Laser cutting system and methods for creating self-retaining sutures

摘要

603879 A laser-machining system and method is disclosed for forming retainers (130) on a suture thread (120). The laser system is preferably a femtosecond laser system which is capable of creating submicron features on the suture thread while preserving strength of the suture thread. The laser-machining system enables creation of retainers and self-retaining suture systems in configurations which are difficult and/or impossible to achieve using mechanical cutting technology.