Patent Publication Number: US-10327762-B2

Title: Suture locks

Description:
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/221,410, filed Sep. 21, 2015, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/193,764, filed Jul. 17, 2015, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 C.F.R. § 1.57. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Field of the Disclosure 
     The present disclosure relates generally to devices, systems, and methods for securing sutures. In particular, the suture securing devices, systems, and methods described herein may be used, in some embodiments, to secure a suture without requiring the tying of a knot and/or to elevate an external portion of a suture above a patient&#39;s skin, among other purposes. 
     Description of Related Art 
     Sutures are stitches used to close open wounds and/or surgical incisions of a patient. A medical practitioner generally uses a needle with an attached thread to substantially sew two adjacent sections of skin together to close the wound or incision. Surgical knots are often used to secure the sutures and ensure proper healing. However, effective surgical knots can be difficult to tie, thereby potentially allowing reopening of the wound or incision. Further, the patient may be at risk of infection if the wound or incision reopens. In another example, sutures and surgical knots contacting the skin can be inflammatory and/or become “ingrown” and actually impede healing of the wound or incision. Further, eversion of the wound edges is a desirable feature of a wound closure. However, current technologies require considerable operator skill to achieve wound eversion. 
     SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE ASPECTS 
     Disclosed herein are suture securing devices, systems, and methods that may be used to secure a suture without requiring the tying of a knot and/or to elevate an external portion of a suture above a patient&#39;s skin. 
     In a first aspect, a suture securing device is disclosed. The suture securing device includes a base having a bottom surface, at least a portion of the bottom surface configured to contact a patient&#39;s skin when in use, an eversion recess formed in the bottom surface, and a top surface opposite the bottom surface. The suture securing device also includes an arm connected to the base by a hinge. The hinge may have an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration the arm may be folded on top of the base. The arm may have a contacting surface that contacts at least a portion of the top surface of the base when the hinge is in the closed configuration. The suture securing device may also include an engagement structure for securing the arm to the base when the hinge is in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, when the hinge is in the closed configuration external portions of a thread of a mattress suture are secured between the top surface of the base and the contacting surface of the arm. 
     The base may comprise an elongate shape configured to extend across a wound, and the mattress suture may be a horizontal mattress suture. In some embodiments, when the hinge is in the closed configuration, a first external portion of the horizontal mattress suture is secured between the base and the arm on a first side of the eversion recess and a second portion of the horizontal mattress suture is secured between the base and the arm on a second side of the eversion recess. In some embodiments, the mattress sutures may be a vertical mattress suture. The base may further include a bulge extending from the top surface. The arm may further include two ridges extending substantially in parallel from the contacting surface. In some embodiments, when the hinge is in the closed configuration the bulge is received between the two ridges. 
     The suture securing device may also include at least one nub extending from a top surface of the ridge, and at least one recess formed in the contacting surface. The at least one recess may be configured to receive the at least one nub in the closed configuration. The at least one nub may include three nubs, and the at least one recess may include three recesses. One or more notches may be formed in the bulge. 
     In some embodiments, the base further includes two tracks extending from top surface on opposite sides of the bulge. In some embodiments, the device also include a first tab extending outwardly from a first end of the base and a second tab extending outwardly from a second end of the base, the second end opposite the first end, and wherein each of the first tab and the second tab include a hole extending therethrough. In some embodiments, one of the first tab or the second tab includes a male adapter extending therefrom, and the other of the first tab or the second tab includes a female adapter extending therefrom. In some embodiments, the engagement structure comprises a protrusion formed at a free end of the arm and a corresponding opening formed in the body, the recess positioned on the body such that, in the closed configuration, the protrusion extends into the opening. In some embodiments, the hinge comprises a living hinge. In some embodiments, one or more holes extend laterally through the bulge. In use, the suture may be threaded through the hole to help position the device. 
     In a second aspect, another suture securing device is disclosed. The suture securing device includes a body having a bottom surface, at least a portion of the bottom surface configured to contact a patient&#39;s skin when in use, and an eversion recess formed in the bottom surface, and a first gripping surface. In some embodiments, the first gripping surface is oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface. An arm is connected to the body by a hinge having an open configuration and a closed configuration. The arm includes a second gripping surface with at least a portion of the second gripping surface configured to contact at least a portion of the first gripping surface when the hinge is in the closed configuration. The suture securing device may also include an engagement structure configured to secure the arm to the body in the closed configuration. When the hinge is in the closed configuration, external portions of a thread of a simple interrupted suture are secured between the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface. 
     In a third aspect, a suture securing device is disclosed. The suture securing device includes a first piece having a bottom surface configured to contact a patient&#39;s skin when in use, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a hole extending therethrough. The suture securing device also include a second piece connected to the first piece by a hinge, the hinge having an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration the second piece is folded on top of the first piece. The second piece includes a contacting surface that contacts at least a portion of the top surface of the first piece when the hinge is in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, when the hinge is in the closed configuration, an external portion of a thread of a subcutaneous suture is secured between the top surface of the first piece and the contacting surface of the second piece. In some embodiments, each of the first piece and the second piece are substantially circular. In some embodiments, a diameter of the first piece is larger than a diameter of the second piece. In some embodiments, the first piece further comprises an outer ring and an inner ring extending from the top surface, the second piece further comprise an outer ring and an inner ring extending from the top surface, and, in the closed configuration, the outer and inner rings of the first piece mate with the outer and inner rings of the second piece. In some embodiments, further comprises one or more tabs extending outwardly from first piece. 
     In some embodiments, the suture securing device may include one or more arms attached to the body by one or more hinges. In some embodiments, the hinges may be omitted. In these embodiments, the arm (or arms) is not attached to the body, and may be described a clip (or clip) that is insertable into the body. The arm(s) and/or clip(s) may engage with one or more sides of the body, including the top, bottom, front, back, left, right or bottom sides. 
     The suture securing devices and systems described throughout this disclosure are useable to secure a suture without requiring the tying of a knot. In some embodiments the suture is secured through friction, bending of the suture around features of a suture securing device, and/or interference fits with a suture securing device. Additionally, these devices may eliminate or reduce the likelihood that a suture will become ingrown. In some embodiments, this is accomplished by eliminating or reducing the portion of the suture that contacts the surface of the patient&#39;s skin. In some embodiments, the suture, when secured by a suture securing device as described herein, may be left in place for longer than traditional knot-tied sutures. For example, a suture may remain in place for up to six, or more, weeks. 
     The suture securing device may be used with any type of suturing technique, including, for example, simple interrupted sutures, horizontal or vertical mattress sutures, and subcutaneous sutures. In some instances, multiple suture securing devices may be used in conjunction with multiple sutures to close a wound or incision. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The features and advantages of the suture securing devices, systems, and methods described herein will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope. In the drawings, similar reference numbers or symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The drawings may not be drawn to scale. 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a suture securing device. 
         FIG. 2A  is a top plan view of three of the suture securing devices shown in  FIG. 1  connected to form an interconnected chain. 
         FIG. 2B  is a side elevation view of the suture securing device shown in  FIG. 1 , depicting an external device attached to the suture securing device. 
         FIGS. 3A-3C  are side elevation and top plan views, respectively, of another embodiment of a suture securing device including single wing extensions and an arrangement of teeth. 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are top plan, perspective, and cross sectional views, respectively, of a first example configuration for teeth of the embodiment of the suture securing device shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C . 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  are top plan and isometric views, respectively, of a second example configuration for teeth of the embodiment of the suture securing device shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C . 
         FIG. 5C  is a side elevation view of a third example configuration for teeth of the embodiment of the suture securing device shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C . 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  are top plan views of another embodiment of a suture securing device that includes double wing extensions and an arrangement of teeth. 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  are top plan and side elevation views, respectively, of an embodiment of connecting strips for the suture securing device shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . 
         FIG. 8  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a suture securing device including a flat top surface and an elevated bottom surface. 
         FIG. 9  is a side elevation view of the suture securing device shown in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10A  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a suture securing device. 
         FIG. 10B  is a different perspective view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 10A . 
         FIG. 10C  is a back view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 10A . 
         FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate views of a single unsecured simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 12A through 12P  illustrate various views of a first embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The first embodiment includes a body configured to be positioned across a patient&#39;s wound or incision and an arm attached to the body by a hinge. The hinge allows the suture securing device to be transitioned between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration the suture securing device can be positioned around exposed portions of the suture. In the closed configuration, the suture is secured between the arm and the body. 
         FIGS. 12A and 12B  are perspective views of the first embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 12C and 12D  are perspective views of the first embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 12E through 12J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the first embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 12K through 12P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the first embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 13A through 13P  illustrate various views of a second embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. Similar to the first embodiment of  FIG. 2A , the second embodiment includes a body configured to be positioned across a patient&#39;s wound or incision and an arm attached to the body by a hinge. However, in the second embodiment, the body includes individual slots extending through the front of the body for receiving the external strands of the suture. 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  are perspective views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 13C and 13D  are perspective views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 13E through 13J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 13K through 13P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 14A through 14P  illustrate various views of a third embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. Similar to the second embodiment of  FIG. 13A , the third embodiment includes a body with individual slots extending through the body for receiving the external strands of the suture. However, in the third embodiment, the individual slots extend through opposite sides of the body. 
         FIGS. 14A and 14B  are perspective views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 14C and 14D  are perspective views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 14E through 14J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 14K through 14P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 15A through 15P  illustrate various views of a fourth embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The fourth embodiment includes two arms attached to the body by hinges. The hinges allow the suture securing device to be transitioned between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Similar to the second embodiment of  FIG. 3A , the body of the fourth embodiment includes individual slots extending through the front of the body for receiving the external strands of the suture. 
         FIGS. 15A and 15B  are perspective views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 15C and 15D  are perspective views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 15E through 15J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 15K through 15P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 16A through 16P  illustrate various views of a fifth embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The fifth embodiment includes a body configured similarly to that of the third embodiment of  FIG. 14A . However, similar to the fourth embodiment of  FIG. 15A , the fifth embodiment includes two arms, each attached by a hinge and configured to secure an external portion of simple interrupted suture in one of the slots of the body in a closed position. 
         FIGS. 16A and 16B  are perspective views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 16C and 16D  are perspective views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 16E through 16J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 16K through 16P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 17A through 17P  illustrate various views of a sixth embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The sixth embodiment includes a body with two slots configured to receive external portions of a simple interrupted suture and two arms attached to the body by hinges. In use, the arms contact the patient&#39;s skin while the body is raised between the arms to create a space for skin eversion. 
         FIGS. 17A and 17B  are perspective views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 17C and 17D  are perspective views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 17E through 17J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 17K through 17P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 18A through 18P  illustrate various views of a seventh embodiment of a suture securing device for securing simple interrupted suture. The seventh embodiment includes a body and an arm attached to the body by a hinge. The body and the hinge are similarly sized such that, in use, a portion of each contacts the patient&#39;s skin. 
         FIGS. 18A and 18B  are perspective views of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 18C and 18D  are perspective views of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 18E through 18J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 18K through 18P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 19A through 19P  illustrate various views of an eighth embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The eighth embodiment includes a body and an insertable clip. The clip is inserted into the front of the body to secure the suture. 
         FIGS. 19A and 19B  are perspective views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 19C and 19D  are perspective views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 19E through 19J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 19K through 19P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 20A through 20P  illustrate various views of a ninth embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The ninth embodiment includes a body and an insertable clip. The body includes two individual slots on the front of the body to secure the external portions of the suture. The clip is inserted into the front of the body. 
         FIGS. 20A and 20B  are perspective views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 20C and 20D  are perspective views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 20E through 20J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 20K through 20P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 21A through 21P  illustrate various views of a tenth embodiment of a suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture. The tenth embodiment includes a body and two insertable clips. The body includes two individual slots on opposite sides of the body to secure the external portions of the suture. The clips are inserted into opposite sides of the body. 
         FIGS. 21A and 21B  are perspective views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 21C and 21D  are perspective views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture. 
         FIGS. 21E through 21J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device in the open configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 21K through 21P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device in the closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 22A-22D  show various views of an eleventh embodiment of a suture securing device that includes a clip insertable into a top surface of a body to secure a simple interrupted suture. The body includes a front space that receives external portions of a suture to be secured. 
         FIGS. 22A and 22B  show perspective views the eleventh embodiment of the suture securing device in an open and closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 22C and 22B  show perspective views the eleventh embodiment of the suture securing device in use with a simple interrupted suture, in the open and closed configuration, respectively. 
         FIGS. 23A and 23B  show perspective views of a twelfth embodiment of suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. The twelfth embodiment includes two individual slots in the front of the body for receiving the external portions of suture. 
         FIGS. 24A and 24B  show perspective views of a thirteenth embodiment of suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. The twelfth embodiment includes two individual slots in opposite sides the body for receiving the external portions of suture. 
         FIGS. 25A and 25B  show perspective views of a thirteenth embodiment of suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. The thirteenth embodiment includes a slot extending into the side of the body for receiving the external portions of suture. 
         FIGS. 26A-D  illustrate another embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a simple interrupted suture. The suture securing device includes a clip that is insertable into a body. The body surrounds the clip.  FIGS. 26A and 26B  are perspective views of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 26C and 26D  are cross-sectional views of the suture securing device in the open and closed configurations, respectively. 
         FIGS. 27A-D  illustrate another embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a simple interrupted suture. The suture securing device includes a clip that is insertable into a body. The body surrounds the clip.  FIGS. 27A and 27B  are perspective views of the suture securing device in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 27C and 27D  are cross-sectional views of the suture securing device in the open and closed configurations, respectively. 
         FIG. 28A  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a horizontal mattress suture. 
         FIG. 28B  is a back perspective view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 28A . 
         FIG. 28C  is a side perspective view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 28A . 
         FIG. 28D  is a side perspective view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 28A . 
         FIGS. 29A and 29B  are top perspective and front views of another embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a horizontal mattress suture. 
         FIGS. 30A and 30B  illustrate additional securement features that may be included in some embodiments of suture securing devices. 
         FIGS. 30C and 30D  illustrate perspective and side views, respectively, of an additional embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a mattress suture that includes a hole which may be used to help orient the device. 
         FIGS. 31A through 31B  illustrate an additional embodiment of a suture securing device configured for securing a horizontal mattress suture. 
         FIG. 32  illustrates an embodiment of a suture securing device in use with a horizontal mattress suture. 
         FIG. 33A  is a top view of an embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a subcutaneous suture. 
         FIG. 33B  is a side view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 33A . 
         FIG. 34A  is a top view of another embodiment of a suture securing device configured for use with a subcutaneous suture. 
         FIG. 34B  is a cross-sectional view of the suture securing device of  FIG. 34A . 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a suture securing device configured for use with a subcutaneous suture that includes tabs. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     The suture securing devices, systems, and methods described herein may be used to secure a suture without requiring the tying of a knot, reduce or eliminate the likelihood that a suture will become inflamed, infected, and/or ingrown, and increase the length of time that the suture can remain in place, among other purposes. These and other advantages will become more fully apparent to one of skill in the art upon consideration and review of this disclosure. While this disclosure describes various detailed embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to only the illustrated and described embodiments. The disclosed embodiments may be varied, modified, and altered without departing from the scope of the inventions described herein. Further, while many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations, for the sake of brevity each and every contemplated variation is not individually described. 
     The following discussion presents detailed descriptions of the several embodiments of suture securing devices shown in the figures. As previously noted, these embodiments are not intended to be limiting, and modifications, variations, combinations, etc., are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. Related features in the embodiments may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different embodiments. 
     In many instances in this disclosure, a particular embodiment of suture securing device may be described for use with a particular type of suturing technique, for example, simple interrupted sutures, horizontal or vertical mattress sutures, or subcutaneous sutures. However, a particular embodiment so described need not be limited to use with only that particular suturing technique. That is, each of the suture securing devices described herein may be used (or may be modified for use) with any type of suturing technique, even if not explicitly described. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-9 , various embodiments of several related suture securing devices will now be described. The features of any of these embodiments may be combined with any other suture securing device described throughout this application. These example suture securing devices function to retain sutures and limit reopening of a wound or incision. Further, the example suture securing devices function to retain a position of the suture securing device on the patient&#39;s skin. Additionally or alternatively, these example suture securing devices can be used to retain a position of other suture securing devices relative to each other. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , a suture securing device  100  includes a base  102  attached to a moveable arm  104  via a hinge  106 . The suture securing device  100  further includes a first matable partner  108  attached to a first longitudinal edge  110  of base  102  and a second matable partner  112  attached to a second longitudinal edge  114  of base  102 . Further, suture securing device  100  includes a locking mechanism  116  configured to engage a lip edge  118  of the arm  104 . Specifically, hinge  106  is located on a first lateral edge  120  of base  102 , while the locking mechanism  116  is located on a second opposing lateral edge  122 . Additionally or alternatively, in other examples, the first and second matable partners can be attached at the lateral ends of the suture securing device. In even other examples, the suture securing device can exclude the first and second matable partners. 
     As stated above, the base  102  and the arm  104  are closeable for retaining a suture therebetween. Accordingly, as can be seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2A , base  102  and arm  104  include gripping surfaces on a top surface  124  of base  102  and a bottom surface  126  of arm  104  (for example, surfaces  124   a ,  126   a ,  124   b ,  126   b , and  124   c ,  126   c  in  FIG. 2A ) configured to grasp and retain suture threads, such as suture threads  10 ,  12 , and  14  shown in  FIG. 2 . In some examples, the gripping surfaces are textured surfaces included the same material the suture securing device body (for example, base  102 , arm  104 , etc.). The material can be any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin (for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, enthylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc.). In other examples, the gripping surfaces can be formed of or include a different material with a greater friction coefficient than the clamp body (for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc.). In these other examples, the gripping surfaces can be smooth or textured. 
     In order to retain a position of the suture threads, gripping surface  126  is compressed against gripping surface  124  by closing arm  104  (in other words, pivoting arm  104  around hinge  106 ). Locking mechanism  116  is configured to maintain a closed position of arm  104 . In the present example, locking mechanism  116  includes a hooked portion  128  have a curved inner wall  130  that is attached to a vertical wall  132 . A first end  134  of vertical wall  132  is attached to and/or coextensive with lateral edge  122 , while hooked portion  128  is attached to a second end  136  of vertical wall  132 . 
     As the suture securing device body (for example, base  102  including locking mechanism  116 , arm  104  including lip edge  118 , etc.) includes a resilient material, arm  104  and vertical wall  132  can be slightly elastically deformed (in other words, the arm can be bent and the vertical wall moved outwardly) as lip edge  118  is slid over curved inner wall  130 . After lip edge  118  is slid past an end of hooked portion  128 , arm  104  and vertical wall  132  elastically return to their original shapes. Further, a “closed” position of arm  104  is maintained as lip edge  118  is abutted to and/or engages with a lip edge  138  of hooked portion  128 . 
