초록 ▼

The present invention provides a knot tying apparatus having a notched thread cover and methods for using such a knot tying apparatus for placing knots. The present invention has particular utility in tying and placing knots during laparoscopic surgery. The thread cover includes at least one notch i

The present invention provides a knot tying apparatus having a notched thread cover and methods for using such a knot tying apparatus for placing knots. The present invention has particular utility in tying and placing knots during laparoscopic surgery. The thread cover includes at least one notch in the distal end which is sized so as to allow a thread such as a suture thread to pass therethrough while preventing a knot in the thread from passing therethrough. Using the notched thread cover which is attached to the distal end of a knot tying apparatus, it is possible to both pull and push on the knot when cinching the knot around the member being tied. Being able to simultaneously push and pull on the knot minimizes the forces exerted against the member being tied, thereby reducing the likelihood that fragile members such as blood vessels and the like are damaged during the tying procedure. The knot tying apparatus includes a knot carrier and a knot slider slidably connected thereto. The thread cover preferably at least partially surrounds a knot carrier and is connected to the distal end of a knot slider.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A thread cover for a knot tying apparatus, said knot tying apparatus being used for placing an at least partially formed knot located between a first end and a second end of a thread, comprising:(a) a sheath surrounding an inner cavity, said sheath having a proximal end

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A thread cover for a knot tying apparatus, said knot tying apparatus being used for placing an at least partially formed knot located between a first end and a second end of a thread, comprising:(a) a sheath surrounding an inner cavity, said sheath having a proximal end, and a distal end, said inner cavity being sized and shaped to accommodate a thread disposed therein, and wherein said sheath is adapted at said proximal end to be connected to a knot slider, said knot slider acting to displace at least a portion of said thread into said cavity; and(b) a notch in said distal end of said sheath, wherein the width of said notch is sufficient to allow said thread to slide therethrough while preventing said at least partially formed knot in said thread from sliding therethrough, thereby allowing said at least partially formed knot to be pushed by said thread cover along a portion of said thread.