell structure as in  FIG.  310    without the compressive members. The asymmetric inter-protrusions  3106  are shown on the top shell structure  3112 . Although these protrusions are shown as asymmetric the protrusions can be symmetrical, for example defined with bumps such as spherical surfaces. The inter-protrusions are shown with an inclined surface that engages the needle as the needle is advanced toward the stop and a vertically extending surface or substantially vertically extending surface on the proximal side of the protrusion to inhibit movement of the needle away from the stop. The filleted recess  3162  to receive the compressive member is shown with a curved surface extending downward toward the lower surface of the bottom shell structure  3114 . The filleted recess alternatively may comprise a bevel or plurality of segmented linear surfaces. The recess extends downwardly away from the upper shell structure to receive the compressive member as describe herein. 
       FIG.  320    shows the fully assembled needle receptacle  3094  with the needle  3111  in a transverse cross-sectional view for the needle receptacle as shown in  FIG.  310   . The needle  3111  is shown positioned between the upper shell structure  3112  and the lower shell structure  3114 . The trailing end  3111   a  of the needle after the suture has been popped off is also shown. The top shell structure is shown coupled to the bottom shell structure and can be adhered to the bottom shell with adhesive. The top shell and the bottom shell comprise engagement structures  3109  for the top shell to engage the bottom shell with the adhesive. The engagement structures may comprise grooves or protrusions on the top shell and bottom shell such that the bottom shell and the top shell are easily positioned together with the adhesive. 
       FIG.  321    shows advancement of the needle  3111  positioned into the needle receptacle  3094  as in  FIG.  310   . The needle is shown to advance into the needle receptacle with a movement that is approximately parallel to the barrier in the user as shown with the arrow  3212 . 
       FIG.  322 A  shows a top oblique view and  FIG.  322 B  shows a cross-sectional view of the needle  3111  stabilized in the needle receptacle  3094 . The lower slot  3102   b  is shown and the upper slot  3102   a  is shown with the needle positioned between the upper shell  3112  and the lower shell  3114 . The needle stabilizer  3221  may comprise the compressive members and/or the protrusions as described herein. 
       FIG.  323    shows dimensions of the needle receptacle  3094  as in  FIG.  310   . The needle receptacle comprises a cross-sectional dimension of the needle driver slot that is shown with dimension A. The user has a finger with the dimension across as shown with dimension B. The dimension across the slot is less than the dimension of the finger of the user. For example, the user may have a typical finger size greater than 10 millimeters across and the dimension of the slot receiving the needle driver on the upper shell may be less than 10 millimeters for example. The landing zone or entry zone of the needle receptacle is generally dimensioned so that the user can easily grasp the needle receptacle with a finger as shown in  FIG.  323    away from the area where the needles are securely stored. The entry or landing zone may comprise a flange portion of the lower shell which allows the user to grasp and handle the needle receptacle safely. 
       FIGS.  324 A and  324 B  show a needle containment groove  3241  defined with a U-shaped housing  3242  having a slot to secure needles, which may comprise some of the structures shown in  FIG.  310   , such as the needle driver slot  3243  to receive needles on upper and lower portions of the housing. Alternatively or in combination, the housing may comprise a single-piece housing formed of materials such as silicone. The needle containment groove  3241  is dimensioned to receive the needle and the needle driver slot  3243  is dimensioned to receive the needle driver on the upper and lower surfaces. The needle receptacle  3240  comprises the length extending along the needle driver slot and a width extending transverse to the needle driver slot. The needle receptacle also comprises a thickness  3244  as shown in  FIG.  324 B . The thickness is generally less than about 1 centimeter. The needle receptacle may comprise a U-shaped piece for example. The needle slot may defined with inner grooves on legs of the U-shaped piece, and the grooves may comprise a thickness of no more than about 1 cm, for example. The needle driver slot can be no more than about 2 cm, for example. 
     The receptacle can be sized to a range of needles, and may comprise a smaller slot for smaller needle drivers, in which the slot comprises a width of no more than a diameter of a largest needle for which the trap is designed to store. 
     The longitudinal slot for the needle driver may comprise a through and through slot, in which the slot extends though both sides of the receptacle. 
     The longitudinal slot may comprise a lower solid wall, in which the wall has a recess or groove of sufficient depth to allow the tip of the needle driver to protrude beyond the needle securement slot plane, in which the needle driver groove or slot extends beneath the needle slot plane by a distance within a range from about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm. 
     The receptacle may comprise a longitudinal slot bounded by a structure to one or more sides of the slot that creates a varying resistance to translation as the needle is drawn along the slot. The varying resistance can be provided in many ways, and may comprise a discrete or asymmetric features that protrude into the needle slot, in order to increase compression of the needle and provide tactile feedback as the needle is drawn along the slot 
       FIGS.  325 A- 325 C  show needles placed in a needle receptacle  3240  as in  FIG.  324 A .  FIG.  325 A  is a top view,  FIG.  325 B  is an end view, and  FIG.  325 C  is a side cross-sectional view of the needle receptacle  3240  holding the needles  3251 . The needles are shown extending at various locations across the needle driver slot  3243 . The grooved sides  3252  of the needle receptacle safely contain the needles and cover the tips. The upper view of  FIG.  325 A  shows the needles visible to the user. The needles are shown extending across the needle driver slots such that the needles can be counted. The end view of  FIG.  325 B  shows the grooved sides  3252  containing the tips of the needles. The side cross-sectional view of  FIG.  325 C  shows the needles placed in the needle receptacle. 
       FIGS.  326 A- 326 D  show needles placed in a needle receptacle as described herein, for example, with reference to  FIGS.  310  and  324   .  FIG.  326 A  shows an oblique view,  FIG.  326 B  a side view,  FIG.  326 C  a top view, and  FIG.  326 D  an end view. The needles  3261  are shown contained within a groove  3262  of the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may comprise walls  3263  such as the upper and lower surfaces of the shells as described herein. The needles are contained between the walls in a secured configuration such that the needle tips are covered. The needles are shown in a planer array arranged in a groove. The longitudinal slot of the receptacle facilitates an organized deposition of the needles in the secure zone between walls of the needle receptacle. 
       FIG.  327 A  shows ratcheting  3271  along the groove of the needle driver slot  3272  for example with reference to  FIGS.  310  and  324   . The ratcheted slot  3272  allows the user to sense the depth at which the needles are being placed along the needle driver slot. The needle driver slot may contain many types of protrusions or undulations along the side of the slot to provide the user with tactile feedback and sensation as the needle driver is advanced toward the stop on the proximal end. This feedback to the user allows the user to position the needles with gross motor skills and to provide a sense of the depth of the needle within the slot. The ratcheted slot may comprise a defined surface such that the needle driver is more easily advanced toward the end of the slot and away from the end of the slot. Although the needle driver slot may be dimensioned larger than the needle driver, the user generally will be guided by the needle driver slot such that the needle driver engages one or both sides of the slot as the needle driver is advanced toward the end of the slot. The sliding movement of the needle driver along the slot can provide a sensation of vibration or varying drag or ratcheting as the needle driver is moved along the slot. The inclined ratcheting surface may comprise a first side for the entry zone which is inclined at an angle and a second side that faces the stop that is inclined at a greater angle away from the axis to inhibit movement of the needle driver away from the end of the slot. 
     The inner surfaces of the needle driver slot can be configured in many ways to provide the user with feedback as the needle driver is being advanced toward the proximal end. For example, one or more of the upper shell or the lower shell may comprise undulating surface structures or protruding surface structures to provide this feedback. For example, small dimples can be provided in one or more of the upper slot or the lower slot to provide the user with tactile feedback. The protrusions and/or recesses provided along the inner surfaces of the needle driver slot are generally symmetrically arranged along either side of the needle driver slot to provide the user with a sense of depth within the slot as the needle is advanced. While the size of the structures that are used can be varied in many ways, in many embodiments the structures generally extend inwardly toward the needle driver slot at least about a quarter of a millimeter, for example at least a millimeter and generally within a range for about a 1/10 of a millimeter to about a millimeter on either side of the needle driver slot. 
       FIG.  327 B  shows varied apertures  3273  along the needle driver slot  3272 . The varied apertures generally comprise a concave surface and a tip oriented toward the needle driver slot. As the needle driver is guided by the needle driver slot, the needle driver will generally engage one or both surfaces. As the needle driver is advanced toward the stop on the end, the needle driver provides tactile feedback to the user as the needle driver moves along the concave portions and the tip portion of the needle driver slot. The surface structures provided along the inner surface of the needle driver slot can be provided on the upper needle driver slot or the lower needle driver slot or both. When the structures are provided on both the upper needle driver slot and the lower needle driver slot, structures are generally aligned in order to provide the user feedback as the needle driver is advanced. 
       FIGS.  328  to  333    show a chiral barrier in accordance with embodiments. 
       FIG.  328    shows a chiral barrier  3280  for placement on the left forearm of the surgeon. While the barrier can be formed in many ways, work in relationship to embodiment suggests that the chiral barrier customized for a left forearm can be preferred. It is contemplated that barriers for the left forearm for right-handed surgeons can be provided and barriers for the right forearm for left-handed surgeons can be provided. The chiral barrier has the advantage of providing better fit to a plurality of left-handed users and a plurality of right-handed users. Although reference is made to a chiral barrier, it is contemplated that the barrier can be symmetric and used on either arm. For example, the barrier may comprise a conic section with conic ends having a pre-form conic shape, or can be chiral as described herein. The barrier comprises a volar edge on a volar side  3281  and a dorsal edge on a dorsal side  3282 . The volar edge can separate from the dorsal edge when advanced over the forearm for placement. 
     Referring again to  FIG.  328   , the chiral barrier comprises a dorsal side  3282  and a ventral or volar side  3281 , a proximal end  3283  and a distal end  3284 . The proximal end is located toward the elbow of the user, and the distal end is oriented toward the wrist of the user. The chiral barrier comprises a plurality of tabs such as proximal tab  3285   a  and a distal tab  3285   b . The plurality of tabs may be located on either the dorsal edge or the volar edge. The barrier may comprise a pre-formed material such as a thermally formed material. The preformed material may comprise a sheet of material having substantially uniform thickness pre-formed thermoforming to desired shape to accommodate anatomical structures of the user. For example, the barrier may comprise shaping to accommodate musculature near the elbow of the user and wrist movement and wrist anatomy in the wrist of the user. The chiral shape can be customized with respect to a left arm for a right-handed user in order to better accommodate the musculature of the proximal forearm and the wrist movement of the distal forearm. The barrier may comprise a barrier material as described herein in order to inhibit penetration or sticks with sharp objects such as needles. 
     The chiral barrier can be located along a coordinate reference system, in which the origin corresponds to a central point  3321  of the proximal forearm. The +X direction extends toward the volar side of the forearm; the +Y direction extends in a direction toward the radius of the forearm; and the −Z axis extends toward the distal end of the forearm near the wrist. 
       FIG.  329    shows a top plan view of the barrier  3280  of  FIG.  328    prior to thermal forming. The barrier comprises a proximal ergonomic end profile  3286  on the proximal end  3283 . The proximal end generally comprises convexly curved surfaces near the corners of the barrier on opposite sides and in generally tapered decreased length toward the center of the barrier for example to accommodate musculature and flexing of the forearm toward the biceps of the user. The distal end  3284  of the barrier may comprise may comprise an ergonomic distal end profile  3287 . The distal end profile may comprise curved corners near the ends of the barrier. The ergonomic distal end profile may be shaped to provide a decreased length of the barrier toward the wrist of the user. The decreased length of the barrier toward the distal end near the wrist of the user can allow the user to flex and extend the wrist with decreased contact on the distal end profile. In use the barrier may tend to move toward the wrist of the user and the distal end profile having the shape shown in  FIG.  329    can provide improved comfort by appropriately contouring to the forearm near the wrist. The barrier may comprise a length extending between the proximal end and the distal end and the length of the barrier can vary with location around the forearm of the user. The ergonomic proximal end profile and the ergonomic distal end profile can be arranged such that the length of the barrier is decreased between the ergonomic distal end profile and the ergonomic proximal end profile in relation to the corner sections or ends of the barrier displaced laterally away from the ergonomic inner portion of the barrier. For example, the radial ridge length  3299  along the radial ridge aspect  3289  of the barrier may be shorter than the volar length  3291  along the volar aspect  3281  and the dorsal length  3292  along the dorsal aspect  3282  of the barrier. The ergonomic proximal end profile  3286  and/or the distal end profile  8287  may comprise radial ridge indicia  3293  and  3294  along the radial ridge aspect  3289 . 
     The barrier comprises proximal tabs  3285   a  and distal tabs  3285   b  configured to allow the user an ergonomic fit. The proximal tab comprises the proximal tab length  3288   a  and the distal tab comprises the distal tab length  3288   b . The distal tab length is generally shorter than the proximal tab length to provide improved comfort. The distal tab length generally comprises a length that is within a range from about 20% to about 80% of the proximal tab length. The proximal tab may comprise a length within a range of about ½ inch to about 2 inches for example. The barrier may comprise one or more tab couplings  3295  for securing the barrier about the arm of the user. For example, the proximal tab and/or the distal tab, extending from the dorsal aspect  3282  of the barrier, may comprise one or more tab couplings configured to engage corresponding tab couplings disposed at the volar aspect  3281  of the barrier. 
       FIG.  330    shows axes of the pre-formed barrier  3280 . The barrier is generally pre-formed with a self-supporting sheath as shown in  FIG.  328   . The pre-formed barrier with the self-supporting sheath will generally assume the shape shown in  FIG.  328   . The memory of the barrier allows the barrier to fit well on many users. It allows the barrier to be stretched slightly in order to fit a user. The barrier can be provided with straps as described herein. 
     The barrier generally comprises a generally elliptical cross-section in the preformed shape on the proximal end  3283  and it also comprises a generally elliptical shape on the distal end  3284 . Although reference is made to an elliptical shape, the shape may comprise non-elliptical shapes having the first dimension across longer than the second dimension across perpendicular to the first dimension across. For example, the shape may correspond to an oblong shape along one dimension or an egg shaped profile for example. 
       FIG.  330    shows primary axes for the proximal and distal portions in the self-supporting shape of the barrier. The primary axis refers to the axis having the longest length of the cross-section of the barrier. A secondary proximal axis  3303   b  extends generally perpendicular to the primary proximal axis  3303   a . On the distal end the primary axis  3304   a  extends along the longest dimension of the cross-section of the pre-formed self-supporting barrier. A secondary axis  3304   b  extends perpendicular to the primary axis and may correspond to the shortest dimension of the cross-section through a center of the cross-section. 
     The self-supporting barrier may comprise a primary axis  3303   a  having a substantially vertical orientation on the proximal end and a primary axis  3304   a  on the distal end rotated relative to the primary axis within an angle α as shown in  FIG.  330   . This rotation of the distal primary axis relative to the proximal primary axis provides improved comfort to the user. 
     A person of ordinary skill and art will recognize that various adaptations can be made of the self-supporting thermal-formed barrier as shown in  FIGS.  330  and  328   . For example, the barrier may comprise a generally conic shape such that the primary end has a substantially circular cross-section and the distal end has a substantially circular cross-section in which the distal end has a substantially circular cross-section in which the distal end has a diameter less than the proximal end. 
     The inventors have conducted experiments with many shapes of pre-formed barriers and determined that the chiral barrier as shown with reference to  FIGS.  330 ,  328  and  329    provides improved comfort. Although the barrier can be provided with foam and foam can provide improved comfort, the inventors have determined that the chiral barrier as described herein provides improved comfort when used with foam or without foam. The foam lining provided on the inner surface can provide improved comfort and can allow sizing to many shapes of users. 
       FIG.  331    shows a view from the proximal end  3283  of the barrier  3280  toward the distal end  3284  of the barrier. As can be seen with reference to  FIG.  331   , the proximal end comprises a generally oval shape having a longest dimension across and a shortest dimension across in which both dimensions extend through the center of the proximal end. The distal end similarly comprises an oval shape having a maximum dimension across along the primary axis and a shorter dimension across along a secondary axis orthogonal to the primary axis. The primary axis of the distal end is shown rotated to the primary axis of the proximal end. This rotation of the primary axis of the distal end in relation to the primary axis of the proximal end can help the user orient the wrist in an ergonomic position during surgery which can last for several hours. 
       FIG.  332    schematically illustrates structures of chiral barrier  3280 . The proximal end  3283  of the barrier comprises a primary (long) axis  3303   a  and a secondary (short axis)  3303   b  having a length that is shorter than the primary axis. The distal end  3284  of the barrier comprises a primary (long) axis  3304   a  and a secondary (short) axis  3304   b . The long axis  3304   a  on the distal end is rotated relative to the long axis  3303   a  of the proximal end. The rotation angle can be within a range from about 5 to 45 degrees, for example within a range from about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees, and can be 20 degrees, for example. 
     The distal end can also be offset relative to an axis of the proximal end. A path can extend from the center  3321  of the proximal end  3283  to the center  3322  of the distal end  3284 . The path can be defined with the center of the barrier at locations between the proximal end and the distal end. As the forearm comprises musculature and other chiral structures, the shape profile of the forearm may comprise chirality. The chiral barrier is shaped to generally correspond to the chirality of the forearm. The center points of the forearm define a curved chiral path  3323  extending between the elbow and the wrist. At the proximal end, the barrier is shaped to correspond to the shape of the forearm and the curved central path of the forearm. The proximal end of the forearm can be defined with a plane extending perpendicular to the path corresponding to the center of the forearm. The plane defines a z-axis  3324  orthogonal to the cross-section through the forearm at the proximal end. The barrier is shaped similarly to the forearm. The proximal cross-section of the barrier comprises a central point  3322  and a plane  3325  that extends substantially perpendicular to the barrier surface on the proximal end. The z-axis  33224  from the center point of the barrier on the proximal end can be projected to the distal end. The inventors have learned that the distal end is offset from this projection of the z-axis by an extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The center of the forearm can be placed between the proximal end and the distal end. The offset can be within a range from about 0.25 inches to about 0.75 inches, for example. 
       FIG.  333    shows outer surface profiles  3326  of the barrier  3280  and the curved path  3323  of the center of the barrier. The profile of the barrier along the dorsal and volar aspects are shown. As the volar aspect of the forearm may comprise greater amounts of muscle mass than the dorsal aspect of the forearm, the barrier may comprise greater amounts of taper on the volar aspect of the forearm than the dorsal aspect. The curved path comprising the center of the barrier can extend in relation to changing muscle mass of the forearm. 
     The barrier comprises a shape memory material as described herein, which may comprise a thermoformed material. The thermoformed barrier material comprises a free standing self-supporting configuration with the geometrical features as shown in  FIGS.  328 ,  330 - 333   , for example. 
     As noted above with reference to  FIG.  328   , the coordinate reference can be defined as: 
     +X=volar aspect 
     +Y=radial aspect 
     Distal offset can be (8 mm, 20 mm)=(x,y) 
     Range from (0.2, 0.4) to about (2 cm, 4 cm) for example. 
     X offset (volar) can be within a range from about 0.2 cm to about 2 cm, for example within a range from about 0.5 cm to about 1.5 cm. The y offset (radial) can be within a range from about 0.4 to 4 cm, for example within a range from about 0.8 cm to about 3 cm. Although offsets are described, these are optional and in some embodiments the preformed barrier may comprise no offset, while still being chiral, for example with rotations of the long axes on the ends of the barrier as described herein. 
     The barrier as described herein can be configured with or without chirality. 
     The barrier can be configured with a shape memory material as described herein, and configured with force characteristics suitable for placement on the forearm of the user. The barrier comprises a volar edge on a volar side and a dorsal edge on a dorsal side. The volar edge can separate from the dorsal edge when advanced over the forearm for placement. An amount of force to separate the volar edge from the dorsal by about one inch from a free standing configuration can be within a range from about 25 grams to about 400 grams, for example. The range can be from about 50 grams to about 150 grams, for example. The masses provide correspond to the amount of force to separate based on the force of gravity, which will be readily understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
     The barrier may comprise a mass within a range from 10 grams to about 250 grams, for example within a range from about 20 grams to about 75 grams. The barrier may comprise a preformed thermoplastic shell having a weight within a range from about 20 grams to about 60 grams, for example. 
     The barrier may comprise foam on an underlying surface beneath the shell. The weight of the barrier with foam can be within a range from about 35 grams to about 500 grams. The weight of the barrier with foam can be a range from 20 grams to about 260 grams, for example within a range from about 20 grams to about 85 grams. The barrier may comprise a preformed thermoplastic shell and foam beneath having a weight within a range from about 30 grams to about 70 grams, for example. 
     The barrier may comprise a weight as described herein and the weight of the barrier can be less than the amount of force required to separate the volar and distal ends for placement on the forearm of the user. 
     The barrier may comprise a longitudinal length within a range from about 6 inches to about 11 inches. The barrier may comprise a ratio of the distance across the proximal end to the distance across the distal end within a range from about 1.1 to about 1.5. 
     The barrier may comprise a shell wherein an underlying foam extends distally beyond the distal border of a shell of the barrier and wherein the foam curves over a leading distal edge of the shell to pad the interface of the shell when the barrier impinges on the wrist to provide comfort. 
     The barrier may comprise a shell having a radial curvature at a distal edge of shell with displacement within a range from about 3 mm to 1.5 cm to distribute a load of the barrier on a wrist of a user. 
     The barrier may comprise a shell, and inner foam padding may extend beyond distal edge of the shell. The foam layer can extend beyond a distal end of the shell by a distance within a range from about 1 mm to about 15 mm. The inner foam layer may comprise a thickness within a range from about 1 mm to about 15 mm. 
     The barrier may comprise a thickened distal edge. 
     The barrier can be configured to distribute a load when device abuts the dorsal or radial or volar aspect of the wrist with motion of the wrist. 
     The barrier can be configured to allow movement of proximal or distal ends of the barrier so as to allow greater amounts of movement of the wrist of the user relative to the barrier. For example, the barrier may comprise extensions on the proximal end that allow the barrier to be substantially fixed in relation to the proximal forearm of the user. Alternatively the barrier can be tighter on the proximal strap than the distal strap in order to allow the user&#39;s distal forearm to move more than the proximal forearm in relation to the barrier. 
     The barrier can be configured to couple to the proximal forearm in order to move with the proximal forearm more than the distal forearm. For example, the barrier may comprise a distal strap that can be tightened more than the proximal strap, in order to allow the barrier to move with rotation of the wrist of the user, for example. 
     The barrier can comprise a layer of padding on the bottom and a layer of mechanical barrier on the top, with magnets placed on the undersurface of the mechanical barrier between layer of padding and the layer of mechanical barrier. The mechanical barrier can comprise a polymer material, and can have a thickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. 
       FIGS.  334 A- 334 C  illustrate the use of a needle handling system as described herein.  FIG.  334 A  shows a user U, such as a surgeon, securing a needle  3341  within a needle receptacle  3342  mounted on a barrier  3343  coupled to the forearm VF of the user&#39;s non-dominant arm, as described herein. As shown, the needle receptacle is disposed on the plane of the volar forearm VF. To secure the needle in the needle receptacle, the user sweeps the needle, grasped with a needle driver  3344 , from a distal position to a proximal position along the plane of the volar arm. Therefore, the needle is not directed towards the arm, and the risk of needle stick injury is minimized.  FIG.  334 B  is a schematic illustration of the top view of the user U as the user secures the needle  3341  in the barrier-mounted needle receptacle  3342 . The anatomical neutral plane NP of the user&#39;s arm is shown with respect to the coronal plane CP, wherein the anatomical neutral plane is substantially orthogonal to the coronal plane. Securing a needle in the forearm-mounted needle receptacle does not require external rotation  3345   a  of the arm or shoulders with respect to the anatomical neutral plane, therefore allowing the user to engage only fine motor control, rather than gross motor control, to perform movements related to the dispensing and securing of needles. To secure the needle in the needle receptacle, the user can internally rotate  3345   b  the forearm F from the elbow E while holding the needle in the needle driver  3344 , therefore sweeping the needle along an arc  3346  directed from the anatomical neutral plane NP towards the needle receptacle plane  3347 . The needle receptacle plane can be substantially parallel to the plane of the volar forearm carrying the barrier-mounted needle receptacle.  FIG.  334 C  schematically illustrates the path of the needle during securement in the needle receptacle  3342 . The needle moves proximally along the needle arc  3346  towards the needle receptacle plane  3347 . The needle arc can comprise a substantially flat portion  3348  defined as a portion of the arc that coincides with the needle receptacle plane or is within a small angle α with respect to the needle receptacle plane, for example within about 10°. The needle receptacle may be positioned such that its length  33421  substantially corresponds to the length  33481  of the substantially flat portion. Thus, when the needle reaches the substantially flat portion of the arc as the user sweeps the needle along the arc towards the needle receptacle, the needle can reach the entry zone of the needle receptacle and be secured within the secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
       FIG.  335    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle  3350  comprising a cover  3351  for the needle driver slot  3352 . A needle driver slot cover may provide an additional safety feature by more securely enclosing the ends of the needle  3353  within the needle receptacle, and preventing the accidental dislodging of a needle placed within the secure zone  3354 . The needle receptacle may be any needle receptacle as described herein that comprises a slot or a groove  3352  within which a needle driver may be moved while the needle grasped by the needle driver is secured in the needle receptacle. The needle driver slot cover  3351  can comprise a flexible strip with a slit  3355  going through a portion of the flexible strip covering the needle driver slot. Alternatively, the needle driver slot cover can comprise opposed overlapping flexible strips covering the needle driver slot, such that the needle driver can move through the slot between the overlapping strips. The flexible strip can elastically deform  3356  to accommodate translation of the needle from the entry zone  3358  to the secure zone  3354  via translation of the needle driver tip  3357  within the needle driver slot.  FIG.  336    illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle  3360  comprising a cover  3361  for the needle driver slot  3362 . The needle driver slot cover may comprise flexible strips as described with reference to  FIG.  335   . In addition to a longitudinal slit  3363  to allow translation of the needle driver therein, the cover may further comprise a plurality of vertical or transverse slits  3364 . The vertical slits can create a plurality of vertical segments  3365 , wherein the needle driver moves through the vertical segments as it is translated along the needle driver slot. The vertical segments may be coupled to the needle receptacle at the bases  3366  substantially parallel to the longitudinal sides of the needle driver slot. For any embodiment of a needle driver slot cover comprising flexible strips, the strips may be transparent and comprise silicone or polyethylene, for example. 
