Molded suture retainer

摘要

A molded suture retainer (20) is provided for retaining and storing sutures. Both absorbable and nonabsorbable sutures fabricated from natural or synthetic materials can be advantageously retained and stored therein. The retainer (20) is characterized by a wide spiraling oval passageway (26) with minimal convolutions covered by a cover sheet (30). The length of the passageway (26) is preferably proportional to 1/3 to 1/2 the overall length of the suture to be retained therein. Recesses (61) are provided for receiving package stabilizing agents (60) and/or needle parks (42). Sutures packaged in accordance with the invention exhibit fewer kinks and bends than prior packaged sutures.