     In some examples, the arm can be permanently “closed” after engagement with the locking mechanism. In other examples, the arm can be releasable after engagement with the locking mechanism. In other words, the arm can be released from the hook portion to return the arm to an “open” position, such as the position shown in  FIG. 1 . It will be appreciated that in alternate examples the locking mechanism can have a different configuration. In one specific alternate example, the arm can include a pin with a distal flange at a region proximal to lip edge that can be snap-fitted into a receiving hole proximal to the second lateral edge of the base. It will be further appreciated that the locking mechanism can have any known or yet to be discovered locking mechanism. 
     As described above, the suture securing device  100  further includes first matable partner  108  attached to first longitudinal edge  110  of base  102  and second matable partner  112  attached to second longitudinal edge  114  of base  102 . The first and second matable partners are configured to be matable to the second and first matable partner, respectively, of adjacent suture securing devices.  FIG. 2A  shows an example of an interconnected suture securing device chain  140 , including mated suture securing devices  100   a ,  100   b , and  100   c  (having an identical configurations to suture securing device  100 ). It will be appreciated that in other examples an interconnected suture securing device chain can include more or fewer suture securing devices (for example, two, four, five, etc.). 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 1-2B , first matable partner  108  includes cuboid body  142  having an outer face  144 . A pin  146  is outwardly projected from outer surface  144 . Further, second matable partner  112  includes a cuboid body  148  having an outer face  150 . A channel  152  is disposed in cuboid body  148  and has an outer opening  154  in outer face  150 . 
     Channel  152  is configured to receive a pin of an adjacent suture securing device, while pin  146  is configured to be received by a channel of an adjacent suture securing device. Accordingly, matable partner  108  is a “male” partner, while matable partner  112  is a “female” partner. In the example of suture securing device chain  140 , male partner  108   a  is mated to female partner  112   b  and male partner  108   b  is mated to female partner  112   c . Further, female partner  112   a  and male partner  108   c  are unmated partners that are available for mating to other suture securing devices. 
     Interconnectability of suture securing devices through matable partners attached to either side of the suture securing device has the advantages that complex (for example, jagged) wounds and/or longer incisions can more easily be closed than with conventional suture methods and techniques. As can be seen in  FIG. 2A , sutures  10 ,  12 ,  14  can be received in a variety of locations on the interconnected suture securing device chain  140 . Specifically, suture  10  disposed on base  102   a  on a side of matable partners  112   a  and  108   a  proximal to hinge  106   a , suture  12  are disposed on base  102   b  on a side of matable partners  112   b  and  108   b  that is distal relative to hinge  106   b , and suture  14  have one end of the suture disposed on base  102   c  on a side of matable partners  112   c  and  108   c  proximal to hinge  106   c  and a second end of the suture disposed on base  102   c  on a side of matable partners  112   c  and  108   c  that is distal relative to hinge  106   c . Closing of the wound and/or incision can be assisted as the suture securing devices retain a position of each suture and interconnection of the suture securing devices retains a position of the clamps relative to each other. 
     The matable partners have the further advantage that they can facilitate attachment of a suture securing device and/or an interconnected suture securing device chain to other devices. For example, as depicted in  FIG. 2B , a clamp placement device  16  is attachable to suture securing device  100  for setting a position of the suture securing device on the patient. Device  16  includes a pair of arms  18  that are attachable to opposing longitudinal sides of suture securing device  100 . A distal end of one of arms  18  includes a male connector for releasable connection to matable partner  112  (in other words, the female partner) and a distal end of the other of arms  18  includes a female connector for releasable connection to matable partner  108  (in other words, the male partner). Device  18  can be made from a resilient material and/or can be a mechanical pincer device for engagement with and release of suture securing device  100 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, other devices can be connectable to the suture securing device and/or suture securing device chain. For example, a suture securing device and/or an interconnected suture securing device chain can be attached to medical devices, such as IV catheters, central venous and arterial catheters, urinary catheters, chest tubes, and/or dressings. It will be appreciated that the suture securing device and/or the interconnected suture lock chain can be connected to any medical device adapted with matable connectors that is known or yet to be discovered. The principles described above in reference the suture securing device  100  can be incorporated into any of the suture securing devices described throughout this disclosure. 
     Turning attention to  FIGS. 3A-5C , another embodiment of a suture securing device, suture securing device  200 , is shown. Suture securing device  200  includes many similar or identical features to suture securing device  100 . Thus, for the sake of brevity, each feature of suture securing device  200  will not be redundantly explained. Rather, key distinctions between suture securing devices  100  and  200  will be described in detail and the reader should reference the discussion above for features substantially similar between the two suture securing devices. This is true throughout this application and will not be repeated in each instance. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 3A-3C , suture securing device  200  includes a base  202  attached to a moveable arm  204  via a hinge  206 . Suture clamp  200  further includes teeth  252  disposed on a top surface  248  of base  202 , pegs  254  and  256  disposed on top surface  248  of base  202  proximal to opposing lateral edges  220  and  222 , respectively, and single wing extensions  258  and  260  disposed on opposing longitudinal edges  210  and  214  of base  202 . 
     Specifically, single wing extension  258  is extended outwardly from longitudinal edge  210  proximal to lateral edge  220  and single wing extension  260  is outwardly extended from longitudinal edge  214  proximal to lateral edge  222 . The single wing extensions provide additional stability for maintaining a position of the suture securing device on the skin. Furthermore, suture securing device  200  includes a locking mechanism  216  having a different configuration than locking mechanism  116  of suture securing device  100  (described in detail below). 
     As stated above, base  202  and arm  204  are closeable for retaining a suture therebetween. Accordingly, as can be seen in  FIGS. 3A-3C , teeth  252  on top surface  248  are configured to receive sutures between adjacent teeth, such as suture  24 . Detailed views of teeth  252  are shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C . Teeth  252  are formed of or include a resilient material and are further configured to engage with and be compressed by a window  262  (shown in  FIGS. 3B and 5B ) in arm  204  for locking of the suture securing device. Accordingly, teeth  252  and window  262  include locking mechanism  216 . The suture securing device body (for example, base  202 , arm  204 , teeth  252 , etc.) can be formed of or include any sturdy and resilient material as described above in reference to suture securing device  100 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS. 4A-4C , teeth  252   a  (in other words, a first example of teeth  252 ) include rows of opposing teeth  264   a  and  266   a . Teeth  264   a  and  266   a  alternating and are offset relative to adjacent teeth. Further, corners of adjacent teeth are in contact with each other, but are non-overlapping. In other words, there is no space between the row of teeth  264   a  and the row of teeth  266   a.    
     Each of teeth  264   a  and  266   a  has a substantially similar structure. Specifically, each of the teeth has a flat outer wall  268 , a curved top wall  270 , a substantially flat inner wall  272  having a vertical half cylinder  274  extended over the height of the inner wall, and a base  276  that is attached to top surface  248 . As shown in  FIG. 4C , suture  24  can be intertwined, placed, and/or woven between teeth  264   a  and  266   a . Opposing teeth  264   a  and  266   a  can be compressed towards each other when window  262  is fitted over the teeth, thereby retaining, compressing, and/or trapping suture  24  between the teeth and locking a closed position of suture securing device  200 . It will be appreciated that in some examples the teeth releasably lock the closed position of the suture securing device. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 5A-5B , teeth  252   b  (in other words, a second example of teeth  252 ) include rows of opposing teeth  264   b  and  266   b . Teeth  264   b  and  266   b  alternating and are offset relative to adjacent teeth. Further, corners of adjacent teeth are overlapping, but not in contact with each other. In other words, there is a space  278  between the row of teeth  264   b  and the row of teeth  266   b.    
     Each of teeth  264   b  and  266   b  has a substantially similar structure. Specifically, each of the teeth has a flat outer wall  268   b , a flat top wall  270   b , a flat inner wall  272   b , and a base  276   b  that is attached to top surface  248 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , suture  24  can be intertwined, placed, and/or woven between teeth  264   b  and  266   b . Further, additional sutures, such as suture  26 , can be intertwined, placed, and/or woven between teeth  264   b  and  266   b . Opposing teeth  264   b  and  266   b  can be compressed towards each other when window  262  is fitted over the teeth, thereby retaining, compressing, and/or trapping sutures  24  and  26  between the teeth and locking a closed position of suture securing device  200 . It will be appreciated that in some examples the teeth releasably lock the closed position of the suture securing device. 
       FIG. 5C  shows a third example of teeth  252 , teeth  252   c , including a single row of teeth  264   c . Only one of teeth  264   c  is shown in  FIG. 5C , however, it will be appreciated that teeth  252   c  include a plurality of teeth  264   c  in the row of teeth. Each of teeth  264   c  has a substantially similar structure. Specifically, each of teeth  264   c  has a flexible two-pronged structure including prongs  280  with a space  282  between the prongs. Each of the prongs includes a sloped top wall  284  and an outer flange  286  at a top portion of a stem  288 , which is attached to top surface  248 . 
     Although not specifically shown, one or more sutures can be intertwined, placed, and/or woven between prongs  280 . Prongs  280  are compressed towards each other (closing space  282 ) when window  262  is fitted over the teeth, thereby retaining, compressing, and/or trapping one or more sutures between the teeth. Further, flanges  286  can engage with a top surface  290  of arm  204  in order to lock a closed position of suture securing device  200 . It will be appreciated that in some examples the teeth releasably lock the closed position of the suture securing device. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 3B and 3C , locking mechanism  216  further includes a clasp  291  proximal to lateral edge  222 . Clasp  291  includes a flange  293  for engaging with a lip edge  218  of arm  204 . In some examples, the clasp is releasable for releasable attachment to the lip edge. In other examples, the clasp is non-releasable. In the example of the teeth  252   c , the clasp can be excluded. 
     Further, differently from suture securing device  100 , suture securing device  200  can be joined to adjacent suture securing devices via connecting strip  292  including a plurality of holes  294 . Each of holes  294  can be fitted over one of pegs  254  and  256 . Each of pegs  254  and  256  includes an annular flange  296  at a top end of the peg that can engage with strip  292  to allow releasable or non-releasable attachment of the strip to the pegs. Accordingly, adjacent suture securing devices  200  are interconnectable via strips  292 . 
     It will be appreciated that the strips can be connected at adjacent pegs on both sides of the suture securing devices and the strips allow “step-wise” attachment between adjacent suture securing devices. Interconnectability of suture securing devices through attachment of strips to pegs at either side of the suture securing device has the advantages that complex (for example, jagged) wounds and/or longer incisions can more easily be closed than with conventional suture methods and techniques and/or can facilitate attachment of a suture securing device and/or an interconnected suture securing devices to other devices, such as those described above in reference to suture securing device  100 . A position of the suture securing devices can optionally be further secured by sewing a suture through one or more of holes  298  located in wings  258  and  260 . 
     Turning attention to  FIGS. 6A-7B , another example of a suture securing device  300  is shown. Suture securing device  300  includes many similar or identical features to suture securing devices  100  and  200 , as well as others described throughout this application. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS. 6A-6B , suture securing device  300  includes a base  302  attached to a moveable arm  304  via a hinge  306 . Suture clamp  300  further includes teeth  352  disposed on a top surface  348  of base  302 , pegs  354  and  356  disposed on top surface  348  of base  302  proximal to opposing lateral edges  320  and  322 , respectively, and double wing extensions  358  and  360  disposed on opposing longitudinal edges  310  and  314  of base  302 . 
     Specifically, double wing extension  358  is outwardly extended from longitudinal edges  310  and  314  proximal to lateral edge  320  and double wing extension  360  is outwardly extended from longitudinal edges  310  and  314  proximal to lateral edge  322 . The double wing extensions provide additional stability for maintaining a position of the suture securing device on the skin. Furthermore, suture securing device  300  includes a locking mechanism  316  having a different configuration than locking mechanism  116  of suture securing device  100 , but is substantially similar to locking mechanism  216  described above. 
     As stated above, base  302  and arm  304  are closeable for retaining a suture therebetween. Accordingly, as can be seen in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , teeth  352  on top surface  348  are configured to receive sutures between adjacent teeth, such as suture  28 . Teeth  352  are formed or comprised of or include a resilient material and are further configured to engage with and be compressed by a window  362  (shown in  FIG. 6A ) in arm  304  for locking of the suture securing device. Accordingly, teeth  352  and window  362  include locking mechanism  316 . The suture securing device body (for example, base  302 , arm  304 , teeth  352 , etc.) can be formed of any known or yet to be discovered sturdy and resilient material, such as those described above in reference to previously described embodiments. It will be appreciated that teeth  352  can have any of the example configurations described above in reference to teeth  252  (for example, teeth  252   a , teeth  252   b , and teeth  252   c ). 
     Similar to suture securing device  200 , locking mechanism  316  further includes a clasp  391  proximal to lateral edge  322 . Although not specifically shown, clasp  391  is includes a flange for engaging with a lip edge  318  of arm  304 . In some examples, the clasp is releasable for releasable attachment to the lip edge. In other examples, the clasp is non-releasable. In the example of teeth similar to teeth  252   c , the clasp can be excluded. 
     Also similar to suture securing device  200 , suture securing device  300  can be joined to adjacent suture securing devices via connecting strips including a plurality of holes (in other words, a connecting strip substantially identical to connecting strip  292  shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B ). Each of the holes can be fitted over one of pegs  354  and  356 . Although not specifically shown, each of pegs  354  and  356  includes an annular flange at a top end of the peg that can engage with a connecting strip to allow releasable or non-releasable attachment of the strip to the pegs. Accordingly, adjacent clamps  300  are interconnectable via connecting strips, such as connecting strip  292 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, as depicted in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , suture securing devices  300  can be joined to adjacent suture securing devices via connecting strips  392  including a plurality of projections  394 . Each of projections  394  can be fitted into one of holes  398 . Although not specifically shown, each of projections  394  can include an annular flange at a top end of the projection that can engage with suture securing device base (in other words, wing extensions  358  or  360 ) to allow releasable or non-releasable attachment of the strip to the holes. Accordingly, adjacent clamps  300  are additionally or alternatively interconnectable via connecting strips, such as connecting strip  392 . 
     It will be appreciated that the connecting strips can be connected at adjacent pegs or holes on both sides of the suture securing devices and the strips allow “step-wise” attachment between adjacent suture securing devices and/or “step-wise” closure of the wound, such as wound  30  shown in  FIG. 7A . 
     Interconnectability of suture securing devices through attachment of strips to pegs at either side of the suture securing device has the advantages that complex (for example, jagged) wounds and/or longer incisions can more easily be closed than with conventional suture methods and techniques and/or can facilitate attachment of a suture securing device and/or an interconnected suture securing devices to other devices, such as those described above in reference to suture securing device  100 . A position of the suture securing devices can optionally be further secured by sewing a suture through one or more of holes  398  located in wings  358  and  360 . 
     Turning attention to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , another example of a suture securing device  400  is shown. As can be seen in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , suture securing device  400  includes a base  402  attached to a moveable arm  404  via a hinge  406 . Suture securing device  400  further includes teeth  452  disposed on a top surface  448  of base  402 , pegs  454  and  456  disposed on top surface  448  of base  402  proximal to opposing lateral edges  420  and  422 , respectively, and double wing extensions  458  and  460  disposed on opposing longitudinal edges  410  and  414  of base  402 . Specifically, double wing extension  458  is outwardly extended from longitudinal edges  410  and  414  proximal to lateral edge  420  and double wing extension  460  is outwardly extended from longitudinal edges  410  and  414  proximal to lateral edge  422 . The double wing extensions provide additional stability for maintaining a position of the suture securing device on the skin. Furthermore, suture securing device  400  includes a locking mechanism  416  having a different configuration than locking mechanism  116  of suture securing device  100 , but is substantially similar to locking mechanisms  216  and  316  described above. 
     As stated above, base  402  and arm  404  are closeable for retaining a suture therebetween. Accordingly, as can be seen in  FIG. 9 , teeth  452  on top surface  448  are configured to receive sutures between adjacent teeth. Teeth  452  are formed or comprised of a resilient material and are further configured to engage with and be compressed by a depression  462  in arm  404  for locking of the suture securing device. Accordingly, teeth  452  and window  462  include locking mechanism  416 . The suture securing device body (for example, base  402 , arm  404 , teeth  452 , etc.) can be formed of any known or yet to be discovered sturdy and resilient material, such as those previously listed. It will be appreciated that teeth  452  can have any of the example configurations described above in reference to teeth  252  (for example, teeth  252   a , teeth  252   b , and teeth  252   c ). 
     Though not specifically shown, similar to suture securing devices  200  and  300 , locking mechanism  416  can further include a clasp proximal to lateral edge  422 . The clasp can include a flange for engaging with a lip edge  418  of arm  404 . In some examples, the clasp is releasable for releasable attachment to the lip edge. In other examples, the clasp is non-releasable. In the example of teeth similar to teeth  252   c , the clasp can be excluded. 
     Also similar to suture securing devices  200  and  300 , suture securing device  400  can be joined to adjacent suture securing devices via connecting strips including a plurality of holes (in other words, a connecting strip substantially identical to connecting strip  292  shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B ). Each of the holes can be fitted over one of pegs  454  and  456 . Each of pegs  454  and  456  includes an annular flange  496  at a top end of the peg that can engage with a connecting strip to allow releasable or non-releasable attachment of the strip to the pegs. Accordingly, adjacent clamps  400  are interconnectable via connecting strips, such as connecting strip  292 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, suture securing devices  400  can be joined to adjacent suture securing devices via connecting strips, such as connecting strip  392  shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , including a plurality of projections. Each of the projections can be fitted into one of holes  498 . Each of the projections can include an annular flange at a top end of the projection that can engage with suture securing device base (in other words, wing extensions  458  or  460 ) to allow releasable or non-releasable attachment of the strip to the holes. Accordingly, adjacent clamps  400  are additionally or alternatively interconnectable via connecting strips, such as connecting strip  392 . A position of the suture securing devices can optionally be further secured by sewing a suture through one or more of holes  498  located in wings  458  and  460 . 
     Differently from the previously explained example suture securing devices, suture securing device  400  includes a flat top surface  497  on arm  404  and an elevated bottom surface  499  on base  402 . The flat top surface can be a location of printing and or labeling (for example, patterns, logos, coloration, stickers, etc.). The elevated bottom surface  499  can facilitate eversion of the suture securing device against the skin of the patient, allowing movement and preventing tearing of the sutures. The purpose of the elevated surface  499  is to create eversion. 
       FIG. 10A  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a suture securing device  500 . As illustrated in  FIG. 10A , the suture securing device  500  includes a first piece  502  (upper arm), a second piece  504  (lower arm) and a first hinge  506 . The first hinge  506  is illustrated in  FIG. 10A  in an open position. The first piece also includes an attachment piece  508 , which will be discussed below. 
     The first piece  502  includes dual protrusions  510  on a front surface. The second piece  504  includes plurality of protrusions on a front surface. The front surface of the second piece  504  includes a middle protrusion  514  surrounded by two protrusions  512 . The two protrusions  512  each include a notch. When the first hinge  506  is in a closed position, the first piece  502  folds over the second piece  504 . The dual protrusions  510  of the first piece  502  will engage with the plurality of protrusions on the first surface of the second piece  504 . One of the dual protrusions  510  will fit between the middle protrusion  514  and one of the two protrusions  512  and the other of the dual protrusions  510  will fit between the middle protrusion  514  and the other of the two protrusions  512 . 
     Additionally, the second piece  504  is attached to a locking piece  516  via a second hinge  598 . The locking piece  516  includes a hole attachment  515 . When the first hinge  506  is in the closed position the locking piece  516  folds on the second hinge  598  to an engagement position where the receiver attachment  515  receives the attachment piece  508  and locks the first piece  502  to the second piece  504 . A notch  518  is located on either side of the second piece  504 . The notch  518  provides a pathway through which sutures may be placed. 
       FIG. 10B  is a different perspective view of the suture securing device  500  of  FIG. 10A .  FIG. 10C  is a back view of the suture securing device or suture lock of  FIG. 10A .  FIG. 10C  illustrates a raised feature  517  on the second side of the second piece  504 . The raised feature  517  on either side of the second piece  504  each include the notch  518 . Between each raised feature  517  is a concave feature  599 . The concave feature  599  may be a trench that is configured to facilitate wound eversion. In some embodiments, the concave feature  500  may be configured to create a space for wound eversion and may or may not contact the wound. In other words, after sutures are properly applied to a wound, either edge of the healing wound will be placed and held together such that a convex bulge is made. The convex bulge will mate with the concave feature  599  of the suture lock  500 . Thus, with the suture securing device  500 , the concave feature  599  is positioned to be substantially parallel to the direction of the wound when coupled to a simple interrupted suture. 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate views of a single unsecured simple interrupted suture  1020 :  FIG. 11A  shows a front view and  FIG. 11B  shows a perspective view.  FIGS. 11A and 11B  also show an example section of a patient&#39;s skin  1010 , having a surface  1011  and a wound or incision  1013 . To fully illustrate the simple interrupted suture  1020 , the section of the patient&#39;s skin  1010  is illustrated as transparent so that the portion of the simple interrupted suture  1020  internal to the patient is visible. The simple interrupted suture  1020  is used to close the wound  1013 . Simple interrupted suture  1020  includes a suture material, herein referred to as a thread  1020 , which is stitched through the incision  1013  such that opposite sides of the incision can be drawn together, closing the incision  1013 . As seen in  FIG. 11A , the simple interrupted suture  1020  can create a section of skin eversion  1015 , seen as a raised portion of the skin surface  1011 . The suture  1020  is formed with the thread  1022  such that it includes a first external portion  1021 , a second external portion  1023 , and an internal portion  1025 . The suture material or thread  1022  can potentially be any type of suture material. For example, suitable suture materials may include either absorbable and/or non-absorbable material. Some specific suture materials may include, for example, nylon, polypropylene, or polybutylester. Other suitable suture materials known in the art might also be used. 
     In  FIGS. 11A and 11B , the simple interrupted suture  1020  is “unsecured” because nothing is included to secure the first and second external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the thread  1022  to hold the simple interrupted suture  1020  in place. Commonly, the simple interrupted suture  1020  is “secured” by tying the first and second external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the thread  1022  with one of a number of surgical knots. This secures the simple interrupted suture  1020 ; however, the knot generally rests directly on the skin surface  1011 . Further, the knot may be difficult to tie. These and other problems with the conventional method for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020  can be remedied by the use of the suture securing devices described below.  FIGS. 12A through 27N  illustrate various embodiments of suture securing devices configured for use with simple interrupted sutures  1020  as shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B . Although these embodiments are specifically described in reference to use with a simple interrupted suture, they may also be used (or modified for use) with other types of sutures and suturing techniques. 
       FIGS. 12A through 12P  illustrate various views of a first embodiment of a suture securing device  1100  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 . The first embodiment includes a body  1110  configured to be positioned across a patient&#39;s wound or incision  1013  and an arm  1160  attached to the body  1110  by a hinge  1190 . The hinge  1190  allows the suture securing device  1100  to be transitioned between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration the suture securing device  1100  can be positioned around exposed the portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  is secured between the arm  1110  and the body  1110 .  FIGS. 12A and 12B  are perspective views of the first embodiment of the suture securing device  1100  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 12C and 12D  are perspective views of the first embodiment of the suture securing device  1100  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 12E through 12J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views, respectively, of the first embodiment of the suture securing device  1100  in the open configuration.  FIGS. 12K through 12P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views, respectively, of the first embodiment of the suture securing device  1100  in the closed configuration. The open configuration illustrated in the figures is merely provided as an example, and the relative positioning of the components of the suture securing device  1100 , for example, the relative position of the body  1110  to the arm  1160 , may be varied in the open position. In other words, although the arm  1160  is illustrated as opened to approximately 180 degrees relative to the body  1110  in the figures, in some embodiments, the arm  1160  may open to less than or greater than 180 degrees. 
     As noted above, the suture securing device  1100  includes a body  1110  and an arm  1160 . The body  1110  and the arm  1160  are connected by a hinge  1190 . The hinge  1190  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 12G and 12M . The hinge  1190  is configured to allow the arm  1160  to rotate relative to the body  1110 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In general, in the open configuration, the arm  1160  is positioned away from the body  1110 , and, in the closed position, at least a portion of the arm  1160  is positioned proximal to or in contact with the body  1110 . As will be described in greater detail below, the suture securing device  1100  may be positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  proximal to a suture  1020  in the open configuration, and then transitioned to the closed configuration to secure the suture  1020 . In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1190  is connected to the body  1110  on a back surface  1112  of the body  1110 . However, in some embodiments, the hinge  1190  may connect to the body  1110  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1110 . In some embodiments, the hinge  1190  may be a living or compliant hinge. A living or compliant hinge may be integrally formed with the body  1110  and/or the arm  1160 . In some embodiments, a mechanical hinge may be used. 
     The body  1110  includes a first gripping surface  1120 , and the arm  1160  includes a second gripping surface  1170 . The first gripping surface  1120  and the second gripping surface  1170  are positioned on the body  1110  and the arm  1160 , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1100  is in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface  1120  contacts the second gripping surface  1170 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170 . For example, in use, suture securing device  1100  can be positioned on the patient&#39;s skin  1010  in the open configuration so that the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are adjacent to the first gripping surface  1120 , as shown in  FIG. 12C . The suture securing device  1100  can then be transitioned to the closed configuration by rotating the arm  1160  toward the body  1110  until the second gripping surface  1170  of the arm  1160  contacts the first gripping surface  1120  of the body  1110 . As shown in  FIG. 12D , in this configuration, the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are thus captured between the first gripping surface  1120  and the second gripping surface  1170 , and the suture  1020  is secured. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170  include the same material as the body  1110  and/or arm  1160 . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170  can be comprised of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1110  and/or arm  1160 , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1100  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the body  1110  (or the suture securing device when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  1110  includes a front surface  1111 , a back surface  1112 , a top surface  1113 , a bottom surface  1114 , a first side surface  1115 , and a second side surface  1116 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1110  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 12G , the body  1110  includes a front opening  1121 . The front opening  1121  extends generally into the body  1110  from the front surface  1111  partway toward the back surface  1112 . The front opening  1121  also extends entirely through the body  1110  from the top surface  1113  to the bottom surface  1114 . On opposite side surfaces  1115 ,  1116  of the body  1110 , the front opening is defined by members  1123  and  1124  which extend outwardly from the body  1110 . Thus, with the front opening  1121  and the members  1123  and  1124 , the body  1110  may be described as having a C-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 12G and 12H . In some instances, the front opening  1121  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1100  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1100  in the open position, the suture securing device  1100  can be positioned such that the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture are positioned within the front opening  1121 , as shown in  FIG. 12C . The front opening  1121  and members  1123 ,  1124  may help to maintain the suture securing device  1100  and suture  1020  in position until the suture securing device is transitioned to the closed configuration. In other words, the body  1110  may have a substantially C-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the opening of the C (in other words, front opening  1121 ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 12E, 12F, 12K, and 12L , the bottom surface  1114  of the body  1110  includes an eversion recess  1141 . The eversion recess  1141  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the body  1110  from the bottom surface  1114 . The eversion recess  1141  may also be considered as a channel extending through the body  1110  from the front surface  1111  to the back surface  1112 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1141  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1100  is in use. The eversion recess  1141  creates a space below the suture securing device  1100  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 12C and 12D , the suture securing device  1100  may be positioned across a wound or incision  1013 , so that the bottom surface  1114  of the suture securing device  1100  rests on the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010  on opposite sides of the wound or incision  1013 . The eversion recess  1141  may be positioned substantially directly above the wound or incision  1013  so as to accommodate skin eversion  1015 . In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1141  may be omitted. 
     The bottom surface  1114  may be considered to have feet  1143  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1141 . The feet  1943  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1100  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1943  and/or bottom surface  1114  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1100 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  1110  also includes a channel  1131  configured to receive the arm  1160  in the closed configuration. The channel  1131  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  1110  from the front surface  1111  and the first and second side surfaces  1115 ,  1116 . The channel  1131  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 12E, 12F, 12I, and 12J . As shown, the channel  1131  is positioned between the top surface  1113  and the bottom surface  1114  and generally runs parallel to each. As shown in the side views of  FIGS. 12I and 12J , the channel  1131  bisects the members  1123  and  1124 , dividing each into two separate protrusions on each side of the suture securing device  1100 . The first gripping surface  1120  is positioned within the body  1110  and at least partially defines the end of the channel  1131  in one direction: for example, the first gripping surface  1120  defines the end or depth of the channel  1131  extending into the body  1110  from the front surface  1111 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  1131  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the arm  1160  is substantially received within the body  1110  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 12B, 12D and 12K through 12P . Accordingly, the depth of the channel  1131  extending from the front surface  1111  and the first and second side surfaces  1115 ,  1116  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the arm  1160  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  1131  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the arm  1160 . In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the channel  1131  extending into the body  1110  from the front surface  1111  is greater than the depth of the front opening  1121 . Thus, a cross-sectional shape bisecting the body  1110  between the first and second side surfaces  1115 ,  1116  may also be substantially C-shaped. In some embodiments, the arm is received within the opening of the C. In the closed configuration this may cause the suture  1020  to serpentine through the body  1110 , following this C-shape. This may further help to retain the suture  1020  within the suture securing device  1100  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the channel  1131  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the arm  1160  within the body  1110 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the arm  1160  includes a front member  1162  and two side members  1163  and  1164 , as seen, for example, in  FIG. 12G . The front member  1162  is configured to extend across the width of the suture securing device  1100 . The front member  1162  also includes the second gripping surface  1170 . The side members  1163  and  1164  extend as protrusions from the front member  1162  on opposite ends of the arm  1160 . Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the arm  1160  is substantially C-shaped, and the second gripping surface  1170  is positioned within the interior of the C. The shape of the arm  1160  may be configured so as to fit within the channel  1131  of the body  1110  described above, such that the arm  1160  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  1110  in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the front portion  1162  can be sized so as to fit within the channel  1131  extending into the body  1110  from the front surface  1111  of the body  1110 . The front portion may further be configured such that the second gripping surface  1170  contacts the first gripping surface  1120  in the closed configuration. Similarly, the side members  1162 ,  1163  may be sized so as to fit within the channel  1131  extending into the side surfaces  1115 ,  1116  of the body  1110 . In this way, the arm  1160  may be configured to mate with the body  1110 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the arm  1160  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1190  attaches to the arm  1160  at a first of the side members  1163  of the arm  1160 . The second of the side members  1164  includes an engagement structure  1181  configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structure  1151  of the body  1110 . The engagement structures  1151 ,  1181  may cooperate to secure the arm  1160  to the body  1110  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the arm  1160  can be permanently locked into the closed configuration with the body  1110  after mating the engagement structures  1151 ,  1181 . In other embodiments, the engagement structures  1151 ,  1181  can be configured to releasably engage, such that the arm can releasably engage the body  1110  and the suture securing device can be alternatively and repeatedly transitioned between the open and closed configuration. Releasable engagement of the engagement structures  1151 ,  1181  may allow for repositioning and/or tensioning adjustment of the suture  1020  over time. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement structure  1181  on the arm  1160  includes a hooked structure, and the engagement structure  1151  of the body  1110  includes a recess. The suture securing device  1100  can thus be secured in the closed configuration by catching the hooked structure within the recess. The hooked structure and the recess may be configured for a compliant snap fit. That is, the hooked member, the side member  1164 , or side of the recess may be configured to deform slightly to allow for engagement and/or disengagement. In some embodiments, these features may be reversed, such that the arm  1160  includes the recess and the body  1110  includes the hooked structure. Further, other possible engagement structures  1151 ,  1181  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The suture securing device  1100  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1110 , arm  1160 , and hinge  1190  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1100  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 12M and 12O . In some embodiments, the width W may be between 1 mm to 15 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness T may be between 0.5 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the length L may be between 5 mm to 60 mm. However, these ranges are merely provided as examples and may be adjusted to adapt the suture securing device  1100  for any particular application. 
     As previously described, the suture securing device  1100  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1120 ,  1170 . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1100  may be used to secure a suture  1020  without requiring the external portions  1021 ,  1023  to be tied into a knot. In some embodiments, the suture securing device  1100  may be used in conjunction with a knot, and the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  extending beyond the suture securing device  1100  may be tied into a knot over the suture securing device  1100 . Additionally, as best seen in  FIGS. 12C and 12D , the suture securing device  1100  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  in a position at which they extend substantially orthogonally to the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . Thus, the suture securing device reduces or eliminates the need for any portion of the suture  1020  rest directly on the surface of the skin as is common with convention suture securing techniques like knot tying. This may eliminate or reduce the likelihood that the suture  1020  will become ingrown as the wound or incision heals. Further, because the likelihood that the suture  1020  will be become ingrown is reduced when the suture securing device  1100  is used, the suture  1020  can remain in place for longer. For example, traditional sutures secured with knots may be removed after around two weeks to prevent them from becoming ingrown, even though the wound may not be entirely healed. In contrast, sutures secured with the suture securing device  1100  may remain in place for longer, for example up to six weeks, which may allow for more complete healing of the wound or incision. 
       FIGS. 13A through 13P  illustrate various views of a second embodiment of a suture securing device  1200  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 13A and 13B  are perspective views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device  1200  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 13C and 13D  are perspective views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device  200  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 13E through 13J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device  1200  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 13K through 13P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the second embodiment of the suture securing device  1200  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     In the following description, and throughout this disclosure, similarly numbered elements are intended to be similarly configured, unless context dictates otherwise. For example, arm  1260  of the suture securing device  1200  may be similarly configured to the similarly numbered arm  1160  of the suture securing device  1100 . For simplicity, similar elements of subsequent will not always be elaborated in detail when similar elements of previous embodiments have already been described. Differences between similarly numbered elements may be pointed out specifically in the text or shown in the figures. It is not intended that similarly numbered elements be exactly the same across different embodiments. As one example, body  1110  of suture securing device  1100  includes a front opening  1121 , while, as will be described in greater detail below, the body  1210  of suture securing device  1200  includes individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b . However, in other respects, the body  1210  may be substantially similar to the body  1110 . 
     Similar to the first embodiment of the suture securing device  1100  of  FIG. 12A , the second embodiment of the suture securing device  1200  includes a body  1210  configured to be positioned across a patient&#39;s wound or incision  1013  and an arm  1260  attached to the body  1210  by a hinge  1290 . However, in the second embodiment, the body  1210  includes individual slots  1211   a ,  1221   b  extending through the front of the body  1210  for receiving the external strands  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . The hinge  1290  allows the suture securing device  1200  to be transitioned between an open configuration and a closed configuration as with the first embodiment. 
     As noted above, the suture securing device  1200  includes a body  1210  and an arm  1260 . The body  1210  and the arm  1260  are connected by a hinge  1290 . The hinge  1290  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 13G and 13M . The hinge  1290  is configured to allow the arm  1260  to rotate relative to the body  1210 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1290  is connected to the body  1210  on a back surface  1212  of the body  1210 . However, in some embodiments, the hinge  1290  may connect to the body  1210  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1210 . In some embodiments, the hinge  1290  may be a living or compliant hinge. A living or compliant hinge may be integrally formed with the body  1210  and/or the arm  1260 . In some embodiments, a mechanical hinge may be used. 
     The body  1210  includes a first gripping surface  1220 , and the arm  1260  includes a second gripping surface  1270 . The first gripping surface  1220  and the second gripping surface  1270  are positioned on the body  1210  and the arm  1260 , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1200  is in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface  1220  contacts the second gripping surface  1270 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270 . In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270  include the same material as the body  1210  and/or arm  1260 . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270  can be formed of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1210  and/or arm  1260 , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1200  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the body  1210  (or the suture securing device when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  1210  includes a front surface  1211 , a back surface  1212 , a top surface  1213 , a bottom surface  1214 , a first side surface  1215 , and a second side surface  1216 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1210  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 13G , the body  1210  includes two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b . Each of the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  extends generally into the body  1210  from the front surface  1211  partway toward the back surface  1212 . Each of the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  also extends entirely through the body  1210  from the top surface  1213  to the bottom surface  1214 . On opposite side surfaces  1215 ,  1216  of the body  1210 , the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  are defined by members  1223  and  1224  which extend outwardly from the body  1210 . A member  1225  extends outwardly from the body  1210  in between the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b . Thus, with the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  and the members  1223 ,  1224 ,  1225  the body  1210  may be described as having a E-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 13G and 13H . In some instances, the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1200  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1200  in the open position, the suture securing device  1200  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b , as shown in  FIG. 13C . The two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  and members  1223 ,  1224 ,  1225  may help to maintain the suture securing device  1200  and suture  1020  in position until the suture securing device is transitioned to the closed configuration. In other words, the body  1210  may have a substantially E-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the E (in other words, the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 13E, 13F, 13K, and 13L , the bottom surface  1214  of the body  1210  includes an eversion recess  1241 . The eversion recess  1241  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the body  1210  from the bottom surface  1214 . The eversion recess  1241  may also be considered as a channel extending through the body  1210  from the front surface  1211  to the back surface  1212 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1241  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1200  is in use. The eversion recess  1241  creates a space below the suture securing device  1200  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1241  may be omitted. 
     The bottom surface  1214  may be considered to have feet  1243  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1241 . The feet  1243  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1200  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1243  and/or bottom surface  1214  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  200 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  1210  also includes a channel  1231  configured to receive the arm  1260  in the closed configuration. The channel  1231  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  1210  from the front surface  1211  and the first and second side surfaces  1215 ,  1216 . The channel  1231  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 13E, 13F, 13I, and 13J . As shown, the channel  1231  is positioned between the top surface  1213  and the bottom surface  1214  and generally runs parallel to each. As shown in the side views of  FIGS. 13I and 13J , the channel  1231  bisects the members  1223 ,  1224  and  1225 , dividing each into two separate protrusions. The first gripping surface  1220  is positioned within the body  1210  and at least partially defines the end of the channel  1231  in one direction: for example, the first gripping surface  1220  defines the end or depth of the channel  1231  extending into the body  1210  from the front surface  1211 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  1231  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the arm  1260  is substantially received within the body  1210  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 13B, 13D and 13K through 13P . Accordingly, the depth of the channel  1231  extending from the front surface  1211  and the first and second side surfaces  1215 ,  1216  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the arm  1260  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  1231  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the arm  1260 . In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the channel  1231  extending into the body  1210  from the front surface  1211  is greater than the depth of the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b . Thus, a cross-sectional shape bisecting the body  210  between the first and second side surfaces  1215 ,  1216  at either of the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b  may also be substantially C-shaped. In some embodiments, the arm  1260  is received within the opening of the C. In the closed configuration this may cause the suture  1020  to serpentine through the body  1210 , following this C-shape. This may further help to retain the suture  1020  within the suture securing device  1200  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the channel  1231  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the arm  1260  within the body  1210 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the arm  1260  includes a front member  1262  and two side members  1263  and  1264 , as seen, for example, in  FIG. 13G . The front member  1262  is configured to extend across the width of the suture securing device  1200 . The front member  1262  also includes the second gripping surface  1270 . The side members  1263  and  1264  extend as protrusions from the front member  1262  on opposite ends of the arm  260 . Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the arm  1260  is substantially C-shaped, and the second gripping surface  1270  is positioned within the interior of the C. The shape of the arm  1260  may be configured so as to fit within the channel  1231  of the body  1210  described above, such that the arm  1260  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  1210  in the closed configuration. In this way, the arm  1260  may be configured to mate with the body  1210 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the arm  260  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1290  attaches to the arm at a first of the side members  1263  of the arm  1260 . The second of the side members  1264  includes an engagement structure  1281  configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structure  1251  of the body  1210 . The engagement structures  1251 ,  1281  may cooperate to secure the arm  1260  to the body  1210  in the closed configuration as described above. 
     The suture securing device  1200  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1210 , arm  1260 , and hinge  1290  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1200  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 13M and 13O . The width W, thickness T, and length L may be similar to those described above. 
     The suture securing device  1200  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1220 ,  1270  in a manner similar to that described above in reference to the suture securing device  1100 . The principal difference being that the body  210  is configured with the two individual slots  1221   a ,  1221   b , each of which receives on of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1200  provides similar benefits to those identified above, including securing a suture  1020  without requiring a knot to be tied and preventing a suture  1020  from becoming ingrown. 
       FIGS. 14A through 14P  illustrate various views of a third embodiment of a suture securing device  1300  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 14A and 14B  are perspective views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 14C and 14D  are perspective views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 14E through 14J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 14K through 14P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     In many ways similar to the second embodiment of the suture securing device  1200  of  FIG. 13A , the third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  includes a body  1310  with individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  extending through the body  1310  for receiving the external strands  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . However, in the suture securing device  1300 , the individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  extend through opposite sides  1315 ,  1316  of the body  1310 , as will be described in greater detail below. 
     The third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  includes a body  1310  and an arm  1360 . The body  1310  and the arm  1360  are connected by a hinge  1390 . The hinge  1390  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 4G and 4M . The hinge  1390  is configured to allow the arm  1360  to rotate relative to the body  1310 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1390  is connected to the body  1310  on a back surface  1312  of the body  1310 . However, in some embodiments, the hinge  1390  may connect to the body  1310  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1310 . In some embodiments, the hinge  1390  may be a living or compliant hinge. A living or compliant hinge may be integrally formed with the body  1310  and/or the arm  1360 . In some embodiments, a mechanical hinge may be used. 
     The body  1310  includes first gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b  located on opposite sides of the body  1310 , and the arm  1360  includes second gripping surfaces  1370   a ,  1370   b  located on opposite sides of the arm. The first gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b  and the second gripping surfaces  1370   a ,  1370   b  are positioned on the body  1310  and the arm  1360 , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1300  is in the closed configuration, the first gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b  contact the second gripping surfaces  1370   a ,  1370   b , respectively. In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b , on each side of the body  1310 . In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b  are formed of the same material as the body  1310  and/or arm  1360 . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b  can be formed of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1310  and/or arm  1360 , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1300  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the body  1310  (or the suture securing device  1300  when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  1310  includes a front surface  1331 , a back surface  1312 , a top surface  1313 , a bottom surface  1314 , a first side surface  1315 , and a second side surface  1316 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1310  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 14G , the body  1310  includes two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b . Each of the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  extends generally into the body  1310  from one of the opposite side surfaces  1315 ,  1316 , respectively. As shown, the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  extend into the body  1310  toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  are aligned with each other, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. Each of the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  also extends entirely through the body  1310  from the top surface  1313  to the bottom surface  1314 . Thus, with the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b , the body  1310  may be described as having an H-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 14G and 14H . In some instances, the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1300  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1300  in the open position, the suture securing device  1300  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b . In other words, the body  1310  may have a substantially H-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the H (in other words, the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  on opposite sides  1315 ,  1316  of the body  1310 ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 14E, 14F, 14K, and 14L , the bottom surface  1314  of the body  1310  includes an eversion recess  1341 . The eversion recess  1341  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the body  1310  from the bottom surface  1314 . The eversion recess  1341  may also be considered as a channel extending through the body  1310  from the front surface  1331  to the back surface  1312 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1341  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1300  is in use. The eversion recess  1341  creates a space below the suture securing device  1300  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1341  may be omitted. 
     The bottom surface  1314  may be considered to have feet  1343  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1341 . The feet  1343  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1300  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1343  and/or bottom surface  1314  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1300 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  1310  also includes a channel  1331  configured to receive the arm  1360  in the closed configuration. The channel  1331  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  1310  from the front surface  1331 , back surface  1312 , and the first and second side surfaces  1315 ,  1316 . The channel  1331  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 14E, 14F, 14I , and  14 J. As shown, the channel  1331  is positioned between the top surface  1313  and the bottom surface  1314  and generally runs parallel to each. The first gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b  are positioned within the body  1310  and each at least partially define the end of the channel  1331  in one direction: for example, the first gripping surface  1320   a  defines the end or depth of the channel  1331  extending into the body  1310  from the first side surface  1315  and the first gripping surface  1320   b  defines the end or depth of the channel  1331  extending into the body  1310  from the second side surface  1316 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  1331  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the arm  1360  is substantially received within the body  1310  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 14B, 14D and 14K through 14P . Accordingly, the depth of the channel  1331  extending from the front surface  1331  and the first and second side surfaces  1315 ,  1316  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the arm  1360  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  1331  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the arm  1360 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, and as best seen in  FIGS. 14I and 14J  (also partially visible in  FIG. 14A ) the depth of the channel  1331  extending into the body  1310  from the side surfaces  1315 ,  1316  may include deeper portions  1315   a ,  1316   a  in the areas of the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b . These deeper portions  1315   a ,  1316   a  are configured to correspond to and mate with protrusions  1363   a ,  1364   a  which extend from the second gripping surfaces  1370   a ,  1370   b , respectively, of the arm  1360 . In the closed configuration, the deeper portions  1315   a ,  1316   a  mate with corresponding protrusions  1363   a ,  1364   a  to further secure the suture between the first and second gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b . In some embodiments, the deeper portions  1315   a ,  1316   a  and protrusions  1363   a ,  1364   a  may be omitted. In some embodiments, the channel  1331  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the arm  1360  within the body  1310 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the arm  1360  includes a front member  1362 , a back member  1365 , and two side members  1363 ,  1364 , as seen, for example, in  FIG. 4G . The front member  1362  is configured to extend across the width of the suture securing device  1300 . The side members  1363 ,  1364  extend as protrusions from the front member  1362  on opposite ends of the arm  1360 . The second gripping surfaces  1360   a ,  1360   b  are located on the side members  1363 ,  1364 . In some embodiments, the protrusions  1363   a ,  1364   a  extend inwardly from the side members  1363 ,  1364 . The shape of the arm  1360  may be configured so as to fit within the channel  1331  of the body  1310  described above, such that the arm  1360  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  1310  in the closed configuration. In this way, the arm  1360  may be configured to mate with the body  1310 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the arm  1360  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1390  attaches to the arm at a first of the side members  1363  of the arm  1360 . The second of the side members  1364  is attached to a back member  1365  which includes an engagement structure  1381  configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structure  1351  of the body  1310 . The engagement structures  1351 ,  1381  may cooperate to secure the arm  1360  to the body  1310  in the closed configuration as described above. 
     The suture securing device  1300  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1310 , arm  1360 , and hinge  1390  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1300  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 14M and 14O . The width W, thickness T, and length L may be similar to those described above. 
     The suture securing device  1300  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1320   a ,  1320   b ,  1370   a ,  1370   b  in a manner similar to that described above in reference to the suture securing device  1300 . The principal difference being that the body  1310  is configured with the two individual slots  1321   a ,  1321   b  located on the side surfaces  1315 ,  1316 . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1300  provides similar benefits to those identified above, including securing a suture  1020  without requiring a knot to be tied and preventing a suture  1020  from becoming ingrown. 
       FIGS. 15A through 15P  illustrate various views of a fourth embodiment of a suture securing device  1400  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 15A and 15B  are perspective views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device  1400  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 15C and 15D  are perspective views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device  1400  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 15E through 15J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device  1400  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 15K through 15P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device  1400  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     The fourth embodiment includes a body  1410  configured similarly to the body  1110  of the second embodiment of the suture securing device  1200  described above. The fourth embodiment, however, includes two arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  attached to the body  1410  by hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b . The hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  allow the suture securing device  1400  to be transitioned between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Also, similar to the second embodiment of  FIG. 13A , the body  1410  of the fourth embodiment includes individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  extending through the front surface  1411  of the body  1410  for receiving the external strands  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . 
     As mentioned above, the suture securing device  1400  includes a body  1410  and two arms  1460   a ,  1460   b . The body  1410  is connected to each of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  by corresponding hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b . The hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 15G and 15M . The hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  are configured to allow the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  to rotate relative to the body  1410 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  are connected to the body  1410  on a back surface  1412  of the body  1410 . However, in some embodiments, the hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  may connect to the body  1410  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1410 . In some embodiments, the hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  may be living or compliant hinges. The living or compliant hinges may be integrally formed with the body  1410  and/or the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b . In some embodiments, mechanical hinges may be used. 
     The body  1410  includes a first gripping surface  1420 , and each of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  includes a second gripping surface  1470   a ,  1470   b , respectively. The first gripping surface  1420  and the second gripping surfaces  1470   a ,  1470   b  are positioned on the body  1410  and the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1400  is in the closed configuration, a portion of the first gripping surface  1420  contacts each of the second gripping surfaces  1470   a ,  1470   b . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b . In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b  include the same material as the body  1410  and/or arms  1460   a ,  1460   b . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b  can be formed of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1410  and/or arms  1460   a ,  1460   b , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1400  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the body  1410  (or the suture securing device when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  1410  includes a front surface  1411 , a back surface  1412 , a top surface  1413 , a bottom surface  1414 , a first side surface  1415 , and a second side surface  1416 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1410  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 15G , the body  1410  includes two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b . Each of the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  extends generally into the body  1410  from the front surface  1411  partway toward the back surface  1412 . Each of the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  also extends entirely through the body  1410  from the top surface  1413  to the bottom surface  1414 . On opposite side surfaces  1415 ,  1416  of the body  1410 , the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  are defined by members  1423  and  1424  which extend outwardly from the body  1410 . A member  1425  extends outwardly from the body  1410  in between the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b . Thus, with the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  and the members  1423 ,  1424 ,  1425  the body  1410  may be described as having a E-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 15G and 15H . In some instances, the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1400  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1400  in the open position, the suture securing device  1400  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b , as shown in  FIG. 15C . The two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  and members  1423 ,  1424 ,  1425  may help to maintain the suture securing device  1400  and suture  1020  in position until the suture securing device is transitioned to the closed configuration. In other words, the body  1410  may have a substantially E-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the E (in other words, the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 15E, 15F, 15K, and 15L , the bottom surface  1414  of the body  1410  includes an eversion recess  1441 . The eversion recess  1441  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the body  1410  from the bottom surface  1414 . The eversion recess  1441  may also be considered as a channel extending through the body  1410  from the front surface  1411  to the back surface  1412 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1441  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1400  is in use. The eversion recess  1441  creates a space below the suture securing device  1400  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1441  may be omitted. 
     The bottom surface  1414  may be considered to have feet  1443  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1441 . The feet  1443  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1400  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1443  and/or bottom surface  1414  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1400 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  1410  also includes a channel  1431  configured to receive the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  in the closed configuration. The channel  1431  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  1410  from the front surface  1411  and the first and second side surfaces  1415 ,  1416 . The channel  1431  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 15E, 15F, 15I , and  15 J. As shown, the channel  1431  is positioned between the top surface  1413  and the bottom surface  1414  and generally runs parallel to each. As shown in the side views of  FIGS. 15I and 15J , the channel  1431  bisects the members  1423 ,  1424  and  1425 , dividing each into two separate protrusions. The first gripping surface  1420  is positioned within the body  1410  and at least partially defines the end of the channel  1431  in one direction: for example, the first gripping surface  1420  defines the end or depth of the channel  1431  extending into the body  1410  from the front surface  1411 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  1431  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the arms  1460   b ,  1460  are substantially received within the body  1410  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 15B, 15D and 15K  through  15 P. Accordingly, the depth of the channel  1431  extending from the front surface  1411  and the first and second side surfaces  1415 ,  1416  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  1431  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b . In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the channel  1431  extending into the body  1410  from the front surface  1411  is greater than the depth of the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b . Thus, a cross-sectional shape bisecting the body  1410  between the first and second side surfaces  1415 ,  1416  at either of the two individual slots  1421   a ,  1421   b  may also be substantially C-shaped. In some embodiments, the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  are received within the opening of the C. In the closed configuration this may cause the suture  1020  to serpentine through the body  1410 , following this C-shape. This may further help to retain the suture  1020  within the suture securing device  1400  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the channel  1431  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  within the body  1410 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the each of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  includes a front member  1462   a ,  1462   b  and side members  1463   a ,  1463   b  as seen, for example, in  FIG. 15G . The front members  1462   a ,  1462   b  are each configured to extend across one-half the width of the suture securing device  1400 . The front members  1462   a ,  1462   b  also include the second gripping surfaces  1470   a ,  1470   b . The side members  1463   a ,  1463   b  extend as protrusions from the front members  1462   a ,  1462   b  of each arm  1460   a ,  1460   b . The shape of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  may be configured so as to fit within the channel  1431  of the body  1410  described above, such that the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  1410  in the closed configuration. In this way, the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  may be configured to mate with the body  1410 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  are attached to the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  at the side members  1463   a ,  1463   b , respectively. The free end of each of the front members  1462   a ,  1462   b  includes an engagement structure  1481   a ,  1481   b  configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structure  1451  of the body  1410 . The engagement structures  1451 ,  1481   a ,  1481   b  may cooperate to secure the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  to the body  1410  in the closed configuration as described above. In the illustrated embodiment, a single engagement structure  1451  is formed as a recess in the body  1410  and configured to receive the engagement structures  1481   a ,  1481   b  of both arms  1460   a ,  1460   b . In some embodiments, the engagement structure  1451  on the body  1410  may include multiple recesses, each configured to receive one of the engagement structures  1481   a ,  1481   b  of the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b.    
     The suture securing device  1400  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1410 , arms  1460   a ,  1460   b , and hinges  1490   a ,  1490   b  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1400  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 15M and 15O . The width W, thickness T, and length L may be similar to those described above. 
     The suture securing device  1400  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  between first and second gripping surfaces  1420 ,  1470   a ,  1470   b  in a manner similar to that described above in reference to the suture securing device  1200 . The principal difference being that the suture securing device  1400  is configured with the two arms  1460   a ,  1460   b . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1400  provides similar benefits to those identified above, including securing a suture  1020  without requiring a knot to be tied and preventing a suture  1020  from becoming ingrown. Additionally, because the arms  1460   a ,  1460   b  secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  individually, the suture securing device  1400  allows a user to secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture at separate times. For example, a first external portion  1021  may be secured, the suture may be tensioned, and then the second external portion  1023  may be secured. 
       FIGS. 16A through 16P  illustrate various views of a fifth embodiment of a suture securing device  1500  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 16A  and  16 B are perspective views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 16C and 16D  are perspective views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 16E through 16J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 16K through 16P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     In many ways, the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  is similar to that of the third embodiment of the suture securing device  1300  of  FIG. 14A . Specifically, like the third embodiment, the suture securing device  1500  includes a body  1510  with two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  configured on opposite sides  1515 ,  1516  for receiving the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of a simple interrupted suture  1020 . However, similar to the fourth embodiment of the suture securing device  1400  of  FIG. 15A , the fifth embodiment includes two arms  1560   a , and  1560   b , each attached by a hinge  1590   a ,  1590   b . The features of the fifth embodiment will now be described in greater detail. 
     The suture securing device  1500  includes a body  1510  and two arms  1560   a ,  1560   b . The body  1510  is connected to each of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  by corresponding hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b . The hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 16G and 16M . The hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  are configured to allow the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  to rotate relative to the body  1510 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  are connected to the body  1510  on a back surface  1512  of the body  1510 . However, in some embodiments, the hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  may connect to the body  1510  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1510 . In some embodiments, the hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  may be living or compliant hinges. The living or compliant hinges may be integrally formed with the body  1510  and/or the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b . In some embodiments, mechanical hinges may be used. 
     The body  1510  includes first gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b , and each of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  includes second gripping surface  1570   a ,  1570   b , respectively. The first gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b  and the second gripping surfaces  1570   a ,  1570   b  are positioned on the body  1510  and the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1500  is in the closed configuration, each of the first gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b  contacts one of the second gripping surfaces  1570   a ,  1570   b . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b . In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b  each are formed of the same material as the body  1510  and/or arms  1560   a ,  1560   b . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b  can be formed or comprised of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1510  and/or arms  1560   a ,  1560   b , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1500  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the body  1510  (or the suture securing device when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  1510  includes a front surface  1511 , a back surface  1512 , a top surface  1513 , a bottom surface  1514 , a first side surface  1515 , and a second side surface  1516 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1510  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 16G , the body  1510  includes two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b . Each of the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  extends generally into the body  1510  from one of the opposite side surfaces  1515 ,  1516 , respectively. As shown, the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  extend into the body  1510  toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  are aligned with each other, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. Each of the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  also extends entirely through the body  1510  from the top surface  1513  to the bottom surface  1514 . Thus, with the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b , the body  1510  may be described as having an H-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 16G and 16H . In some instances, the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1500  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1500  in the open position, the suture securing device  1500  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b . In other words, the body  1510  may have a substantially H-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the H (in other words, the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b  on opposite sides  1515 ,  1516  of the body  1510 ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 16E, 16F, 16K, and 16L , the bottom surface  1514  of the body  1510  includes an eversion recess  1541 . The eversion recess  1541  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the body  1510  from the bottom surface  1514 . The eversion recess  1541  may also be considered as a channel extending through the body  1510  from the front surface  1511  to the back surface  1512 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1541  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1500  is in use. The eversion recess  1541  creates a space below the suture securing device  1500  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1541  may be omitted. 
