Patent US5779719A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5779719A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Device and method for the percutaneous suturing of a vascular puncture site
Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
•
Filing: 1994-06-14
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Granted: 1998-07-14
•
Expires: 2014-06-14
Abstract
Abstract A suture applying device comprises a shaft which carries a pair of needles near its distal end. The needles are joined by a length of suture, and the shaft is used to both introduce the needles into a lumen of a body structure and to push the needles back through tissue on either side of the puncture site. After the needles have passed through the tissue, they are captured on the shaft and drawn outward through the tract, leaving a loop of suture behind to close the puncture site near the body lumen. The suture can then be tied and the knot pushed back through the tract to complete the closure. Alternatively, a locking fastener formed of a resorbable material can be placed into the penetration over the sutures and the sutures tied over the fastener.
Inventors
- 👤 Enrique J. Klein
- 👤 T. Daniel Gross
- 👤 Tomoaki Hinohara
- 👤 James W. Vetter
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-22 20:07
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61B; A61B17/00; A61B17/04; A61B17/06; A61B17/062; A61B17/0625; A61B17/0057; A61B17/0469; A61B17/0401; A61B17/0482; A61B17/06066; A61B2017/00004; A61B2017/00637; A61B2017/00641; A61B2017/00646; A61B2017/00663; A61B2017/00831; A61B2017/00867; A61B2017/0446; A61B2017/0458; A61B2017/0464; A61B2017/047; A61B2017/0472; A61B2017/0474; A61B2017/06057; A61F; A61F2/00; A61F2/02; A61F2/30; A61F2002/30001; A61F2002/30003; A61F2002/3006; A61F2002/30092; A61F2210/00; A61F2210/0014; A61F2210/0019; Y; Y10; Y10S; Y10S604/00; Y10S604/90
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 194
Claim 1
Independent Claim
92 words
A suturing device comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a pair of needles removably carried near the distal end of the shaft; a length of suture secured to and extending between the needles; a sleeve received over the shaft; and a radially expandable structure disposed on the sleeve for presenting a receiving area to the needles as the shaft is drawn proximally relative to the sleeve, wherein the structure may be selectively expanded to capture the needles in the receiving area after they have passed through tissue.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
92 words
A suturing device comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a pair of needles removably carried near the distal end of the shaft; a length of suture secured to and extending between the needles; a sleeve received over the shaft; and a radially expandable structure disposed on the sleeve for presenting a receiving area to the needles as the shaft is drawn proximally relative to the sleeve, wherein the structure may be selectively expanded to capture the needles in the receiving area after they have passed through tissue.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
60 words
A suturing device as in claim 1, wherein the receiving area is a fabric or mesh which is carried on an expandable cage structure disposed between the distal end of the sleeve and the distal end of the shaft, whereby the cage is expanded radially outward as it is compressed by proximal movement of the shaft relative to the sleeve.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
66 words
A suturing device as in claim 2, further comprising a stop member on the shaft and means at the proximal end of the shaft for axially translating the shaft relative to the sleeve, whereby the shaft can be pulled proximally relative to the sleeve to draw the needles proximally through tissue, and the cage structure expanded by engaging and compressing the stop member against the sleeve.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
45 words
A suture device as in claim 3, wherein the means for axially translating the shaft comprises a handle attached to the proximal end of the shaft and a compression spring disposed between the shaft and sleeve to urge the sleeve distally relative to the shaft.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
19 words
A suturing device as in claim 1, wherein the receiving area is a penetrable target carried on the sleeve.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 1, wherein the needles each have arcuate ends near the tips and are carried on the shaft at their butts, with the arcuate ends being disposed toward the receiving area.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
45 words
A suturing device as in claim 6, wherein the expandable receiving area comprises a fabric or mesh surface or a penetrable target and wherein the needles comprise a barb formed near their tips, wherein the barb will penetrate and be captured by the receiving area.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
24 words
A suturing device as in claim 7, wherein the means for expanding the receiving area comprises an expandable cage structure formed in the sleeve.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
49 words
A suture device as in claim 1, wherein the needles are resiliently carried on the shaft, whereby the needles can be compressed relative to the shaft as the shaft is introduced through an introducer sheath and will expand radially outwardly as the needles pass out of the introducer sheath.
