Apparaus and method for suturing body tissue

摘要

An apparatus for suturing body tissue is provided having an elongated housing, first and second jaws pivotably mounted to the distal portion of elongated housing, and first and second needles movable with respect to the first and second jaws. A first actuating mechanism is operatively associated with the first and second jaws such that actuation moves the jaws from the first position to a second position. A second actuating mechanism is operatively associated with the first and second needles wherein actuation advances the first and second needles into body tissue. Each of the jaws has a recess for receiving body tissue and a ferrule attached to each end of the suture such that advancement of the needles engages the ferrule to pull the ferrule and suture through the body tissue when the needle is retracted.