     The bottom surface  1514  includes feet  1534  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1541 . The feet  1534  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1500  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1534  and/or bottom surface  1514  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1500 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  1510  also includes a channel  1531  configured to receive the arm  1560  in the closed configuration. The channel  1531  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  1510  from the front surface  1511 , back surface  1512 , and the first and second side surfaces  1515 ,  1516 . The channel  1531  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 16E, 16F, 16I , and  16 J. As shown, the channel  1531  is positioned between the top surface  1513  and the bottom surface  1514  and generally runs parallel to each. The first gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b  are positioned within the body  1510  and each at least partially define the end of the channel  1331  in one direction: for example, the first gripping surface  1520   a  defines the end or depth of the channel  1531  extending into the body  1510  from the first side surface  1515  and the first gripping surface  1520   b  defines the end or depth of the channel  1531  extending into the body  1510  from the second side surface  1516 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  1531  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the arm  1560  is substantially received within the body  1510  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 16B, 16D and 16K through 16P . Accordingly, the depth of the channel  1531  extending from the front surface  1511  and the first and second side surfaces  1515 ,  1516  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  1531  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b.    
     In the illustrated embodiment, and as best seen in  FIGS. 16I and 16E  (also partially visible in  FIG. 16A ) the depth of the channel  1531  extending into the body  1510  from the side surfaces  1515 ,  1516  may include deeper portions  1515   a ,  1516   a  in the areas of the two individual slots  1521   a ,  1521   b . These deeper portions  1515   a ,  1516   a  are configured to correspond to and mate with protrusions  1566   a ,  1566   b  which extend from the second gripping surfaces  1570   a ,  1570   b , respectively, of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b . In the closed configuration, the deeper portions  1515   a ,  1516   a  mate with corresponding protrusions  1566   a ,  1566   b  to further secure the suture  1020  between the first and second gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b . In some embodiments, the deeper portions  1515   a ,  1516   a  and protrusions  1566   a ,  1566   b  may be omitted. In some embodiments, the channel  1531  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the arm  1560  within the body  1510 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  includes a front member  1562   a ,  1562   b  and a side members  1563   a ,  1563   b  as seen, for example, in  FIG. 16G . The front members  1562   a ,  1562   b  are each configured to extend across one-half the width of the suture securing device  1500 . The front members  1562   a ,  1562   b  also include the second gripping surfaces  1570   a ,  1570   b . The side members  1563   a ,  1563   b  extend as protrusions from the front members  1562   a ,  1562   b  of each arm  1560   a ,  1560   b . The shape of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  may be configured so as to fit within the channel  1531  of the body  1510  described above, such that the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  1510  in the closed configuration. In this way, the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  may be configured to mate with the body  1510 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  are attached to the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  at the side members  1563   a ,  1563   b , respectively. The free end of each of the front members  1562   a ,  1562   b  includes an engagement structure  1581   a ,  1581   b  configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structure  1551  of the body  1510 . The engagement structures  1551 ,  1581   a ,  1581   b  may cooperate to secure the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  to the body  1510  in the closed configuration as described above. In the illustrated embodiment, a single engagement structure  1551  is formed as a recess in the body  1510  and configured to receive the engagement structures  1581   a ,  1581   b  of both arms  1560   a ,  1560   b . In some embodiments, the engagement structure  1551  on the body  1510  may include multiple recesses, each configured to receive one of the engagement structures  1581   a ,  1581   b  of the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b.    
     The suture securing device  1500  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1510 , arms  1560   a ,  1560   b , and hinges  1590   a ,  1590   b  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1500  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 16M and 16O . The width W, thickness T, and length L may be similar to those described above. 
     The suture securing device  1500  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1520   a ,  1520   b ,  1570   a ,  1570   b  in a manner similar to that described above in reference to the suture securing device  1500 . The principal difference being suture securing device  1500  includes two arms  1560   a ,  1560   b . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1500  provides similar benefits to those identified above, including securing a suture  1020  without requiring a knot to be tied and preventing a suture  1020  from becoming ingrown. Additionally, because the arms  1560   a ,  1560   b  secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  individually, the suture securing device  1500  allows a user to secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture at separate times. For example, a first external portion  1021  may be secured, the suture may be tensioned, and then the second external portion  1023  may be secured. 
       FIGS. 17A through 17P  illustrate various views of a sixth embodiment of a suture securing device  1600  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 17A and 17B  are perspective views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device  1600  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 17C and 17D  are perspective views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device  1600  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 17E through 17J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device  1600  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 17K through 17P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device  1600  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     In many ways, the sixth embodiment of the suture securing device  1600  is similar to that of the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  of  FIG. 16A . Specifically, like the fifth embodiment, the suture securing device  1600  includes a body  1610  with two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  and two arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  configured on opposite sides  1615 ,  1616  of the body  1610  for receiving the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of a simple interrupted suture  1020 . However, unlike the fifth embodiment of the suture securing device  1500  which includes an eversion recess  1541  formed in the body  1510 , in the suture securing device  1600  the eversion recess  1641  is formed by shortening the thickness of the body  1610  and/or increasing the thickness of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b , such that, in use, the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010  and the body  1610  is suspended over the wound  1013  and/or wound eversion  1015 , between the two arms  1660   a ,  1160   b . This arrangement will be described in greater detail below. 
     The suture securing device  1600  includes a body  1610  and two arms  1660   a ,  1660   b . The body  1610  is connected to each of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  by corresponding hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b . The hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 17G and 17M . The hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  are configured to allow the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  to rotate relative to the body  1610 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  are connected to the body  1610  on a back surface  1612  of the body  1610 . However, in some embodiments, the hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  may connect to the body  1610  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1610 . In some embodiments, the hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  may be living or compliant hinges. The living or compliant hinges may be integrally formed with the body  1610  and/or the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b . In some embodiments, mechanical hinges may be used. As shown in the figures, the thickness of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  is greater than the thickness of the body  1610 . In the illustrated embodiment, the body the top surface  1613  of the body  1610  is aligned with the top surfaces of the arms, such that (due to its smaller thickness) an eversion channel  1641  is formed below the body  1610  and between the two arms  1660   a ,  1660   b . The eversion channel  1641  is described in greater detail below. 
     The body  1610  includes first gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b , and each of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  includes a second gripping surface  1670   a ,  1670   b , respectively. The first gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b  and the second gripping surfaces  1670   a ,  1670   b  are positioned on the body  1610  and the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1600  is in the closed configuration, each of the first gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b  contacts a corresponding second gripping surface  1670   a ,  1670   b . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b . In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b  include the same material as the body  1610  and/or arms  1660   a ,  1660   b . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b  can be formed of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1610  and/or arms  1660   a ,  1660   b , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1600  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the body  1610  (or the suture securing device when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  1610  includes a front surface  1611 , a back surface  1612 , a top surface  1613 , a bottom surface  1614 , a first side surface  1615 , and a second side surface  1616 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1610  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 17G , the body  1610  includes two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b . Each of the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  extends generally into the body  1610  from one of the opposite side surfaces  1615 ,  1616 , respectively. As shown, the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  extend into the body  1610  toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  are aligned with each other, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. Each of the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  also extends entirely through the body  1610  from the top surface  1613  to the bottom surface  1614 . Thus, with the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b , the body  1610  may be described as having an H-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 17G and 17H . In some instances, the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1600  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1600  in the open position, the suture securing device  1600  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b . In other words, the body  1610  may have a substantially H-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the H (in other words, the two individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  on opposite sides  1615 ,  1616  of the body  1610 ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 17E, 17F, 17K, and 17L , the bottom surface  1614  of the body  1610  is raised higher than the bottom surface of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  to form an eversion recess  1641  between the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  and below the body  1610 . The eversion recess  1641  may thus be considered as a channel extending through the suture securing device  1600  from the front surface  1611  to the back surface  1612 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1641  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1600  is in use. The eversion recess  1641  creates a space below the suture securing device  1600  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1641  may be omitted. That is, in some embodiments, the body  1610  and the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  may be equally thick. 
     The bottom surfaces of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  may include feet  1634 . The feet  1634  may be the portions of the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1634  and/or bottom surface  1614  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1600 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  and hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  are configured such that, in the closed configurations, the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  are positioned on opposite sides  1615 ,  1616  of the body  1610 . The individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  extend into the opposite sides  1615 ,  1616  of the body. The first gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b  are positioned within the body  1610  and each at least partially define an end of each individual slot  1621   a .  1621   b . In the illustrated embodiment, and as best seen in  FIGS. 16I and 16E  (also partially visible in  FIG. 16A ) the depth of the individual slots  1621   a ,  1621   b  extending into the body  1610  from the side surfaces  1615 ,  1616  may include deeper portions  1615   a ,  1616   a . These deeper portions  1615   a ,  1616   a  are configured to correspond to and mate with protrusions  1666   a ,  1666   b  which extend from the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b , respectively. The first gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b  may be positioned within the deeper portions  1615   a ,  1616   a . The second gripping surfaces  1670   a ,  1670   b  may be positioned at the ends of the protrusions  1666   a ,  1666   b . In the closed configuration, the deeper portions  1615   a ,  1616   a  mate with corresponding protrusions  1666   a ,  1666   b  to further secure the suture  1020  between the first and second gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b . In some embodiments, the deeper portions  1615   a ,  1616   a  and protrusions  1666   a ,  1666   b  may be omitted. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  are attached to the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b . The arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  also include an engagement structure  1681   a ,  1681   b  configured to correspond to and engage with corresponding engagement structures  1651   a ,  1651   b  of the body  1610 . The engagement structures  1651   a ,  1651   b ,  1681   a ,  1681   b  may cooperate to secure the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  to the body  1510  in the closed configuration as described above. 
     The suture securing device  1600  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1610 , arms  1660   a ,  1660   b , and hinges  1690   a ,  1690   b  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1600  may have a width W, total thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 17M and 17O . The width W, total thickness T, and length L may be similar to those described above. 
     The suture securing device  1600  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1620   a ,  1620   b ,  1670   a ,  1670   b  in a manner similar to that described above in reference to the suture securing device  1500 . The principal difference being suture securing device  1600  includes a thinner body  1610  between the two arms  1660   a ,  1660   b , forming the eversion recess  1641 . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1600  provides similar benefits to those identified above, including securing a suture  1020  without requiring a knot to be tied and preventing a suture  1020  from becoming ingrown. Additionally, because the arms  1660   a ,  1660   b  secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  individually, the suture securing device  1600  allows a user to secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture at separate times. For example, a first external portion  1021  may be secured, the suture may be tensioned, and then the second external portion  1023  may be secured. 
       FIGS. 18A through 18P  illustrate various views of a seventh embodiment of a suture securing device  1700  for securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 . The seventh embodiment includes a body  1710  configured to be positioned across a patient&#39;s wound or incision  1013  and an arm  1760  attached to the body  1710  by a hinge  1790 . The hinge  1790  allows the suture securing device  1700  to be transitioned between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration the suture securing device  1700  can be positioned around exposed the portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  is secured between the arm  1710  and the body  1710 .  FIGS. 18A and 18B  are perspective views of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device  1700  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 18C and 18D  are perspective views of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device  1700  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 18E through 18J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views, respectively, of the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device  1700  in the open configuration.  FIGS. 18K through 18P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views, respectively, of the first embodiment of the suture securing device  1700  in the closed configuration. 
     As noted above, the suture securing device  1700  includes a body  1710  and an arm  1760 . The body  1710  and the arm  1760  are connected by a hinge  1790 . The hinge  1790  can be seen in, for example,  FIGS. 18A, 18G, and 18M . The hinge  1790  is configured to allow the arm  1760  to rotate relative to the body  1710 , for example between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1790  is connected to the body  1710  on a back surface  1712  of the body  1710 . However, in some embodiments, the hinge  1790  may connect to the body  1710  on other surfaces and/or locations of the body  1710 . In some embodiments, the hinge  1790  may be a living or compliant hinge. A living or compliant hinge may be integrally formed with the body  1710  and/or the arm  1760 . In some embodiments, a mechanical hinge may be used. 
     The body  1710  includes a first gripping surface  1720 , and the arm  1760  includes a second gripping surface  1770 . The first gripping surface  1720  and the second gripping surface  1770  are positioned on the body  1710  and the arm  1760 , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1700  is in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface  1720  contacts the second gripping surface  1770 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770 . For example, in use, suture securing device  1700  can be positioned on the patient&#39;s skin  1010  in the open configuration so that the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are adjacent to the first gripping surface  1720 , as shown in  FIG. 18C . The suture securing device  1700  can then be transitioned to the closed configuration by rotating the arm  1760  toward the body  1710  until the second gripping surface  1770  of the arm  1760  contacts the first gripping surface  1720  of the body  1710 . As shown in  FIG. 18D , in this configuration, the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are thus captured between the first gripping surface  1720  and the second gripping surface  1770 , and the suture  1020  is secured. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770  each include the same material as the body  1710  and/or arm  1760 . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770  can each be formed of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1710  and/or arm  1760 , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1700  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the closed configuration, the suture securing device  1700  is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. As illustrated in  FIGS. 18B and 18K-18P  The suture securing device  1700  includes a front surface  1711 , a back surface  1712 , a top surface  1713 , a bottom surface  1714 , a first side surface  1715 , and a second side surface  1716 . For example, a top surface  1713  of the suture securing device  1700  includes a portion of a top surface of the body  1710  and a portion of the top surface of the arm  1760 . The first side surface  1715  may include a side of the body  1710  and the opposite second side surface may include a side of the arm  1760 . In reference to the seventh embodiment of the suture securing device  1700 , these surfaces are described as being the outer surfaces of the suture securing device  1700  in the closed configuration. Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the suture securing device  1700  are possible. 
     In the suture securing device  1700 , the body  1710  may be configured substantially in an L-shape, including a width portion  1734  and a length portion  1736 . The width portion  1734  may extend across the wound or incision  1013  and include the first gripping surface  1720 . The first gripping surface  1720  may be positioned within a channel  1738  (as seen in  FIG. 18A ) formed on a face of the body  1710 . The length portion  1736  is connected to the width portion  1734  at a first end of the length portion  1736 . In some embodiments, the width portion  1734  is substantially orthogonal to the length portion  1736 , so as to form the L-shape of the body. The length portion  1736  may include a notch  1739  (as seen in  FIG. 18A ) configured to receive the hinge  1790  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the notch  1739  may be omitted. The arm  1760  may also be formed substantially in an L-shape. The L-shape of the arm  1760  may be complimentary to the L-shape of the body  1710 , such that the two fit together to form the rectangular prism shape of the suture securing device  1700  in the closed configuration. The arm  1760  includes a width portion  1764  and a length portion  1766 . The width portion  1764  and the length portion  1766  may be substantially orthogonal to each other. The width portion  1764  may include a protrusion  1768  extending from a face thereof. The second gripping surface  1770  may be positioned at the end of the protrusion  1768 . The protrusion  1768  may be configured to mate with the channel  1738  in the closed configuration, such that the first gripping surface  1720  contacts the second gripping surface  1770 . In the closed configuration, the arm  1760  compliments the body  1710  and a slot  1789  (as seen in  FIGS. 18B, 18D, 18M, and 18N ) is formed therebetween. The slot  1789  may be defined between the width portion  1734 ,  1764  of the arm  1710  and body  1760 , respectively, and the length portions  1736 ,  1766  of the arm  1710  and body  1760 . When viewed from above or below, the slot  1789  may not extend completely through the suture securing device because of the protrusion  1768  of the arm  1760  extending into the channel  1738  of the body  1710 . 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 18E, 18F, 18K, and 18L , the bottom surface  1114  of the suture securing device  1700  (including the body  1710  and the arm  1760 ) includes an eversion recess  1741 . The eversion recess  1741  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the suture securing device  1700  from the bottom surface  1714 , a portion of which is formed in the body  1710  and the arm  1760 . The eversion recess  1741  may also be considered as a channel extending through the suture securing device  1700  from the front surface  1711  to the back surface  1712 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1741  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1700  is in use. The eversion recess  1741  creates a space below the suture securing device  1700  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 18C and 18D , the suture securing device  1100  may be positioned across a wound or incision  1013 , so that the bottom surface  1714  of the suture securing device  1700  rests on the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010  on opposite sides of the wound or incision  1013 . The eversion recess  1741  may be positioned substantially directly above the wound or incision  1013  so as to accommodate skin eversion  1015 . In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1741  may be omitted. 
     The bottom surface  1714  may be considered to have feet  1743  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1741 . The feet  1743  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1700  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . A portion of the feet  1734  may be formed in each of the body  1710  and the arm  1760 . In some embodiments, the feet  1743  and/or bottom surface  1714  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1100 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge  1190  attaches to the arm  1760  at a first end of the arm  1760 . The opposite end of the arm  1760  includes an engagement structure  1781  configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structure  1751  of the body  1710 . The engagement structures  1751 ,  1781  may cooperate to secure the arm  1760  to the body  1710  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the arm  1760  can be permanently locked into the closed configuration with the body  1710  after mating the engagement structures  1751 ,  1781 . In other embodiments, the engagement structures  1751 ,  1781  can be configured to releasably engage, such that the arm  1760  can releasably engage the body  1710  and the suture securing device  1700  can be alternatively and repeatedly transitioned between the open and closed configuration. Releasable engagement of the engagement structures  1751 ,  1781  may allow for repositioning and/or tensioning adjustment of the suture  1020  over time. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement structure  1781  on the arm  1760  includes a hooked structure, and the engagement structure  1751  of the body  1710  includes a notched recess. The suture securing device  1700  can thus be secured in the closed configuration by catching the hooked structure within the recess. The hooked structure and the recess may be configured for a compliant snap fit. That is, the hooked member, the side member  1764 , or side of the recess may be configured to deform slightly to allow for engagement and/or disengagement. In some embodiments, these features may be reversed, such that the arm  1760  includes the recess and the body  1710  includes the hooked structure. Further, other possible engagement structures  1751 ,  1781  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The suture securing device  1700  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1710 , arm  1760 , and hinge  1790  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
     The suture securing device  1700  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 18M and 18O . The width W, thickness T, and length L may be similar to those previously described. 
     The suture securing device  1700  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1720 ,  1770 . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1700  may be used to secure a suture  1020  without requiring the external portions  1021 ,  1023  to be tied into a knot. Additionally, as best seen in  FIGS. 18C and 18D , the suture securing device  1700  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  in a position at which they extend substantially orthogonally to the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . Thus, the suture securing device reduces or eliminates the need for any portion of the suture  1020  rest directly on the surface of the skin as is common with convention suture securing techniques like knot tying. This may eliminate or reduce the likelihood that the suture  1020  will become ingrown as the wound or incision heals. Further, because the likelihood that the suture  1020  will be become ingrown is reduced when the suture securing device  1100  is used, the suture  1020  can remain in place for longer than conventional knot-tied sutures. 
       FIGS. 19A-27D  show various embodiments of suture securing devices configured for use with simple interrupted sutures that include a body and one or more insertable clips. As will be described in greater detail below, in some embodiments, the one or more clips are insertable into the body from the front (or back), top (or bottom) and or opposite sides of the body. Further, in some embodiments, the clip surrounds the body (for example, as shown in  FIG. 19B ), while in other embodiments the body surrounds the clip (for example, as in  FIG. 26A ). These principles may be modified, combined, and/or otherwise used with any of the other suture securing devices described throughout. 
       FIGS. 19A through 19P  illustrate various views of an eighth embodiment of a suture securing device  1900  for securing simple interrupted suture  1020 . The eighth embodiment includes a body  1910  and an insertable clip  1960 . The clip  1960  is inserted into the front of the body  1910  to secure the suture  1020 .  FIGS. 19A and 19B  are perspective views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device  1900  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 19C and 19D  are perspective views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device  1900  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 19E through 19J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device  1900  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 19K through 19P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the eighth embodiment of the suture securing device  1900  in the closed configuration, respectively. In many aspects, the suture securing device  1900  is similar to the suture securing device  1100  of  FIG. 12A , however, the arm  1160  of the suture securing device  1100  has been replaced by a clip  1960  in the suture securing device  1900 . 
     The suture securing device  1900  includes a body  1910  and an insertable clip  1960 . In an open configuration, the body  1910  and the clip  1960  are not connected (as shown, for example, in  FIG. 19A ). In a closed configuration, the clip  1960  is inserted into the body  1910  (as shown, for example, in  FIG. 19B ). As will be described in greater detail below, the suture securing device  1900  may be positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  proximal to a suture  1020  in the open configuration, and then transitioned to the closed configuration (by inserting the clip  1960  into the body  1910 ) to secure the suture  1020 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  is secured between the clip  1960  and the body  1910 . 
     The body  1910  includes a first gripping surface  1920  (as seen in  FIG. 19A ), and the clip  1960  includes a second gripping surface  1970  (as seen in  FIGS. 19A and 19G ). The first gripping surface  1920  and the second gripping surface  1970  are positioned on the body  1910  and the clip  1960 , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  1900  is in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface  1920  contacts the second gripping surface  1970 . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970 . For example, in use, body  1910  can be positioned on the patient&#39;s skin  1010  in the open configuration so that the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are adjacent to the first gripping surface  1920 , as shown in  FIG. 19C . The suture securing device  1900  can then be transitioned to the closed configuration by inserting the clip  1960  into the body  1910  until the second gripping surface  1970  of the clip  1960  contacts the first gripping surface  1920  of the body  1910 . As shown in  FIG. 12D , in this configuration, the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are thus captured between the first gripping surface  1920  and the second gripping surface  1970 , and the suture  1020  is secured. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970  include the same material as the body  1910  and/or clip  1960 . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970  can be formed or comprised of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  1910  and/or clip  1960 , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  1900  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the suture securing device  1900 , in the closed configuration, is generally shaped as a rectangular prism (as best seen in  FIGS. 19K-19P ). The body  1910  includes a front surface  1911 , a back surface  1912 , a top surface  1913 , a bottom surface  1914 , a first side surface  1915 , and a second side surface  1916 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  1910  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 19G , the body  1910  includes a front opening  1921 . The front opening  1921  extends generally into the body  1910  from the front surface  1911  partway toward the back surface  1912 . The front opening  1921  also extends entirely through the body  1910  from the top surface  1913  to the bottom surface  1914 . On opposite side surfaces  1915 ,  1916  of the body  1910 , the front opening is defined by members  1923  and  1924  which extend outwardly from the body  1910 . Thus, with the front opening  1921  and the members  1923  and  1924 , the body  1910  may be described as having a C-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 19G and 19H . In some instances, the front opening  1921  may be used to help position the suture securing device  1900  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  1900  in the open position, the suture securing device  1900  can be positioned such that the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture are positioned within the front opening  1921 , as shown in  FIG. 19C . The front opening  1921  and members  1923 ,  1924  may help to maintain the suture securing device  1900  and suture  1020  in position until the clip  1960  is inserted. In other words, the body  1910  may have a substantially C-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the opening of the C (in other words, front opening  1921 ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 19E, 19F, 19K, and 19L , the bottom surface  1914  of the suture securing device  1900  includes an eversion recess  1941 . The eversion recess  1941  is formed in the body  1910 . The eversion recess  1941  may be configured as an indentation or opening extending into the body  1910  from the bottom surface  1914 . The eversion recess  1941  may also be considered as a channel extending through the body  1910  from the front surface  1911  to the back surface  1912 . A longitudinal axis of the eversion recess  1941  may be configured so as to be aligned with an incision or wound  1013  when the suture securing device  1900  is in use. The eversion recess  1941  creates a space below the suture securing device  1900  to accommodate skin eversion  1015  (as seen in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) that may be present at the wound or incision closure. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 12C and 12D , the suture securing device  1900  may be positioned across a wound or incision  1013 , so that the bottom surface  1914  of the suture securing device  1900  rests on the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010  on opposite sides of the wound or incision  1013 . The eversion recess  1941  may be positioned substantially directly above the wound or incision  1013  so as to accommodate skin eversion  1015 . In some embodiments, the eversion recess  1941  may be omitted. 
     The body  1910  is configured such that the bottom surface  1914  includes feet  1943  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  1941 . The feet  1943  may be the portions of the suture securing device  1900  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  1943  and/or bottom surface  1914  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1900 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  1910  also includes a channel  1931  configured to receive the clip  1960  in the closed configuration. The channel  1931  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  1910  from the front surface  1911  and the first and second side surfaces  1915 ,  1916 . The channel  1931  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 19A, 19C, 191, and 19J . As shown, the channel  1931  is positioned between the top surface  1913  and the bottom surface  1914  and generally runs parallel to each. As shown in the side views of  FIGS. 191 and 19J , the channel  1931  bisects the members  1923 ,  1924 , dividing each into two separate protrusions on each side of the suture securing device  1900 . The first gripping surface  1920  is positioned within the body  1910  and at least partially defines the end of the channel  1931  in one direction: for example, the first gripping surface  1920  defines the end or depth of the channel  1931  extending into the body  1910  from the front surface  1911 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  1931  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the clip  1960  is substantially received within the body  1910  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 19B, 19D and 19K through 19P . Accordingly, the depth of the channel  1931  extending from the front surface  1911  and the first and second side surfaces  1915 ,  1916  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the clip  1960  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  1931  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the clip  1960 . In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the channel  1931  extending into the body  1910  from the front surface  1911  is greater than the depth of the front opening  1921 . Thus, a cross-sectional shape bisecting the body  1910  between the first and second side surfaces  1915 ,  1916  may also be substantially C-shaped. In some embodiments, the clip is received within the opening of the C. In the closed configuration this may cause the suture  1020  to serpentine through the body  1910 , following this C-shape. This may further help to retain the suture  1020  within the suture securing device  1900  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the channel  1931  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the clip  1960  within the body  1910 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the clip  1960  includes a front member  1962  and two side members  1963  and  1964 , as seen, for example, in  FIG. 19G . The front member  1962  is configured to extend across the width of the suture securing device  1900 . The front member  1962  also includes the second gripping surface  1970 . The side members  1963  and  1964  extend as protrusions from the front member  1962  on opposite ends of the clip  1960 . Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the clip  1960  is substantially C-shaped, and the second gripping surface  1970  is positioned within the interior of the C. The shape of the clip  1960  may be configured so as to fit within the channel  1931  of the body  1910  described above, such that the clip  1960  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  1910  in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the front portion  1962  can be sized so as to fit within the channel  1931  extending into the body  1910  from the front surface  1911  of the body  1910 . The front portion may further be configured such that the second gripping surface  1970  contacts the first gripping surface  1920  in the closed configuration. Similarly, the side members  1962 ,  1963  may be sized so as to fit within the channel  1931  extending into the side surfaces  1915 ,  1916  of the body  1910 . In this way, the clip  1960  may be configured to mate with the body  1910 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the clip  1960  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the clip  1960  includes engagement structures  1981   a ,  1981   b  at the free ends of the first and second side members  1963 ,  1964 , respectively. The engagement structures  1981   a ,  1981   b  are configured to correspond to and engage with a corresponding engagement structures  1951   a ,  1951   b  on opposite sides of the body  1910 . The engagement structures  1951 ,  1981  may cooperate to secure the clip  1960  to the body  1910  in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the clip  1960  can be permanently locked into the closed configuration with the body  1910  after mating the engagement structures  1951   a ,  1951   b ,  1981   a ,  1981   b . In other embodiments, the engagement structures can be configured to releasably engage, such that the clip  1960  can releasably engage the body  1910  and the suture securing device can be alternatively and repeatedly transitioned between the open and closed configuration. Releasable engagement of the engagement structures may allow for repositioning and/or tensioning adjustment of the suture  1020  over time. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement structures on the clip  1960  include a hooked structure, and the engagement structures of the body  1910  include a recess. The suture securing device  1900  can thus be secured in the closed configuration by catching the hooked structure within the recess. The hooked structure and the recess may be configured for a compliant snap fit. That is, the hooked members, the side members  1963 ,  1964 , or side of the recesses may be configured to deform slightly to allow for engagement and/or disengagement. In some embodiments, these features may be reversed, such that the clip  1960  includes the recesses and the body  1910  includes the hooked structures. Further, other possible engagement structures  1951 ,  1981  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The suture securing device  1900  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  1910  and the clip  1960  may be made of the same material or different materials. 
     The suture securing device  1900  may have a width W, thickness T, and length L as illustrated in  FIGS. 19M and 190 . In some embodiments, the width W may be between 1 mm to 15 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness T may be between 0.5 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the length L may be between 5 mm to 60 mm. However, these ranges are merely provided as examples and may be adjusted to adapt the suture securing device  1900  for any particular application. 
     As previously described, the suture securing device  1900  secures the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture between first and second gripping surfaces  1920 ,  1970 . Accordingly, the suture securing device  1900  may be used to secure a suture  1020  without requiring the external portions  1021 ,  1023  to be tied into a knot. Additionally, the suture securing device  1900  reduces or eliminates the need for any portion of the suture  1020  rest directly on the surface of the skin as is common with convention suture securing techniques like knot tying. 
       FIGS. 20A through 20P  illustrate various views of a ninth embodiment of a suture securing device  2000  for securing simple interrupted suture  1020 . The ninth embodiment includes a body  2010  and an insertable clip  2016 . The body  2010  includes two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  on the front of the body  2010  to secure the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020 . The clip  2060  is inserted into the front of the body  2010 .  FIGS. 20A and 20B  are perspective views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device  2000  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 20C and 20D  are perspective views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device  2000  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin  1010  and securing a simple interrupted suture  1020 .  FIGS. 20E through 20J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device  2000  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 20K through 20P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the ninth embodiment of the suture securing device  2000  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     In many aspects, the suture securing device  2000  is similar to the suture securing device  1900  of  FIG. 19A . For example, the clip  2060  is substantially similar to the clip  1960 . The principle difference between the suture securing device  2000  and the suture securing device  1900  is that the body  2010  includes two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b , as opposed to the front space  1921 . For example, as seen, in  FIG. 20G , the body  2010  includes two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b . Each of the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  extends generally into the body  2010  from the front surface  2011  partway toward the back surface  2012 . Each of the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  also extends entirely through the body  2010  from the top surface  2013  to the bottom surface  2014 . On opposite side surfaces  2015 ,  2016  of the body  2010 , the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  are defined by members  2023  and  2024  which extend outwardly from the body  2010 . A member  2025  extends outwardly from the body  2010  in between the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b . Thus, with the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  and the members  2023 ,  2024 ,  2025  the body  2010  may be described as having a E-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 20G and 20H . In some instances, the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2000  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  2000  in the open position, the suture securing device  2000  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b , as shown in  FIG. 20C . The two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b  and members  2023 ,  2024 ,  2025  may help to maintain the suture securing device  2000  and suture  1020  in position until the suture securing device is transitioned to the closed configuration. In other words, the body  2010  may have a substantially E-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the E (in other words, the two individual slots  2021   a ,  2021   b ). 
     The function and advantages of the suture securing device  2000  are substantially similar to that previously described in reference to suture securing device  1900  and will not be repeated here. 
       FIGS. 21A through 21P  illustrate various views of a tenth embodiment of a suture securing device  2100  for securing simple interrupted suture  1020 . The tenth embodiment includes a body  2110  and two insertable clips  2160   a ,  2160   b . The body  2110  also includes two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  on opposite sides of the body  2110  to secure the external portions of the suture  1020 . The clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  are inserted into opposite sides  2115 ,  2116  of the body  2110 .  FIGS. 21A and 21B  are perspective views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device  2100  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 21C and 21D  are perspective views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device  2100  shown in use, positioned on a patient&#39;s skin and securing a simple interrupted suture  1010 .  FIGS. 21E through 21J  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device  2100  in the open configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 21K through 21P  show front, back, top, bottom, and first and second side views of the tenth embodiment of the suture securing device  2100  in the closed configuration, respectively. 
     As noted, the body  2110  includes first gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b , and each of the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  includes second gripping surface  2170   a ,  2170   b , respectively. The first gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b  and the second gripping surfaces  2170   a ,  2170   b  are positioned on the body  2110  and the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b , respectively, such that, when the suture securing device  2100  is in the closed configuration, each of the first gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b  contacts each of the second gripping surfaces  2170   a ,  2170   b . In the closed configuration, the suture  1020  can be securely held between the first and second gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b . In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b  each include or are formed of the same material as the body  2110  and/or clips  2160   a ,  2160   b . In other embodiments, the gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b  can be formed of a different material with a greater friction coefficient than that of the body  2110  and/or clips  2160   a ,  2160   b , for example, rubber, latex, nitrile, etc. In some embodiments, the gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b  can be smooth, textured, or include other features that increase the ability of the suture securing device  2100  to retain the suture  1020 . For example, one of the gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b  may include one or more ridges or protrusions extending therefrom, while the other of the gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b  may include corresponding grooves or recesses that are configured in size, shape, and position to mate with the corresponding ridges or protrusions. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each of the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  includes a front member  2162   a ,  2162   b , first side members  2163   a ,  2163   b , and second side members  2164   a ,  2164   b  as seen, for example, in  FIG. 21G . The front members  2162   a ,  2162   b  are each configured to extend across the length of the suture securing device  2100 . The front members  2162   a ,  2162   b  also include second gripping surfaces  2170   a ,  2170   b . The second gripping surfaces may be positioned at the ends of protrusions  2166   a ,  2166   b  which extend from the front members  2162   a ,  2162   b . The first side members  2163   a ,  2163   b  and second side members  2164   a ,  2164   b  also extend as orthogonal protrusions from opposite sides of the front members  2162   a ,  2162   b  of each clips  2160   a ,  2160   b . Engagement structures  2181   a  and  2181   b  are positioned at free ends of each of the first side members  2163   a ,  2163   b  and the second side members  2163   a ,  2164   b . The shape of the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  may be configured so as to fit within a channel  2131  of the body  2110  described below, such that the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  may be substantially completely positioned within the body  2110  in the closed configuration. In this way, the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  may be configured to mate with the body  2110 . It will be appreciated, however, that other shapes for the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the clips may be designed to be inserted into the body from the front and/or back, rather than the sides. 
     In many respects, the body  2110  of the suture securing device  2100  is substantially similar to the body  1510  of the suture securing device  1500  previously described in reference to  FIG. 16A . For example, the body  2110  (or the suture securing device when in the closed configuration) is generally shaped as a rectangular prism. The body  2110  includes a front surface  2111 , a back surface  2112 , a top surface  2113 , a bottom surface  2114 , a first side surface  2115 , and a second side surface  2116 . Although many of these surfaces are illustrated as planar, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Similarly, although many of these surfaces are illustrated as positioned orthogonally relative to adjacent surfaces, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Various other shapes for the body  2110  are possible. 
     As seen, for example, in  FIG. 21G , the body  2110  includes two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b . Each of the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  extends generally into the body  2110  from one of the opposite side surfaces  2115 ,  2116 , respectively. As shown, the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  extend into the body  2110  toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  are aligned with each other, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. Each of the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  also extends entirely through the body  2110  from the top surface  2113  to the bottom surface  2114 . Thus, with the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b , the body  2110  may be described as having an H-shape, as best seen in the top and bottom views of  FIGS. 21G and 21H . In some instances, the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2100  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  2100  in the open position, the suture securing device  2100  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b . In other words, the body  2110  may have a substantially H-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the H (in other words, the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b  on opposite sides  2115 ,  2116  of the body  2110 ). 
     As best seen in the front and back views of  FIGS. 21E, 21F, 21K, and 21L , the bottom surface  2114  of the body  2110  includes an eversion recess  2114  similar to those previously described. The bottom surface  2114  also includes feet  2134  on opposite sides of the eversion recess  2114 . The feet  2134  may be the portions of the suture securing device  2100  that contact the surface  1011  of the patient&#39;s skin  1010 . In some embodiments, the feet  2134  and/or bottom surface  2114  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  2100 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     The body  2110  also includes a channel  2131  configured to receive the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  in the closed configuration. The channel  2131  is formed as an opening which extends partway into the body  2110  from the front surface  2111 , back surface  2112 , and the first and second side surfaces  2115 ,  2116 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  2131  extends entirely around the body  2110 , although this need not be the case in all embodiments. The channel  2131  is likely best seen in  FIGS. 21A, 16C, 16E, and 16F . As shown, the channel  2131  is positioned between the top surface  2113  and the bottom surface  2114  and generally runs parallel to each. The first gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b  may be positioned the channel  2131 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channel  2131  is configured such that, in the closed configuration, the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  are substantially received within the body  2110  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 21B, 21D and 21K through 21P . Accordingly, the depth of the channel  2131  extending from the front surface  2111 , the first and second side surfaces  2115 ,  2116 , and the back surface  2112  may be chosen to correspond to the dimensions and shape of the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  as will be described in greater detail below. Similarly, the thickness of the channel  2131  may be chosen to correspond to the thickness of the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b.    
     In the illustrated embodiment, and as best seen in  FIG. 21A  the depth of the channel  2131  extending into the body  2110  from the side surfaces  2115 ,  2116  may include deeper portions  2115   a ,  2116   a  in the areas of the two individual slots  2121   a ,  2121   b . The deeper portions  2115   a ,  2116   a  may include the first gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b . These deeper portions  2115   a ,  2116   a  are configured to correspond to and mate with protrusions  2166   a ,  2166   b  which extend from the second gripping surfaces  2170   a ,  2170   b , respectively, of the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b . In the closed configuration, the deeper portions  2115   a ,  2116   a  mate with corresponding protrusions  2166   a ,  2166   b  to further secure the suture  1020  between the first and second gripping surfaces  2120   a ,  2120   b ,  2170   a ,  2170   b . In some embodiments, the deeper portions  2115   a ,  2116   a  and protrusions  2166   a ,  2166   b  may be omitted. In some embodiments, the channel  2131  may be omitted or may be configured to only partially receive the clips  2160   a ,  2160   b  within the body  2110 . 
     Additional features of the suture securing clip  2100  are shown in the figures and may be substantially similar to similarly numbered features shown and described in reference to other embodiments. 
       FIGS. 22A-25B  show various embodiments of suture securing devices that include a body and one or more clips that are insertable into a top surface of the body. These embodiments may include features similar to those previously described in reference to previously described embodiments. Description of these features may not be repeated here. Further, the features of these embodiments may be modified and/or combined with other embodiments described herein. For example, these embodiments may be modified to include a hinge that attaches the clip to the body. 
       FIGS. 22A-22D  show various views of an eleventh embodiment of a suture securing device  2200  that includes a clip  2260  insertable into a top surface of a body  2210  to secure a simple interrupted suture  1020 . The body  2210  includes a front space  2221  that receives external portions  1021 ,  1023  of a suture  1020  to be secured.  FIGS. 22A and 22B  show perspective views the eleventh embodiment of the suture securing device  2200  in an open and closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 22C and 22B  show perspective views the eleventh embodiment of the suture securing device  2200  in use with a simple interrupted suture  1020 , in the open and closed configuration, respectively. 
     The body  2210  includes a first gripping surface  2220  and the clip  2260  includes a second gripping surface  2270 . In the closed configuration, the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of a simple interrupted suture  1010  are secured between the first and second gripping surface  2220 ,  2270 . 
     The body  2210  includes a front opening  2221 . The front opening  2221  extends generally into the body  2210  from a front surface of the body  2210  partway toward a back surface. The front opening  2221  also extends entirely through the body  2210  from a top surface to a bottom surface. On opposite side surfaces of the body  2210 , the front opening is defined by members  2223 ,  2224 , which extend outwardly from the body  2210 . Thus, with the front opening  2221  and the members  2223  and  2224 , the body  2210  may be described as having a C-shape. In some instances, the front opening  2221  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2200  relative to the suture  1020 . For example, with the suture securing device  200  in the open position, the suture securing device  2200  can be positioned such that the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture are positioned within the front opening  1121 , as shown in  FIG. 22C . The front opening  2221  and members  2223 ,  2224  may help to maintain the suture securing device  2200  and suture  1020  in position until the suture securing device  2200  is transitioned to the closed configuration by inserting the clip. In other words, the body  2210  may have a substantially C-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the opening of the C (in other words, front opening  2221 ). 
     The clip  2260  includes a top member  2262 . The top member  2262  extends across the width of the suture securing device  2200 . In some embodiments, the top member  2262  may extend completely or incompletely across the width of the suture securing device  2200 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top member  2262  extends partway across the length of the suture securing device  2200 . That is, in the closed configuration ( FIG. 22B ), the top surface of the suture securing device  2200  includes a portion of a top surface of the body  2210  and a portion of the top surface of the clip  2260 . In some embodiments, the clip may extend entirely across the length of the suture securing  2200 . In the illustrated embodiment, two clipping arms  2263 ,  2264  extend downwardly from the top member  2262 . In some embodiments, one, two, three, or more clipping arms may be included. An engagement structure  2281  may be positioned at the free end of each of the clipping arms  2263 ,  2264 . The engagement structures  2281  of the clip  2260  may engage with corresponding engagement structures  2251  of the body  2210 . In some embodiments, the engagement structures  2251  of the body are recesses formed in the members  2223 ,  2224  of the body  2210 . 
     The body  2210  may include a channel  2231  formed in a top surface thereof configured to receive the clip  2210  in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the shape of the channel  2231  may be configured to mate with the corresponding shape of the clip  2260 . 
       FIGS. 23A and 23B  show perspective views of a twelfth embodiment of suture securing device  2300  for securing a simple interrupted suture in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. The twelfth embodiment includes two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  in the front of the body  2310  for receiving the external portions of suture. 
     The body  2310  includes first gripping surfaces  2320   a ,  2320   b  and the clip  2360  includes second gripping surfaces  2370   a ,  2370   b . In the closed configuration, the external portions of a simple interrupted suture are secured between the first and second gripping surface  2320   a ,  2320   b ,  2370   a ,  2370   b.    
     As noted above, the body  2310  includes two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b . The individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  extend generally into the body  2310  from a front surface of the body  2310  partway toward a back surface. The two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  also extend entirely through the body  2310  from a top surface to a bottom surface. On opposite side surfaces of the body  2310 , the two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  are defined by members  2323  and  2324  which extend outwardly from the body  2310 . A member  2325  extends outwardly from the body  2310  in between the two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b . Thus, with the two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  and the members  2323 ,  2324 ,  2325  the body  2210  may be described as having an E-shape. In some instances, the two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2300  relative to the suture. For example, with the suture securing device  2300  in the open position, the suture securing device  2300  can be positioned such that the external portions of the suture are positioned within the two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b . The two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b  and members  2323 ,  2324 ,  2325  may help to maintain the suture securing device  2300  and suture in position until the suture securing device  2300  is transitioned to the closed configuration by inserting the clip  2360 . In other words, the body  2310  may have a substantially E-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and the external portions of the suture may be positioned within the openings of the E (in other words, the two individual slots  2321   a ,  2321   b ). 
     The clip  2360  includes a top member  2362 . The top member  2362  extends across the width of the suture securing device  2300 . In some embodiments, the top member  2362  may extend completely or incompletely across the width of the suture securing device  2300 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top member  2362  extends partway across the length of the suture securing device  2300 . That is, in the closed configuration ( FIG. 23B ), the top surface of the suture securing device  2300  includes a portion of a top surface of the body  2310  and a portion of the top surface of the clip  2360 . In some embodiments, the clip may extend entirely across the length of the suture securing  2300 . In the illustrated embodiment, two clipping arms  2363 ,  2364  extend downwardly from the top member  2362 . In some embodiments, one, two, three, or more clipping arms may be included. An engagement structure  2381  may be positioned at the free end of each of the clipping arms  2363 ,  2364 . The engagement structures  2381  of the clip  2360  may engage with corresponding engagement structures  2351  of the body  2310 . In some embodiments, the engagement structures  2351  of the body are recesses formed in the members  2323 ,  2324 ,  2325  of the body  2310 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second gripping surfaces  2370   a ,  2370   b  are positioned at the ends of protrusions  2366   a ,  2366   b  which extend laterally from the top member  2362 . 
     The body  2310  may include a channel  2331  formed in a top surface thereof configured to receive the clip  2310  in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the shape of the channel  2331  may be configured to mate with the corresponding shape of the clip  2360 . For example, the channel  2331  may be shaped to receive the protrusions  2366   a ,  2366   b  and the top member  2362  of the clip  2360 . 
       FIGS. 24A and 24B  show perspective views of a thirteenth embodiment of suture securing device  2400  for securing a simple interrupted suture in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. The twelfth embodiment includes two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b  in opposite sides the body  2410  for receiving the external portions of suture. 
     The body  2410  includes a first gripping surfaces  2420   a ,  2420   b  and the clip  2460  includes second gripping surfaces  2470   a ,  2470   b . In the closed configuration, the external portions of a simple interrupted suture are secured between the first and second gripping surface  2420   a ,  2420   b ,  2470   a ,  2470   b.    
     As noted above, the body  2410  includes two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b . The individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b  extend generally into the body  2410  from a front surface of the body  2410  partway toward a back surface. The two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b  also extend entirely through the body  2410  from a top surface to a bottom surface. Thus, with the two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b  the body  2410  may be described as having an H-shape. In some instances, the two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2400  relative to the suture. For example, with the suture securing device  2400  in the open position, the suture securing device  2400  can be positioned such that the external portions of the suture are positioned within the two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b . In other words, the body  2410  may have a substantially E-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and the external portions of the suture may be positioned within the openings of the E (in other words, the two individual slots  2421   a ,  2421   b ). 
     The clip  2460  includes a top member  2462 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top member includes a C-shape. The top member  2462  extends across the width of the suture securing device  2400 . In some embodiments, the top member  2462  may extend completely or incompletely across the width of the suture securing device  2400 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top member  2462  extends partway across the length of the suture securing device  2400 . That is, in the closed configuration ( FIG. 24B ), the top surface of the suture securing device  2400  includes a portion of a top surface of the body  2410  and a portion of the top surface of the clip  2460 . In some embodiments, the clip may extend entirely across the length of the suture securing  2400 . In the illustrated embodiment, a clipping arm  2463  extends downwardly from the top member  2462 . In some embodiments, one, two, three, or more clipping arms may be included. An engagement structure  2481  may be positioned at the free end of the clipping arm  2463 . The engagement structure  2481  of the clip  2460  may engage with a corresponding engagement structure  2451  of the body  2410 . In some embodiments, the engagement structure  2451  of the body is a recess formed in the body  2410 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second gripping surfaces  2470   a ,  2470   b  are positioned at the ends of protrusions  2466   a ,  2466   b  which extend laterally from the top member  2462 . 
     The body  2410  may include a channel  2431  formed in a top surface thereof configured to receive the clip  2410  in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the shape of the channel  2431  may be configured to mate with the corresponding shape of the clip  2460 . For example, the channel  2431  may be shaped to receive the protrusions  2466   a ,  2466   b  and the top member  2462  of the clip  2460 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the channel  2431  is C-shaped, to match the C-shape of the clip  2460 . 
       FIGS. 25A and 25B  show perspective views of a thirteenth embodiment of suture securing device for securing a simple interrupted suture in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively. The thirteenth embodiment includes a slot extending into the side of the body for receiving the external portions of suture. 
     The body  2510  includes a first gripping surface  2520  and the clip  2560  includes a second gripping surface  2570 . In the closed configuration, the external portions of a simple interrupted suture are secured between the first and second gripping surface  2520 ,  2570 . 
     As noted above, the body  2510  includes a slot  2521  that extends generally into the body  2510  from a side surface of the body  2510  partway toward an opposite side surface. The slot  2521  also extends entirely through the body  2510  from a top surface to a bottom surface. Thus, with the slot  2521 , the body  2510  may be described as having a C-shape. In some instances, the slot  2521  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2500  relative to the suture. For example, with the suture securing device  2500  in the open position, the suture securing device  2500  can be positioned such that the external portions of the suture are positioned within the slot  2521 . 
     The clip  2560  includes a top member  2562 . The top member  2562  extends across the width of the suture securing device  2500 . In some embodiments, the top member  2562  may extend completely or incompletely across the width of the suture securing device  2500 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top member  2562  extends partway across the length of the suture securing device  2500 . That is, in the closed configuration ( FIG. 25B ), the top surface of the suture securing device  2500  includes a portion of a top surface of the body  2510  and a portion of the top surface of the clip  2560 . In some embodiments, the clip may extend entirely across the length of the suture securing  2500 . In the illustrated embodiment, two clipping arms  2563 ,  2564  extend downwardly from the top member  2562 . In some embodiments, one, two, three, or more clipping arms may be included. An engagement structure  2581  may be positioned at the free end of each of the clipping arms  2563 ,  2564 . The engagement structures  2581  of the clip  2560  may engage with corresponding engagement structures  2551  of the body  2510 . In some embodiments, the engagement structures  2551  of the body are recesses formed the body  2510 . 
     The body  2510  may include a channel  2331  formed in a top surface thereof configured to receive the clip  2510  in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the shape of the channel  2331  may be configured to mate with the corresponding shape of the clip  2560 . 
       FIGS. 26A-D  illustrate another embodiment of a suture securing device  2600  configured for use with a simple interrupted suture. The suture securing device  2600  includes a clip  2660  that is insertable into a body  2610 . The body  2610  surrounds the clip  2660 .  FIGS. 26A and 26B  are perspective views of the suture securing device  2600  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 26C and 26D  are cross-sectional views of the suture securing device  2600  in the open and closed configurations, respectively. 
     The body  2610  includes two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b . Each of the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b  extends generally into the body  2610  from one of the opposite side surfaces of the body  2610 , respectively. As shown, the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b  extend into the body  2610  toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b  are aligned with each other, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. Each of the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b  also extends entirely through the body  2610  from the top surface  2613  to the bottom surface  2614 . Thus, with the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b , the body  2610  may be described as having an H-shape. In some instances, the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b  may be used to help position the suture securing device  2600  relative to the suture. For example, with the suture securing device  2600  in the open position, the suture securing device  2600  can be positioned such that each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  are positioned within one of the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b . In other words, the body  2610  may have a substantially H-shaped profile when viewed from the top or bottom, and each of the external portions  1021 ,  1023  of the suture  1020  may be positioned within the openings of the H (in other words, the two individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b  on opposite sides of the body). 
     The body also includes two channels  2631   a ,  2631   b  that extend through the body  2610 . Each channel  2631   a ,  2631   b  may be formed as a hole extending into the body  2610 . In the illustrated embodiment, the channels  2631   a ,  2631   b  extend entirely through the body  2610  (as shown in  FIG. 26C ), although this need not be the case in all embodiments. Inside surface of the channels  2631   a ,  2631   b  may include first gripping surfaces  2620   a ,  2620   b . Also in the illustrated embodiment, the channels  2631   a ,  2631   b  extend into the body  2610  from a front surface of the body, although in other embodiments, the channels may extend into the body from a different surface (for example, top, back, or side surfaces). A front space  2621  may also be formed on the body  2610 . The front space  2621  may be formed as a recess extending partway into the body  2610 . The front space  2621  may be positioned between the channels  2631   a ,  2631   b  as shown in the figures. The purpose of the channels  2631   a ,  2631   b  and the front space  2621  will be described below. 
     The clip  2660  includes a width member  2662  and two arms  2663   a ,  2663   b . The arms  2663   a ,  2663   b  extend orthogonally from the width member  2662  at opposite ends of the width member  2663 . The arms  2663   a ,  2663   b  may be sized so as to fit within the channels  2631   a ,  2631   b , respectively. Inside surface of the arms  2663   a ,  2663   b  may include second gripping surfaces  2670   a ,  2670   b . The width member  2662  may also include larger section  2662   a  configured in size and shape to fit within the front space  2621  when the clip  2660  is inserted into the body  2610 . 
     In use, the body  2610  is positioned on the patient&#39;s skin such that the external portions of a suture are positioned within the individual slots  2621   a ,  2621   b . The clip  2660  is then inserted to the body  2610  (as shown in  FIGS. 26B and 26D ). The external portions of the suture are secured between the first and second gripping surfaces  2620   a ,  2620   b ,  2670   a ,  2670   b . In some embodiments, the clip  2660  and/or the body  2610  may include engagement structures to secure the clip  2660  into the body  2610 . The suture securing device  2600  may include additional features, for example, the eversion recess, described throughout this application. 
       FIGS. 27A-D  illustrate another embodiment of a suture securing device  2700  configured for use with a simple interrupted suture. The suture securing device  2700  includes a clip  2760  that is insertable into a body  2710 . The body  2710  surrounds the clip  2760 .  FIGS. 27A and 27B  are perspective views of the suture securing device  2700  in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively.  FIGS. 27C and 27D  are cross-sectional views of the suture securing device  2700  in the open and closed configurations, respectively. 
     The suture securing device  2700  is similar to the suture securing device  2600  previously described. However, the suture securing device  2700  includes a single slot  2721   a  extending into a side surface of the body  2710 . The slot extends deeply enough into the body to accommodate the two external portions of a simple interrupted suture. The body  2710  also include a single channel  2731  extending through the body  2710  from the front surface to the back surface. The channel  2731  may be configured as a hole extending through the body  2710 . The channel  2731  may be configured to receive the clip  2760 . 
     The clip  2762  includes a main portion  2762 . When inserted into the body  2710 , a front surface  2763  of the main portion  2762  may extend beyond the slot  2721   a . Thus, a suture positioned within the slot  2721   a  is forced by the clip  2760  to deform around the front surface  2763 . This may secure the suture as it is caught between the clip  2760  and the body  2710 . The clip may also include a larger portion  2762   a  configured to be received within a front space  2721  on the body  2710 . The body  2710  and the clip  2760  include engagement structures  2751 ,  2781  configured to secure the clip  2760  to the body  2710 . 
     The suture securing device  2700  may include other features describe elsewhere in this application, for example, the eversion recess previously described. 
       FIGS. 28A through 32  illustrate various embodiments of suture securing devices configured for use with horizontal mattress sutures. Although the following disclosure describes these embodiments in reference to horizontal mattress sutures, these embodiments may be used (or modified for use) with other suturing techniques, for example, vertical mattress suturing or simple interrupted suturing. Further, the features shown in each of these embodiments may be combined with features shown or described in reference to any other embodiment described herein. These suture securing devices, in some embodiments, may include a width W between 1 mm to 15 mm, a thickness T between 0.5 mm to 10 mm, and a length L between 5 mm to 60 mm. However, these ranges are merely provided as examples and may be adjusted to adapt the suture securing device  1100  for any particular application. 
       FIG. 28A-28D  illustrate various views of an embodiment of a suture securing device  3600  configured for use with a horizontal mattress suture.  FIG. 28A  is a front perspective view,  FIG. 28B  is a back perspective view,  FIG. 28C  is a side perspective view, and  FIG. 28D  is a side perspective view. As shown in these figures, the suture securing device  3600  includes an arm  3602  attached to a base  3604  via a hinge  3606 . In the figures, the hinge  3606  is illustrated in an open position. When the hinge  3606  is in a closed position the arm  3602  folds over the base  3604 . As will be described in greater detail below in reference to  FIG. 32 , in use, external portions of a horizontal mattress suture may be secured between the arm  3602  and the base  3604  when the hinge  3606  is in the closed position. The arm  3602  includes two ridges  3624  and an engagement mechanism  3608 . The base  3604  includes a first surface having a first bulge  3620  and two grooves  3622  on either side of the bulge  3620 . The base  3604  also includes an engagement structure  3616  and tabs  3630 . The tabs  3630  each include a hole  3632 . In some embodiments, the hole  3632  may be used to receive a suture thread. When the hinge  3606  is in the closed position the two ridges  3624  engage on either side of the bulge  3620  and with the two grooves  3622 , respectively. Further, when the hinge  3606  is in a closed position the engagement mechanism  3608  of the arm  3602  will engage with the engagement mechanism  3616  of the base  3604 . 