       FIGS.  337 A- 337 D  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle  3370  comprising a cover  3371  for the needle driver slot  3372 .  FIG.  337 A  shows the top view,  FIG.  337 B  shows the end view,  FIG.  337 C  shows the side view, and  FIG.  337 D  shows the bottom view of the needle receptacle. As shown in  FIG.  337 A , the needle driver slot cover  3371  is positioned over the needle driver slot or groove  3372 . In the default or “closed” configuration, the cover substantially covers the needle driver slot. When a needle driver is translated along the needle driver slot, the cover may be configured to slide along the longitudinal needle driver slot axis  3373  (in the direction shown by the arrow  3374 ) to expose the needle driver slot, thereby allowing the needle driver to secure a needle within the secure zone  3375 . When the needle driver exits the needle driver slot, the cover may be configured to slide back to resume the default closed configuration. The needle driver slot cover may be configured to slide by translating within one or more rails  3376  parallel to the needle driver slot axis. As shown in  FIGS.  337 B and  337 D , the one or more rails  3376  may comprise grooves in the bottom shell  3377  or housing of the needle receptacle, wherein the needle driver slot cover can fit into the grooves to couple to the bottom shell. The grooves may extend through the end of the bottom shell, to allow the cover to translate towards the secure zone  3375  to the full extent possible. As shown in  FIGS.  337 C and  337 D , a spring  3378  may be mounted under the bottom shell and coupled to the needle driver slot cover. The spring  3378  can constrain the translation of the cover away from the entry zone  3379  as the needle driver translates along the needle driver slot towards the secure zone  3375 , and pull the cover back towards the entry zone to the closed position after the needle driver exits the needle driver slot. 
       FIG.  338    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle  3380  comprising a compressive cover  3381  for the needle driver slot  3382 . The needle receptacle, which may be any receptacle as described herein comprising a needle driver slot, may comprise a needle driver slot cover configured to slide along a vertical axis  3383  that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis  3384  of the needle driver slot. In the default or “closed” configuration, the cover may be covering the needle driver slot, such that the needles disposed within the secure zone are substantially covered. The cover may be configured to slide up when a needle driver translates along the needle driver slot to secure a needle, and return to the default “closed” configuration when the needle driver exits the needle driver slot. For example, the cover may comprise a mechanism similar to the spring mechanism described with reference to the embodiment of  FIGS.  337 A- 337 D . In this configuration, the needle driver slot cover can compressively push the ends of the needles disposed within the secure zone  3385  downwards into the opposite longitudinal edge of the needle receptacle housing, thereby further securing the needles inside the receptacle. Such a configuration may be particularly useful for the securing of small needles, since small needles may have some freedom of movement even when secured within the secure zone. Compressively pushing the needles downwards against the needle receptacle housing can help ensure that the ends of the needles are contained within the receptacle housing. 
       FIG.  339    illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle  3390  comprising a compressive cover  3391  for the needle driver slot  3392 . The needle driver slot cover can comprise a foam strip  3393  mounted laterally above the needle driver slot. The foam strip may function as a spring member, providing downward compression in the vertical axis  3394  substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis  3395  of the needle driver slot. In the default or “closed” configuration, the foam strip covers the needle driver slot. When a needle driver enters the needle driver slot and begins to translate along the slot, the foam strip may be compressed upwards along the vertical axis to allow the needle driver to translate along the slot. When the needle driver exits the slot, the cover can spring back to the default configuration, compressively pushing the needles  3397  disposed in the receptacle downwards into the opposite longitudinal edge of the receptacle housing. The lower edge of the foam strip may further be lined with a rigid material  3396 , such as a plastic strip, in order to facilitate the application of the downwards compressive force to the needles, particularly when the cover is in contact with and compressively pushing against the tips of the needles. 
       FIGS.  340 A- 340 C  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a needle receptacle  3400  comprising a compressive cover  3401  for the needle driver slot  3402 .  FIG.  340 A  shows an exploded view,  FIG.  340 B  shows an oblique view, and  FIG.  340 C  shows a top view of the needle receptacle. As shown in  FIG.  340 A , the needle receptacle  3400  may comprise a bottom shell or housing  3403  having a planar needle slot  3404  to receive one or more needles N, and an upper cover  3405  coupled to the bottom shell and configured to contain the needles within the planar needle slot. The upper cover may comprise a transparent material to allow a user to view the needles secured within the needle receptacle. The bottom shell may comprise a needle driver slot  3402  to allow translation of the needle driver therein. The bottom shell may further comprise a filleted recess  3406  to receive a first compressive member  3407  such as a foam strip, configured to compress the needle disposed in the planar needle slot against the upper cover to secure the needle within the needle receptacle, as described herein. The bottom shell may further comprise a lead-in chamfer  3408  to guide the needle, grasped by the needle driver, into the plane of the needle slot. Additionally, the bottom shell may comprise a mounting surface  3409  for the compressive needle driver slot cover, the mounting surface comprising an upper longitudinal edge of the needle driver slot. The compressive needle driver slot cover  3401  may comprise a compressive member such as a foam strip  3401   f  mounted to the mounting surface, laterally above the needle driver slot. The foam strip may be lined with a rigid material (e.g., plastic strip  3401   p ) at the bottom edge to further facilitate the application of the downward compressive force to the needle tip. As shown in  FIG.  340 C , the compressive needle driver slot cover can provide downward compressive force CF along a vertical axis substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis  34021  of the needle driver slot, so as to push the needles disposed in the planar needle slot downwards against the opposite longitudinal edge  3403   e  of the bottom shell. In use, the compressive member may be displaced by translation of the needle driver along the needle driver slot, and upon removal of the needle driver compressively push the needles downward against the longitudinal edge of the bottom shell opposite the mounting surface. The configuration as shown in  FIGS.  340 A- 340 C  can further improve safety of the needle receptacle by ensuring that the sharp ends of the needles disposed within the needle receptacle do not protrude through the needle driver slot, and by increasing the needle surface area that is in contact with the first compressive member configured to secure the needle within the needle receptacle. 
       FIGS.  341 A- 341 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a backlit needle receptacle.  FIG.  341 A  shows a needle receptacle  3410   a  that is lit from one longitudinal end of the needle receptacle. The body of the needle receptacle, such as the top and/or bottom shell of the needle receptacle as described herein, may be optically coupled to a light source, such as one or more optical fibers  3411  or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The needle receptacle body  3412  may comprise a light guide, configured to transmit light  3413  from the light source throughout the body of the needle receptacle via total internal reflection. For example, the needle receptacle body may comprise one or more optical grade materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate, or epoxy.  FIG.  341 B  shows a top view and  FIG.  341 C  shows a side view of a needle receptacle  3410   b  that is lit from the bottom side  3414  of the needle receptacle. The bottom side of the bottom shell of the needle receptacle may be optically coupled to a light source, such as one or more LEDs  3415  or optical fibers. The body  3412  of the needle receptacle, such as the top and/or bottom shell, may comprise a light guide configured to transmit light  3416  from the LEDs throughout the needle receptacle body. A backlit needle receptacle as shown in  FIGS.  341 A- 341 C  may help the user visualize the needle receptacle or parts thereof (e.g., needle driver slot), thereby facilitating the securing of needles N within the needle receptacle. In addition, a backlit needle receptacle can facilitate user counting of needles N secured within the receptacle. 
       FIGS.  342 A- 342 E  schematically illustrate various configurations of a needle driver slot of a needle receptacle. As described herein, a needle receptacle may comprise a needle driver slot or groove to allow the translation of a needle driver within the slot while the needle is secured in the needle receptacle. The needle driver slot often comprises an upper groove in a top shell of the needle receptacle and a corresponding lower groove in a bottom shell of the needle receptacle.  FIG.  342 A  shows a needle driver slot configuration wherein the upper groove  3421  and the lower groove  3422  are uniform. The plane of the top shell  3423  may be parallel to the plane of the bottom shell  3424 , and the upper groove and the lower groove may be aligned in position.  FIG.  342 B  shows a needle driver slot configuration wherein the upper groove  3421  has a larger width A than the width B of the lower groove  3422 . Such a configuration can help conform to the shape of the needle driver tip, which often narrows in width at the tip.  FIG.  342 C  shows a needle driver slot configuration wherein the walls of the upper  3421  and lower grooves  3422  are rounded or radiused. The rounded walls  3425  of the upper and lower grooves may help improve the receipt of the needle driver tip within the needle driver slot.  FIG.  342 D  shows a needle driver slot wherein the walls of the upper  3421  and lower grooves  3422  are beveled  3426  to better conform with the dimensions of the needle driver tip.  FIG.  342 E  shows a needle driver slot wherein the walls of the upper  3421  and lower grooves  3422  are curved to form a subsection of a prolonged curving plane, such that the cross-sectional profile of the needle driver slot comprises a curved v-shape  3427 .  FIG.  342 F  shows a needle driver slot wherein the walls of the upper  3421  and lower grooves  3422  are angular and collinear, such that the cross sectional profile of the needle driver slot comprises a v-shape  3428 . The various configurations of the needle driver slot can help improve the conformation of the needle driver slot to the shape of the needle driver tip, thereby facilitating the insertion of the needle driver tip into the needle drive slot and improving the stability of translation of the needle driver tip within the needle driver slot during securement of the needle. 
       FIGS.  343 A- 343 G  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a swaged needle device for dispensing and securing a swaged needle. Swaged needles SN with a running suture S can be used for repeated passage of a needle with the same suture thread in closing an incision. The swaged needle device can be provided in a similar manner as described herein for a suture package and a needle receptacle, for example mounted to a barrier coupled to a forearm of a surgeon. A swaged needle device comprises one or more swaged on needles with an attached running suture, coupled to the device such that the tip or leading end of the needle is rendered innocuous. As shown in  FIGS.  343 A and  343 B , a swaged needle device  3430   a  can comprise a spindle  3431  for the suture to be wrapped around, and an opening  3432  on a top surface  3433  of the device for securing the needle. The spindle may comprise a side wall with a lateral groove and/or lateral borders or protruding edges at the top and bottom edges of the spindle, to securely hold the suture wrapped around the side wall. The swaged needle may be securely coupled to the opening via one of various means such as a magnetic coupling between the needle and the top surface of the device, or a foam member disposed below the top surface and configured to receive the tip of the needle inserted through the opening.  FIGS.  343 C and  343 D  show an oblique view and a side cross-sectional view of a swaged needle device  3430   b  comprising a spindle  3431  and a top container  3434  for the swaged needle SN. The suture S attached to the swaged needle can be wrapped around the spindle, wherein the spindle can be fixed or configured to rotate to dispense the suture. The top container can comprise a recessed region  3435  at the top surface of the device within which the swaged needle may be placed, and a cover  3436  configured to cover the recessed region so as to secure the needle within the recessed region. Preferably, a swaged needle device has a low profile of about 0.3 mm to about 1.5 cm in height H, and a width W or diameter of about 1.5 cm to about 8 cm. 
     A swaged needle device as described herein may be stackable with another swaged needle device. For example, as shown in  FIG.  343 E , the bottom portion  3437  of each swaged needle device  3430  may be configured to nest within the top portion  3438  of another swaged needle device  3430 , such as a recessed region  3435  in the top surface of the device for containing the swaged needle. Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  343 F , the top portion  3438  of each swaged needle device  3430  may be configured to nest within the bottom portion  3437  of another swaged needle device  3430 , such as a recessed region in the bottom surface of the device. In the stacked configuration, the needle SN may be disposed within a nesting region  3439  between two stacked swaged needle devices. In embodiments of the swaged needle device comprising a top container for the needle with a cover  3436 , the cover may also be configured to nest within the nesting region. Two stacked swaged needle devices may be coupled to one another via one or more of a clip, magnetic coupling, velcro, or removable adhesives. Alternatively, a plurality of swaged needle devices may also couple to one another as a side-by-side array, or as overlapping series of spindle devices. In use, a swaged needle device  3430  may be coupled to a forearm barrier  145  as described herein, as shown in  FIG.  343 G . The swaged needle device may be coupled to the barrier via a velcro attachment, magnetic coupling, or a removable adhesive, for example. A surgeon may remove a sterile swaged needle from a swaged needle device, use the needle with the running suture to close an incision, and secure the used needle within the swaged needle device. As shown, a plurality of swaged needle devices may be provided on the barrier, wherein the plurality of swaged needle devices may comprise devices providing swaged needles of different sizes. A swaged needle device may comprise a stack of a plurality of swaged needle devices as described herein. As shown, the barrier may additionally support one or more suture packages  101  containing needles coupled to pop-off sutures, and one or more needle receptacles  331  for securing dispensed/used needles. The barrier may therefore provide a surgeon with an array of suture needle options including swaged and pop-off suture needles, wherein the array can be readily customized to fit a particular surgeon&#39;s needs. To facilitate cutting of running sutures by the surgeon, the barrier may be additionally provided with a suture cutter  457  as described herein. 
     As described herein, a needle receptacle may be coupled to a distal end of a surgical tool, such as forceps, for the securing of needles by a surgeon within the near surgical field without requiring the passing of needles out of the near surgical field. A tool-mounted needle receptacle may be particularly well-suited for the securing of small needles. The tool-mounted needle receptacle can be configured to removably couple to various surgical tools without requiring the use of coupling tools (e.g., screwdrivers). A tool-mounted needle receptacle may be configured to couple to a range of surgical tool sizes, for example via an elastic cap that fits onto the distal ends of tools of various sizes. In use, one or more suture packs containing suture needles with pop-off sutures may be supported by the surgeon on a non-dominant hand, wrist, or arm, as described herein. The tool-mounted needle receptacle may be coupled to the distal end of a tool held by the surgeon with the surgeon&#39;s non-dominant hand. The surgeon may dispense a suture needle from the suture pack, install the suture, and secure the used needle in the tool-mounted needle receptacle, using the surgeon&#39;s dominant hand. Preferably, a tool-mounted needle receptacle is configured to support at least 5 suture needles, in order to accommodate the minimum number of needles provided in a single suture pack. Ideally, a tool-mounted needle receptacle is symmetric for left and right hand use. 
       FIGS.  344 A- 344 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a tool-mounted needle receptacle  3440 .  FIG.  344 A  shows a front view,  FIG.  344 B  shows a rear view, and FIG.  344 C shows an exploded view of the tool-mounted needle receptacle  3440 . The tool-mounted needle receptacle comprises a housing  3441  configured to secure one or more needles N therein, a tool-mounting interface  3442  to couple the housing to a surgical tool, and a coupling mechanism  3443  to couple the housing to the tool-mounting interface. As shown in the exploded view of  FIG.  344 C , the housing can comprise a front shell  3441   a  and a rear shell  3441   b  configured to couple together to form an enclosure for the needles. The front shell may comprise a needle driver slot  3444  configured to allow translation of a needle driver tip therein, as described herein with respect to various embodiments of a needle receptacle comprising a planar needle slot and configured to be supported on a barrier. The housing can further comprise an elastomeric member  3445  also comprising a needle driver slot, coupled to an interior surface of the front shell such that the needle driver slots of the front shell and the elastomeric member are aligned. The elastomeric member may comprise a material such as a silicone, configured to partially cover the needle driver slot of the front shell to reduce the risk of having needle ends exposed through the needle driver slot. The housing can further comprise a rigid backing  3446  and a compressive member  3447  (e.g., a piece of foam) configured to exert a compressive force into the rigid backing when the housing is fully assembled. In use, the needle receptacle may be coupled to a tool held in the non-dominant hand of a user, with the needle driver slot facing the opposite (dominant) hand of the user. A needle driver holding a needle in the mid-body portion of the needle can be placed at the entry zone  3448  of the receptacle and inserted along the needle driver slot, placing the needle in the planar needle slot formed between the compressive member and the backing. The compressive member can compress during translation of the needle driver in the needle driver slot, and when the needle driver exits the needle driver slot, can compressively push the backing into the elastomeric member, thereby securing the needle in the secure zone  3449  within the planar needle slot between the rigid backing and the elastomeric member. The tool-mounted needle receptacle may be mounted on a surgical tool via the tool-mounting interface, which may comprise an elastomeric cap configured to fit onto the distal ends of various tools within a range of sizes. The tool-mounting interface may comprise surface features  3442   f  such as a plurality of protrusions to facilitate gripping and coupling of the tool-mounted needle receptacle to a tool. The rear shell may comprise the coupling mechanism configured to couple the housing the tool-mounting interface, wherein the coupling mechanism may comprise a protrusion configured to engage a corresponding cavity of the tool-mounting interface. One or more components of the housing may comprise a transparent material to allow visualization of needles secured within the receptacle. 
       FIGS.  345 A- 345 D  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a tool-mounted needle receptacle  3450 . As shown in  FIG.  345 A , the tool-mounted needle receptacle  3450  comprises a circular array of cells  3451  each configured to contain a needle N. A needle may be captured between a cover  3452   a  and a compressive member  3452   c  to secure the needle within the cell. Each cell may comprise a needle driver slot  3453  extending radially inwards from the outer edge of the cell, the needle driver slot configured to allow a needle driver holding a needle to be inserted into and translated radially inwards along the needle driver slot to secure the needle in the needle receptacle. As best shown in the exploded view of  FIG.  345 B , the needle receptacle may comprise a cover  3452   a , a compressive member  3452   c , and a backing  3452   d , wherein a needle can be configured to be placed between the compressive member and the cover, such that the compressive member pushes the needle against the cover to secure the needle within the cell. The cover, compressive member, and backing may be coupled together in a fixed alignment to form a rotatable assembly  3452 , wherein the needle driver slots of each component is aligned with the needle driver slots of the other components. For example, the compressive member may be adhesively coupled to the backing, and the compressive member/backing assembly may be coupled to the cover via a central hinge  3452   b  configured to space the cover from the compressive member/backing assembly at a sufficient clearance to accommodate a thickness of a needle. The needle receptacle may further comprise a housing  3454 , wherein the rotatable assembly can be coupled to the housing via the central hinge  3452   b  so as to allow rotation of the rotatable assembly about the central axis  3450   a  of the needle receptacle. The needle receptacle may further comprise a tool-mounting interface  3455  similar to the tool-mounting interface described in reference to the embodiment of  FIGS.  344 A- 344 C . The tool mounting interface may be coupled to the housing via a coupling mechanism  3456 , such as a protrusion  3456   a  of the housing configured to engage a cavity of the tool-mounting interface, with an optional coupling member  3456   b  configured to secure the coupling between the protrusion and the cavity. The cover may comprise a transparent material to allow visualization of needles secured within the needle receptacle. The cover and/or the backing may comprise an elastomeric material to allow for translation of the needle driver along the needle driver slot while keeping the width of the needle driver slot minimal, to decrease the risk that needle ends may be exposed through the needle driver slot. 
     As best seen in the close-up view of  FIG.  345 C , the housing  3454  may comprise a first raised edge  3454   a  extending along its circumference, the first raised edge forming a first circular recess  3454   b  of the housing within which the backing and the compressive member may be nested. The first raised edge may comprise a bevel  3454   c  and a substantially flat portion  3454   d , wherein the substantially flat portion can be configured to be flush with the top surface of the compressive member, and the bevel can be configured to facilitate the insertion of the needle driver in the needle driver slot. The housing may further comprise at least one notch  3454   e  extending radially through the first raised edge, configured to allow insertion of a needle driver tip therethrough. Preferably, the housing comprises two notches disposed opposite from one another across the vertical axis  3450   b  as shown in  FIG.  345 D , wherein one is a left hand notch  3454   e   1  configured to accommodate a left-handed user and the other a right hand notch  3454   er  configured to accommodate a right-handed user. The housing may further comprise a second raised edge  3454   f  protruding from the first raised edge about the periphery of the housing, wherein the cover may be configured to nest within the second circular recess  3454   g  formed by the second raised edge. As best shown in  FIG.  345 D , the second raised edge may have a clearing or break  3454   h  extending on either side of a notch  3454   e , the length of the clearing corresponding to the length of the outer edge of an individual cell. The clearing can help a user identify the cell currently available for access, and facilitate location of the needle driver slot. As shown in  FIG.  345 B , the cover may have a larger diameter than the compressive member and the backing, and accordingly, the second circular recess accommodating the cover may have a larger diameter than the first circular recess accommodating the compressive member/backing assembly. The slightly larger diameter of the cover can help improve safety by preventing a secured needle from potentially escaping the cell through the gap between the compressive member and the first raised edge of the housing. 
     In use, the tool-mounted needle receptacle may be coupled to a tool held in the non-dominant hand of a user with the rotatable assembly facing the opposite (dominant) hand of the user. The notch of the housing may be aligned with a needle driver slot of an unoccupied cell of the rotatable assembly. To secure a needle, the user may align the tip of a needle driver holding the needle with the notch of the housing, and translate the needle driver radially inwards along the needle driver slot to place the needle within the cell, between the compressive member and the cover. The user may then release the needle from the needle driver, and rotate the rotatable assembly to align the notch of the housing with the needle driver slot of the next unoccupied cell in the rotatable assembly. For example, the user may push the needle driver upwards or downwards against the needle driver slot to rotate the rotatable assembly about the central axis via the central hinge. 
     In many embodiments, the present disclosure provides systems and devices for securing one or more needles. The systems devices for securing one or more needles described herein can be used to secure used needles (e.g., serve as a needle receptacle), used to dispense unused needles (e.g., serve as a suture package), or combinations thereof. 
     In many embodiments, the systems and devices provided herein utilize one or more clips to physically secure a needle or other sharp surgical instrument. A clip can include any device used to hold an object at a certain position and/or orientation relative to the clip and/or another object. For example, a clip can be used to hold one or more needles in place within a needle receptacle or suture package so as to prevent the needle(s) from falling out or becoming dislodged. A clip can constrain the movement of the object, e.g., with respect to up to six degrees of freedom of movement such that the object cannot move relative to the clip and/or another object. Optionally, a clip can constrain movement of the object along certain directions while permitting movement along other directions. In many embodiments, a clip is configured to compress an inserted object or portion(s) thereof in order to secure the physically object. The compressive forces can be applied using a spring or other flexible element that is sufficiently compliant to permit insertion of the object into the clip and sufficiently stiff to secure the object in place. 
       FIG.  346    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3460  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3460  can be used to secure used needles, unused needles, or combinations thereof. In many embodiments, the device  3460  includes a plurality of clips  3461  each used to secure a respective needle  3462 . Each clip  3461  includes a first arm portion  3463   a  and a second arm portion  3463   b  joined to each other via a base portion  3464 . The first arm portion  3463   a  and second arm portion  3463   b  can each include a respective slot  3465   a ,  3465   b  shaped to receive a respective portion of an inserted needle  3462 . The first and second arm portions  3463   a ,  3463   b  can be arranged such that when the needle  3462  is inserted into the clip  343   a , the ends of the needle  3462  are securely enclosed within the slots  3465   a ,  3465   b  of the first and second portions  3463   a ,  3463   b . Accordingly, when the needle  3462  is placed within the clip  3461 , there are no exposed ends that could potentially injure a user. The clip  3461  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle  3462  within the slots  3465   a ,  3465   b  in order to secure the needle  3462  in place. 
     Optionally, the first arm portion  3463   a  and second arm portion  3463   b  can be spaced apart from each other so as to form a gap  3466  between the first and second arm portions  3463   a ,  3463   b , such that a middle portion of the needle  3462  is exposed. In such embodiments, the received needle  3462  is secured only at its ends and not at its middle portion. The size of the gap  3466  can be selected based on geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3462  in order to ensure that the ends of the needle  3462  will not protrude from the first and second arm portions  3463   a ,  3463   b . The gap  3466  can be used to accommodate the tip of a needle driver or other instrument for inserting the needle  3462  into the clip  3461  and/or removing the needle  3462  from the clip  3461 . 
     The device  3460  can include any suitable number of clips, such as one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more clips. The clips can be arranged in a linear array along a longitudinal axis of the device  3460  so as to form a rack of clips. The plurality of clips can be integrally formed with each other so as to form a single continuous device. Alternatively, the clips can be removably coupled so as to permit adjustments to the size of the device  3460 . 
       FIGS.  347 A- 347 D  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3470  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  347 A  illustrates a top view,  FIG.  347 B  illustrates a side view,  FIG.  347 C  illustrates a front view, and  FIG.  347 D  illustrates a back view. The device  3470  includes a plurality of clips  3471  arranged in a linear array and each used to secure a respective needle  3472 . The clips  3471  of the device  3470  can be similar to the clips  3432  of the device  3430 . 
     In many embodiments, the device  3470  is used to dispense unused needles as well as secure used needles, without requiring distinctly separate sections for each needle type. Used and unused needles can be differentiated from each other based their orientation within the device  3470 . For example, an unused needle  3473  can be positioned within the device  3470  in a “concave down” configuration with the ends of the needle  3473  pointing downwards, as shown in  FIG.  347 D . This configuration can facilitate grasping of the exposed arched middle portion of the needle  3473  by a needle driver. A used needle  3474  can be positioned in the device  3470  in a “concave up” configuration with the ends of the needle  3474  pointing upwards, as shown in  FIG.  347 C . Unused needles  3473  can be dispensed from clips at the back section  3475  of the device  3470 , while used needles  3474  can be secured using clips at the front section  3476  of the device  3470 , or vice-versa. Optionally, the back section of the device  3470  can be closed, e.g., by a back wall  3477 . 
       FIGS.  348 A-B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3480  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  348 A  illustrates a top view and  FIG.  348 B  illustrates a cross-sectional side view. Each needle  3481  is secured by a respective clip assembly  3482  including a first clip  3483   a  and a second clip  3483   b . The first clip  3483   a  and second clip  3483   b  each include a respective slot  3484   a ,  3484   b  shaped to receive a respective end of the needle  3481 . The clips  3483   a ,  3483   b  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle  3481  within the slots  3484   a ,  3484   b  in order to secure the needle  3432  in place without any exposed ends. The first clip  3483   a  and second clip  3483   b  are arranged with the openings of the slots  3484   a ,  3484   b  facing each other such that the needle  3481  can be inserted into the clip assembly  3482  along a direction substantially parallel to the plane of the device  3480 . 
     Optionally, the first clip  3483   a  and second clip  3483   b  can be spaced apart from each other so as to form a gap  3485  between the first and second clips  3483   a ,  3483   b , such that a middle portion of the needle  3481  is exposed. In such embodiments, the received needle  3481  is secured only at its ends and not at its middle portion. The size of the gap  3485  can be selected based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3481  in order to ensure that the ends of the needle  3481  will not protrude from the first and second clips  3483   a ,  3483   b.    
     By providing a plurality of such clip assemblies, the device  3480  can be used to hold a plurality of needles in a planar array. The device  3480  can include any suitable number of clip assemblies, such as one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more clip assemblies. The clip assemblies can be arranged in a linear array along a longitudinal axis of the device  3481  so as to form a rack of clip assemblies. The plurality of clip assemblies can be integrally formed with each other so as to form a single continuous device. Alternatively, the clip assemblies can be removably coupled so as to permit adjustments to the size of the device  3480 . 
       FIGS.  349 A-B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3490  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  349 A  illustrates an oblique top view and  FIG.  349 B  illustrates a cross-sectional side view. The device  3490  includes a housing  3491  defining an elongate slot  3492  for receiving and securing one or more needles  3493 . The slot  3492  includes a first slot portion  3494   a  and a second slot portion  3494   b  shaped to receive respective portions (e.g., ends) of the needle  3493 . The portions of the housing  3491  surrounding the first and second slot portions  3494   a ,  3494   b  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force to the ends of the needle  3493 , such that the housing  3491  itself serves as a “clip” for physically securing the needle  3493 . Optionally, in embodiments where the needle  3493  is carrying a suture, the trailing portion of the suture  3497  can also be received within the housing  3491 , or carried within a flexible multislot tube or ribbon coupled to the housing  3491 . 
     In many embodiments, the slot  3492  extends to the upper surface of the housing  3491  so as to define an elongate opening  3495  is formed along the length of the housing  3491 . Optionally, the slot  3492  can extend below the plane of the needle  3493  towards the bottom surface of the housing  3491 . As can be seen in  FIG.  349 B , the positioning of the opening  3495  results in the needle  3493  being secured within the housing  3491  by its ends, while the middle portion of the needle  3493  is exposed. The geometry of the slot  3492  permits insertion of a needle driver tip into the housing  3491  in order to grasp the exposed middle portion of the needle  3493 , e.g., to remove an unused needle or to insert a used needle. For example, a used needle can be secured by aligning the needle and needle driver with the slot  3492 , sliding the needle into the slot  3492  along the direction indicated by arrow  3496 , then releasing the needle from the needle driver when the desired position has been reached. As another example, an unused needle can be removed from the device  3490  by inserting the tip of the needle driver into the opening  3495 , grasping the exposed middle portion of the needle with the needle driver, then sliding the needle within the slot  3492  along the direction indicated by the arrow  3496  and out of the housing  3491 . Advantageously, this embodiment permits securing and/or dispensing of needles without opening or closing the housing  3491 , thus improving ease of use. 
       FIGS.  350 A-B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3500  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  350 A  illustrates a top view and  FIG.  350 B  illustrates a side view. The device  3500  includes a u-shaped housing  3501  including a first arm portion  3502   a  and a second arm portion  3502   b . Each arm portion includes a slot  3503  extending along the length of the arm portion. The first and second arm portions  3502   a ,  3502   b  can be arranged such that when a needle  3504  is inserted into the housing  3501 , the ends of the needle  3504  are securely enclosed within the slots  3503  of the first and second arm portions  3502   a ,  3502   b . The arm portions  3502   a ,  3502   b  of the housing  3501  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle  3504  within the slots  3503  in order to secure the needle  3503  in place. Alternatively or in combination, each arm portion can include a lining  3505  formed from a deformable material (e.g., foam, silicone rubber, composites) to facilitate retention of the needle  3503  within the slot. The lining  3505  can be located on the upper interior surface  3506   a  of the arm portion, the lower interior surface  3506   b  of the arm portion, or on both surfaces. 
     In many embodiments, the first arm portion  3502   a  and second arm portion  3502   b  can be spaced apart from each other so as to form a gap  3507  between the first and second arm portions  3502   a ,  3502   b , such that a middle portion of the needle  3504  is exposed. In such embodiments, the received needle  3504  is secured only at its ends and not at its middle portion. The size of the gap  3507  can be selected based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3504  in order to ensure that the ends of the needle  3504  will not protrude from the first and second arm portions  3502   a ,  3502   b . The gap  3507  can be shaped to accommodate insertion of a needle driver tip into the gap  3507 , e.g., in order to grasp the exposed middle portion of the needle  3504 . For example, the needle driver can be used to deposit a used needle into the device  3500 , e.g., by aligning and sliding the needle along the slot  3503  from, the back portion  3508   a  of the housing  3501  towards the front portion  3508   b  of the device  3501 . Optionally, the housing  3501  can be closed at the front portion  3508   b  so as to “trap” the received needles within the housing  3501 . 
       FIGS.  351 A-C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3510  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  351 A  illustrates a top view,  FIG.  351 B  illustrates a side view, and  FIG.  351 C  illustrates a front view. The device  3510  includes a housing  3511  including an upper wall  3512  and a lower wall  3513  movably coupled to each other by a hinge member  3514 . The upper and lower walls  3512 ,  3513  may be movable relative to each other, e.g., along the direction indicated by arrow  3518 . The space between the upper wall  3512  and lower wall  3513  forms an elongate slot  3515  for receiving one or more needles  3516 . The hinge member  3514  can be spring-loaded to bias the upper wall  3512  and lower wall  3513  towards each other such that the inserted needle  3516  is secured within the slot  3515  by the compressive forces exerted by the upper wall  3512  and lower wall  3513 . 
     In many embodiments, the housing  3511  includes lateral walls  3517  arranged to capture and enclose the ends of the needle  3516  when the needle  3516  is received within the slot  3515 . In the depicted embodiment, the lateral walls  3517  are joined to the upper wall  3512  such that the lower wall  3513  is positioned between the lateral walls  3517 . In alternative embodiments, the lateral walls  3517  can joined to the lower wall  3513 , and the upper wall can be positioned between the lateral walls  3517 . 
     In many embodiments, the upper wall  3512  includes an opening  3519  connected to the slot  3515  such that a middle portion of the inserted needle  3516  is exposed. In such embodiments, the received needle  3516  is secured only at its ends and not at its middle portion. The gap  3519  can be shaped to accommodate insertion of a needle driver tip into the gap  3519 , e.g., while grasping the exposed middle portion of the needle  3516  in order to insert and/or remove the needle  3516  from the device  3510 . 
       FIGS.  352 A-C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3520  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  352 A  illustrates a top view and  FIG.  352 B  illustrates a side view. The device  3520  includes a plurality of clips  3521  each used to secure a respective needle. Each clip  3521  can be u-shaped with a first arm portion  3522   a  and a second arm portion  3522   b , and the arm portions can each include a slot  3523  shaped to receive a respective end of an inserted needle  3524 . The first and second arm portions  3522   a ,  3522   b  can be arranged such that when the needle  3524  is inserted into the clip  3521 , the ends of the needle  3524  are securely enclosed within the slots  3523  of the first and second arm portions  3522   a ,  3522   b . The clip  3521  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle  3524  within the slot  3523  in order to secure the needle  3524  in place without any exposed ends. Similar to other embodiments herein, the arm portions  3522   a ,  3522   b  can be spaced apart to form a gap  3525 , such that the middle portion of the needle  3524  is exposed. In such embodiments, the received needle  3524  is secured only at its ends and not at its middle portion. The size of the gap  3525  can be selected based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3524  in order to ensure that the ends of the needle  3525  will not protrude from the clip  3521 . The gap  3525  can be used to facilitate insertion of the needle  3524  into the clip  3521  and/or dispensing of the needle  3524  from the clip  3521  using a needle driver or other instrument. 
     Each clip  3521  permits insertion of a needle  3524  along a horizontal orientation. Horizontal may be used herein to refer to an orientation in which the plane of the slot of the clip is aligned with and/or substantially parallel to the ground, such that the needle is inserted along a direction aligned with and/or substantially parallel to the ground (e.g., as indicated by arrow  3526 ). A device configured for horizontal needle insertion may in some instances be safer than devices configured for insertion along other directions (e.g., vertical direction), and may also provide a lower profile for securing a plurality of needles. 
     In many embodiments, the plurality of clips  3521  of the device  3520  are configured to be stacked with each other.  FIG.  352 C  illustrates exemplary configurations of the device  3520  in which a plurality of clips are stacked together. Any suitable number of clips may be stacked together, such as two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more clips. The clips may be vertically stacked such that each clip is located at a different height along the device  3520 . The planes of the slots of each clip can be substantially parallel to each other such that each needle is inserted along a horizontal orientation. The heights of the clips can be offset along the vertical direction to enable a clear path to insertion of the needle and to accommodate the needle driver tip. In many embodiments, when stacked, the gaps  3525  of the clips  3521  are aligned with each other so that the needle driver tip has an unobstructed path to each clip. 
     The stackable clips  3521  of the device  3520  can be removably coupled to each other, e.g., using snap fits, interference fits, interlocking structures, and the like. In embodiments where removably coupled clips are used, the number of clips in the device  3520  can be varied as desired by removing or adding clips in order to accommodate a corresponding number of needles. Alternatively, the clips  3521  of the device  3520  can be permanently affixed to each other in a stacked configuration, e.g., using adhesives, fasteners, and the like, or by being integrally formed with each other. 
       FIG.  353    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a clip assembly  3530  for securing a needle  3531 , in accordance with many embodiments. The clip assembly  3530  can include a first clip  3532  and a second clip  3533 . Each clip can include a front outer side  3534   a , a back outer side  3534   b , a front inner side  3535   a , and a back inner side  3535   b . As used herein, “front” and “back” may be defined relative to the insertion direction  3536  for the needle  3531 , while “inner” and “outer” may be used to refer to portions closer to and away from the needle  3531 , respectively. In many embodiments, the inner sides  3535   a ,  3535   b  of each clip  3532 ,  3533  are open so as to define a slot in the interior of the respective clip for receiving a respective end of the needle  3531 . The outer sides  3534   a ,  3534   b  of each clip  3532 ,  3533  can be closed so as to enclose the ends of the needle  3531  within the respective clip. The clips  3532 ,  3533  can be spaced apart from each other by a certain amount so as to accommodate the tip of a needle driver  3537  between the clips  3532 ,  3533 . Similar to other embodiments herein, the needle driver  3537  can be used to grasp the middle portion of the needle  3531  in order to insert it into the clip assembly  3530  along the insertion direction  3536 . When inserted, the ends of the needle  3531  are enclosed within the clips  3532 ,  3533 , while the middle portion of the needle  3531  is exposed. 
     In many embodiments, the clips  3532 ,  3533  are each oriented at an oblique angle relative to the insertion direction  3536  for the needle  3531 , such that the sides  3534   a ,  3534   b ,  3535   a ,  3535   b  of each clip  3532 ,  3533  are not parallel or orthogonal to the insertion direction  3536 . The oblique angle can be selected based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3531  such that when the needle  3531  is inserted along the insertion direction  3536  convex side first, as illustrated in  FIG.  353   , the front outer sides  3534   a  of the clips  3532 ,  3533  act as a stop to catch and constrain the ends of the needle  3531 . Accordingly, it can be seen that the orientation of the clips  3532 ,  3533  determine the extent to which the needle  3531  can be moved along the insertion direction  3536 . 
       FIGS.  354 A-G  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3540  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  354 A  illustrates a top view of the device  3540 . The device  3540  includes a housing  3541  including a upper wall  3542  and a lower wall  3543 . The upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  can be integrally formed with each other. Alternatively, the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  can be provided as discrete components that are removably or non-removably coupled to each other. A slot  3544  is formed between the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  such that one or more needles can be received between the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543 . The slot  3544  can extend through the upper wall  3542  of the housing  3541  such that an elongate opening  3545   a  is formed in the upper wall  3542 . Alternatively or in combination, the slot  3544  can extend through the lower wall  3543  of the housing  3543  so as to form an elongate opening  3545   b  in the lower wall  3543 . Similar to the other embodiments presented herein, the elongate opening  3545   a  and/or elongate opening  3545   b  can be shaped to accommodate a needle driver such that a needle can be inserted into the device  3540  by grasping the middle portion of the needle with the needle driver, then sliding the needle through the slot  3544  along the direction indicated by arrow  3546 . The ends of the inserted needle are secured between the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543 , while the middle portion of the needle is exposed via the opening  3545  and/or opening  3546 . The front end of the device  3540  can be closed so as to constrain the extent of movement of the needle along the insertion direction  3546 . 
     In many embodiments, the upper wall  3542  includes a plurality of slits or fenestrations  3547 . Alternatively or in combination, the plurality of fenestrations can be formed in the lower wall  3543 . The fenestrations  3547  can be arranged substantially parallel to each other along the longitudinal axis of the device  3540 . The spacing between fenestrations  3547  can be used to modulate the overall stiffness of the upper wall  3542  and/or lower wall  3543 . For example, widely spaced fenestrations may result in a higher stiffness, while closely spaced fenestrations may result in a lower stiffness. The portions of the upper wall  3542  and/or lower wall  3543  between each adjacent pair of fenestrations can be considered to act as an individual “clip” for securing a respective needle. Accordingly, the plurality of fenestrations  3547  can be used to define a linear array of “clips” for securing a plurality of needles within the device  3540 . 
     The upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle within the slot  3544  in order to secure the needle in place. Accordingly, the lateral portions  3548  of the housing  3541  joining the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  can act as a spring-loaded hinge that biases the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  towards each other. The design of the lateral hinge portion  3548  can be used to tune compressive forces applied to the received needle. For example, as illustrated in  FIG.  354 C , the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  can be biased toward each other such that the height A of the slot  3544  at portions away from the opening  3545  and/or opening  3546  can be greater than the height B of the slot  3544  at portions near the opening  3546  and/or opening  3546 . Optionally, as illustrated in  FIG.  354 D , the inner surface of the upper wall  3542  and/or the inner surface of the lower wall  3543  can include a lining  3549  formed from a deformable material (e.g., foam, silicone rubber, composites) to further facilitate retention of the needle within the slot. 
     In many embodiments, the interior surfaces of the upper wall  3542  and lower wall  3543  are arranged substantially parallel to each other, as illustrated in  FIG.  354 E . This arrangement can produce a substantially constant resistance as the needle is advanced along the insertion direction. In alternative embodiments, the interior surfaces can be arranged at an angle relative to each other, as illustrated in  FIGS.  354 F and  354 G , so as to form a linear array of “clips” with beveled edges. This arrangement can produce a linear increase in resistance as the needle is advanced along the insertion direction within a single “clip,” followed by a drop in resistance as the needle exits one “clip” and enters the next “clip.” This variable resistance can provide tactile feedback that allows the user to determine when the next “clip” has been reached, e.g., for more accurate positioning of the needle within the device  3540 . 
       FIGS.  355 A-B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3550  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3550  includes a housing  3551  including a upper wall  3552  and a lower wall  3553 . The upper wall  3552  and lower wall  3513  can be integrally formed with each other. Alternatively, the upper wall  3552  and lower wall  3553  can be provided as discrete components that are removably or non-removably coupled to each other. A slot  3554  is formed between the upper wall  3552  and lower wall  3553  such that one or more needles can be received between the upper wall  3552  and lower wall  3553 . The slot  3554  can extend through the upper wall  3552  of the housing  3551  such that an elongate opening  3555  is formed in the upper wall  3512 . Similar to the other embodiments presented herein, the elongate opening  3555  can be shaped to accommodate a needle driver such that a needle can be inserted into the device  3550  by grasping the middle portion of the needle with the needle driver, then sliding the needle through the slot  3554  along the direction indicated by arrow  3556 . The ends of the inserted needle are secured between the upper wall  3552  and lower wall  3553 , while the middle portion of the needle is exposed via the opening  3555 . The front end of the device  3550  can be closed so as to constrain the extent of movement of the needle along the insertion direction  3556 . 
     The upper wall  3552  and lower wall  3553  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle within the slot  3554  in order to secure the needle in place. In many embodiments, one or more fenestrations or slits  3557  are formed in the upper wall  3552  so as to define a corresponding one or more tabs  3558  in the upper wall  3552 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  355 A , a pair of u-shaped slits  3557  are formed in the upper wall  3552  on either side of the elongate opening  3555  so as to define a pair of elongate tabs  3558  in the upper wall  3552  on either side of the elongate opening  3555 . The longitudinal axis of the elongate tabs  3558  can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the device  3550 . The hinge portion  3559  of each tab  3558  can be located near the front end of the device  3550 . Optionally, as illustrated in  FIG.  355 B  (middle), the tab  3558  can be biased inwards relative to the surrounding portions of the upper wall  3552  so as to apply compressive forces to the received needle(s). Additionally, as illustrated in  FIG.  355 B  (bottom), the inner surface of the tab  3558  and/or the lower wall  3553  can include a lining  3559  formed from a deformable material (e.g., foam, silicone rubber, composites) to further facilitate retention of the needle within the slot  3554 . 
     Alternatively or in addition to the use of clips, the systems and devices described herein can use other mechanisms to physically secure one or more needles. For example, deformable materials such as foam can be used to entangle the end(s) of a needle in order to render it innocuous. Entanglement can occur when the needle is pierced or tacked into the deformable material. The deformable material can encapsulate the needle end so as to protect the user from injury due to needle sticks, etc. Additionally, once entangled by the deformable material, the movement of the needle may be constrained so as to reduce the risk of the needle becoming loosened or dislodged. As another example, adhesive materials can be used to physically secure one or more needles within a device. The adhesive materials can be used to cover and/or encase the needle so as to constrain its movement, as well as to encase the ends of the needle to render them innocuous. 
       FIG.  356    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3560  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3560  may be similar to the devices  3470  and  3480  previously discussed herein. The device  3560  includes a housing  3561  including an upper wall  3562  and a lower wall  3563 . The space between the upper wall  3562  and lower wall  3563  forms an elongate slot  3564  for receiving and securing the ends of one or more needles  3565 . The upper wall  3562  includes an opening  3566  connected to the slot  3565  such that a middle portion of the inserted needle  3565  is exposed. In such embodiments, the received needle  3565  is secured only at its ends and not at its middle portion. The opening  3566  can be shaped to accommodate insertion of a needle driver tip into the opening  3566 , e.g., while grasping the exposed middle portion of the needle  3565  in order to insert and/or remove the needle  3565  from the device  3560 . 
     In many embodiments, the housing  3561  includes lateral walls  3566  arranged to capture and enclose the ends of the needle  3566  when the needle  3566  is received within the slot  3565 . In the depicted embodiment, the lateral walls  3567  are joined to the upper wall  3562  such that the lower wall  3563  is positioned between the lateral walls  3567 . In alternative embodiments, the lateral walls  3567  can joined to the lower wall  3563 , and the upper wall can be positioned between the lateral walls  3567 . 
     In many embodiments, the upper wall  3562  and lower wall  3562  can be formed from and/or include spring materials that apply compressive force against the ends of the needle  3565  within the slot  3564  in order to secure the needle  3565  in place. Alternatively or in combination, the device  3560  can include a pair of elongate blocks  3566   a ,  3566   b  formed from foam or any other deformable material suitable for entangling the ends of the needle  3565  as it is inserted into the slot  3564 . The blocks  3566   a ,  3566   b  can be formed from the same material or from different materials. The blocks  3566   a ,  3566   b  can be positioned between the upper wall  3562  and lower wall  3563  and be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the device  3560 . The distance between the blocks  3566   a ,  3566   b  can be determined based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3565  so as to be sufficiently far apart to allow the needle  3565  to be advanced within the slot  3564  in a convex-first orientation, while also being sufficiently close together to cause deformation of the foam by the ends of the needle  3565  as the ends are positioned within the outer limits of the blocks  3566   a ,  3566   b . In many embodiments, the foam can be used to retain the needle  3565  within the device  3560  through one or more of the following mechanisms: deformation of the foam by the needle ends, piercing of the foam by the needle ends, entanglement and/or entrapment of the needle ends within the foam, or indirect tacking of the needle ends within the foam (e.g., tacking that occurs when the needle ends are drawn across the foam substantially in an orthogonal relationship relative to the surfaces of the foam blocks). For example, advancing the needle  3565  within the slot  3564  in an convex-first orientation may result first in deformation of the foam, followed by a passive piercing of the foam as a secondary effect. In many embodiments, the amount of force to remove an inserted needle  3565  from within the device  3560  is greater than the amount of force to introduce the needle into the device  3560 . 
       FIGS.  357 A-C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3570  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3570  includes an upper u-shaped compression element  3571  and a lower u-shaped compression element  3572 . Each compression element includes a respective first arm portion  3573   a  and second arm portion  3573   b . A slot  3574  is formed in each arm portion between the upper compression element  3571  and lower compression element  3572  and shaped to receive a corresponding portion of an inserted needle  3575 . In many embodiments, the first arm portion  3573   a  and second arm portion  3573   b  are spaced apart by a gap  3576 , such that a middle portion of the inserted needle  3575  is exposed. The gap  3576  can be shaped to accommodate insertion of a needle driver tip into the gap  3576 , e.g., while grasping the exposed middle portion of the needle  3575  in order to insert and/or remove the needle  3575  from the device  3570 . In many embodiments, the upper and lower compression elements  3571 ,  3572  form a clip that exerts compressive forces on the received needle  3575  in order to secure it in place. In alternative embodiments, the upper and lower compression elements  3571 ,  3572  are passive elements that do not exert compressive forces on the needle  3575 . 
     In many embodiments, the upper and lower compression elements  3571 ,  3572  are shaped based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3574  such that when the needle  3574  is inserted into the device  3570 , the ends of the needle  3574  protrude outward from the outer edges of the compression elements  3571 ,  3572 . The exposed ends of the needle  3574  can be rendered innocuous through the use of adhesive casings  3577 . The adhesive casings  3577  can be attached to the outer edges of the first and second arm portions  3573   a ,  3573   b  spanning the “boundary zone” where the exposed needle ends are located. In many embodiments, the adhesive casing  3577  can be connected to both the upper compression element  3571  and lower compression elements  3572  so as to enclose the exposed needle ends, as illustrated in  FIG.  357 B . Once the needle  3574  is advanced into the device  3570 , the upper portion  3578   a  and lower portion  3578   b  of the adhesive casing  3577  can be pressed together so as to physically secure the needle ends and thereby render the needle  3574  innocuous, as illustrated in  FIG.  357 C . The adhesive bonds can be sufficiently strong such that the upper and lower portions  3578   a ,  3578   b  of the adhesive casing  3577  and needle  3574  cannot be easily separated from each other once adhesively secured. 
       FIG.  358    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3580  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3580  includes a an lower surface  3581  having a plurality of lower adhesive panels  3582  and an upper surface  3583  having a plurality of upper adhesive panels  3584 . The size and shape of each adhesive panel can be configured to span the entirety of a needle  3585  placed on the panel such that the ends of the needle  3585  do not extend past the boundary of the panel. In many embodiments, the adhesive panel includes and/or is formed from an adhesive material capable of physically securing the needle  3585  when the needle  3585  is placed on the panel. Optionally, light pressure may be applied to the needle  3585  in order to ensure tight adhesion to the panel. In many embodiments, the needle  3585  is first placed on the lower adhesive panel  3582 . The corresponding upper adhesive panel  3584  is then folded along crease  3586  in order to enclose the needle  3585  and render it innocuous. The upper adhesive panels  3584  can be separated from each other by cuts  3587  so as to permit each upper adhesive panel  3584  to be folded down independently. The adhesive bonds can be sufficiently strong such that the lower adhesive panel  3582 , upper adhesive panel  3584 , and needle  3585  cannot be easily separated from each other once adhesively secured. Additionally, the adhesive panels can be formed from a material with sufficient strength and/or thickness such that the sharp end of the enclosed needle  3585  cannot pierce through the panels. 
       FIG.  359    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3590  for securing a needle  3591 , in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3590  includes a foam block or capsule  3592  and a clip  3593 . In order to secure the needle  3591 , the sharp leading end of the needle  3591  is pierced or tacked into the foam block  3592 . Optionally, the foam block  3592  can include a protective outer shell to prevent the sharp end from piercing through the surface of the foam block  3592  and becoming exposed. The clip  3593  is then used to secure the blunt trailing end of the needle  3591 . Accordingly, both ends of the needle  3591  are rendered innocuous. 
