초록 ▼

The invention provides devices and methods for suture placement while performing less invasive surgical procedures within a body cavity. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention provides for the placement of sutures within the heart or a great vessel that is accessed from outside the closed chest.

The invention provides devices and methods for suture placement while performing less invasive surgical procedures within a body cavity. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention provides for the placement of sutures within the heart or a great vessel that is accessed from outside the closed chest. According to one exemplary method, the patient's heart valve is accessed through an intercostal port in the patient's chest. At least one needle having a suture is then directed into the annulus while visualizing through the port placement of the needle into the annulus. The needle is then passed through the annulus.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A suturing device, comprising:an elongate shaft having a distal end and a proximal end;a needle carriage movably attached to the distal end of the shaft, the needle carriage having a removable portion, a non-removable portion, and a coupling mechanism for releasably conne

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A suturing device, comprising:an elongate shaft having a distal end and a proximal end;a needle carriage movably attached to the distal end of the shaft, the needle carriage having a removable portion, a non-removable portion, and a coupling mechanism for releasably connecting the removable portion of the needle carriage to the non-removable portion;at least one needle removably secured to the removable portion of needle carriage; andmeans for driving the needle carriage so as to move the needle relative to the shaft.