       FIG. 28B  is a back perspective view of the suture securing device  3600  of  FIG. 28A . A second surface of the base  3604  includes an eversion recess  3699 . The eversion recess  3699  may be a trench that is configured to interact and mate with the raised surface of a healing wound. In other words, after sutures are properly applied to a wound, either edge of the healing wound will be placed and held together such that a convex bulge is made (in other words, wound eversion). The convex bulge will mate with the eversion recess  3699  of the suture lock  3600 . Thus, with the suture securing device  3600 , the eversion recess  3699  is positioned to be substantially parallel to the direction of the wound when coupled to a mattress suture (as shown in  FIG. 32 ). 
     The suture securing device  3600  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the body  3604 , arm  3602 , and hinge  3606  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
       FIGS. 29A and 29B  are top perspective and front views of another embodiment of a suture securing device  3700  configured for use with a horizontal mattress suture. The suture securing device  3700  may be substantially similar to the suture securing device  3600  described above. However, the suture securing device  3700  also includes features which allow attachment of accessories. 
     The suture securing device  3700  includes an arm  3702  attached to a base  3704  by hinge  3706 . The arm  3702  includes two ridges  3724  and an engagement mechanism  3708 . The base  3704  includes a first surface having a first bulge  3720  and two grooves  3722  on either side of the bulge  3720 . The base  3804  also includes an engagement structure  3716  and a first tab  3730 . Each of these features may be substantially similar to the similarly described features of the suture securing device  3600 . 
     The suture securing device  3700  also includes a second tab  3731  which includes a feature  3740  that can be used to secure accessories to the suture securing device. The features  3740  is a female adapter that may be used to interlock the suture securing device  3700  with another suture securing device or other type of device. Interlocking will be discussed in greater detail below in reference to suture securing device  3900 . 
       FIGS. 30A and 30B  illustrate additional securement features that may be included in some embodiments of suture securing devices.  FIGS. 30A and 30B  illustrate additional embodiments of a suture securing device  3800   a ,  3800   b , respectively, configured for use with a horizontal mattress suture. In many respects the suture securing device  3800   a ,  3800   b  are similar to the suture securing device  3600  described above. For example, each of the suture securing device  3800   a ,  3800   b  includes an arm  3802  attached to a base  3804  by hinge  3806 . The arm  3802  includes two ridges  3824  and an engagement mechanism  3808 . The base  3804  includes a first surface having a first bulge  3820  and two grooves  3822  on either side of the bulge  3820 . The base  3804  also includes an engagement structure  3816  and a first tab  3830 . Each of these features may be substantially similar to the similarly described features of the suture securing device  3600 . However, each of the suture securing device  3800   a ,  3800   b  include additional securement features which will now be described. These embodiments also include the eversion recess  3899 . As with the previously described embodiments, the eversion recess  3899  helps create wound eversion. 
     Referring to  FIG. 30A , the bulge  3620  on the arm  3804  further includes nubs  3823  extending from a top surface thereof. Although three nubs  3823  are illustrated, other numbers of nubs are possible, for example, one, two, four, five, six, etc. In some embodiments, these nubs prevent the surgeon from using those areas of the device and may further serve to reduce closing forces of the device. In some instances, the nubs  3823  may be used to secure a suture in a manner similar to that described above in reference to teeth  252 . Further, the arm  3802  may be configured with one or more recesses  3825  configured to receive and mate with the nubs  3823  when the hinge  3804  is in the closed position. The one or more recesses  3825  may be positioned between the ridges  3824 . In some instances, there is a corresponding recess  3825  for each nub  3823 . In some instances, a recess  3825  is configured as a channel and configured to accept more than one nub  3824 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 30B , the bulge  3820  may include one or more notches  3821 . Although the suture securing device  3800   b  is illustrated with two notches  3821 , other numbers may be used, for example, one, three, four, five, etc. In some embodiments, these notches are intended to direct the suture strands into the clamping areas of the device. One or more recesses  3825  may be included between the ridges  3824  of the arm. The one or more recesses  3825  may be configured in size and shape to mate with and receive the bulge  3820  and include a corresponding shape to confirm with the notches  3821 . 
       FIGS. 30C and 30D  illustrate perspective and side views, respectively, of an additional embodiment of a suture securing device  3800   c  configured for use with a mattress suture that includes a hole  3896  which may be used to help orient the device. In many ways, suture securing device  3800   c  is similar to suture securing devices  3800   a ,  3800   b  discussed above in reference to  FIGS. 30A and 30B . For example, suture securing device  3800   c  includes an arm  3802  attached to a base  3804  by hinge  3806 . The arm  3802  includes ridges  3824  with a lateral recess  3825  positioned therebetween and an engagement mechanism  3808 . The base  3804  includes a first surface having a bulge  3820  and two grooves  3822  on either side of the bulge  3820 , the grooves  3288  spaced laterally away from the budge  3820 . The base  3804  also includes an engagement structure  3816  and a first tab  3830 . The hinge  3806  can be rotated such that the arm  3802  is positioned substantially on top of the base  3804 . In this position, the bulge  3820  is received in the recess  3825  between the ridges  3824 . A suture thread may be retained between the arm  3802  and the base  3806  in this position, and retention of the suture may be increased as the suture thread bends around the various features of the arm  3802  and the base  3804 . Each of these features may be substantially similar to the similarly described features of the suture securing devices  3800   a ,  3800   b ,  3600 . Additionally, suture securing device  3800   c  also includes the eversion recess  3899 . As with the previously described embodiments, the eversion recess  3899  helps create wound eversion. 
     The suture securing device  3800   c  includes several additional features, including a hole  3896  and a notch  3821 , both formed in the bulge  3820 . As best seen in the side view of  FIG. 30D , the hole  3896  extends laterally through the bulge  3820  on a first side of the eversion recess. In some embodiments, the axis of the hole  3896  is configured to be parallel to the surface of the patient&#39;s skin and or the direction of the wound when the suture securing device  3800   c  is in place, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. In some embodiments, a user applying the suture securing device  3800   c  would pass a portion of the suture thread through the hole  3896  during use. For example, the user may do first pass of suture (as in typical mattress suture), then thread the needle and attached suture thread through the hole  3896  before making the second pass. On tightening the suture, the suture securing device  3800   c  would then self-position because of the thread passing through the hole  3896 . The portion of the suture thread passing through the hole  3896  is secured in the closed position by a friction fit between the bulge  3820 , recess  3825 , and ridges  3825 . The opposite end of the suture is secured between the arm  3802  and the base  3804  as with the previously described embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 30C and 30D , the illustrated embodiment also includes a notch  3821  on the opposite side of the eversion recess  3899 . As above, the notch  3821  may be used to receive a portion of the suture. In some embodiments, the position of the hole  3896  and the notch  3821  may be reversed. That is, in some embodiments, the notch  3821  can be positioned on the hinge side of the eversion recess. In some embodiments, the notch  3821  can be omitted. In some embodiments, the notch  3821  may be replaced by an additional hole. In some embodiments, a suture securing device may include more one, two, or more than two holes extending through the bulge  3820 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 30C , an additional opening  3894  may be formed in the top surface of the bulge  3820 . Similar openings may also be formed in the bottom surface of the base  3804 . The openings  3894  may be used during manufacturing to help form the hole  3896 , such that the suture securing device  3800   c  can be molded as a single piece, without requiring later drilling of the hole. The openings  3894  are formed by inserts in the mold (which extend from opposite sides of the mold) to form the hole  3896 . In some embodiments, the openings  3894  may be omitted. 
       FIGS. 31A through 31B  illustrate an additional embodiment of a suture securing device  3900  configured for securing a horizontal mattress suture. The suture securing device  3900  is further configured to interlock with one or more additional suture securing devices  3900 . For example, the suture securing device  3900  may include a male adapter  3951  on one end and a female adapter  3952  on the opposite end. Multiple suture securing devices  3900  may then be interlocked together by connecting the male adapter  3951  to the female adapter  3952  of an adjacent device. In the illustrated embodiment, the male and female adapters  3951 ,  3952  are oriented to connect the suture securing devices end to end. In this configuration, the suture securing devices may be aligned on opposite sides of a wound, parallel to the wound. The suture securing devices may be secured to the skin with tape or sutures (for example, a suture passing through the holes in the tab of the device). In another embodiment, the male and female adapters may be oriented to connect the devices side by side. This may allow devices to be placed across a wound and connected to adjacent devices which are also placed across the wound. In many respects the suture securing device  3900  is similar to the suture securing device  3600  described above. For example, the suture securing device  3900  includes an arm  3902  attached to a base  3904  by hinge  3906 . The arm  3802  includes two ridges  3924  and an engagement mechanism  3908 . The base  3904  includes a first surface having a first bulge  3920  and two grooves  3922  on either side of the bulge  3920 . The base  3904  also includes an engagement structure  3916  and tabs  3930 . Each of these features may be substantially similar to the similarly described features of the suture securing device  3600 . 
       FIG. 32  illustrates an embodiment of the suture securing device  3600  of  FIG. 28A  in use with a horizontal mattress suture  1050 . A horizontal mattress stich is performed which includes a first perpendicular loop  1055 , extending below the skin and across the wound (illustrated with dashed lines to represent that the suture is below the surface of the skin), a first parallel loop  1051 , extending over the base  3604  and parallel to the wound  1013 , a second parallel loop (not visible in the figure), extending back across the wound and below the skin, and a second parallel loop  1053 , extending across base  3604 . Either of the parallel loops may be formed by the two free ends of the thread (not shown) and may or may not be tied in a knot. As shown, each of the parallel loops  1051 ,  1053  extend over the base  3604  and parallel to the wound  1013 . 
     The hinge  3606  may then be closed by folding the arm  3602  on top of the base  3604 . Corresponding engagement structures  3608 ,  3616  on the arm  3602  and base  3604  may lockingly engage the arm  3602  to the base  3604 . The parallel loops  1051 ,  1053  of the suture  1050  are secured between the arm  3602  and the base  3604 , thus locking the suture  1050  in place. Further, the engagement between the bulge  3620  and ridges  3624  may further increase the ability of the suture securing device  3600  to retain and secure the suture  1050 . 
     As further seen in  FIG. 32 , the eversion recess  3699  is positioned generally above the wound  1013 . Accordingly, the eversion recess  3699  creates a space for and facilitates wound eversion. In some embodiments, the wound contacts the surface of the eversion recess  3699 , although this may not be the case in all embodiments. The bottom surface of the suture securing device  3600  as well as the eversion recess  3699  may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  3600 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes. 
     In some embodiments, the previously described suture securing devices, such as suture securing device  3600 , may be used to secure vertical mattress sutures. This may be accomplished by positioning the suture securing device such that it runs parallel to the wound. A second suture securing device can also be included on the opposite side of the wound, again running parallel to the wound. Each suture securing device may receive a single loop or vertical mattress suture, or more than one loop from more than one vertical mattress suture. When used with a vertical mattress suture, the eversion recess may be omitted, as the device may not extend across the wound. However, in some embodiments, the devices on each side of the wound may be connected by a bridging member that may include an eversion recess. 
       FIGS. 33A-35  illustrate various embodiments of suture securing devices configured for use with subcutaneous sutures. In general, one of these devices can be included at each exposed end of subcutaneous suture to secure the suture. As noted throughout this disclosure, the features of these embodiments may be combined and/or modified for use with any of the other embodiments described herein. 
       FIG. 33A  is a top view of an embodiment of a suture securing device  4700  configured for use with a subcutaneous suture.  FIG. 33B  is a side view of the suture securing device  4700  of  FIG. 33A . The suture securing device  4700  includes a first piece  4702  connected to a second piece  4704  via a hinge  4706 . The first piece  4702  may be considered an arm and the second piece  4704  may be considered a base. The hinge  4706  may be a living or compliant hinge. The hinge  4706  connects to a bottom portion of the first piece  4702  and a top portion of the second piece  4704 . In some embodiments, the hinge  4706  may be omitted, such that the first piece  4702  is not permanently connected to the second piece  4704 . The first piece  4702  includes a substantially circular protrusion  4710  from a first surface of the first piece  4702 . The first piece  702  also includes a substantially circular outer ring  4712  around the perimeter of the first surface of the first piece  4702 . The second piece  704  includes a substantially circular outer ring  4706  around the perimeter of the first surface of the second piece  4704 . The second piece  4704  also includes a substantially circular protrusion  4708  within the outer ring  4706  and a hole  4732  in the center of the substantially circular protrusion  4708 . The hole  4732  allows for an external portion of a subcutaneous suture to protrude through. The hinge  4706  includes an open position and a closed position.  FIG. 33A  illustrates the hinge  4706  in an open position. When the hinge  4706  is in a closed position, an outer perimeter of the substantially circular protrusion  4710  from the first piece  4702  will engage with an inner portion of the substantially circular protrusion  4708  to lock the suture securing device  4700  and hold the hinge  4706  in a closed position. This closed position will lock a subcuticular suture. 
     In use, an exposed portion of a subcutaneous suture extends upward from the surface of a patient&#39;s skin and through the hole  4732 . The suture securing device  4700  is transition to the close position and the exposed portion of the suture thread is captured between the first piece  4702  and the second piece  4704 . A bottom surface of the second piece  4704  rests on the surface of the patient&#39;s skin, and may include a treated undersurface having adhesive, anti-bacterial, medicaments, and/or other agents for transfer to the patient&#39;s skin underlying the suture securing device to aid in positioning and/or retention of the suture securing device  1100 , assist in healing, and/or reduce scarring, among other purposes 
     The suture securing device  3700  may be formed partially or entirely from any sturdy and resilient material, such as plastic resin, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, thermoplastic elastomers, Polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene vinyl acetate, nylon and low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, etc. In some embodiments, the first piece  4702 , the second piece  4704 , and hinge  4706  may be formed as a single unitary part, while in other embodiments, these parts may be formed separately and then joined together. 
       FIG. 34  is a top view of another embodiment of a suture securing device  4700   b  configured for use with a subcutaneous suture.  FIG. 34B  is a cross-sectional view of the suture securing device  4700  of  FIG. 34A . The suture securing device  4700   b  is similar to the suture securing device  4700  and includes a first piece  4702  connected to a second piece  4704  via a hinge  4706 . The first piece  4702  may be considered an arm and the second piece  4704  may be considered a base. The hinge  4706  may be a living or compliant hinge. The first piece  4702  includes a substantially circular protrusion  4710  from a first surface of the first piece  4702 . The first piece  702  also includes a substantially circular outer ring  4712  around the perimeter of the first surface of the first piece  4702 . The second piece  704  includes a substantially circular outer ring  4706  around the perimeter of the first surface of the second piece  4704 . The second piece  4704  also includes a substantially circular protrusion  4708  within the outer ring  4706  and a hole  4732  in the center of the substantially circular protrusion  4708 . The hole  4732  allows for an external portion of a subcutaneous suture to protrude through. As shown in  FIG. 34B , the hinge  4706  connects to a middle portion of the first piece  4702  and a middle portion of the second piece  4704 . 
       FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a suture securing device  4700   c  configured for use with a subcutaneous suture that includes tabs. The suture securing device  4700   c  is substantially similar to the suture securing device  4700   b  previously described. However, the suture securing device  4700   c  further includes tabs  4761  extending outwardly from the second piece  4704 . The tabs  4761  are generally positioned so at to be parallel with and contact the surface of a patient&#39;s skin during use of the device. Although two tabs  4761  are shown, other numbers and arrangements of the tabs are possible. 
     In another aspect, a method for securing a mattress suture is disclosed. The method includes positioning a suture securing device proximal to a wound, the suture securing device comprising a base connected to an arm by a hinge and having an open configuration and a closed configuration; forming a mattress suture, an external portion of the mattress suture passing over a portion of the base; capturing the external portion of the mattress suture between the body and the arm by transitioning the suture securing device from the open configuration to the closed configuration such that the external portion of the mattress suture is secured between the arm and the base. 
     In some embodiments, positioning the suture securing device proximal to a wound includes positioning the base of the suture securing device such that it extends across the wound, and the mattress suture may be a horizontal mattress suture. The base may include an eversion recess positioned over the wound, and capturing the external portion of the horizontal mattress suture may include capturing a first external portion of the horizontal mattress suture on a first side of the eversion recess and capturing a second external portion of the horizontal mattress suture on a second side of the eversion recess. 
     In some embodiments, positioning the suture securing device proximal to a wound comprises positioning the base parallel to the wound on a first side of the wound, and the mattress suture may be a vertical mattress suture. 
     In some embodiments, the mattress suture is secured without requiring the tying of a knot. The method may also include securing the suture securing device to a patient&#39;s skin. Securing the suture securing device to a patient&#39;s skin may include using a suture, adhesive, or tape. The method may also include maintaining the suture securing device in position for greater than two weeks. 
     In another aspect, a method for securing a simple interrupted suture is described. The method includes positioning a suture securing device across an incision. The suture securing device may include a body connected to an arm by a hinge and having an open configuration and a closed configuration. The method further includes capturing an external portion of a thread of a simple interrupted suture between the body and the arm by, with the suture securing device in the open configuration, inserting the external portion of the thread into an opening formed in the body, and transitioning the suture securing device from the open configuration to the closed configuration such that the external portion of the thread is secured between the arm and the body. 
     In some embodiments, the external portion of a thread comprises a first external portion and the method further includes capturing an second external portion of the thread of the simple interrupted suture between the body and the arm by, with the suture securing device in the open configuration, inserting the second external portion of the thread into an opening formed in the body. The method may also include positioning the body of the suture securing device between the first external portion of the thread and the second external portion of the thread. The method may also include positioning the body of the suture securing device generally on a single side of a line extending between the first external portion of the thread and the second external portion of the thread. In some embodiments, the simple interrupted suture is secured without requiring the tying of a knot. The method may also include securing the suture securing device to a patient&#39;s skin. Securing the suture securing device to a patient&#39;s skin may include using a suture, adhesive, or tape. The method may also include maintaining the suture securing device in position for greater than two weeks. 
     Each of the suture securing device examples described above provide a mechanism for securing sutures without requiring that the medical practitioner tie suture knots. Further, suture strands and/or knots are elevated away from the skin of the patient and limit pressure on the skin, increase skin perfusion, and aid in wound and/or incision healing. Furthermore, as the sutures and knots are elevated away from the skin, “in grown” sutures can be prevented. Further still, the sutures can be selectively secured and released and the suture securing devices can be selectively interconnected and disconnected. In some examples, additional devices, such as medical devices can be attached to the suture securing devices. In other examples, including an elevated undersurface on the base, blood flow to the wound and/or incision can be maximized to assist in healing. 
     The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment can be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments. 
     The above description discloses several methods and materials of the present invention. This invention is susceptible to modifications in the methods and materials, as well as alterations in the fabrication methods and equipment. Such modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of this disclosure or practice of the invention disclosed herein. Consequently, it is not intended that this invention be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but that it cover all modifications and alternatives coming within the true scope and spirit of the invention as embodied in the attached claims. Applicant reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein.