Methods of applying a suture cinch

摘要

A two-part suture cinch includes a collar and a plug. A cinch applicator is also provided, and includes an elongate tubular member, a plunger engaged within the distal end of the tubular member, a flexible shaft extending through the tubular member and plunger, and a proximal handle for moving the shaft longitudinally relative to the tubular member. The plunger includes a distal housing for the collar of the cinch, and the plug is coupled to the distal end of the flexible shaft. The suture is thread through the collar and a portion of the applicator. Operation of the applicator draws the plug into the collar and clamps the suture between the plug and collar. In addition, once the plug is coupled in to the collar, the plunger is displaced proximally to release the two-part cinch form the applicator. A method for applying the cinch is also provided.

主权项

1. A method of applying a suture cinch to a length of suture, wherein a first portion of the suture is inserted in tissue and a second portion of the suture is free of the tissue, comprising:
a) providing a cinch applicator loaded with a two-part cinch including a collar and plug, said applicator including a tubular element defining a side window, a shaft extending through said tubular element, said distal end of said tubular element provided with a plunger engaged in a longitudinal position and fixed rotational orientation relative to said tubular element, said plunger including an opening aligned with said side window, a cutting edge bordering said opening, and a housing, said collar engaged within said housing of said plunger and said plug provided at a distal end of said shaft; b) providing a suture threader extending through and movable within a pathway, the pathway defined through each of an open distal end of said collar, longitudinally within said tubular element, said opening in said plunger, and said window in said tubular element; c) using said suture threader to thread said proximal portion of said second portion of suture through the pathway; d) first operating said applicator to draw said plug into said collar and clamp the suture between said plug and collar; e) second operating said applicator to release said shaft from said plug; and f) third operating said applicator to retract said plunger and thereby disengage the coupled collar and plug from the distal end of said applicator.