       FIGS.  360 A-C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3600  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3600  includes a rack  3601  with a plurality of receptacles for holding a corresponding plurality of foam blocks or capsules  3602 . A needle  3603  can be rendered innocuous by piercing or tacking the sharp leading end into the foam block  3602 . Each block  3602  can optionally include a protective outer shell configured to prevent the sharp end from piercing through the surface of the foam block  3562  and becoming exposed. The user (e.g., a surgeon) can then hand the entire rack  3601  with the secured needle(s) to a second user (e.g., a scrub tech), such that the second user does not need to handle each needle individually, thus reducing the risk of needle sticks or other injuries during the handover. 
     In many embodiments, each foam block  3602  also includes a tail  3604  at the end of the block  3602  away from the end where the needle  3603  is inserted. Alternatively, the user can tack each needle  3603  into the foam block  3602  using a needle driver  3604 . The tail  3604  can enable handling of the secured needle without requiring the user to directly touch the needle itself, thereby improving safety. For example, a user (e.g., a surgeon) can tack the needle  3603  into the foam block  3602  using a needle driver  3605 , and a second user (e.g., a scrub tech) can handle the secured needle  3603  using the tail  3604 . Optionally, the tail  3604  can be used to hang the secured needle  3603  onto a wall or other surface  3606 , as shown in  FIG.  360 C , e.g., to facilitate counting of the needles during or after the surgical procedure in order to ensure that all needles are accounted for. 
     The device  3600  can be used to secure only the sharp leading end of the needle  3603  via the foam block  3602  without also securing the blunt trailing end of the needle  3603 . While an unsecured trailing end may be hazardous within the surgical field due to the potential for ripping gloves, catching on surgical garments, etc., it may not be necessary to secure the trailing end in the embodiments where the needle  3603  is immediately transferred to a scrub tech outside of the near surgical field. In alternative embodiments, the embodiment of  FIGS.  360 A-C  may further involve securing the trailing end of the needle  3603  with a clip, similar to the device  3560 , such that both ends of the needle  3603  are rendered innocuous. 
       FIG.  361 A  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3610   a  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3610   a  includes a housing  3611  enclosing a foam core  3612 . The foam core  3612  can be affixed to the housing  3611  in a fixed position and orientation via a tab or other fastener  3613  passing through the foam core  3612 . The housing  3611  includes a curved slot  3614  defining an insertion path for one or more needles  3615 . The geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the curved slot  3614  can be determined based on the geometry (e.g., length and/or curvature) of the needle  3615  so as to permit insertion of the needle  3615  into the interior space within the housing  3611 . In many embodiments, a needle  3615  is rendered innocuous using the device  3610   a  according to the following procedure. First, the sharp leading end of the needle  3615  is inserted into the housing  3611  via the slot  3614  along an insertion trajectory such that the sharp end of the needle is away from the foam core  3612 . The needle  3615  is then rotated to tack or pierce the needle into the foam core  3612 , thus physically securing the needle within the device  3610   a . Optionally, one or more tabs  3616  can be positioned in the interior of the housing  3611  in order to constrain and guide the movement of the needle  3615  within the housing  3611 . This procedure can be repeated with a plurality of needles in order to secure multiple needles within the device  3610   a.    
       FIG.  361 B  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3610   b  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The components of the device  3610   b  are similar to those of the device  3610   a , with the exception that the device  3610   b  includes a foam core  3617  coupled to the housing  3611  via a rotational tab or other rotational fastener  3618  permitting rotation of the foam core  3617  relative to the housing  3611 . In many embodiments, a needle  3615  is rendered innocuous using the device  3610   b  according to the following procedure. First, the sharp leading end of the needle  3615  is inserted into the housing  3611  via the slot  3614  along an insertion trajectory such that the sharp end of the needle  3615  is tacked or pierced into the foam core  3617 . The foam core  3617  is then rotated by pushing the needle  3615  (e.g., using a needle driver or other instrument) along the direction indicated by arrow  3619  so as to move the needle  3615  to the rear of the housing  3611 , thus making room for additional needles to be inserted. 
       FIGS.  362 A- 362 D  illustrate an embodiment of a needle receptacle  3620  with a rotatable cover  3621 . The needle receptacle may comprise a circular housing  3622  with a plurality of cells or compartments  3623  for storing individual needles N. Each compartment may comprise curvilinear walls  3624  separating the compartment from adjacent compartments, wherein a needle may be placed within each compartment with the curvature of the needle substantially aligned with the curvature of the curvilinear walls, thus maximizing the number of compartments available on the needle receptacle. Each compartment may optionally further comprise a magnetic or adhesive base  3625  to securely couple the needle to the base of the compartment. The needle receptacle may further comprise a circular cover  3621  configured to couple to the housing via rotatable central hinge  3626 . The cover may comprise a window  3627  that can be aligned with a single compartment to allow access to the compartment. The window may be formed by curvilinear walls configured to substantially align with the curvilinear walls of the housing compartments. The cover may be rotated about the central axis  3620   a  of the needle receptacle to enclose a needle within a compartment, and to expose an adjacent unoccupied compartment for the securing of the next needle. As shown in  FIGS.  362 B and  362 C , the window may be formed with beveled edges  3628  of the cover to cause a needle to lay flat when cover is rotated to align the window with the next compartment. For example, the edges of the curvilinear walls of the cover defining the window may be beveled such that the top or exterior surface  3621   a  of the cover extends over the bottom or interior surface  3621   b  of the cover. The cover and the housing may be configured to provide a clearance between the bottom surface of the cover and the base of the compartment that is close to the thickness of the needle. Optionally, as shown in  FIG.  362 D , the housing may further comprise a core  3629  at the center comprising a foam material, such that a needle placed inside a compartment may be further secured by tacking an end thereof into the foam core. In use, a user may place a needle inside an empty compartment with the window aligned over the compartment, then rotate the cover to align the window over another empty compartment. A user may rotate the cover by grabbing the edges of the cover with the fingers, or by pushing a needle driver tip against an edge of the window. 
       FIG.  363    illustrates another embodiment of a needle receptacle  3630  with a rotatable cover  3631 . The needle receptacle of  FIG.  363    may be similar in many aspects to the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  362 A- 362 D . For example, the needle receptacle may comprise a circular housing  3632  with a plurality of compartments  3633 , and a circular cover  3631  coupled to the housing having a window  3634  with similar dimensions as a single compartment, optionally having beveled edges  3637 . The rotating cover may comprise a plurality of tabs  3635  coupled to the outer edge of the cover, to facilitate rotation of the cover by a user. The housing may further comprise an outer border  3636  comprising a foam material, coupled to the internal surface of the outer wall of each compartment. A needle N placed inside a compartment may be further secured by tacking an end thereof into the foam border. 
       FIG.  364    illustrates another embodiment of a needle receptacle  3640  with a rotatable cover  3641 . The needle receptacle of  FIG.  364    may be similar in many aspects to the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  362 A- 362 D  and  FIG.  363   . For example, the needle receptacle may comprise a circular housing  3642  coupled to a rotatable cover  3641  having a window  3643  to allow access to the housing. The housing may comprise a landing zone  3644  configured to receive and securely couple to a needle. For example, the landing zone may comprise a magnetic surface or an adhesive surface. The walls of the window may be oriented for placement of a needle in any orientation with respect to the compartment of the housing. The cover may be configured to rotate in either direction about the central axis  3640   a  of the needle receptacle. The window may comprise beveled edges  3645  as described in reference to  FIGS.  362 A- 362 D , wherein the beveled edges can cause a needle placed in a non-planar orientation to lay flat when the cover is rotated. 
       FIGS.  365 A- 365 D  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a swaged needle device  3650  for dispensing and securing a swaged needle SN, comprising a rotatable cover  3651 . The swaged needle device comprises a circular housing  3652  coupled to a rotatable cover  3651 , wherein the housing comprises a plurality of compartments  3653  and the cover comprises a window  3654  configured to provide access to a single compartment. The housing and the rotatable cover may be similar in many aspects to the housing and rotatable cover as described in reference to  FIGS.  362 A- 362 D . For example, each compartment may comprise spiral or curvilinear walls separating the compartment from adjacent compartments, and the window may be sized and shaped to be similarly to a compartment. The window may comprise beveled edges  3655  to cause a needle SN placed within a compartment to lay flat when the rotatable cover is rotated to align the window with an adjacent compartment. The swaged needle device may be preloaded with sterile swaged needles SN having running sutures S attached thereto. A needle may be securely coupled to a compartment in one of many ways described herein with respect to various embodiments. For example, the base surface  3658  of the compartment may comprise a magnetic surface configured to magnetically couple to a needle, or an adhesive surface configured to adhere to the needle. The compartment may comprise a foam member  3659  coupled to the base, into which an end of the needle may be inserted to secure the needle. The compartment may comprise a clip coupled to the base, configured to compressively hold the needle therein. The compartment may further comprise a needle driver slot or recess  3656  formed in the base surface  3658  of the compartment, below the middle portion of the needle body. The needle driver recess can facilitate the grasping of a needle with a needle driver, or the securing of a needle in the compartment with a needle driver. The running sutures S attached the needles may be wrapped around a spindle  3657  provided by the rounded outer surface of the housing, best shown in  FIG.  365 B . The housing may be configured to rotate about a central axis  3650   a  of the needle receptacle to facilitate the dispensing of the running suture. One of the compartments may be provided without a sterile swaged needle, such that the window may be aligned with the empty compartment when the swaged needle device is not in use. In use, a sterile swaged needle may be removed from a compartment by first aligning the window with the compartment containing the sterile needle, then grasping the needle with a needle driver and removing the needle from the compartment. The swaged needle may be used to close an incision, and then the suture may be detached from the needle. The used needle may be placed back in the compartment, and then the cover may be rotated to expose the next sterile swaged needle to be used. A user may rotate the cover by grabbing the edges of the cover with the fingers, or by pushing a needle driver tip against an edge of the window. As described in reference to the swaged needle device shown in  FIGS.  343 A- 343 G , the device may be mounted on a barrier coupled to the forearm of a surgeon. A plurality of swaged needle devices providing swaged needles of different sizes may be provided on the barrier. Further, two or more swaged needle devices may be provided stacked on top of one another. 
       FIGS.  366 A- 366 C  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an integrated suture needle dispensing and securing apparatus  3660 . The apparatus may comprise a needle dispensing portion  3661  on a first end, and a needle securing portion  3662  on a second end opposite the first end. Both portions may be encased within a single housing  3663  configured to provide physically separated interior portions for sterile needles NS to be dispensed and used needles NU to be secured. Both portions may be configured to hold needles securely in a planar slot between a top shell or cover and a bottom shell of the housing, for example via compressive members disposed between the top and bottom shells and configured to compress the needles against the top shell. Both portions may further comprise a needle driver slot  3664  extending along a longitudinal axis of the apparatus, configured to allow translation of a needle driver tip along the slot to secure the needle within the housing. The dispensing portion may be preloaded with sterile suture needles NS, wherein the sutures S may be wrapped around the planar needle slot and encased in the housing. The sterile needles may be loaded into the dispensing portion in the orientation shown in  FIG.  366 A , such that needles are removed from the dispensing portion with the curved body leading and the ends trailing, to minimize risk of needle stick injury to the user during removal of the needles. In use, a user may grasp a sterile suture needle with a needle driver and remove the needle from the dispensing portion by translating the needle driver tip along the needle driver slot towards the open end of the slot. After using the sutured needle, the suture may be detached from the needle, and the dispensed or used needle may be secured in the securing portion. To secure the used needle, the needle driver holding the used needle may be inserted into the needle driver slot of the securing portion and translated towards the closed end of the slot. 
     Optionally, the integrated needle dispensing and securing apparatus may be provided with a hinge  3665  (e.g., a living hinge) between the dispensing portion and the securing portion, to allow the apparatus to be folded or collapsed along the hinge axis  3665   a  as shown in  FIGS.  366 B and  366 C . For example, the hinge may be configured to allow folding of the apparatus with the flat bottom shells of each portion facing each other. The hinge can allow the apparatus to be packaged or stored in a reduced length configuration. 
       FIG.  367    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a suture needle dispensing device  3670 . The dispensing device may be similar in many aspects to the needle dispensing portion of the integrated dispensing and securing apparatus described in reference to  FIGS.  366 A- 366 C . For example, the dispensing device may comprise a top shell coupled to a bottom shell, wherein a plurality of sterile suture needles NS are configured to be secured in the planar slot between the top shell and the bottom shell (e.g., secured via compression of needles into top shell by compression members coupled to bottom shell). The device can comprise a needle driver slot  3671  configured to allow translation of a needle driver tip therein to facilitate grasping and removal of a needle from the dispensing device. The sutures S attached to the needles may be enclosed in a flexible tail  3672  having a plurality of individual channels for each of the sutures. Such a configuration for the storage of the sutures can help avoid kinking and/or knotting of the sutures within the dispensing device. 
       FIGS.  368 A and  368 B  illustrate an exemplary configuration for coupling a needle receptacle  3681  to a suture package  3682 . The needle receptacle  3681  may be coupled to a suture package  3682 , such as any commercially available suture package pre-packaged with a plurality of sterile suture needles NS, and the suture package may be mounted on a barrier as described herein, in order to reduce the footprint of the suture package and needle receptacle on the barrier. For example, in many commercially available suture packages, a significant portion of the surface area of the package is unused, and the needle receptacle may be coupled to the unused portion of the suture package. The needle receptacle may be directly adhered onto the top surface of the suture package, or the needle receptacle may be indirectly coupled to the suture package via a mounting interface  3683  as shown in  FIG.  368 B , such as adhesive strips. 
       FIGS.  369 A- 369 C  illustrate another exemplary configuration for coupling a needle receptacle  3691  to a needle dispensing unit  3692 . The needle receptacle  3691 , such as any needle receptacle described herein, may be coupled to the needle dispensing unit  3692 , such as any commercially available suture package or any needle dispensing device or apparatus as described herein, by way of a barrier mounting base  3693 . The barrier mounting base may comprise any material capable of providing sufficient rigidity to stably support the needle dispensing device or receptacle while mounted on the barrier. The barrier mounting base may comprise a first portion  3693   a  and a second portion  3693   b , wherein the first portion is configured to couple to the needle dispensing unit (such as suture package as shown in  FIG.  369 A ), and wherein the second portion is configured to couple to the needle receptacle. The needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle may each be coupled to the barrier mounting base by way of one or more adhesive members, magnetic coupling, velcro attachment, or mechanical coupling mechanisms such as a snap-fit. As shown in  FIG.  369 B  of the top side of the barrier mounting base, the first portion may comprise one or more adhesive members  3694  configured to adhesively couple to a rear surface of the needle dispensing device. The needle receptacle may be coupled to the second portion by way of an adhesive backing coupled to the rear surface of the needle receptacle. As shown in  FIG.  369 C  of the bottom side of the barrier mounting base, the bottom surface of each of the first and second portions may comprise one or more adhesive members  3695  configured to couple to the barrier. Alternatively, the barrier mounting base may be coupled to the barrier by way of a velcro attachment or a mechanical coupling mechanism. 
     Optionally, the barrier mounting base may be provided with a hinge  3696  between the first portion and the second portion, such as a living hinge. The hinge may allow at least partial folding of the base along the hinge, such that the plane of the first portion may be positioned at an angle with respect to the plane of the second portion. 
       FIG.  370 A  schematically illustrates an exemplary configuration of a needle dispensing unit  3702  and a needle receptacle  3701  mounted on a barrier  3703 . The needle receptacle may comprise any needle receptacle as described herein, and the needle dispensing unit may comprise any commercially available suture package or any needle dispensing device or apparatus as described herein. The barrier is shown coupled to a forearm F, wherein the needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle are generally disposed on the volar forearm side. As shown, the plane  3704  of the needle dispensing unit is disposed at an angle α with respect to the plane  3705  of the needle receptacle, such that the needle dispensing unit and needle receptacle are not coplanar. Such a configuration may be achieved by way of a hinged mounting interface, such as the barrier mounting base described in reference to  FIGS.  369 A- 369 C . Such a configuration may improve the conformation of the needle handling system to the shape of the forearm, reducing the profile of the system when mounted on the barrier. 
       FIG.  370 B  schematically illustrates another exemplary configuration of a needle dispensing unit  3702  and a needle receptacle  3701  mounted on a barrier  3703 . The needle receptacle may comprise any needle receptacle as described herein, and the needle dispensing unit may comprise any commercially available suture package or any needle dispensing device or apparatus as described herein. The barrier is shown coupled to a forearm F, wherein the needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle are disposed on a plane of the volar forearm. As shown, the needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle are substantially co-planar, with the two units partially overlapping. Such a configuration may be achieved by coupling the needle receptacle to a portion of the needle dispensing unit as described in reference to  FIGS.  368 A- 368 B . Such a configuration may maintain both the needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle in the plane of the volar forearm, while reducing the profile of the needle handling system in comparison to a configuration wherein the needle dispensing unit and the needle receptacle are non-overlapping and co-planar. 
       FIGS.  371 A and  371 B  illustrate an exemplary configuration of a needle receptacle  3711  mounted on a barrier  3712 . The barrier may be a forearm-coupled barrier as described herein, and the needle receptacle may be any needle receptacle as described herein. The barrier may comprise a recess  3713  to receive a portion of the needle receptacle therein, such as a protrusion of the rear surface of the needle trap housing. The protrusion may be configured to fit into the recess of the barrier such the surface  3714  of the needle receptacle entry zone  3715  is substantially flush with the plane  3716  of the barrier. Such a configuration can reduce the profile of the needle receptacle mounted on the barrier. 
       FIGS.  372 A and  372 B  illustrate exemplary labels that may be provided for commercially available suture packages to be used with a needle handing system described herein. Many commercially available suture packages, while labeled clearly on the outside packaging, comprise sterile inner packaging with poorly visible labels or no labels indicating the size and/or type of the suture needle contained therein. When suture packages are placed within the surgical field (e.g., on a Mayo stand), they are typically stripped of their outer packaging such that only the sterile inner packaging is displayed. Due to the poor visibility of labeling or lack of adequate labeling on the inner packaging, it can often be difficult for a surgeon to visually identify the size or type of suture needles contained in each package. To facilitate surgeon identification and selection of a suture package containing the desired size and/or type of needles, sterile adhesive labels may be applied to the inner packaging of suture packs that clearly display the size and/or type of the contained needles. The sterile adhesive labels may comprise, for example, large text and/or color coding sufficient for allowing identification of the suture pack contents from at least 3 feet away. Such sterile adhesive labels may be provided with a needle receptacle and barrier assembly as described herein, such that a user may easily label the sterile inner packaging of a commercially available suture package to be used in conjunction with the needle receptacle and the barrier. As shown in  FIG.  372 A , a large-size needle receptacle may be provided with a set of adhesive labels  3720   a  for larger-sized suture needles. As shown in  FIG.  372 B , a small-size needle receptacle may be provided with a set of adhesive labels  3720   b  for smaller-sized suture needles. 
       FIGS.  373 A and  373 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a forearm barrier  3730  comprising sliding longitudinal panels  3731 . The barrier may comprise a plurality of longitudinal panels  3731  that are coupled to one another, wherein each panel is configured to slide out from underneath another panel. Each panel may be longitudinally aligned along the length of the forearm. During storage, the barrier may lay flat in the storage configuration  3732  as shown in  FIG.  373 A , thereby reducing storage profile and facilitating packaging and shipping of the barrier. For use, the barrier may be wrapped around the forearm to cause the panels to slide out appropriately to conform to the size and shape of the user&#39;s forearm, as shown in  FIG.  373 B . The barrier may be secured to the forearm in the wrapped configuration  3733  via one of many closure mechanisms, such as a tab, a velcro strap, one or more adhesive members, or one or more mechanical fasteners. 
       FIGS.  374 A and  374 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a forearm barrier  3740  comprising sliding c-shaped sections or “bracelets”  3741 . The barrier may comprise a plurality of c-shaped sections  3471  that are coupled to one another, wherein each section is configured to slide out from underneath another section. Each c-shaped section may be configured to wrap around a portion of a user&#39;s forearm. During storage, the plurality of c-shaped sections may be in a nested configuration  3742  as shown in  FIG.  374 A , thereby reducing the storage volume of the barrier. For use, the inner sections of the nested bracelets may be pulled out relative to the outer sections to achieve the extended configuration  3743  as shown in  FIG.  374 B . In the extended configuration, the combined lengths of the c-shaped sections can extend along the length of the forearm. The plurality of c-shaped sections may be coupled to one another such that, when the inner sections are pulled out to achieve the desired combined length, the barrier remains at said combined length without the c-shaped sections recoiling or resuming the nested configuration. The barrier may be stretched out to its full length and subsequently coupled to the forearm, or the barrier may be coupled to the forearm in the nested configuration and subsequently pulled out to its desired length. The barrier may be coupled to the forearm such that the innermost nested c-shaped section is disposed near a distal portion of the forearm, and the outermost c-shaped section is disposed near a proximal portion of the forearm. 
       FIG.  375    illustrates a barrier  3750  comprising one or more plug-ins  3751  for electrically powered surgical tools. A forearm barrier as described herein may be further provided with one or more plug-ins for one or more electrically powered surgical tools  3753 , such as electrocautery pens or suction tubes. In many instances, during a surgical operation, electrically-powered surgical tools are connected to a power source  3752  disposed outside the near surgical field. The power cord connecting the tool to the power source is often clamped into a fixed position above the incision site, in order to prevent the tool from being accidentally displaced during use via pulling of the power cord or movement of the power source. Rather than clamping the power cords near the incision site, a surgical tool may be connected to its power source via a plug-in disposed on the forearm-mounted barrier. The barrier plug-in can provide a more secure coupling to the tool&#39;s power cord than a clamp disposed above the incision site, thereby further reducing the risk of the tool being accidentally displaced during use. The one or more plug-ins may be provided on the dorsal side of the forearm F, so that the cords do not obstruct the needle dispensing unit and/or needle receptacle provided on the volar side of the forearm. 
       FIGS.  376 A- 376 D  illustrate a barrier  3760  comprising one or more tool loops  3761  for supporting one or more surgical tools  3672 . As shown in  FIG.  376 A , the tool loops  3761  are preferably provided on the dorsal side of the forearm F, such that the tools  3762  coupled thereto do not obstruct the needle dispensing unit and/or needle receptacle provided on the volar side of the forearm. A tool loop may comprise a tapering loop with the larger end facing up and the smaller end facing down. The tapering shape of the loop can facilitation insertion of a tool into the loop by a user, and stably support the tool therein. As shown in  FIG.  376 B , which is a top view of the barrier comprising the tool loops, the tool loops are preferably mounted such that they are flush against the outer surface  3763  of the barrier. For example, a tool loop may comprise a partial loop, the two ends of which are attached to two different positions on the barrier, such that a portion of the complete loop comprises an outer surface of the barrier. Alternatively, a tool loop comprising a complete loop may be coupled to a recess in the outer surface of the barrier, such that the interior surface of the portion of the loop disposed within the recess is flush with the outer surface of the barrier. Such a configuration may facilitate the insertion of a tool into a tool loop, by allowing a user to use the outer surface of the barrier as a guiding surface in the insertion of the tool without interference from a bump or a lip formed by the interior surface of the tool loop protruding over the outer surface of the barrier. A tool loop may be aligned along a vertical axis  3764  as shown in  FIG.  376 C , or may be aligned along an axis  3765  offset from the vertical axis by a non-zero angle α as shown in  FIG.  376 D . In particular, the tool loop may be slanted with respect to the vertical axis such that the smaller end of the tool loop is pointed towards the elbow, away from the wrist. Such a slanted tool loop can provide better ergonomics for the insertion of a tool into the tool loop, by aligning the orientation of the tool loop generally with the direction of movement of the user&#39;s hand in inserting the tool into the tool loop (an internal rotation of the elbow to sweep the tool-holding hand from the incision site towards the barrier, as shown in  FIG.  334 B ). The tool loops may be coupled to the barrier using one of many methods described herein for coupling a device to the barrier, such as adhesive coupling, magnetic coupling, or mechanical coupling. Preferably, the tool loops can be removably coupled to the barrier (for example via velcro straps), such that a barrier may be customized with any number or sizes of tools loops coupled to any appropriate location of the barrier. 
       FIGS.  377 A and  377 B  illustrate exemplary embodiments of surgical gowns  3770  comprising integrated forearm barriers. As shown in  FIG.  377 A , the forearm portion of a sleeve of a surgical gown  3770  may be provided with an integrated forearm barrier  3771 . The forearm barrier may comprise a tab that may be used to couple barrier to a user&#39;s forearm in a fixed position. The tab may be an exposed tab  3772  extending from the sides of the barrier and over the gown sleeve, or partially enclosed tab  3773 , partially enclosed within the sleeve. As shown in  FIG.  377 B , the forearm portion of a sleeve of a surgical gown may comprise one or more pockets  3774  configured to receive one or more barriers  3771  or one or more portions of a barrier therein. Alternatively, the barrier may be coupled to a tie  3775  sewed onto an edge of the gown and configured the wrap around the gown. 
       FIGS.  378 A and  378 B  illustrate exemplary staging devices suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. A staging device may be configured to store one or more needle dispensing units (e.g., unused suture packs) or empty needle receptacles, for easy access to additional units during an operation. As shown in  FIG.  378 A , a staging device may comprise an upper arm staging device  3780   a , configured to couple to an upper arm of the user U, and/or a chest staging device  3780   b , configured to couple to the chest of the user. As shown in  FIG.  378 B , an upper arm staging device may comprise an enclosure  3783  providing an interior space  3784  for storing the additional suture packs  3781  and/or needle receptacles  3782 . The upper arm staging device may further comprise a fastening mechanism  3785  to securely couple the device to the upper arm of a user, wherein the fastening mechanism may comprise a strap, a velcro strap, or any other fastening mechanism for wearable devices. 
       FIGS.  379 A- 379 C  illustrate exemplary kits for suture handling systems.  FIG.  379 A  shows an exemplary spinal/regional anesthesia kit  3790 , comprising a barrier  3795 , one or more spinal needles  3790   a , one or more syringes  3790   b  (#1-3), a sponge mount  3790   c  and one or more sponges  3790   d , a bandage mount  3790   e  and one or more bandages  3790   f , one or more instrument or tool loops  3793 , one or more safety needles  3790   g  (#1-3), and a pouch  3790   h .  FIG.  379 B  shows an emergency room suture kit  3791 , comprising a barrier  3795 , one or more instrument or tool loops  3793  (2-3) and a pair of scissors  3791   a , one or more swaged needle devices  3791   b  (1-4), a needle receptacle  3791   c  for large needles, a needle receptacle  3791   d  for small needles, a needle driver  3791   e  and forceps  3791   f , and one or more sponges  3791   g .  FIG.  379 C  shows a IV line placement kit  3792  comprising a barrier  3795 , one or more catheters  3792   a , suture  3792   b  for closing (e.g., 3-0 Nylon), syringe  3792   c  and needles  3792   d , a needle receptacle  3792   e , needle driver  3792   f , forceps  3792   g , and scissors  3792   h , and prep materials  3792   i . The kits shown in  FIGS.  379 A- 379 C  are provided by way of example only, and many different kits may be assembled to accommodate specific uses or procedures. 
       FIGS.  380 A and  380 B  illustrate exemplary needle receptacles suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein.  FIG.  380 A  shows a needle receptacle  3800   a  comprising a housing  3801   a  forming an interior space that defines a needle storage chamber or needle slot  3802 . The housing also forms a lateral opening  3803  comprising the needle entry aperture, through which a needle may be inserted into the needle slot  3802 . The housing further defines a needle driver slot or channel  3804  extending longitudinally along an upper portion of the housing, wherein the needle driver slot is configured to accommodate translation of the tip of a needle driver along the needle driver slot, as described herein. In use, a needle grasped by a needle driver may be inserted through the lateral opening with the tip of the needle driver aligned with the needle driver slot, and then the needle driver tip may be translated in a direction away from the lateral opening and towards the closed end  3805  of the housing to secure the needle within the needle slot. 
     The lateral opening  3803  may have a width  3803   a  that is greater than the height  3803   b , in order to constrain the orientation of the needles being inserted through the opening into a substantially lateral orientation. The lateral opening  3803  may be oversized with respect to a needle to be placed into the needle receptacle, in order to facilitate the insertion of the needle through the lateral opening. For example, the width  3803   a  of the lateral opening may be greater than the length of the needle (or, in the case of a curved needle, the straight-line distance between the two ends of the needle), and the height  3803   b  of the lateral opening may be greater than the thickness or wire diameter of the needle. For example, the height may be greater than 10 times the thickness of the needle, such that a user could easily insert the needle through the lateral opening without having to carefully align the needle with the opening. 
     The needle slot  3802  may have a width  3802   a , height  3802   b , and length  3802   c , wherein the width  3802   a  and height  3802   b  may be similar or equal to the width  3803   a  and height  3803   b  of the lateral opening. Alternatively, the dimensions of the needle slot may be different from the dimensions of the lateral opening, as described herein in reference to  FIGS.  382 A-D . The height  3802   b  of the needle slot is preferably less than the length of a needle (or, in the case of a curved needle, the straight-line distance between the two ends of the needle), in order to constrain the needles stored within the needle slot into a substantially lateral orientation. 
     The housing may be substantially box-shaped as shown in  FIG.  380 A , having a top wall, a bottom wall, and three lateral walls, wherein the needle driver slot extends lengthwise along the top wall. Alternatively, the housing may comprise a single, continuous body or any number of portions coupled together to collectively define the needle slot, the lateral opening into the needle slot, and the needle driver slot. The housing may comprise a rigid material, a flexible material, or a combination thereof. For embodiments of the housing comprising a flexible or deformable material, the width  3804   a  of the needle driver slot  3804  is preferably less than the thickness or wire diameter of a needle to be placed in the needle receptacle, to reduce the risk of accidental protrusion of a needle tip through the needle driver slot when the flexible material is flexed or deformed. For example, the housing may comprise a flexible upper portion wherein the needle driver slot comprises a slit cut through the flexible upper portion, wherein the flexible material can deform to allow translation of the needle driver tip through the slit. 
       FIG.  380 B  shows a needle receptacle  3800   b  that may be similar in many aspects to needle receptacle  3800   a  of  FIG.  380 A . The needle receptacle  3800   b  comprises a housing  3801   b  defining a needle slot  3802  therein, a lateral opening  3803  into the needle slot, and a needle driver slot  3804  extending along an upper portion of the housing. The housing  3801   b  further comprises an extended portion  3806  that extends beyond the lateral opening  3803  of the housing. The extended portion may extend from the bottom portion of the housing as shown, wherein the upper surface of the extended portion may be flush with the bottom surface of the needle slot  3802 . The extended portion may function as a landing zone for the needles to be placed into the needle receptacle, wherein a user may place the tip of the needle driver holding the needle against the upper surface of the extended portion, then translate the needle driver along the needle driver slot to place the needle into the needle slot. The extended portion may be configured to fold up to cover and seal off the lateral opening  3803  once the needle receptacle is full. For example, the extended portion may comprise an adhesive or a fastening mechanism to attach the extended portion to the upper portion of the housing when the extended portion is folded up, to cover the lateral opening. 
     Optionally, the needle receptacle  3800   a  or  3800   b  may be provided with one or more internal retaining mechanisms to securely hold the needles in place within the needle slot  3802 . For example, the needle receptacle  3800   a  or  3800   b  may comprise a spring member  3806  as shown in  FIG.  380 A , configured to compress the needles within the needle slot against the upper portion of the housing. The spring member may be coupled to the bottom portion of the housing near the lateral opening  3803 , such that in use, as a needle is translated along the needle slot away from the lateral opening and towards the closed end  3805 , increasing load may be applied to the needle against the upper portion of the housing. The needles placed within the needle slot can thus be held securely between the spring member and the upper portion of the housing. Alternatively, the needle receptacle  3800   a  or  3800   b  may comprise one or more clips  3807  as shown in  FIG.  380 B , extending along the length of the housing and facing the lateral opening  3803 . Each clip  3807  may comprise an upper portion  3807   a , a lower portion  3807   b , and a hinge portion  3807   c  connecting the upper and lower portions, wherein the clip is configured to apply a compressive force against a needle placed between the upper and lower portions. One or more clips may be coupled to the housing at the lateral opening, such that a needle placed into the needle slot is directed into the one or more clips, and held securely between the upper and lower portions of the clips as the needle is translated away from the lateral opening and towards the closed end  3805 . Other suitable internal retaining mechanisms may include brushes or other inwardly projecting members, adhesives, magnets, mechanical dividers, or combinations thereof. The internal retaining mechanisms can provide a secure zone of the needle receptacle wherein from being unintentionally dislodged or removed. 
       FIGS.  381 A and  381 B  illustrate exemplary needle receptacles suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein.  FIG.  381 A  shows a needle receptacle  3810   a  comprising a housing  3811   a , the housing having an interior space defining a needle storage chamber or needle slot  3812   a  for storing a plurality of needles therein. The upper portion of the housing forms a needle driver slot or channel  3813   a  configured to receive a tip of a needle driver holding a needle to be placed in the needle receptacle. The housing  3811   a , needle slot  3812   a , and needle driver slot  3813   a  may be similar in many aspects to the correspondingly named elements described with reference to  FIGS.  380 A and  380 B . However, rather than the lateral opening shown in  FIGS.  380 A and  380 B , the housing  3811   a  forms a top opening  3814   a  comprising the needle entry aperture through which a needle may be inserted into the needle receptacle. The top opening  3814   a  may comprise a cut-out in the upper portion of the housing, for example. The top opening may define a landing zone and entry zone of the needle receptacle. The top opening may be oversized with respect to the size of the needle to be inserted through the top opening, to facilitate the insertion of the needle through the top opening. For example, the length  3815   a  of the top opening may be greater than the length of the needle (or, in the case of a curved needle, the straight-line distance between the two ends of the needle), and the width  3815   b  of the top opening may be greater than the thickness or wire diameter of the needle (or, in the case of a curved needle, the distance between the midpoint of the needle body and the midpoint of a straight-line drawn between the two ends of the needle). Optionally, the length  3815   a  of the top opening may be greater than the width  3815   b  of the top opening in order to encourage the user to orient the needle with the length of the needle (or, in the case of a curved needle, the straight-line distance between the two ends of the needle) substantially aligned with the length of the top opening. 
       FIG.  381 B  shows a needle receptacle  3810   b  that may be substantially similar in many aspects to the needle receptacle  3810   a . For example, the housing  3811   b  forms an interior space defining the needle slot  3812   b , and the upper portion of the housing defines a needle driver slot  3813   b  configured to receive a tip of a needle driver tip therein. The upper portion of the housing further defines a top opening  3814   b  through which a needle may be inserted. The top opening  3814   b  may comprise a cut-out in the upper portion of the housing, for example. The top opening  3814   b  may be oversized with respect to the dimensions of the needle to secured inside the needle receptacle, to facilitate the insertion of the needle through the top opening. While  FIG.  381 A  shows a housing  3811   a  that is substantially box-shaped, the housing  3811   b  of  FIG.  381 B  is generally arrow-shaped, wherein the closed end  3816   b  of the needle receptacle forms the head of the arrow, and the second end  3816   a  adjacent the top opening forms the tail of the arrow. Accordingly, the top opening  3814   b  may be shaped to conform to the curvature of a curved needle, so as to encourage placement of the needle through the opening in an orientation with both ends of the needle pointing away from the direction of translation of the needle along the needle slot. Other aspects of the housing  3811   b , needle slot  3812   b , and needle driver slot  3813   b  may be similar in many aspects to the correspondingly named elements of needle receptacles  3800   a  and  3800   b  shown in  FIGS.  380 A and  380 B . 
     Optionally, the needle receptacle  3810   a  or  3810   b  may further comprise one or more internal retaining mechanisms as described in reference to  FIGS.  380 A and  380 B . The one or more internal retaining mechanisms can secure the needles within the needles slot to provide a secure zone of the needle receptacle. 
       FIGS.  382 A- 382 D  illustrate optional configurations of a needle receptacle as in  FIGS.  380 A- 381 B . To prevent the unintentional removal of the needles from the needle receptacle once the needles have been placed inside the needle slot, the height or depth of the needle slot may vary along the length of the needle slot. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional side view of  FIG.  382 A , a needle slot  3820   a  may have an entry zone  3821   a  near the needle entry aperture of the needle receptacle and a secure zone  3822   a  near the closed end of the needle receptacle. The lower interior surface  3824   a  of the needle slot, which may be formed by the bottom portion of the housing as described herein, may be positioned at a first elevation (or z-axis position) at the entry zone, and at a second elevation (or z-axis position) at the secure zone, the first elevation higher than the second elevation. Further, the needle slot may have a first depth  3825   a  at the entry zone and a second depth  3826   a  at the secure zone, the second depth greater than the first depth. Thus, when a needle is inserted through the needle entry aperture (e.g., lateral opening or top opening as shown in  FIGS.  380 A- 381 B ) and subsequently translated away from the entry aperture and towards the closed end of the needle receptacle, the needle transitions from the shallow entry zone at a relatively higher elevation into the deeper secure zone at a relatively lower elevation. The needle is thus stored within the secure zone at a lower elevation than the elevation at the entry zone, such that there is decreased risk of the needle being accidentally removed from the needle slot, particularly while the needle receptacle is maintained at a substantially lateral or planar orientation. The shallow, higher-elevation entry zone  3821  may be formed by an elevated bottom portion of the housing near the entry aperture, for example. The needle slot may be shaped to transition gradually from the first thickness into the second thickness, with a transition zone  3823   a  in which the depth of the needle slot increases proportionally to the position along the length (x-axis) of the needle slot. Alternatively, the needle slot may transition abruptly from the entry zone into the secure zone, for example with a vertical drop-off from the first elevation down to the second elevation. 
       FIG.  382 B  shows a cross-sectional side view of another exemplary configuration of a needle slot  3820   b . Similarly to the needle slot  3820   a  of  FIG.  382 A , the needle slot  3820   b  may comprise an entry zone  3821   b  near the entry aperture of the housing and a secure zone  3822   b  near the closed end of the housing, wherein the lower interior surface  3824   b  of the needle slot may be positioned at a relatively higher elevation (or z-axis position) with respect to the elevation at the secure zone. However, the first depth  3825   b  of the needle slot at the entry zone and the second depth  3826   b  of the needle slot at the secure zone may be similar or substantially equal. Such a configuration may be achieved with an upper portion of the housing having varying thickness along the length (x-axis) of the needle receptacle, as shown in  FIGS.  382 C and  382 D .  FIG.  382 C  is a transverse cross-sectional view of the needle slot  3820   b  along line A-A as shown in  FIG.  382 B , and  FIG.  382 D  is a transverse cross-sectional view of the needle slot  3820   b  along line B-B as shown in  FIG.  382 B . Cross-section A-A of  FIG.  382 C  shows the cross-section of the needle slot at the entry zone, where the upper portion  3827  of the housing, defining the needle driver slot  3828 , has a first thickness  3827   a . Cross-section B-B of  FIG.  382 D  shows the cross-section of the needle slot at the secure zone, where the upper portion  3827  of the housing has a second thickness  3827   b  that is greater than the first thickness  3827   a . The greater thickness of the upper housing at the secure zone compensates for the relatively lower elevation of the lower interior surface of the needle slot at the secure zone to result in a needle slot depth  3826   b  at the secure zone that is similar to the needle slot depth  3825   b  at the entry zone. The first needle slot depth  3826   a  and the second needle slot depth  3826   b  may be dimensioned to securely hold a needle between the upper and lower portions of the housing. The needle slot may be shaped to transition gradually from the first thickness into the second thickness, with a transition zone  3823   b  in which the depth of the needle slot increases proportionally to the position along the length (x-axis) of the needle slot. 
       FIGS.  383 A-C  show an exemplary needle receptacle  3830  configured to store a plurality of needles in an ordered array. The needle receptacle  3830  comprises a housing  3831 , which forms an interior space that defines a needle storage chamber or needle slot  3832  for storing a plurality of needles. The housing also defines a needle entry aperture comprising a lateral opening  3833 , through which a needle may be inserted into the needle slot. The needle slot  3832  may comprise a planar needle slot dimensioned to store the plurality of needles in substantially planar or lateral orientation. The housing further defines a needle driver channel or slot  3834  extending along a length  3836  of an upper portion of the housing. The housing  3831 , needle slot  3832 , lateral opening  3833 , and needle driver slot  3833  may be similar in many aspects to correspondingly named elements of needle receptacles described herein, such as the needle receptacles described with reference to  FIGS.  380 A- 381 B . The needle slot may comprise a plurality of segments  3835 , each segment extending across the needle driver slot and along the width  3837  of the housing. Each segment may be configured to hold a single needle therein, for example by way of securing elements configured to immobilize each needle within a single segment of the needle slot. For example, as shown, the upper portion of the housing may comprise a plurality of securing elements such as a plurality of tabs  3838 , configured to secure each needle within a single segment.  FIG.  383 B  shows a cross-sectional view of the needle receptacle  3830  with the tab  3838  in the default configuration, wherein the needle N, disposed within a single segment of the needle slot  3832 , is not yet secured in place by the tab.  FIG.  383 C  shows a cross-sectional view of the needle receptacle  3830  with the tab  3838  in the secured configuration, wherein the tab has been pushed down to secure the needle N between the tab and the lower portion of the housing. Optionally, the plurality of tabs may comprise an adhesive and/or a magnet to further secure the needle between the tab and the lower portion of the housing. The plurality of tabs can thus enable the storage of the plurality of needles within the needle slot in a non-overlapping ordered array, wherein the needles may be stored spaced apart from one another to facilitate visual counting of the needles stored inside the needle receptacle. 
       FIGS.  384 A- 384 B  show another exemplary needle receptacle  3840  configured to store a plurality of needles in an ordered array. The needle receptacle  3840  comprises a housing  3841  defining a needle storage chamber or needle slot  3842  for storing a plurality of needles, and a needle entry aperture comprising a lateral opening  3843 , through which a needle may be inserted into the needle slot. The upper portion of the housing further defines a needle driver channel or slot  3844  extending along a length  3846  of the housing. The housing  3841 , needle slot  3842 , lateral opening  3843 , and needle driver slot  3843  may be similar in many aspects to correspondingly named elements of needle receptacles described herein, such as the needle receptacles described with reference to  FIGS.  380 A- 381 B and  383 A -C. The needle receptacle  3840  may further comprise a plurality of dividers  3848  disposed within the needle slot  3842  and configured to divide the needle slot into a plurality of segments  3845 , each segment extending along the width  3847  of the needle receptacle and configured to hold a single needle therein. The plurality of dividers may be coupled to the internal surface of the bottom portion of the housing, for example. In use, a needle may be inserted into the needle receptacle through the lateral opening  3843 , translated along the needle slot in a direction away from the lateral opening, then released into an empty segment of the needle slot that is farthest from the lateral opening. The needle may be stored spaced apart from other needles in the needle slot by way of the dividers separating the plurality of segments. 
     Optionally, as shown in  FIG.  384 A , to further secure a needle within a single segment, the needle receptacle may be provided with one or more magnets  3849  configured to hold the needle in place within the needle slot. For example, the bottom portion of the housing may have one or more magnets integrated within or attached to the internal surface of the bottom portion, such that a needle placed onto the surface is securely held in place by the one or more magnets. Optionally, as shown in  FIG.  384 B , the needle receptacle  3840  may be adapted to compress down into a reduced-height configuration, to further stabilize the needles into the ordered array within the needle slot. For example, the upper and lower portions of the housing may be configured to compress together when a user pushes downwards onto the needle receptacle. 
       FIGS.  385 A- 385 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of devices  3850  and  3855  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  385 A  illustrates a top view,  FIG.  385 B  illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view. In the illustrated embodiment, the needle trap  3850  can be a planar device that is comprised of several zones: 1) an entry zone  3850   a,  2) an entryway or transition zone  3850   b  and 3) a secure zone  3850   c , in accordance with many embodiments described herein (e.g., needle trap  331 ). The needle trap  3850  may comprise an upper structure  3851  and a lower structure  3852  that are securely coupled together around an outer portion of the needle trap  3850 . The needle trap  3850  may comprise a needle driver slot  3853  extending through both the upper structure  3851  and the lower structure  3852 , the needle driver slot configured to provide clearance for a needle driver along the entire length of the needle trap  3850  for translation of a needle  3853  from the entry zone  3850   a  to the secure zone  3850   c . The needle trap can further comprise a needle slot  3854  that constrains the secured needles into a single needle depth array when received by needle receiver  3855 , to minimize overall depth profile and facilitate needle counting. The lower structure  3852  may comprise a through opening  3859  that runs transverse to the long axis of the needle trap  3850 , and may be located anywhere within the entry zone  3850   a  and the entryway or transition zone  3850   b . The through opening  3859  of needle holder  3850  may be configured to receive the needle receiver  3855  and allow the needle receiver  3855  to slide freely or with a desired resistance therethrough. The needle receiver  3855  may comprise a plurality of needle receiving tabs  3857   a  and  3857   b , which may be located on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis of the needle receiver  3955  as shown in  FIG.  385 A . The plurality of needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  may be shaped so as to receive one or more needles  3858  in an orientation that would locate the sharp ends of the one or more needles  3858  away from the direction of movement when the one or more needles are placed against surface  3856  of the needle receiver  3855  and translated into the needle trap  3850  with the needle driver (i.e., such that the sharp ends of the needles face away from a user when the needle trap  3850  is donned and the needle receiver  3855  is loaded, to minimize accidental needle-stick injury). As shown in  FIG.  385 A , the needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  can be spaced longitudinally such that one needle can be located between adjacent needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b.    
     The needle receiver  3855  may be translated into the needle trap  3850  by conveyance. The needle receiver, initially without needles, may be slide along the underside of the lower structure  3852  of needle trap  3850 , through opening  3859  of the needle trap  3850 , and then onto the upper side of lower structure  3852  of needle trap  3850 . In this configuration, the needle receiver  3855  may present surface  3856  between adjacent needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  for receiving a needle  3858  at the entry zone  3850   a  of needle trap  3850 . Through the motion of placing a needle onto surface  3856  of the needle receiver  3855  and against needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b , and translating the needle from the entry zone  3850   a  through to the secure zone  3850   c  of needle trap  3850 , the needle receiver  3855  translates into the needle trap  3850  and presents the next adjacent pair of needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  and surface  3856  for subsequent needle placement and disposal (i.e, no separate action is required to advance the needle receiver  3855  into the needle trap  3850 ). The needle receiver may prevent bunching of subsequently placed needles, may allow for easy segregation of adjacent needles, and thereby may allow for easy needle counting. 
     In different embodiments, the needle trap  3850  and needle receiver  3855  may have different dimension depending upon the size of the needles  3858  being stored. Thus, a small needle receiver and complementary needle trap used to store small needles may have smaller dimensions than a large needle receiver and complementary needle trap used to store larger needles. 
     In many embodiments, the tip to tip distance of each of the plurality of needles is within a range selected from the group consisting of 75% to 100% of the width of the needle slot, 80% to 99% of the width of the needle slot, and 85% to 98% of the width of the needle slot and 90 to 97% of the width of the needle slot. 
     In many embodiments, the tip to tip distance of each of the plurality of needles is within a percentage of the width of the needle slot in the expanded configuration, the percentage within range selected from the group consisting of 75% to 100% of the second width of the needle slot, 80% to 99% of the second width of the needle slot, and 85% to 98% of the second width of the needle slot and 90 to 97% of the second width of the needle slot. The needle slot may comprise a length, a width, and a height, the length being greater than the width and the width being greater than the height. 
     The needle receiver  3855  may be comprised of a flexible material that allows the needle receiver to bend through the opening  3859  as shown in  FIG.  385 B . The needle receiver  3855  and plurality of needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  may comprise a one-piece design or multi-piece design. In a multi-piece design, the plurality of needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  may be comprised of a foam or rubber material, and may be adhered to the surface  3856  of the needle receiver  3855 . 
     The needle receiver  3855  may comprise a series of through openings to receive a needle driver tip, the through openings located along the longitudinal axis of the needle receiver  3855  and located between adjacent needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b . This series of through opening may be sized to match the needle driver slot  3853  of the needle trap  3850 , such that a needle  3858  can easily be placed into the needle receiver  3855  and translated with the needle driver from the entry zone  3850   a  through to the secure zone  3850   c  of the needle trap  3850 . 
       FIGS.  386 A- 386 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of devices  3860  and  3865  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  386 A  illustrates a top view,  FIG.  386 B  illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view. In the illustrated embodiment, a needle trap  3860  may be configured according to the many embodiments described herein (e.g., as the needle trap  3850  shown in  FIGS.  385 A-B , with like identifiers incremented by 10). Further, in this embodiment a needle receiver  3865  may be configured to engage a needle trap  3860  according to embodiments described herein (e.g., as the needle receiver  3855  engages needle trap  3850  shown in  FIGS.  385 A-B ), and operate by conveyance. In this embodiment, needle receiver  3865  may comprise a plurality of needle receiving tabs  3857  located along the longitudinal centerline of the needle receiver  3866  and configured to receive one or more needles  3868 . 
     The needle receiver  3865  may be comprised of a flexible material that allows the needle receiver to bend through the opening  3869  as shown in  FIG.  385 B . The needle receiver  3855  and plurality of needle receiving tabs  3857   a/b  may comprise a one-piece design, wherein the needle receiving tabs  3857  are formed by the cutting of a pattern in the needle receiver  3865  and bent upwards so as to receive a needle  3866 . As shown in  FIG.  386 A , this pattern may be in the form of a backwards “C,” however any appropriate pattern may be cut so as to allow the tabs to bend upwards and receive a needle. In many embodiments, the needle receiving tabs  3857  may deflect as the needle receiver  3865  is slid through the opening  3869  of needle trap  3860 , but return to their bent upwards configuration afterwards so as to receive a needle  3868 . 
       FIGS.  387 A- 387 D  illustrate longitudinal cross-sectional views of exemplary internal spring dividers suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. The internal spring dividers  3871  may be configured to prevent bunching of needles  3878  upon sequential placement of needles into needle trap  3870 . The internal spring dividers may each comprise a leading structure  3871   a  and a tailing structure  3871   b  attached at a pivot structure  3871   c . The internal spring dividers  3871  may be rotatably attached to a lower structure  3872  of needle trap  3870  via a helical torsion spring or similar at pivot structure  3871   c . At rest, the internal spring dividers  3871  may be configured such that the spring forces the leading structure  3871   a  against the lower structure  3872  of needle trap  3870 , and thereby in position to receive a needle  3878  (as shown in  FIG.  387 A ). As a needle  3878  is translated into the needle trap  3870 , the trailing structure  3871   b  of an internal spring divider  3871  may receive the needle, and with continued translation of the needle into the needle trap the internal spring divider may rotate in the direction of needle translation as the spring force is overcome, forcing the trailing edge  3871   b  of the internal spring divider against the lower structure  3872  (as shown in  FIG.  387 B ). With continued translation of the needle  3878 , the internal spring divider may return to its resting position and a next internal spring divider  3871  may receive the needle (as shown in  FIG.  387 C ), these actions repeated until the needle  3878  is translated to the end of needle trap  3870 . Once at the end of the needle trap  3870 , the trailing structure  3871   b  of the internal spring divider  3871  nearest the end of the needle trap may be held against the lower structure  3872 , as the spring of the internal spring divider may be configured so as not to overcome the weight of the needle (and thus not return the internal spring divider to its resting position). Thus, as subsequent needles  3878  are deposited into the needle trap  3870 , the leading structure  3871   a  of the internal spring divider  3871  nearest the end of the needle trap  3870  may block any further translation of subsequent needles towards the end of the needle trap. In this way, each deposited needle may be kept from bunching, and facilitate the easy counting of deposited needles. 
       FIG.  388    illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles, suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein. In this embodiment, a needle receiver  3886  may be rolled or coiled around a rotatable element and comprise a series of slits  3887  on a side of the needle receiver opposite that of the rotatable element center. Each slit  3887  may be sized so as to receive a needle  3888 . Adjacent slits  3887  in the needle receiver  3886  may be spaced apart longitudinally as necessary according to the size of the needles being received. As shown in  FIG.  388   , the needle receiver  3886  has been partially unrolled and laid against a structure  3880  of a needle trap of any of the embodiments described herein (structure  3880  may comprise, for example, a lower structure  341  of needle trap  331 ), such that the slits  3887  are facing towards the structure  3880 . A needle  3888  may be placed in a vacant slit  3887 , thereby allowing the safe disposal of the needle. Upon further unrolling and advancement of the needle receiver  3886  translationally along the surface of structure  3880 , two things may occur: 1) the needle placed in the previously vacant (but now occupied) slit  3887  may be trapped between the needle receiver  3886  and the structure  3880 , and 2) the next vacant slit  3887  may be made available to receive another needle. This cycle of needle disposal can be repeated as necessary to dispose of needles  3888 . In some embodiments, the unrolling and translation of the needle receiver may be performed in a single motion via the action of depositing a needle  3888  into a slit  3887  and moving it translationally along the structure  3880 . In some embodiments, the unrolling and translation of the needle receiver may be performed in two motions: the first action being the depositing of a needle  3888  into a slit  3887 ; the second action being a user manually translating the needle receiver  3886  so as to trap the deposited needle, unroll the needle receiver, and present the next vacant slit  3887 . The needle receiver  3886  may comprise a flexible material. In some embodiments, the needle receiver  3886  may comprise a transparent or semi-transparent material. In some embodiments, the needle receiver slits  3887  may rely on the physical trapping of a needle  3888  against the structure  3880  to keep the needle in place. In some embodiments, the needle receiver slits  3887  may rely on the addition of an adhesive or other surface treatment to aid in the physical trapping of a needle  3888 . In many embodiments, the needle receiver may prevent bunching of deposited needles, and facilitate the easy counting of deposited needles. 
       FIGS.  389 A- 389 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a plurality of needles comprising internal filaments, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  389 A  illustrates a top view,  FIG.  389 B  illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view. In the illustrated embodiment, a needle trap  3890  may be configured according to the many embodiments described herein (e.g., as the needle trap  3850  shown in  FIGS.  385 A-B , with like identifiers incremented by 40). A plurality of internal filaments  3897  may be configured to prevent bunching of one or more needles  3898  upon sequential placement of needles into needle trap  3890 . The internal filaments  3897  may each be comprised of internal filaments  3897   a  and internal filaments  3897   b , which may attach to the internal (i.e., within the needle slot  3894 ) surface of the upper structure  3894  at opposing sides of the longitudinal needle driver slot  3893 . As shown in  FIG.  389 A , the internal filaments  3897   a/b  may be configured so as to extend from their attachment points towards the center of the needle trap  3890  (and thus the center of the needle driver slot  3893 ), and form a plurality of needle receiving spaces between adjacent pairs of internal filaments  3897   a/b  within the needle slot  3894  that can complementarily receive a needle  3898 . As shown in  FIG.  389 B , the internal filaments  3897  may also be configured to extend from their respective attachment points at the internal surface of the upper structure  3894  to the internal surface of the lower structure  3892  of needle trap  3890  (i.e., configured to span the entire height of the needle slot  3894 ). 
     In some embodiments, each internal filament  3897   a/b  may be attached within the needle trap  3893  as described above via a torsion spring, a helical torsion spring, or similar. In these embodiments, the internal filaments may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, each internal filament  3897   a/b  may be attached within the needle trap  3893  as described above via an adhesive, a weld, or similar permanent attachment. In these embodiments, the internal filaments may comprise a flexible material capable of deforming. 
     At rest, the internal filaments  3897   a/b  may be configured such that the ends of the internal filaments opposite their respective attachment points are forced down or touch against the internal surface of lower structure  3892  (e.g., by the force of their respective springs at their attachment points, or by deforming, see  FIG.  389 B ). As a needle  3898  is translated into the needle trap  3890 , the needle may abut a pair of internal filaments  3897   a/b , and with continued translation of the needle into the needle trap the internal filaments  3897   a/b  may deflect in the direction of needle translation to allow the needle to advance further into the needle trap and into a receiving space between adjacent pairs of internal filaments. The internal filaments  3987   a/b  may return to their resting position and a next pair of internal filaments  3897   a/b  may deflect with continued translation of the needle into the needle trap  3890 , these actions repeated until the needle  3898  is translated to the end of needle trap  3890 . Once at the end of the needle trap  3890 , the needle  3898  may hold the internal filaments  3897   a/b  nearest the end of the needle trap in their resting position by inhibiting the internal filaments from deflecting further upon subsequent translation of a next needle. Thus, as subsequent needles  3898  are deposited into the needle trap  3890 , the needle receiving spaces between adjacent pairs of internal filaments  3897   a/b  within the needle slot  3894  may successively become occupied by a needle  3898 . In this way, each deposited needle may be kept from bunching, and facilitate the easy counting of deposited needles. 
       FIGS.  390 A- 390 E  illustrate exemplary embodiments of needle driver slot covers suitable for incorporation with the needle handling systems as described herein.  FIGS.  390 A- 390 C  illustrate a top view ( FIG.  390 A ), and lateral cross-sectional views ( FIGS.  390 B- 390 C ) of one exemplary embodiment, and  FIGS.  390 D- 390 E  illustrate lateral cross-sectional views of another exemplary embodiment. In the illustrated embodiments, a needle trap  3900  may be configured according to the many embodiments described herein (e.g., as the needle trap  3850  shown in  FIGS.  385 A- 385 B , with like identifiers incremented by 50). In the illustrated embodiments, the needle driver slot covers  3907  may be configured to slidably or rotatably attach to upper structure  3904  of needle trap  3900  at one side of the needle driver slot  3903 . In the illustrated embodiments, the needle trap  3900  may comprise a plurality of indicators  3909  that correspond to a needle driver slot cover  3907 , which may indicate when a corresponding needle driver slot is actuated in order to facilitate easy needle counting (e.g., by a change of indicator color). 
     In some embodiments (as shown in  FIGS.  390 A- 390 C ), the needle slot covers  3907  may comprise a rectangular body  3907   b  slidably attached to a recess in the upper structure  3904  of needle trap  3900 . Further, in this embodiment needle slot covers  3907  may comprise a tab  3907   a  attached to each rectangular body  3907   b , which may be configured to facilitate the actuation of the needle slot cover by a surgeon (i.e., sliding of the tab from its open position, where the needle driver slot cover  3907  does not cover the needle driver slot  3903 , to its closed position, where the needle driver slot cover  3907  does cover the needle driver slot  3903 ). After a needle is deposited fully into the needle trap  3900  by the surgeon, the surgeon may actuate the needle slot cover  3907  directly above the deposited needle so as prevent further deposition of a subsequent needle into the underlying space within the needle trap. In this way, the needle trap covers may prevent bunching of needles and facilitate the counting thereof. 
     In some embodiments (as shown in  FIGS.  390 D- 390 E ), the needle slot covers  3907  may comprise a rectangular body  3907   b  rotatably attached to the upper structure  3904  of needle trap  3900  at rotating element  3907   c . Further, in this embodiment needle slot covers  3907  may be initially configured to be in an open state (i.e., the needle driver slot covers  3907  do not cover the needle driver slot  3903 ). After a needle is deposited fully into the needle trap  3900  by the surgeon, the surgeon may actuate the needle slot cover  3907  directly above the deposited needle by rotating the needle slot cover down over the needle driver slot  3903 , allowing the end of the needle slot cover opposite the rotating element to be seated into a recess in the upper structure  3904  (as shown in  FIG.  390 E ). By this action, further deposition of a subsequent needle into the underlying space within the needle trap is prevented. In this way, the needle trap covers may prevent bunching of needles and facilitate the counting thereof. 
       FIGS.  391 A- 391 B  illustrate exemplary embodiments of devices for securing a plurality of needles with a ratcheting cover, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  391 A  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap with a ratcheting cover being displaced longitudinally with the placement of a needle  3918  by a needle driver  3919 ,  FIG.  391 B  illustrates a top view of the embodiment after the needle  3918  has been placed and the ratcheting cover has ratcheted longitudinally over the last placed needle. In the illustrated embodiment, a needle trap  3910  may be configured according to the many embodiments described herein (e.g., as the needle trap  3850  shown in  FIGS.  385 A- 385 B , with like identifiers incremented by 60). In the illustrated embodiment, the ratcheting cover  3915  may be configured to engage the needle trap  3910  at the end of the needle trap opposite the entry zone  3910   a , and cover the upper structure  3911 . In this embodiment, when needle  3918  is translated into the far end of the needle trap  3910  with needle driver  3919  through the needle driver slot  3913 , the needle driver  3919  may laterally shift the ratcheting cover  3915  in the direction of needle driver motion; upon subsequent release of the needle and removal of the needle driver from the needle trap, the ratcheting cover may translate longitudinally towards the entry zone  3910   a  so as to cover the needle just deposited. In many embodiments, the ratcheting cover may be a spring-loaded device, configured to translate/ratchet longitudinally in increments according to the size of the needle  3918  being placed in the needle trap  3910 . 
       FIGS.  392 A- 392 F , FIGS.  392 A 1 - 392 A 12 , and FIGS.  392 B 1 - 392 B 5  illustrate exemplary embodiments of devices for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  392 A  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap,  FIG.  392 B  illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of a needle trap of  FIG.  392 A  placed inside an embodiment of a second structure,  FIG.  392 C  illustrates a lateral cross-sectional view of the embodiments shown in  FIG.  392 B ,  FIG.  392 D  illustrates a top view of the embodiment of a needle trap of  FIG.  392 A  placed inside an embodiment of a second structure, and  FIGS.  392 E- 392 F  illustrate lateral cross-sectional views of an embodiment of a needle trap. FIG.  392 A 1  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of how a needle trap as described herein may be constructed out of one sheet of material, and  392 A 2  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of how a needle trap as described herein may be constructed out of two separate sheets of material. FIGS.  392 A 3 - 392 A 4  illustrate top views of embodiments of a needle trap. FIG.  392 A 5  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap, and FIG.  392 A 6  shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the needle trap shown in FIG.  392 A 5 . FIG.  392 A 7  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a needle trap, and FIG.  392 A 8  shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the needle trap shown in FIG.  392 A 5 . FIGS.  329 A 9 - 392 A 11  show lateral cross-sectional views of a needle trap as described herein before, during, and after placement of a needle into the trap. FIG.  392 A 12  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a needle trap as described herein with internals configured to aid in securing needles after being placed into the trap. 
     In the illustrated embodiments of  FIG.  392 A , FIG.  392 A 3 , and  FIG.  392 B , a needle trap  3920  may be a planar device comprised of several zones: 1) an entry zone  3920   a,  2) an entryway or transition zone  3920   b  and 3) a secure zone  3920   c . The needle trap  3920  may comprise an upper structure  3921  and a lower structure  3922  that are securely coupled together around an outer portion of the needle trap  3920 . The needle trap  3920  may comprise a needle driver slot  3923  extending through the upper structure  3921 , the needle driver slot configured to provide clearance for a needle driver along the entire length of needle translation from entry zone  3920   a  to secure zone  3920   c . The needle trap  3920  may further comprise a needle slot  3924  that constrains the secured needles into a single needle depth array, to minimize overall depth profile and facilitate needle counting. The configuration of the needle trap  3920  can be described with reference to an X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis as shown in  FIG.  392 A . 
     In an embodiment, the entry zone  3920   a  of the needle trap  3920  may comprise a partially rectangular flat zone or area in the X-Y plane that is an exposed part of the lower structure  3922 . A surgeon can hold used needles  3928  with a needle driver and place the used needles  3928  on an upper surface of the entry zone  3922  (i.e., surface in the positive Z-axis). The contact and/or force of the needle  3928  against the entry zone  3928  may cause the curvature of the used needle  3928  to be moved into a planar orientation flat against the entry zone upper surface in the X-Y plane with the convex mid-portion of the curved needle  3928  facing or pointing towards the transition zone  3920   b.    
     The entry zone  3920   a  may be the same width (Y-axis) relative to needle slot  3924  and the perimeter around the entry zone  3920   a  may have a contrasting color to aid visual recognition. The upper surface of the entry zone  3920   a  may comprise a low friction material. The upper surface of the entry zone  3920   a  may include graphic guides to indicate proper needle orientation to the surgeon. The entry zone  3920   a  may be folded over upper structure  3921  to secure needles deposited within the needle trap  3920 . 
     The transition zone  3920   b  may be disposed between the entry zone  3920   a  and the secure zone  3920   c . In some embodiments, in the transition zone, edges  3925  of the upper structure  3921  where the upper structure intersects with the needle driver slot  3923  at the entry zone/transition zone may be folded inward into the needle slot  3924  as shown in FIG.  392 A 5 - 392 A 6 . In a folded inward configuration, edges  3925  may increase the depth (Z-axis) of the needle slot at the entry zone/transition zone intersection and facilitate loading of needles into the needle trap, as exemplified in the longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG.  392 A 6 . Additionally, the inward-folded edges  3925  may prevent needles  3928  from exiting back out of the needle trap  3920  by blocking any egress (e.g, the inward folded edges may catch the needles). In the transition zone, the compressive side load on the needles ends may be increased and the height (Z-axis) of the needle slot may be decreased as the secured needles are translated through the transition zone, thus constraining the needles to a single needle deep array extending longitudinally along the secure zone  3920   c . In some embodiments, in the transition zone, edges  3925  of the upper structure  3921  where the upper structure intersects with the needle driver slot  3923  at the entry zone/transition zone may be folded outward as shown in FIG.  392 A 7 - 392 A 8 . In a folded outward configuration, edges  3925  may help guide a needle driver into the needle driver slot  3923 . In some embodiments, edges  3925  may not be folded, and the height (Z-axis) of the needle slot  3924  may remain constant from the transition zone  3920   b  through the secure zone  3920   c . In some embodiments, the width (Y-axis) of the entry zone  3920   a , transition zone  3920   b , and secure zone  3920   c  may be the same. 
     The secure zone  3920   c  may be disposed adjacent the transition zone  3920   b , and comprise the region in which full compressive side loading is applied to the needle ends to prevent unintentional removal or dislodging of the needles  3928 . 
     The needle trap  3920  may be configured to promote needles, upon entry, to assume an orientation where the convex side of the needle  3928  faces the secure zone  3920   c , and the concave side, sharp point, and tail of the needle  3928  face the entry zone  3920   a . Thus, the needle trap  3920  may be configured to have the sharp point and tail end of the needle  3928  pointing away from the direction of motion, thereby reducing the risk of needle-stick injury. The needle driver slot  3923  may intersect a portion of the needle slot  3924 , such as a middle portion of the needle slot, and may be disposed in the midline of the needle trap  3920  in the X-axis such that the distal tip of the needle driver can translate the needle  3928  along the X-axis of the needle trap  3920 . Alternatively, the needle driver slot  3923  may intersect the needle slot  3924  off the midline or asymmetrically, such that the needle driver slot extends along an axis substantially parallel to, but not overlapping, the X-axis of the needle trap  3920 . The needles  3928  may slide/translate within the needle slot  3928  deeper into the secure zone  3920   c  (i.e., away from the entry zone  3920   a ) without excessive resistance or sensitivity as to how the needles  3928  are grasped by the needle holder. In an embodiment, the secure zone  3920   c  can prevent used needles  3928  from being removed from the needle trap  3920 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the needle  3928  is moved into contact with the entry zone  3920   a  of the lower structure  3922  by the surgeon manipulating the tip of the needle driver holding the needle. The needle  3928  can be pushed against the entry zone  3920   a  and become aligned with the X-Y plane of the needle trap  3920 . The needle  3928  can then be moved in translation along the longitudinal X-axis of the needle trap  3928  from the entry zone  3920   a  into the transition zone  3920   b  where the needle  3928  slides into the needle slot  3924  with the convex side facing the secure zone  3920   c  and the sharp point and tail of the needle  3928  facing the entry zone  3920   a . The needle driver can be translated to move the needle  3928  into the needle slot  3924  in the secure zone  3920   c  until the needle driver runs into the end of the needle slot  3924  or the last inserted used needle  3928 . 
     In some embodiments, the needle driver slot  3928  may comprise a linear cut through the upper and lower surfaces of the upper structure  3921  as exemplified in FIG.  392 A 3 . In these embodiments, inherent flexibility of the needle trap material may allow the linear edges of the needle driver slot to deform and allow translation of the needle driver. In some embodiments, the needle driver slot  3928  may comprise a width in the Y-axis configured to receive the distal tip of the needle driver holding a needle  3928 . In these embodiments, this width may narrow in the secure zone  3920   c  so that the distal tip of a needle driver with an elongated cross section must orient with the needle driver slot  3923  such that the held needle  3928  is properly aligned across the width of the secure zone  3920   c  within the needle trap  3920 . In some embodiments, the needle driver slot  3928  may comprise a width in the Y-axis that is constant throughout its length in the X-axis, as exemplified in FIG.  392 A 4 . 
     In many embodiments, the needle trap  3920  comprises a deformable, flexible, and/or compliant material. In many embodiments, the needle trap  3920  comprises a deformable, flexible, and/or compliant material that can provide compressive force to secure the one or more needles  3928  within the needle slot  3924 . Alternatively or in combination, and as exemplified in FIG.  392 A 12 , the needle trap  3920  may comprise magnetic strips, foam, surface coatings, gel, and the like identified as  3924   a  within the needle slot  3924  as described herein to prevent needles from exiting the envelope. 
     In many embodiments, and as shown in FIG.  329 A 9 , needle trap  3920  may assume a planar configuration wherein the lower surface of upper structure  3921  and the upper surface of the lower structure  3922  rest against one another without the presence of any needles in the needle slot  3924  (i.e., without needles in the needle trap, the needle trap lays flat against its mounting surface). As shown in FIG.  329 A 10 , as a needle  3928  is loaded into the needle trap  3920  through needle slot  3924  by the needle driver  327 , the inherent flexibility of the needle trap material may allow the edges  3925  of the upper structure  3921 , the linear edges of the needle driver slot  3923  of the upper structure  3921 , and the upper structure  3921  to deform and conform to the needle  3928  and needle driver  327  as the needle driver  327  holding needle  3928  is translated into the needle trap  3920  for placement of needle  3928 . As shown in FIG.  392 A 11 , after the needle  3928  has been placed into the needle slot  3924  of the needle trap  3920 , the inherent flexibility of the needle trap material may allow the edges  3925  of the upper structure  3921 , the linear edges of the needle driver slot  3923  of the upper structure  3921 , and the upper structure  3921  to conform to the needle  3928 . In some embodiments, the conforming of the edges  3925  of the upper structure  3921 , the linear edges of the needle driver slot  3923  of the upper structure  3921 , and the upper structure  3921  may apply a compressive force to the needle  3928  within the needle trap  3920 , thereby securing needle  3928  in place. In some embodiments, the conforming of the edges  3925  of the upper structure  3921 , the linear edges of the needle driver slot  3923  of the upper structure  3921 , and the upper structure  3921  may be limited to the location of the needle  3928  (i.e., remote from needle  3928 , the lower surface of upper structure  3921  and the upper surface of the lower structure  3922  rest against one another). In some embodiments, the lower structure  3922  may additionally deform and conform to the needle  3928 . In some embodiments, the lower structure  3922  may additionally deform and conform to the needle  3928  and needle driver  327 . 
     In many embodiments, the needle trap  3920  may comprise a deformable, flexible, and/or compliant material that can prevent the one or more needles  3928  from puncturing through the lateral and longitudinal walls of the needle trap (i.e., puncture resistant material). The thickness of the material used to construct the needle trap  3920  may be in the range of 0.008 inches to 0.030 inches. The material used to construct the needle trap  3920  may comprise PTFE, Tyvek, polycarbonate, polyamide, Kevlar, PVC, and PETG; preferably PETG. The material used to construct the needle trap  3920  may have a puncture resistance of with strength to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.5 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.5 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 0.5 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle, to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 1 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation GS-21 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation CV-23 needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation thin bodied half-circle needle, or to resist puncture with a sharp tip of a needle with at least 3 pound force applied to the tip of the needle, wherein the needle is a United States Surgical Corporation medium bodied half-circle needle. 
     In different embodiments, the needle trap  3920  may have different dimensions depending upon the size of the needles  3928  being stored. Thus, a small needle trap used to store small needles may have smaller dimensions than a large needle trap used to store larger needles. Needles may include the needles sizes listed above or other available needles, such as surgical needles available from United States Surgical Corporation. 
     In some embodiments, the needle trap  3920  may be constructed out of one sheet of material as shown in FIG.  392 A 1 . In these embodiments, the needle driver slot  3923  may be cut through the needle trap  3920  and dimensioned as described herein (e.g., the needle driver slot may comprise a single cut, forming a linear cut through the material, or may comprise a through cut with a width  3923   b  as shown herein). Further, the single sheet of material may be folded over on itself and the outer perimeter along the longitudinal axis of the needle trap may be sealed so as to create the needle trap  3920  with a needle slot  3924  bounded by closed-in walls as described herein. In some embodiments the needle trap  3920  may be constructed out of two separate sheets of material as shown in FIG.  392 A 2 . In these embodiments, the needle driver slot  3923  may be cut through one sheet of material that will form the upper structure  3921  of the needle trap  3920  (i.e., the top sheet shown in FIG.  392 A 2 ) and dimensioned as described herein (e.g., the needle driver slot may comprise a single cut, forming a linear cut through the material, or may comprise a through cut with a width  3923   b  as shown herein). Further, this one sheet of material that will form the upper structure  3921  may then be adhered to another sheet of material that will form the lower structure  3922  of the needle trap  3920  (i.e., the bottom sheet shown in FIG.  329 A 2 ) so as to seal the outer perimeter along the longitudinal axis of the needle trap and the lateral perimeter of the needle trap opposite the entry zone. In many embodiments, sealing the outer perimeter may comprise the use of an adhesive, a glue, a weld, a stitch, or any other joining means. 
     In some embodiments, the lower surface of lower structure  3922  of needle trap  3920  may comprise adhesive, velcro, or other bonding means to releasably attach the needle trap  3920  to a mounting surface, such as the barrier mounting base, barrier, or base as described herein. In some embodiments, the lower surface of lower structure  3922  of needle trap  3920  may comprise adhesive, or other bonding means to permanently attach the needle trap  3920  to a surface. 
     In some embodiments, the needle trap  3920  as described herein may be placed/inserted into a re-usable secondary structure  3926  (as shown in  FIGS.  392 B- 392 D  and FIGS.  392 B 1 - 392 B 5 ) configured to receive the needle trap  3920 . The secondary structure  3926  may comprise an upper structure  3926   a , a lower structure  3926   b , a needle driver slot  3926   d , a needle trap receiving slot  3926   e , and a lateral wall  3926   c  (which may join upper structure  3926   a  to lower structure  3926   b  at the lateral perimeter of secondary structure  3926  at the end opposite the needle trap receiving slot  3926   e ). The secondary structure may also comprise one or more longitudinal walls  3926   f  (which may join upper structure  3926   a  to lower structure  3926   b  at the longitudinal perimeters of the secondary structure  3926 ). Alternatively or in combination, the secondary structure may also comprise inner grooves  3926   g  configured to receive the needle trap  3920 . 
     The needle trap receiving slot  3926   e  of the secondary structure  3926  may be configured so as to receive the needle trap  3920 . Thus, in different embodiments, the secondary structure may have different dimensions depending upon the size of the needle trap  3920 . The fit of the needle trap  3920  within the needle trap receiving slot  3926   e  may be loose or tight, and rely on friction or surface treatments to accomplish the desired fit. In some embodiments, the secondary structure provides a compressive force to the needle trap within. 
     The needle driver slot  3926   d  of the secondary structure  3926  may be configured to match the dimensions of the needle driver slot  3923  of the needle trap  3920 . Alternatively, the needle driver slot  3926   d  may be oversized (i.e., has greater width in the Y-axis) than the needle driver slot  3923 . 
     The lateral wall  3926   c  of the secondary structure  3926  may serve as a stop for the needle trap  3920  (i.e., the needle trap is fully seated/inserted into the secondary structure when the needle trap abuts the lateral wall). Optional longitudinal walls  3926   f  may additionally serve to constrain the needle trap  3920  from lateral movement during use. 
     In some embodiments, the needle driver slot  3926   d  of the secondary structure  3926  may extend through both the upper structure  3926   a  (as shown in  FIGS.  392 B- 392 D ) and the lower structure  3926   b  (as shown in FIG.  392 B 1 ). Configured as such, the distal end of the needle driver is allowed to traverse the entire height (Z-axis) of the secondary structure, which may facilitate depositing of needles  3928  into needle trap  3920 . 
     In further detail the secondary structure  3926  of FIG.  392 B 1  may include a first stiff member  3926   j  having first and second ends and a second stiff member  3926   h  extending from the first end of the first stiff member and third stiff member  3926   i  extending from the second end of the first stiff and in a same plane as the second stiff member  3926   h . The stiff structure  3926  may be configured to receive a needle receptacle  3920  of any of the preceding claims between the second and third stiff members  3926   h ,  3926   i.    
     In some embodiments, the distance  3926   d  between the second and third members  3926   h ,  3926   i  at an end proximate the first member  3926   j  is less than a distance  3926   k  between the second and third member  3926   h ,  3926   i  at a distal end such that when the needle receptacle is received within the stiff structure, the second and third members impart a force, such as a lateral compressive force on the needle receptacle  3920 , deforming the needle receptacle and enlarging an entry to the needle slot of the needle receptacle. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  392 E- 392 F , in some embodiments the needle trap  3920  may comprise one or more longitudinal runners  3927  adhered to the bottom of lower structure  3922 . In some embodiments, the longitudinal runners may be configured to provide a needle driver space  3929  defined by the space between the bottom of the needle trap  3920 , the adjacent vertical surfaces of the longitudinal runners  3927 , and the barrier surface of which the needle trap is attached. In some embodiments, the longitudinal runners  3920  may be sized so as to span the length of the needle trap comprised of the secure zone  3920   c  and the transition zone  3920   b . In some embodiments, the longitudinal runners  3920  may be comprised of a foam, rubber, or rigid material. 
     In many embodiments, the longitudinal runners  3927 , by providing needle driver space  3929 , allow for the distal tip of the needle driver to deflect the lower structure  3922  of needle trap  3920  downward (as shown in  FIG.  392 F ) so as to facilitate translation of needle  3928  into the needle trap. In some embodiments, only one longitudinal runner  3927  may be adhered to the underside of the needle trap  3920 , and a needle  3928  is loaded into the needle with compliance of the needle trap material. 
     In some embodiments, the needle trap  3290  and the secondary structure  3926  may be configured to provide a compressive lateral force on the needle trap  3290  so as to promote spreading open of the needle slot  3924  (i.e., to facilitate easy placing of needles into the needle trap). FIGS.  392 B 2 - 392 B 3  and FIGS.  392 B 4 - 392 B 5  illustrate exemplary embodiments of such configurations. In these exemplary embodiments, the needle trap  3290  may have a lateral width  3920   d  at the end of the needle trap opposite the needle slot  3924 , and a lateral width  3920   k  at the needle slot  3924 . Further, in these exemplary embodiments, the inner grooves  3926   g  of the secondary structure  3926  may have an inner lateral width  3926   d  within the secondary structure opposite the needle trap receiving slot  3926   e  entrance, and an inner lateral width  3926   k  at the entrance of the needle trap receiving slot  3926   e . In the embodiments shown in FIGS.  392 B 2 - 392 B 3 , the inner lateral widths  3926   d  and  3926   e  of the secondary structure  3926  may be the same, while the lateral width  3920   d  of the needle trap may be less than the lateral width  3920   k  of the needle trap  3290 . Further, the lateral widths  3926   d  and  3926   e  of the secondary structure may be sized complementarily to the lateral width  3920   d  of the needle trap  3290 . Thus, the lateral width  3920   k  of the needle trap  3920  is greater than the lateral widths  3926   d  and  3926   e  of the secondary structure. Dimensioned as such, when the needle trap  3290  is placed into the secondary structure  3926 , the secondary structure  3926  may provide a compressive lateral force on the needle trap  3290  so as to promote spreading open of the needle slot  3924 , as shown in FIG.  392 B 3 . 
     Alternatively, in the embodiments shown in FIGS.  392 B 4 - 392 B 5 , the lateral widths  3920   d  and  3920   k  of the needle trap  3290  may be the same, while the inner lateral width  3926   k  of the secondary structure may be less than the inner lateral width  3926   d  of the secondary structure  3296 . Further, the inner lateral width  3926   d  of the secondary structure  3926  may be sized complementarily to the lateral width  3920   d  of the needle trap  3290 . Thus, the inner lateral width  3296   k  of the secondary structure is less than the lateral widths  3920   d  and  3920   k  of the needle trap  3290 . Dimensioned as such, when the needle trap  3290  is placed into the secondary structure  3926 , the secondary structure  3926  may provide a compressive lateral force on the needle trap  3290  so as to promote spreading open of the needle slot  3924 , as shown in FIG.  392 B 5 . In some embodiments, the lateral dimensions  3920   d  and  3920   k  of the needle trap, and inner lateral dimensions  3926   d  and  3926   k  of the secondary structure, may be configured as necessary to provide a compressive lateral force on the needle trap  3290  so as to promote spreading open of the needle slot  3924 . 
       FIGS.  393 A- 393 B  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device  3930  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3930  comprises a u-shaped housing  3931  having an upper portion  3932  and a lower portion  3933  coupled together by a hinge portion  3934  at the back end of the housing. The space, or cavity, between the upper portion and the lower portion forms a planar needle slot  3935  for storing a plurality of needles N. The hinge portion  3934  may be spring-loaded to bias the upper and lower portions of the housing towards one another, such that the needles can be secured within the needle slot by the compressive forces exerted by the upper and lower portions. Each of the upper portion and the lower portion comprises a first arm and a second arm, wherein the space between the first arm and the second arm defines a needle driver channel or slot  3936  extending down the center of the “U”. In use, the tip of a needle driver holding a needle may be aligned with the needle driver slot  3936 , and the needle aligned with the planar needle slot  3935 , and then the needle driver tip may be translated along the needle driver slot towards the hinge portion of the housing to secure the needle within the needle slot. 
     Optionally, the lower portion of the housing may comprise an extended portion  3937  that extends beyond the front end of the upper portion of the housing. In use, the extended portion  3937  can provide a landing zone for a needle to be secured in the device, wherein the needle may be placed in contact with the upper surface of the extended portion with the needle driver tip aligned with the needle driver slot. The landing zone can facilitate the insertion of the needle into the needle slot by eliminating the need for a user to carefully align the needle with the plane of the needle slot. Optionally, the housing may further comprise blocking tabs  3938   a ,  3938   b  located at the front end of the housing, extending from the front outer edge of the lower housing portion to the front outer edge of the upper housing portion. The blocking tabs can prevent a needle from entering the needle slot with one or both ends of the needle exposed beyond the arms of the u-shaped housing, thus reducing the risk of needle stick injury by ensuring that both ends of the needle are secured between the upper and lower portions of the housing. 
     Optionally, to further reduce the risk of an exposed needle end extending beyond the arms of the u-shaped housing  3931 , the device  3930  may be provided with lateral walls  3939  disposed over the outer lateral edges of the u-shaped housing, as shown in  FIG.  393 B . The lateral walls  3939  may be integrated portions of the housing  3931 , or they may be provided a separate accessory that can be removably coupled to the device  3930 . For example, the device  3930  may be provided with a u-shaped accessory comprising the lateral walls  3939  and dimensioned to fit closely over the outer edges of the housing  3931 . 
       FIG.  394    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3940  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3940  comprises a housing  3941  having an upper portion  3942  and a lower portion  3943  coupled together by a hinge portion  3944  at the back end of the housing. The space between the upper and lower portions forms a planar needle slot  3945  for storing a plurality of needles N. The hinge portion  3944  may be spring-loaded to bias the upper and lower portions towards each other, such that the needles can be secured within the needle slot by the compressive forces exerted by the upper and lower portions of the housing. The upper portion may define an upper needle driver slot  3947   a  extending along the length of the housing and configured to allow translation of a needle driver tip therein. The lower portion may define a lower needle driver slot  3947   b  substantially aligned with the upper needle driver slot. Further, the lower portion comprises an extended portion  3948  that extends beyond the front end of the upper housing portion, to provide a landing zone for the needle to be placed into the device. The lower needle driver slot  3947   b  can extend into the extended portion, as shown. In use, a needle driver holding a needle may be placed over the extended portion with the tip of the needle driver aligned with the front end of the lower needle driver slot  3947   b  and the needle contacting the upper surface of the extended portion. Subsequently, the needle driver tip may be translated along the upper needle driver slot towards the back end of the device, to secure the needle within the needle slot. The landing zone can facilitate the insertion of the needle into the needle slot by eliminating the need for a user to carefully align the needle with the plane of the needle slot. 
       FIG.  395    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3950  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3950  may be similar in many aspects to the device  3510  shown and described in reference to  FIGS.  351 A- 351 C , and the device  3940  shown and described in reference to  FIG.  394   . The device  3950  comprises a housing  3951  having an upper portion  3952  and a lower portion  3953  movably coupled to one another by a hinge portion  3954  at the back end of the housing. The space between the upper portion and the lower portion forms a planar needle slot (best seen in  FIG.  351 C , slot  3515 ) for storing a plurality of needles N. The upper portion  3952 , lower portion  3953 , and hinge portion  3954  may be similar in many aspects to the correspondingly named elements of the device  3940  described in reference to  FIG.  394   . The upper portion may further include lateral walls  3955  configured to capture and enclose the ends of the needles disposed within the needle slot, thereby reducing the risk of needle stick injury from an exposed needle end extending beyond the lateral sides of the housing. 
       FIG.  396    illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device  3960  for securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. The device  3960  comprises a first clip  3961   a  and a second clip  3961   b , also referred to as elongated members. Each clip having a respective slot  3962   a  and  3962   b  shaped to receive ends of a plurality of needles N. The clips may be formed from and/or include spring materials configured to apply compressive force against the ends of the needles disposed within the slots in order to secure the needles in place with the tips of needles covered. The two clips are aligned and arranged with the openings of the slots facing each other, such that a needle N may be inserted into the device with one end of the needle entering the slot of the first clip, and the other end entering the slot of the second clip, with the needle in a substantially planar orientation with respect to the plan of the device  3960 . The first clip and the second clip may be spaced apart to define a needle driver slot  3963  between the two clips, wherein the tip of a needle driver holding a needle may be translated along the needle driver slot to secure the needle within the device. The device may further comprise a back wall  3964  disposed across the back end of the device to block the back end of the first and second clips, to prevent a user from accidentally translating the needle driver holding the needle beyond the back end of the device. The back wall  3964  may be provided as an integral portion of the device, or it may be provided as a separate component that may be coupled to the two clips before use, for example via adhesives or mechanical fasters. 
       FIGS.  397 A- 397 B  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a device for dispensing and securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIGS.  397 A and  397 B  both illustrates top views of exemplary embodiments of a needle trap  3970  wherein a lateral side  3972  of the needle trap is not enclosed. Needle trap  3970  can be as per any of the needle trap embodiments as described herein. In the exemplary embodiments shown, a plurality of unused needles  103  may be provided within the needle trap  3970  in a new needle secure zone near the lateral end  3972  that is not enclosed, allowing unused needles  103  to be grabbed and translated out of the open lateral end  3972 , also referred to as an exit, for use. Further, one or more needles  104  may be placed into the needle trap  3970  with a needle driver through needle driver slot  3973  and a needle slot as described in the many embodiments of needle traps herein. As shown in  FIG.  397 A  the needle driver slot  3973  may be formed through the upper structure and extending from the perimeter of the upper structure at a first end to the perimeter of the upper structure at a second end. In this way, the needle trap  3970  may be both a needle dispenser and a needle trap. As shown in  FIG.  397 A , in some embodiments, new needles may be separated from used needles by one or more stops  3971  located within the needle driver slot  3973  or needle slot. The one or more stops may comprise one or more raised surfaces that can inhibit translation of a needle driver holding a used needle  104  from translating past the one or more stops, thereby separating a used needle secure zone having used needles  104  from new needle secure zone having unused needles  103 . Alternatively or in combination, the one or more stops may comprise surface treatments than increase friction between a used needle  104  and the complementary needle slot so as to prevent translation of used needles  104  into unused needles  103 . In some embodiments, the needle driver slot  3973  may comprise a lateral bridge (i.e., the needle driver slot is not continuous) so as to block translation of a needle driver holding used needles  104 , and thus prevent translation of used needles  104  into unused needles  103 . As shown in  FIG.  397 B , in some embodiments, no needle stops may be provided. In some embodiments, needle trap  3970  may be configured with a decrease in the height of the needle slot to prevent translation of used needles  104  into unused needles  103 . 
       FIGS.  398 A- 398 D  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a barrier mounting base with a needle dispenser and needle trap mounted to a barrier for dispensing and securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  398 A  illustrates a top view of a barrier mounting base  3693  with a needle dispenser  101  containing needles  103  and with a needle trap  331  mounted thereto, and this assembly mounted to a barrier  403  donned by a surgeon, as described herein.  FIGS.  398 B- 398 D  illustrate end views of exemplary embodiments of barrier mounting base  3693  and how it may interact with the barrier  403  when coupled thereto. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  398 B- 398 D , and in accordance with many embodiments described herein, the barrier mounting base  3693  may serve as the substrate for mounting devices such as needle dispenser  101 . As described herein, the barrier mounting base  3693  may comprise any material capable of providing sufficient rigidity to stably support devices such as the needle dispenser  101  while coupled to the barrier  403  at a mating surface  3982 , the mating surface  3982  defined as the area where the underside of the barrier mounting base  3693  couples to the external/exposed surface of the barrier  403 . Also as described herein, adhesive members, magnetic couplings, velcro attachments, mechanical coupling mechanisms such as a snap-fit, or other coupling mechanisms may be used to couple the barrier mounting base  3693  to the barrier  403  at mating surface  3982 . In many embodiments, and as shown in  FIG.  398 B , the barrier mounting base  3693  may be configured to resist torsion and/or bending, such that when coupled to the barrier  403  at mating surface  3982 , gaps  3980  between the barrier mounting base  3693  and barrier  403  may be present. In some embodiments, and as shown in  FIG.  398 C , the underside of the barrier mounting base  3693  may comprise one or more extensions  3981  that may span all or part of the gaps between the underside of the barrier mounting base  3693  and the external/exposed surface of the barrier  403 , thus acting to add torsional stability to the barrier mounting base  3693  when coupled to the barrier  403 . The extensions  3981  may comprise foam, rubber, or any other material capable of conforming to the external/exposed surface of the barrier  403 . The extensions  3981  may be configured as necessary to add torsional stability to the barrier mounting base  3693  when coupled to the barrier  403  and thereby be torsional stiffeners. In some embodiments, and as shown in  FIG.  398 D , the barrier mounting base  3693  may be configured with a concave underside dimensioned to complement the convex external/exposed surface of the barrier  403  and receive a barrier therein. In these embodiments, the mating surface  3982  may be maximized, thus acting to maximize torsional stability to the barrier mounting base  3693  when coupled to the barrier  403 . In some embodiments, a lower surface of the barrier mounting base contacts a curved surface of the barrier at a first location and the first and second extensions contact the curved surface of the batter at respective second and third locations. 
       FIGS.  399 A- 399 D  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a device for dispensing one or more swaged needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  399 A  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a swaged needle dispenser  3990  for dispensing a swaged needle  103 , and  FIGS.  399 B- 399 D  illustrate cross-sectional views of exemplary embodiments of posts  3992 , also referred to as couplings or extensions, and post receivers  3995 , also referred to as couplings, of swaged needle dispenser  3990 . 
     In the illustrated embodiments of  FIGS.  399 A- 399 D , a swaged needle dispenser  3990  may be a substantially planar device for dispensing one or more swaged needles  103 , comprising a planar base  3991 , two or more posts  3992  disposed on the upper surface of the planar base  3991 , two or more post receivers  3995  disposed on the lower surface of the planar base  3991 , and one or more swaged needle receivers  3993  disposed on the upper surface of the planar base  3991 . In some embodiments, the posts  3992  and post receivers are part of a spindle. The swaged needle dispenser  3990  may be configured as shown in  FIG.  399 A , wherein posts  3992  are disposed along the outer perimeter of the planar base  3991 , and the needle receiver  3993  is disposed at the center of the planar base  3991 , post receivers  3995  may be disposed on the underside of the planar base  3991  at locations matching the posts  3992 ). Also as shown in  FIG.  399 A , a swaged needle  103  may be held by the needle receiver  3993 , and suture  3994  coupled to the swaged needle  103  wrapped around posts  3992 . Posts  3992  may comprise a head  3992   b  attached to a neck  3992   a , wherein the neck  3992   a  attaches to the planar base  3991 . Post heads  3992   b  may comprise one or more slots  3992   c  recessed into the heads, which may serve to receive the terminal end of suture  3994 . 
     In many embodiments, and as exemplified in  FIGS.  399 B- 399 D , posts  3992  may comprise a neck  3992   a  with a height  3992   i , and a head with height  3992   h  and width  3992   w . Further, post receivers  3995  (couplings) may comprise a height  3992   y  and width  3992   x  that are complementarily dimensioned so as to receive post heads  3992   c  upon stacking of two or more swaged needle dispensers  3990 . The heights  3992   i  and  3992   h  of post  3992  neck  3992   a  and head  3992   b  may be configured as necessary to accept suture  3994  when wrapped therearound. In preferred embodiments, height  3992   h  may be less than or equal to 1 centimeter. The heads of posts  3992  may be configured in many different ways and comprise a circular, square, oval, rectangular, multi-faceted, or other cross-sectional shape. As shown in  FIG.  399 B , the head of post  3992  may be configured with a step in. As shown in  FIG.  399 C , the head of post  3992  may be configured with a shoulder or step out so as to aid in retention of suture  3994  when wrapped. As shown in  FIG.  399 D , the head of post  3992  may be configured to flare out so as to aid in retention of suture  3994  when wrapped. 
     The planar base  3991 , two or more posts  3992 , and two or more post receivers  3995  may comprise any material suitable to provide a rigid or semi-rigid swaged needle dispenser  3990 , for example plastic, metal, or similar. In many embodiments, the swaged needle dispenser  3990  comprises materials capable of being sterilized. 
     The planar base  3991  of swaged needle dispenser  3990  may comprise any shape desired, and with any number of posts  3992 , post receivers  3995 , and needle receivers  3993  as necessary to hold any number of swaged needles  103  with attached sutures  3994 . For example, the planar base  3991  may assume a circular, square, oval, rectangular, multi-faceted, or any other shape. In many embodiments, two or more swaged needle dispensers may be stacked upon one another. 
       FIGS.  400 A- 400 D  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a device for dispensing one or more swaged needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  400 A  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a swaged needle dispenser  4000  for dispensing one or more swaged needles  103 , and  FIGS.  400 B- 400 D  illustrate cross-sectional views of exemplary embodiments of posts  4002  of swaged needle dispenser  4000 . 
     In the illustrated embodiments of  FIGS.  400 A- 400 D , a swaged needle dispenser  4000 , also referred to as a housing, may be a substantially planar device for dispensing one or more swaged needles  103 , comprising a planar base  4001 , two or more posts  4002 , also referred to as spindles, disposed on the upper surface of the planar base  4001 , also referred to as a bottom portion, and one or more swaged needle receivers  3993  disposed on the upper surface of the planar base  4001  and coupling the swaged needle to the swaged needle dispenser. The swaged needle dispenser  4000  may be configured as shown in  FIG.  400 A , wherein posts  4002  are disposed in pairs along the opposite sides of the planar base  4001 , and the needle receiver  3993  is disposed at the center of the planar base  3991  between opposing posts  4002 . Configured in this way, swaged needles  103  may be stored by the swaged needle dispenser  4000  in an array. Also as shown in  FIG.  400 A , a swaged needle  103  may be held by the needle receiver  3993 , and suture  3994  coupled to the swaged needle  103  wrapped around opposing pairs of posts  4002 . Posts  4002  may comprise a head  4002   b  attached to a neck  4002   a , wherein the neck  4002   a  attaches to the planar base  4001 . Post heads  4002   b  may comprise one or more slots  4002   c  recessed into the heads, which may serve to receive the terminal end of suture  3994 . 
     In many embodiments, and as exemplified in  FIGS.  400 B- 400 D , posts  4002  may comprise a neck  4002   a  with a height  4002   i , and a head with height  4002   h  and width  4002   w . The heights  4002   i  and  4002   h  of post  4002  neck  4002   a  and head  4002   b  may be configured as necessary to accept suture  3994  when wrapped therearound. In preferred embodiments, height  4002   h  may be less than or equal to 1 centimeter. The heads of posts  4002  may be configured in many different ways and comprise a circular, square, oval, rectangular, multi-faceted, or other cross-sectional shape. As shown in  FIG.  400 B , the head of post  4002  may be configured with a rounded top and flat bottom (e.g., like a mushroom) so as to aid in retention of suture  3994  when wrapped. As shown in  FIG.  400 C , the head of post  4002  may be configured with a rounded top and bottom so as to aid in retention of suture  3994  when wrapped. As shown in  FIG.  400 D , the head of post  4002  may be configured with a flat top and bottom so as to aid in retention of suture  3994  when wrapped. 
     The planar base  4001  and two or more posts  4002  may comprise any material suitable to provide a rigid or semi-rigid swaged needle dispenser  4000 , for example plastic, metal, or similar. In many embodiments, the swaged needle dispenser  4000  comprises materials capable of being sterilized. 
     The planar base  4001  of swaged needle dispenser  4000  may comprise any shape desired, and with any number of posts  4002  and needle receivers  3993  as necessary to hold any number of swaged needles  103  with attached sutures  3994 . For example, the planar base  4001  may assume a circular, square, oval, rectangular, multi-faceted, or any other shape. 
     In some embodiments, the top and bottom of the spindles include a coupling the top coupling having a first shape and the bottom coupling being shaped to receive the top coupling. In some embodiments, the top and bottom of the spindles include a coupling. The top coupling having a first shape and the bottom coupling being shaped to engage with the first shape of the top coupling. In some embodiments, the top of the spindle includes an extension and the top of the spindle includes a recess shaped to receive the extension. 
       FIGS.  401 A- 401 C ,  FIGS.  402 A- 402 C ,  FIGS.  403 A- 403 C , and  FIGS.  404 A- 404 C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a base for mounting one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  401 A ,  FIG.  402 A ,  FIG.  403 A , and  FIG.  404 A  illustrate perspective views of exemplary embodiments of a base  4011 .  FIG.  401 B ,  FIG.  402 B ,  FIG.  403 B , and  FIG.  404 B  illustrate top views of the exemplary embodiments of base  4011  shown in  FIG.  401 A ,  FIG.  402 A ,  FIG.  403 A , and  FIG.  404 A , respectively.  FIG.  401 C ,  FIG.  402 C ,  FIG.  403 C , and  FIG.  404 C  illustrate end views of the exemplary embodiments of base  4011  shown in  FIG.  401 A ,  FIG.  402 A ,  FIG.  403 A , and  FIG.  404 A , respectively. 
     Base  4011  may comprise a planar structure  4010   c , a planar structure  4010   a , in some instances a planar structure  4010   b , and in some instances a planar structure  4010   d . Planar structure  4010   c  may be considered the base planar structure of base  4010  (i.e., in use it primarily lays in the horizontal), and may be placed on or coupled to surgical drapes, tables, stands, and the like via coupling means at its underside (e.g., Velcro, adhesive, magnets, mechanical joining means, and the like). Planar structure  4010   c  may comprise a rectangular configuration with a length and width as appropriate to provide stability to base  4010 . Planar structure  4010   a , including a mounting surface, may be coupled to planar structure  4010   c  at a living hinge  4011   a , with an interior angle  4012  defining the angle between the planar structure  4010   c  and planar structure  4010   a . Planar structure  4010   a  may be considered the planar surface or may include a planar surface that is a mounting surface whereon the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein may be coupled for use during surgical procedures. Thus, planar structure  4010   a  may comprise a surface configured to couple to the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein (e.g., may comprise Velcro, adhesive, magnets, mechanical joining means, and the like). Further, planar structure  4010   c  may comprise a rectangular configuration with a length and width as appropriate for coupling the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein thereto. In some embodiments (as shown in  FIGS.  401 A- 401 C ,  FIGS.  402 A- 402 C , and  FIGS.  404 A- 404 C ), planar structure  4010   b  may be coupled to planar structure  4010   b  at a living hinge  4011   b . Planar structure  4010   b  may be considered a supporting structure in that it may rest against planar structure  4010   c  and provide further structural stability to base  4010 . In some embodiments, planar structure  4010   b  may rest against planar structure  4010   c  (as shown in  FIGS.  401 A- 401 C ). In some embodiments, planar structure  4010   c  may rest against or engage with the planar structure  4010   c  at stops  4013 , or adjustment structures, of planar structure  4010   c , wherein the stops  4013  may be configured with an inter-stop spacing  4013   a  to present the surface of planar structure  4010   a  via its connection to planar surface  4010   b  as desired as described further herein (i.e., to provide for adjustability of interior angle  4012  as shown in  FIGS.  404 A- 404 C ). In some embodiments (as shown in  FIGS.  402 A- 402 C ), planar structure  4010   d  may be coupled to planar structure  4010   b  at a living hinge  4011   c . Planar structure  4010   d  may be oriented co-planar with planar structure  4010   c  and rest against planar structure  4010   c . In some embodiments, the surface of planar structure  4010   d  that rests against planar structure  4010   c  may be coupled to the surface of planar structure  4010   c  that it rests against (e.g., by Velcro, adhesive, magnets, mechanical joining means, and the like). In this way, in these embodiments the coupling of planar structure  4010   d  to planar structure  4010   c  may provide for adjustability of interior angle  4012 . 
     In some embodiments, the living hinge  4011   a , the living hinge  4011   b  (if present), and living hinge  4011   c  (if present) may comprise passive hinges. In some embodiments, the living hinge  4011   a , the living hinge  4011   b  (if present), and living hinge  4011   c  (if present) may comprise active hinges. In some embodiments, the living hinge  4011   a , the living hinge  4011   b  (if present), and living hinge  4011   c  (if present) may comprise a passive or active hinge. 
     In some embodiments, the base  4010  may be configured for infinite adjustability of interior angle  4012 . In some embodiments, the base  4010  may be configured for finite adjustability of interior angle  4012 . In many embodiments, the base  4010  may be configured to present the surface of planar structure  4010   a  configured to couple to the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein (e.g., via Velcro, adhesive, magnets, mechanical joining means, and the like) at an angle desired by the surgeon by adjustability of interior angle  4012 . In preferred embodiments, the interior angle  4012  may be adjustable between 30 degrees and 90 degrees, between 60 degrees and 75 degrees, between 45 degrees and 75 degrees, or between 60 degrees and 90 degrees. 
     In many embodiments, the coupling of base  4010  to surgical drapes, tables, stands, and the like via coupling means located at the underside of planar structure  4010   c  may be releasable. In many embodiments, the coupling of base  4010  to surgical drapes, tables, stands, and the like via coupling means located at the underside of planar structure  4010   c  may be releasable and may not pull, tear, or otherwise damage the surgical drapes, tables, stands, or the like it is coupled thereto. In many embodiments, the strength of the coupling of base  4010  to surgical drapes, tables, stands, and the like via coupling means located at the underside of planar structure  4010   c  may be stronger than the coupling of needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein to the surface of planar structure  4010   a.    
       FIGS.  405 A- 405 B  illustrate exemplary mounting positions of a base for coupling one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles or for coupling one or more tools as described herein, in accordance with many embodiments.  FIG.  405 A  illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment wherein one or more bases  4010  as described in  FIGS.  401 A- 401 C ,  FIGS.  402 A- 402 C ,  FIGS.  403 A- 403 C , and  FIGS.  404 A- 404 C  are mounted to a surgical drape  4052  covering a patient  4050  resting on an operating room table  4051 .  FIG.  405 B  illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment wherein one or more bases  4010  as described in  FIGS.  401 A- 401 C ,  FIGS.  402 A- 402 C ,  FIGS.  403 A- 403 C , and  FIGS.  404 A- 404 C  are mounted to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  in the operating room 
     As shown in  FIG.  405 A , surgical drape  4052  may comprise a window  4054  exposing an incision  4055  in patient  4050 . One or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  to allow coupling of one or more of the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein. With reference to the X-Y axes, one or more bases  410  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  in any X-Y position, and at any angle relative to the X-axis or Y-axis as desired by a surgeon  4053  performing the operation. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  parallel to the X-axis. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  parallel to the Y-axis. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  at any angle relative to the X-axis or Y-axis. In some embodiments one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  near the dominant-arm side of surgeon. In some embodiments one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  near the non-dominant-arm side of surgeon. In some embodiments one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  in front of the of surgeon. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  in the near surgical field. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  outside the near surgical field. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to surgical drape  4052  in any combination of positions as described herein. 
     In various embodiments, the support, also called a base  4010 , may be mounted to a drape over the over a patient, within the near surgical field, to a table within the near surgical field, to a stand within the near surgical field, at a location opposite the surgeon from an incision, proximal the incision of the patient, distal the incision of the patient, superior to the incision of the patient, or inferior the incision of the patient. 
     As shown in  FIG.  405 B , surgical drape  4052  may comprise a window  4054  exposing an incision  4055  in patient  4050 . One or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  to allow coupling of one or more of the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and various tools as described herein. With reference to the X-Y axes, one or more bases  410  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  in any X-Y position, and at any angle relative to the X-axis or Y-axis as desired by a surgeon  4053  performing the operation. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  parallel to the X-axis. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  parallel to the Y-axis. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  at any angle relative to the X-axis or Y-axis. In some embodiments one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  near the dominant-arm side of surgeon. In some embodiments one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  near the non-dominant-arm side of surgeon. In some embodiments one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  in front of the of surgeon. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  in the near surgical field. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  outside the near surgical field. In some embodiments, one or more bases  4010  may be coupled to one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands  4056  in any combination of positions as described herein. In some embodiments, further adjustability in the location of one or more bases  4010  may be attained through movement and/or rotation of the one or more surgical trays, tables, and/or stands. 
       FIGS.  406 A- 406 C  illustrate exemplary kits including one or more devices for dispensing and/or securing a plurality of needles, in accordance with many embodiments. As shown in the top views of  FIGS.  406 A- 406 C  (with a top packaging of the kit removed for clarity), kits  4060  may comprise sheet structure  4061  having a length  4061   h  and width  4061   w  configured to contain internal contents. Internal contents of kits  4060  may comprise one or more of a needle dispenser  101  with needles  103 , one or more of a needle receptacle  331  or  3920  or the like, and/or one or more barrier mounting base  3693  as described herein. Furthermore, in many embodiments, the internal contents of kits  4060  may comprise one or more of a needle dispenser  101  with needles  103 , one or more of a needle receptacle  331  or  3920  or the like, and/or one or more barrier mounting base  3693  complementarily sized to each other as described herein. 
     As shown in  FIG.  406 A , kit  4060  may comprise one or more of a needle dispenser  101  with needles  103 , which may be combined to form a suture pack with needles  103 , one or more of a needle receptacle  331 , and/or one or more barrier mounting base  3693 , all packaged coplanar. In many embodiments, the needle dispenser  101 , needle receptacle  331 , and barrier mounting base  3693  may be any of the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and/or barrier mounting bases as described herein (i.e., needle receptacle  3920  may be contained within kit  4060 ). 
     As shown in  FIG.  406 B , kit  4060  may comprise one or more of a needle dispenser  101  with needles  103 , one or more of a needle receptacle  331 , and/or one or more barrier mounting base  3693 , with the needle dispenser  101  and needle receptacle  331  coupled to barrier mounting base  3693 . In many embodiments, the needle dispenser  101 , needle receptacle  331 , and barrier mounting base  3693  may be any of the needle dispensers, needle receptacles, and/or barrier mounting bases as described herein (i.e., needle receptacle  3920  may be contained within kit  4060 ). 
     As shown in  FIG.  406 C , kit  4060  may comprise one or more of a needle dispenser  101  with needles  103  coupled to a needle receptacle  3920 . In some embodiments, kit  4060  may comprise one or more of a needle dispenser  101  with needles  103  coupled to a needle receptacle  3920  without a barrier mounting base (i.e., the lower structure  3922  of needle receptacle  3920  may be directly coupled to the needle dispenser  101 ). In some embodiments, and as shown in  FIG.  406 C , the needle dispenser  101  with needles  103  coupled to a needle receptacle  3920  may be coplanar. In some embodiments, the needle receptacle  3920  coupled to the needle dispenser  101  with needles  103  may be folded under the needle dispenser  101  in the kit packaging, which may be sterile packaging including a sterile barrier, such as the sterile enclosure  505  of  FIG.  308   . In these embodiments, the kit height may be increased, however the overall length  4061   h  and width  4061   w  may be substantially decreased. 
     In many embodiments, the kit  4060  may be planar or substantially planar (e.g., to facilitate easy shipping and/or storing). In many embodiments, the top and bottom surfaces of kit  4060  contents may touch the internal walls of kit  4060  packaging. In many embodiments, the contents of kit  4060  may be sterilized. In many embodiments, the length  4061   h  and width  4061   w  of kit  4060  may be minimized so as to minimize the overall size of the kit  4060 . 
     Each of the components of the kits  4060 , including for example, the needle dispenser  101  with needles  103 , the needle receptacle  3920  and the barrier mounting base may be contained together within an sterile package for distribution. 
       FIGS.  407 - 413    illustrate an exemplary embodiment of needle receptacle  4070 , in accordance with many embodiments. The needle receptacle  4070  may comprise many of the structures shown with reference to  FIGS.  167 - 179    and  FIGS.  309 - 320   , and a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many of these embodiments are well suited for combination with each other, as well as other embodiments as shown and described herein.  FIG.  407    illustrates a top view of needle receptacle  4070 ,  FIG.  408    illustrates a perspective view of needle receptacle  4070 ,  FIG.  409    illustrates an exploded view of needle receptacle  4070 ,  FIG.  410    illustrates a left side view of needle receptacle  4070 ,  FIG.  411    illustrates a cross-sectional right side view of needle receptacle  4070 ,  FIG.  412    illustrates a cross-sectional end view of needle receptacle  4070 , and  FIG.  413    illustrates a front view of needle receptacle  4070 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the needle receptacle  4070  may be a substantially planar device comprised of an entry zone  4071  and a secure zone  4072 , as described herein. The needle receptacle  4070  may include an upper structure  4073 , an upper structure  4074 , a lower structure  4075 , and a compliant structure  4076 . The upper structure  4073  may comprise a ramp structure  4073   a  that couples to and forms a part of the lower structure  4075  and forms an entry way located below a needle slot  4077 , a needle driver slot  4073   b  that intersects the ramp structure  4073   a  and extends at least partially through the upper structure  4073 , and a window  4073   c  defined by an opening through the upper structure  4073  bound by the continuous upper structure inner wall  4073   d  and the ramp structure  4073   a . The window  4073   c  may be configured to complementarily receive a raised planar surface  4074   a  of upper structure  4074 , such that when the upper structure  4073  receives the upper structure  4074  from below the raised planar surface  4074   a  fits into window  4073   c , and a recessed planar surface  4074   b  of upper structure  4074  stops against the underside of upper structure  4073 . The upper structure  4074  may comprise a needle driver slot  4074   c  that extends partially therethrough and in line with the needle driver slot  4073   b  of upper structure  4073 . The upper side of lower structure  4075  may comprise a ramp structure  4075   a  and a recess  4075   b  partially along its perimeter to complementary receive and couple to the underside of the ramp structure  4073   a  and a lower protrusion  4073   e  of upper structure  4073 . The lower structure  4075  may also comprise a needle driver slot  4075   c  that extends partially therethrough and in line with the needle driver slot  4073   b  of upper structure  4073  and needle driver slot  4074   c  of upper structure  4074 . The compliant structure  4076  may be configured to be received by the lower structure  4075  from above, wherein a lower surface of the compliant structure stops against a planar surface  4075   d  of the lower structure  4075 . The compliant structure  4076  may also comprise a needle driver slot  4076   a  that extends partially therethrough and in line with the needle driver slot  4073   b  of upper structure  4073 , the needle driver slot  4074   c  of upper structure  4074 , and the needle driver slot  4075   c  of lower structure  4075 . The compliant structure  4076  may also comprise bevels  4076   b  at the entrance of needle driver slot  4076   a  to aid in guiding of a needle driver therethrough. When assembled, the needle receptacle  4070  may comprise the planar needle slot  4077  formed by the empty vertical space between an upper planar surface  4076   c  of compliant structure  4076  and the lower surface of upper structure  4074 , and closed in at the sides by the inner wall  4073   d  of upper structure  4073 , thus the needle slot  4077  may be configured for receiving one or more needles  104 . To aid in placement of one or more needles into the needle slot  4077  of needle receiver  4070 , upper structure  4074  may comprise tabs  4074   d  within the entry zone  4071  that may angle vertically away from the opposing and angled down ramp structure  4073   a.    
     The needle driver slots  4073   b ,  4074   c ,  4075   c , and  4076   a  of needle receiver  4070  may align and be configured to provide clearance for a needle driver along the entire length of the needle translation from entry zone  4071  to secure zone  4072 . The needle slot  4077  of needle receiver  4070  may constrain needles  104  placed therein into a single needle depth array, to minimize overall depth profile and facilitate needle counting. In many embodiments, the compliant structure  4067  may apply a holding force against one or more needles  104  within the needle slot  4077  and the secure zone  4072  to resist translation of the needle out of the needle slot  4077  and the secure zone  4072 . In many embodiments, the compliant structure  4067  may comprise foam. In many embodiments, the compliant structure  4067  may comprise a compliant element. In many embodiments, the upper structure  4074  may apply a holding force against one or more needles  104  within the needle slot  4077  and the secure zone  4072  to resist translation of the needle out of the needle slot  4077  and the secure zone  4072 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the needle  104  is moved into contact between the ramp structure  4073   a  and the tabs  4074   d  of upper structure  4074  at entry zone  4071  of needle receptacle  4070  by the surgeon manipulating the tip of the needle driver in the needle driver slots of needle receptacle  4070  as described herein. The needles  104  can be pushed into the entry zone  4071  towards the needle slot  4077  and become aligned with the needle slot  4077  of needle receptacle  4070 . The needles  104  can then be moved in translation along the longitudinal axis of the needle receptacle  4070  (i.e., the axis of orientation of the needle driver slots) from the entry zone  4071  into the secure zone  4072  where the needles  104  slide into the needle slot  4077  with the convex side facing the secure zone  4072  and the sharp tip and tail of the needle  104  facing the entry zone  4071 . The needle driver can move the used needles  104  into the needle slot  4077  in the secure zone  4072  until the needle driver runs into the end of the needle slots of needle receptacle  4070  or the last inserted used needle  104 . 
     In different embodiments, the needle receptacle  4070  can have different dimension depending upon the size of the needles  104  being received. Thus, a small needle receptacle  4070  used to receive smaller needles  104  can have smaller dimensions than a large needle receptacle  4070  used to store larger needles. 
     Structural components of needle receptacle  4070  may be joined as described herein (e.g., adhesive, mechanical fits, welds). The underside of needle receptacle  4070  may be configured to attach and/or couple (e.g., by hook and look couplings, adhesive) to many of the structures described herein, including barriers, barrier mounting bases, bases, and the like. In many embodiments, needle receptacle  4070  may be configured to releasably attach to many of the structures described herein. 
       FIGS.  414 - 418    illustrate an exemplary embodiment of needle receptacle  4140 , in accordance with many embodiments. The needle receptacle  4140  may comprise many of the structures shown with reference to  FIGS.  167 - 179   ,  FIGS.  309 - 320   ,  FIGS.  392 A- 392 F , and FIGS.  392 A 1 - 392 A 12 , and a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many of these embodiments are well suited for combination with each other, as well as other embodiments as shown and described herein.  FIG.  414    illustrates a top view of needle receptacle  4140 ,  FIG.  415    illustrates a front view of needle receptacle  4140 ,  FIG.  416    illustrates a left side view of needle receptacle,  FIG.  417    illustrates a perspective view of needle receptacle  4140 , and  FIG.  418    illustrates an exploded view of needle receptacle  4140 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the needle receptacle  4140  may be a substantially planar device comprised of a secure zone  4142 , as described herein. The needle receptacle  4140  may also comprise a landing zone  4141 , as described herein. The needle receptacle  4140  may include an upper structure  4143 , a lower structure  4146 , and a needle slot  4149  disposed between the upper structure  4143  and the lower structure  4146 . The needle slot  4149  may be configured for securing one or more needles, as described herein. The needle slot  4149  of needle receiver  4140  may constrain needles placed therein into a single needle depth array, to minimize overall depth profile and facilitate needle counting as described herein. The needle slot  4149  may be enclosed at all sides except at end  4143   a  of the upper structure  4143 , in accordance with many embodiments described herein. The lower structure  4146  may comprise a channel  4146   a  formed in the upper surface thereof. The channel  4146   a  may be sized to receive a needle driver tip. The upper structure  4143  may comprise a stiff structure  4144 , a flexible structure  4145 , and a needle driver slot  4148  formed between the stiff structure  4144  and the flexible structure  4145 . 
     The needle driver slot  4148  may be formed between an edge  4145   a  of the flexible structure  4145  and an edge  4144   a  of the upper structure. In many embodiments, edge  4145   a  of the flexible structure may separate from edge  4144   a  of the stiff structure to receive a needle driver, as described herein. In many embodiments, edges  4145   a  and  4144   a  may contact each other in a non-deformed free standing state without a needle driver extending therebetween. In some embodiments, edges  4145   a  and  4144   a  may be spaced apart from each other in a non-deformed state, a gap being defined therebetween. 
     The needle receptacle  4140  may comprise a compliant structure  4147  disposed between the upper surface of the lower structure  4146  and the lower surface of the stiff structure  4144 . In many embodiments, the compliant structure  4147  may apply a holding force against one or more needles within the needle slot  4149  and the secure zone  4142  to resist translation of the needle out of the needle slot  4149  and the secure zone  4142 . In many embodiments, the upper structure  4143  may apply a holding force against one or more needles within the needle slot  4149  and the secure zone  4142  to resist translation of the needle out of the needle slot  4149  and the secure zone  4142 . In many embodiments, the compliant structure  4147  may comprise foam. In many embodiments, the compliant structure  4147  may comprise a compliant element. 
     In many embodiments, the needle driver slot  4148  may be disposed parallel to channel  4146  of the lower structure  4146 . In many embodiments, the needle driver slot  4148  may be disposed parallel to and above channel  4146  of the lower structure  4146 . 
     In many embodiments, a portion of the lower structure  4146  may extend beyond end  4143   a  of the upper structure  4143 , forming a landing zone  4141 . In some embodiments, the needle may be placed in contact with the upper surface of the extended portion of the lower structure  4146  with the needle driver tip holding the needle aligned with the needle driver slot  4148  of needle receptacle  4140 . In some embodiments, channel  4146  may extend into the landing zone  4141 . In some embodiments, the needle may be placed in contact and within channel  4146  of the upper surface of the extended portion of the lower structure  4146  with the needle driver tip holding the needle aligned with channel  4146  of the lower structure  4146  and needle driver slot  4148  of needle receptacle  4140 . 
     In some embodiments, stiff upper structure  4143  and flexible upper structure  4145  may comprise beveled edges  4144   b  and  4145   b , respectively, at opposing sides of needle driver slot  4148 . The beveled edges  4144   b  and  4145   b  may facilitate easy locating of the needle driver into the needle driver slot  4148  when placing needles in needle receptacle  4140 . 
     In different embodiments, the needle receptacle  4140  can have different dimension depending upon the size of the needles being received. Thus, a small needle receptacle  4140  used to receive smaller needles can have smaller dimensions than a large needle receptacle  4140  used to store larger needles. 
     Structural components of needle receptacle  4140  may be joined as described herein (e.g., adhesive, mechanical fits, welds). The underside of needle receptacle  4140  may be configured to attach and/or couple (e.g., by Velcro, adhesive) to many of the structures described herein, including barriers, barrier mounting bases, bases, and the like. In many embodiments, needle receptacle  4140  may be configured to releasably attach to many of the structures described herein. In some embodiments, needle receptacle  4140  may be configured to be received by a receiving element or other structure as described herein. 
     Forceps Mounted Receptacle: The dispenser, trap and forceps may comprise an all in one sterile configuration. These can be manufactured together, with each being disposable. The forceps could contain the suture material, for example. 
     The needles can be packaged with the barrier as a unit. The needles can be arrayed for deployment from the barrier wall with the barrier having an area available for suture coiling. 
     Alternatively, suture coiling may not be provided. The packaging can be configured to be dispensed from the barrier or the forceps. 
     It can be easier to load a trap onto a forceps along with the suture pack and have five or so such “set ups” ready on the Mayo stand. When one has been used up, it can be placed the Mayo and the next one grabbed. 
     The combination of both dispensing unit (suture package) and used needle repository can be associated together on the forceps. 
     More than one setup of a suture package and needle receptacle can be combined and ready for use. 
     The sterile packaging may comprise disposable single use forceps, needle and suture dispenser in combination with a used needle receptacle. These can be co-manufactured. 
     The forceps mounted receptacles may comprise one or more of many different shapes and sizes. The weight can be sufficiently low in order to provide balance to the forceps mounted instrument. The needle receptacles configured for mounting on the forceps can be configured to provide a balanced surgical instrument with the attachment of needle retention device onto the forceps. 
     Any design weighing less than 250 grams. 
     The needle receptacle can be located on one side of forceps, dispensing unit (suture pack) on the other side to save space and volume. The forceps can be easily be rotated to gain access to one or other side when the suture package and needle receptacle are mounted on opposing sides of the forceps. 
     The needle receptacle may comprise adhesive and can be placed on the back of suture pack or vice versa. 
     The needle receptacle and suture package can be configured to use a back to back on opposing sides relationship of needle dispensing device and needle receptacle. 
     The suture packs and needle receptacles as described herein can be configured to coupled to, for example attach, to the forceps that allows for containment, coverage, securement, of both tip and end (tail) of one or more needles. 
     The needle arrangement in the receptacle may not need to be planar, and can be stacked into trough, side by side, for example. 
     The forceps mounted needle receptacle as described herein can promote an organized deposition or array of used needles to facilitate counting and reconciliation of needle count. 
     Needle Count Reconciliation: The scrub assistant and circulator often to maintain an ongoing count of needles (needles in use, needles in the field, needles on the mayo stand, needles on the back table). The receptacle can be specifically designed to hold five needles for easy counting by the surgeon and staff. This can facilitate reconciliation and communication with the rest of the team. The trap or securement, containment device can be specifically designed for five needles, and sized and shaped accordingly. The needle receptacle as described herein may comprise five zones, one for each needle. For example five tactile protrusions as described herein can be used to facilitate localization into each of the five individual zones. 
     One or more of the needle receptacle, the barrier or the suture package may comprise light sources to indicate needle status. Five light sources, one for each needle entry into the trap, can be provided, for example. Five light sources on could mean five needles in in the receptacle. This configuration could be easier to see from a distance. These sources could be in the trap (receptacle) or there could be a means of communication between trap and barrier with light sources on the barrier. Lighting could be anywhere on the barrier, but be preferred if lighting is dorsal for ease of visualization by the assistant such as a scrub nurse, for example when the trap is on the volar surface and perhaps less visible for the assistant to see. Both volar lighting and dorsal lighting could be provided, for example. There could be five zone specific light sources with one light on per needle into the trap, for example with light sources on the trap. Five light sources on the trap could be in communication with the barrier, and the five lights on the barrier light up according to number of needles in the trap. 
     This longitudinal receptacle that receives needles with sliding could have five stops with each stop representing an additional needle added to the slot. The longitudinal sliding cover can be spring loaded. Each time the needle driver is abutted against the leading edge of the cover, it triggers a unit translational movement. This movement can be repeated with each needle entry until the slot is fully covered. Each translational unit movement can be numbered 1 through five. 
     The needle receptacle (for example having a slot to receive needles and the driver) can be configured with ratcheted counting mechanism. There can be an active count of needles to be dispensed as well. A user can start with five needles in the dispenser and zero in the trap (0:5). The user would end with (5:0), when needles are reconciled. The apparatus can be configured with five light sources on the dispenser and count down to zero. This reconciliation by lighting can be helpful. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle comprises means for reconciling needles during or after the procedure. 
     In some embodiments, a first set of needles from a first suture pack are reconciled before a second suture pack enters the near surgical field. 
     In some embodiments, a dispensed needle receptacle comprising five or more dispensed surgical needles is received from a surgeon, wherein the dispensed surgical needles are stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle, the needle receptacle comprising one or more of an opening, a window or a transparent material for counting the stabilized innocuous dispensed needles, wherein the needles are arranged for counting within the receptacle. 
     In some embodiments, a dispensed needle receptacle comprising five or more dispensed surgical needles is received from a person who reconciled the surgical needles, wherein the dispensed surgical needles are stabilized and innocuous within the needle receptacle, the needle receptacle comprising one or more of an opening, a window or a transparent material for counting the stabilized innocuous dispensed needles, wherein the needles are arranged for counting within the receptacle. 
     The kits shown in  FIGS.  379 A- 379 C  are provided by way of example only, and many different kits may be assembled to accommodate specific uses or procedures, for example, arterial line or central line placement. 
     In some embodiments of needle receptacles disclosed herein, a housing of a needle receptacle may include a light scattering material or a light scattering surface for non-uniform light transmission therethrough. In some embodiments the upper or lower structure or surface of the upper or lower structure may be the light scattering surface or material. The light scattering surface or material may be a roughened surface or a sandblasted surface. 
     With respect to  FIG.  171    and other embodiments of needle receptacles, the inner surface of the upper structure may have protrusions or nubs  361 , also referred to as tactile bumps. The upper structure may include 2-20 tactile bumps, 5-8 tactile bumps, or 3-10 tactile bumps. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  334 A- 334 C  and other embodiments herein, the needle receptacle or suture pack may be placed such that dispensing or securing a needle from or to the suture pack or needle receptacle does not require external rotation  3345   a  of the arm or shoulders beyond a plane perpendicular to the coronal plane of the surgeon at the surgeon&#39;s shoulder, therefore allowing the user to engage only fine motor control, rather than gross motor control, to perform movements related to the dispensing and securing of needles. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle or suture pack may be placed such that dispensing or securing a needle from or to the suture pack or needle receptacle does not require external rotation  3345   a  of the arm or shoulders with respect to a sagittal plane that bisects the coronal plane at the surgeon&#39;s shoulders, therefore allowing the user to engage only fine motor control, rather than gross motor control, to perform movements related to the dispensing and securing of needles. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle or suture pack may be placed such that dispensing or securing a needle from or to the suture pack or needle receptacle does not require external rotation  3345   a  of the arm or shoulders with respect to a mid sagittal plane of the surgeon, therefore allowing the user to engage only fine motor control, rather than gross motor control, to perform movements related to the dispensing and securing of needles. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle may be placed or otherwise configured such that securing a needle into the needle receptacle uses only gross motor movement of the surgeon. 
     In some embodiments, the needle receptacle may be placed or otherwise configured to facilitate needle insertion into the needle receptacle using only articulation or rotation of the shoulder or elbow joints of a surgeon. 
     In some embodiments, the resistance of the needle driver along the needle driver slot is less than the resistance of the needle along the needle slot when the needle is advanced along the slot with a needle driver. 
     The systems and methods as described herein may be used to safely handle sutures during procedures involving non-living subjects, such as during the performance of autopsies on cadavers, wherein the person operating on the subject may still be exposed to blood-borne pathogens. Alternatively or in combination, the systems and methods described herein may be used to safely handle sutures during procedures involving non-human subjects, such as during the performance of an operation of an animal (e.g., in a veterinary practice or in animal studies). 
     While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.