Claim 11
Independent Claim
98 words
A method for suturing a puncture site, said method comprising: introducing a shaft inwardly through the puncture site; positioning a pair of needles having a length of suture therebetween carried by the shaft so that they engage tissue on opposite sides of the puncture site wherein the needles are compressed radially inward against the shaft as the needles are introduced through the introducer sheath and wherein the needles resiliently open as the sheath is withdrawn to release the needles radially outwardly, whereby the needles self-expand and are positioned to engage tissue on opposite sides of the puncture site.
Claim 12
Independent Claim
98 words
A method for suturing a puncture site, said method comprising: introducing a shaft inwardly through the puncture site; positioning a pair of needles having a length of suture therebetween carried by the shaft so that they engage tissue on opposite sides of the puncture site wherein the needles are compressed radially inward against the shaft as the needles are introduced through the introducer sheath and wherein the needles resiliently open as the sheath is withdrawn to release the needles radially outwardly, whereby the needles self-expand and are positioned to engage tissue on opposite sides of the puncture site.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
46 words
A method as in claim 10, wherein the needles each have arcuate ends near their tips which are disposed radially curved inward toward the shaft, whereby drawing the shaft outwardly causes the needles to follow a radially inward path through the tissue back to the tract.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method as in claim 11, wherein the free ends of the needles are captured in a fabric or mesh receiving area on the shaft.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method as in claim 12, wherein the receiving area is expanded as the shaft is withdrawn.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method as in claim 13, wherein the captured needles are withdrawn with the shaft through the introducer sheath.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
37 words
A method as in claim 11, wherein the needles are guided radially inward by a guide body which extends over a proximal portion of the shaft as the shaft is introduced through the tract or puncture site.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
40 words
A method as in claim 15, wherein the shaft is introduced until a distal end of the guide body Lies within the blood vessel with the needles positioned to pass through the tissue on opposite sides of the puncture site.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method as in claim 16, wherein the tips of the needles are captured manually.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
20 words
A method as in claim 10, wherein the free ends of the suture are secured by tying into a knot.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method as in claim 18, wherein the free ends of the suture are secured by introducing a fastener over the free ends of the suture.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
159 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels, each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip, wherein a recessed tissue-receiving region is formed between the proximal ends of needle guide channels and the distal end of the guide body, whereby a tissue puncture conforming to the tissue-receiving region will be configured to receive the needles on opposite sides of the puncture; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; and means for reciprocating said needles between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
159 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels, each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip, wherein a recessed tissue-receiving region is formed between the proximal ends of needle guide channels and the distal end of the guide body, whereby a tissue puncture conforming to the tissue-receiving region will be configured to receive the needles on opposite sides of the puncture; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; and means for reciprocating said needles between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 20, further comprising means on the guide body for receiving the needles from the tissue-receiving gap and passing said needles to the proximal end of the guide body as said needles are reciprocated proximally.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
53 words
A suturing device as in claim 20, wherein the elongate guide body has a blood marker lumen having a distal port disposed so that it enters the blood vessel when the guide tip is properly positioned therein and a proximal port which displays blood when the distal port has entered the blood vessel.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 20, wherein the needles are longer than the guide body.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 20, further comprising a flexible sheath attached to the distal end of the guide tip, wherein the needles are held within the sheath when they are in their distally retracted position.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 20, wherein the needle reciprocating means comprises a flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end which is reciprocatably received in the guide body and which carries the needles near its distal end.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 25, wherein the needles are removably carried on the shaft.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
29 words
A suturing device as in claim 25, wherein the needles are fixedly carried on the shaft and wherein the suture is attached near the sharpened tip of each needle.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
75 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent to the tissue-receiving region; and a needle having suture attached, said needle being within the guide channel so that it may be advanced through the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle guide and needle guide channel are fixedly disposed relative to the guide body.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
75 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent to the tissue-receiving region; and a needle having suture attached, said needle being within the guide channel so that it may be advanced through the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle guide and needle guide channel are fixedly disposed relative to the guide body.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 29, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 30, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needle is carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
81 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; and means on the guide body for directing a needle having suture attached in a proximal direction through the tissue-receiving region; wherein an axial passage within the guide body is disposed to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end of the guide body and guide the needle to the proximal end of the guide body.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
81 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; and means on the guide body for directing a needle having suture attached in a proximal direction through the tissue-receiving region; wherein an axial passage within the guide body is disposed to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end of the guide body and guide the needle to the proximal end of the guide body.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
30 words
A suturing device as in claim 36, wherein the directing means comprises a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region and toward the axial passage.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 37, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 38, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 39, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 37, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
47 words
A suturing device as in claim 41, wherein a pair of axial passages are disposed within the guide body and a pair of the needle guide channels are disposed to cause the needles to diverge as they pass through the tissue-receiving region and into the axial passages.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
33 words
A suturing device as in claim 42, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 43, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 38, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
67 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a sheath extending distally from the tissue-receiving region on the guide body, wherein the sheath is aligned coaxially with the guide body; and a needle slidably disposed within the sheath so that: the needle can be drawn proximally from the sheath through the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
67 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a sheath extending distally from the tissue-receiving region on the guide body, wherein the sheath is aligned coaxially with the guide body; and a needle slidably disposed within the sheath so that: the needle can be drawn proximally from the sheath through the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
33 words
A suturing device as in claim 46, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
22 words
A suturing device as in claim 46, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 48, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 49, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 50, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 51, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 52, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the sheath and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 46, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
95 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having suture attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region, and a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
95 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having suture attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region, and a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
21 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 55, wherein the blood flow indicator comprises an axial lumen within the elongate body.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
23 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 55, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 57, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 58, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 59, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 60, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 55, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 55, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 55, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
114 words
A vascular suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, a tissue-receiving region at the distal end, and a marker lumen extending from a distal port near the tissue-receiving region to the proximal end; and a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region; and a needle having suture attached, said needle being within the guide channel so that it may be advanced through the tissue-receiving region, wherein suture may be passed through penetrations on opposite sides of a penetration in a blood vessel wall when the distal port of the marker lumen is positioned in the blood vessel lumen adjacent the superficial wall thereof.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
114 words
A vascular suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, a tissue-receiving region at the distal end, and a marker lumen extending from a distal port near the tissue-receiving region to the proximal end; and a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region; and a needle having suture attached, said needle being within the guide channel so that it may be advanced through the tissue-receiving region, wherein suture may be passed through penetrations on opposite sides of a penetration in a blood vessel wall when the distal port of the marker lumen is positioned in the blood vessel lumen adjacent the superficial wall thereof.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 65, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 66, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 67, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 68, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
46 words
A suturing device as in claim 65, wherein the suture passing means further comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 65, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 65, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
113 words
A suturing device comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a pair of needles removably carried near the distal end of the shaft, wherein the needles each have arcuate ends near the tips and are carried on the shaft at their butts, with the arcuate ends being disposed toward a receiving area; a length of suture secured to and extending between the needles; a sleeve received over the shaft; and means disposed on the sleeve for presenting the receiving area to the needles as the shaft is drawn proximally relative to the sleeve, whereby the needles may be captured in the receiving area after they have passed through tissue.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
113 words
A suturing device comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a pair of needles removably carried near the distal end of the shaft, wherein the needles each have arcuate ends near the tips and are carried on the shaft at their butts, with the arcuate ends being disposed toward a receiving area; a length of suture secured to and extending between the needles; a sleeve received over the shaft; and means disposed on the sleeve for presenting the receiving area to the needles as the shaft is drawn proximally relative to the sleeve, whereby the needles may be captured in the receiving area after they have passed through tissue.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
60 words
A suturing device as in claim 73, wherein the receiving area is a fabric or mesh which is carried on an expandable cage structure disposed between the distal end of the sleeve and the distal end of the shaft, whereby the cage is expanded radially outward as it is compressed by proximal movement of the shaft relative to the sleeve.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
66 words
A suturing device as in claim 74; further comprising a stop member on the shaft and means at the proximal end of the shaft for axially translating the shaft relative to the sleeve, whereby the shaft can be pulled proximally relative to the sleeve to draw the needles proximally through tissue, and the cage structure expanded by engaging and compressing the stop member against the sleeve.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
45 words
A suture device as in claim 75, wherein the means for axially translating the shaft comprises a handle attached to the proximal end of the shaft and a compression spring disposed between the shaft and sleeve to urge the sleeve distally relative to the shaft.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
19 words
A suturing device as in claim 73, wherein the receiving area is a penetrable target carried on the sleeve.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
126 words
A suturing device comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a pair of needles removably carried near the distal end of the shaft, wherein the needles are resiliently carried on the shaft whereby the needles can be compressed relative to the shaft as the shaft is introduced through an introducer sheath and will self-expand radially outwardly as the needles pass out of the introducer sheath; a length of suture secured to and extending between the needles; a sleeve received over the shaft; and means disposed on the sleeve for presenting a receiving area to the needles as the shaft is drawn proximally relative to the sleeve, whereby the needles may be captured in the receiving area after they have passed through tissue.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
126 words
A suturing device comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a pair of needles removably carried near the distal end of the shaft, wherein the needles are resiliently carried on the shaft whereby the needles can be compressed relative to the shaft as the shaft is introduced through an introducer sheath and will self-expand radially outwardly as the needles pass out of the introducer sheath; a length of suture secured to and extending between the needles; a sleeve received over the shaft; and means disposed on the sleeve for presenting a receiving area to the needles as the shaft is drawn proximally relative to the sleeve, whereby the needles may be captured in the receiving area after they have passed through tissue.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
60 words
A suturing device as in claim 78, wherein the receiving area is a fabric or mesh which is carried on an expandable cage structure disposed between the distal end of the sleeve and the distal end of the shaft, whereby the cage is expanded radially outward as it is compressed by proximal movement of the shaft relative to the sleeve.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
66 words
A suturing device as in claim 79, further comprising a stop member on the shaft and means at the proximal end of the shaft for axially translating the shaft relative to the sleeve, whereby the shaft can be pulled proximally relative to the sleeve to draw the needles proximally through tissue, and the cage structure expanded by engaging and compressing the stop member against the sleeve.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
45 words
A suture device as in claim 80, wherein the means for axially translating the shaft comprises a handle attached to the proximal end of the shaft and a compression spring disposed between the shaft and sleeve to urge the sleeve distally relative to the shaft.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
19 words
A suturing device as in claim 78, wherein the receiving area is a penetrable target carried on the sleeve.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 78, wherein the needles each have arcuate ends near the tips and are carried on the shaft at their butts, with the arcuate ends being disposed toward the receiving area.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
160 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels; each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; and means for reciprocating said needles between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body; wherein the elongate guide body has a blood marker lumen having a distal port disposed so that it enters the blood vessel when the guide tip is properly positioned therein and a proximal port which displays blood when the distal port has entered the blood vessel.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
160 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels; each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; and means for reciprocating said needles between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body; wherein the elongate guide body has a blood marker lumen having a distal port disposed so that it enters the blood vessel when the guide tip is properly positioned therein and a proximal port which displays blood when the distal port has entered the blood vessel.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
52 words
A suturing device as in claim 84, wherein a recessed tissue-receiving region is formed between the proximal ends of needle guide channels and the distal end of the guide body, whereby a tissue puncture conforming to the tissue-receiving region will be configured to receive the needles on opposite sides of the puncture.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 85, further comprising means on the guide body for receiving the needles from the tissue-receiving gap and passing said needles to the proximal end of the guide body as said needles are reciprocated proximally.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 84, wherein the needles are longer than the guide body.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 84, further comprising a flexible sheath attached to the distal end of the guide tip, wherein the needles are held within the sheath when they are in their distally retracted position.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 84, wherein the needle reciprocating means comprises a flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end which is reciprocatably received in the guide body and which carries the needles near its distal end.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 89, wherein the needles are removably carried on the shaft.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
29 words
A suturing device as in claim 89, wherein the needles are fixedly carried on the shaft and wherein the suture is attached near the sharpened tip of each needle.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
142 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels, each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; means for reciprocating said needles between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body; and a flexible sheath attached to the distal end of the guide tip, wherein the needles are held within the sheath when they are in their distally retracted position.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
142 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels, each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; means for reciprocating said needles between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body; and a flexible sheath attached to the distal end of the guide tip, wherein the needles are held within the sheath when they are in their distally retracted position.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
52 words
A suturing device as in claim 92, wherein a recessed tissue-receiving region is formed between the proximal ends of needle guide channels and the distal end of the guide body, whereby a tissue puncture conforming to the tissue-receiving region will be configured to receive the needles on opposite sides of the puncture.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 93, further comprising means on the guide body for receiving the needles from the tissue-receiving gap and passing said needles to the proximal end of the guide body as said needles are reciprocated proximally.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
53 words
A suturing device as in claim 92, wherein the elongate guide body has a blood marker lumen having a distal port disposed so that it enters the blood vessel when the guide tip is properly positioned therein and a proximal port which displays blood when the distal port has entered the blood vessel.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 92, wherein the needles are longer than the guide body.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 92, wherein the needle reciprocating means comprises a flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end which is reciprocatably received in the guide body and which carries the needles near its distal end.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 97, wherein the needles are removably carried on the shaft.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
29 words
A suturing device as in claim 97, wherein the needles are fixedly carried on the shaft and wherein the suture is attached near the sharpened tip of each needle.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
143 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels; each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; and a flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end which is reciprocatably received in the guide body and which carries the needles near its distal end, wherein said needles may be reciprocated between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
143 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide tip at the distal end of the guide body, said guide tip having a pair of needle guide channels; a pair of needles which are slidably disposed in the needle guide channels; each of said needles having a sharpened distal tip; a length of suture extending between and secured to said needles; and a flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end which is reciprocatably received in the guide body and which carries the needles near its distal end, wherein said needles may be reciprocated between a distally retracted position where the needle tips are spaced distally from the distal end of the guide body and a proximally extended position where the needle tips extend past the proximal end of the guide body.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
52 words
A suturing device as in claim 100, wherein a recessed tissue-receiving region is formed between the proximal ends of needle guide channels and the distal end of the guide body, whereby a tissue puncture conforming to the tissue-receiving region will be configured to receive the needles on opposite sides of the puncture.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 101, further comprising means on the guide body for receiving the needles from the tissue-receiving gap and passing said needles to the proximal end of the guide body as said needles are reciprocated proximally.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
53 words
A suturing device as in claim 100, wherein the elongate guide body has a blood marker lumen having a distal port disposed so that it enters the blood vessel when the guide tip is properly positioned therein and a proximal port which displays blood when the distal port has entered the blood vessel.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 100, wherein the needles are longer than the guide body.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 100, further comprising a flexible sheath attached to the distal end of the guide tip, wherein the needles are held within the sheath when they are in their distally retracted position.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
16 words
A suturing device as in claim 100, wherein the needles are removably carried on the shaft.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
29 words
A suturing device as in claim 100, wherein the needles are fixedly carried on the shaft and wherein the suture is attached near the sharpened tip of each needle.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
73 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed distal and adjacent to the tissue-receiving region; a needle having suture attached, said needle being within the guide channel so that it may be advanced through the tissue-receiving region; and a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
73 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed distal and adjacent to the tissue-receiving region; a needle having suture attached, said needle being within the guide channel so that it may be advanced through the tissue-receiving region; and a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 29, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 30, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 28, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
84 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; and a needle guide having a pair of guide channels attached to the guide body for directing a pair of needles having suture attached therebetween through opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region; wherein an axial passage within the guide body is disposed to receive the needles from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needles to the proximal end.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
84 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; and a needle guide having a pair of guide channels attached to the guide body for directing a pair of needles having suture attached therebetween through opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region; wherein an axial passage within the guide body is disposed to receive the needles from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needles to the proximal end.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 114, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 115, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
24 words
A suturing device as in claim 114, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
47 words
A suturing device as in claim 117, wherein a pair of axial passages are disposed within the guide body and a pair of the needle guide channels are disposed to cause the needles to diverge as they pass through the tissue-receiving region and into the axial passages.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
33 words
A suturing device as in claim 118, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 119, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 114, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
89 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a needle guide having a needle guide channel attached to the guide body for directing a needle having suture attached through the tissue-receiving region; and a sheath extending distally from the needle guide for carrying the needle; wherein an axial passage within the guide body is disposed to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
89 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a needle guide having a needle guide channel attached to the guide body for directing a needle having suture attached through the tissue-receiving region; and a sheath extending distally from the needle guide for carrying the needle; wherein an axial passage within the guide body is disposed to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 122, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 123, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 124, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 122, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
47 words
A suturing device as in claim 126, wherein a pair of axial passages are disposed within the guide body and a pair of the needle guide channels are disposed to cause the needles to diverge as they pass through the tissue-receiving region and into the axial passages.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
33 words
A suturing device as in claim 127, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 128, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
22 words
A suturing device as in claim 122, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
83 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a sheath extending distally from the tissue-receiving region on the guide body; and a needle slidably disposed within the sheath so that the needle can be drawn proximally from the sheath through the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
83 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a sheath extending distally from the tissue-receiving region on the guide body; and a needle slidably disposed within the sheath so that the needle can be drawn proximally from the sheath through the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
22 words
A suturing device as in claim 131, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 132, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 133, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 134, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 135, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 136, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the sheath and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 131, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
87 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a sheath extending distally from the tissue-receiving region on the guide body; and a needle slidably disposed within the sheath so that the needle can be drawn proximally from the sheath through the tissue-receiving region, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
87 words
A suturing device comprising: a guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at the distal end; a sheath extending distally from the tissue-receiving region on the guide body; and a needle slidably disposed within the sheath so that the needle can be drawn proximally from the sheath through the tissue-receiving region, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
33 words
A suturing device as in claim 139, wherein the needle is longer than the guide body so that the needle can be advanced through the guide body by pushing on its trailing end.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
22 words
A suturing device as in claim 139, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 141, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 142, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 143, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 144, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
40 words
A suturing device as in claim 145, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the sheath and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim
127 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having structure attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region; a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy; and a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 166
Dependent Claim
127 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having structure attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region; a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy; and a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim
21 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 147, wherein the blood flow indicator comprises an axial lumen within the elongate body.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
23 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 147, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 149, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 150, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 151, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 152, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 147, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 147, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
125 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having structure attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end; and a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
125 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having structure attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end; and a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
21 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 156, wherein the blood flow indicator comprises an axial lumen within the elongate body.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
23 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 156, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 158, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 159, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 181
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 160, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 161, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 156, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim
36 words
A suturing device as in claim 156, wherein the needle guide is disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region, further comprising a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim
120 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having structure attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region, a needle guide disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region; a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle; and a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim
120 words
A suturing device comprising: an elongate guide body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a tissue-receiving region at its distal end; a needle having structure attached, said needle being slidably mounted on the guide body to pass through the tissue-receiving region, a needle guide disposed on the distal side of the tissue receiving region; a sheath extending distally from the needle guide and carrying the needle; and a blood flow indicator on the guide body having an inlet port on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region, wherein the needle will be properly positioned to pass through tissue adjacent a vascular penetration site when the indicator first senses blood as the guide body is introduced through an arteriotomy.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim
21 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 165, wherein the blood flow indicator comprises an axial lumen within the elongate body.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim
23 words
A vascular suturing device as in claim 165, further comprising a needle guide having a needle guide channel disposed adjacent the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 189
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 167, wherein the needle guide has a pair of needle guide channels disposed on opposite sides of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 190
Dependent Claim
26 words
A suturing device as in claim 168, comprising a pair of needles having suture attached, with one needle slidably mounted in each of the guide channels.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim
20 words
A suturing device as in claim 169, wherein the pair of needles has a continuous length of suture attached therebetween.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim
25 words
A suturing device as in claim 170, wherein the needle guide is attached to the guide body on a distal side of the tissue-receiving region.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim
41 words
A suturing device as in claim 165, further comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the shaft is slidably mounted within the guide body and the needles are carried on the distal end of the shaft.
Claim 194
Dependent Claim
37 words
A suturing device as in claim 165, wherein an axial passage is disposed within the guide body to receive the needle from the tissue-receiving region at the distal end and guide the needle to the proximal end.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2001-07-13 | 2002-01-12 | 2002-07-14 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2005-07-13 | 2006-01-12 | 2006-07-14 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2009-07-13 | 2010-01-12 | 2010-07-14 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |