Suture dispenser

Abstract

A suture dispenser has a housing having a bottom, at least one wall extending upwardly from the bottom and a top located generally opposite the bottom. The housing defines a generally enclosed interior space for housing at least one suture package having an associate suture, at least one window through which sutures may be accessed, and a suture package support located in the interior space which is biased upwardly towards the top of the housing so that a top-most suture package is located adjacent the opening, whereby a user may remove a suture associated with the top-most suture package through the opening. In one embodiment, the housing is rotatably mounted to a stand. The housing may include a slot through which suture packages may be inserted into or removed from the interior space.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for dispensing sutures. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Sutures are commonly used in the medical field, such as in the surgical environment. Often, sutures are supplied with an integrated needle, otherwise known as atraumatic needles with sutures. These sutures are generally pre-packaged for shipping and then use. The packaging may be a relatively light-weight molded plastic tray which is sealed in a package. This packaging has the advantage that the tray and sutures can be maintained in a sterile environment before use, and is cheap and convenient to ship and store. An example of a suture tray with associated sutures is illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 herein as associated with a suture dispenser of the present invention. [0003] Unfortunately, a number of problems arise when using the sutures. In a surgical environment, the suture package is opened and the tray of sutures is removed. The tray of suture...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0018] In accordance with the invention, a user can quickly and easily access sutures. The sutures can be removed from their packaging with one hand. The sutures are also conveniently and safely stored.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, a number of problems arise when using the sutures.

This is very difficult considering how the sutures are packaged.

Because the package is relatively small and is lightweight, an upward force on the needle or suture to dislodge it from the package generally causes the package to similarly move, thwarting the person's attempt to obtain the suture.

In extreme cases, quick movement of the needle and suture may cause the tray to become airborne and it may swing or move about, hitting other objects.

If the suture comes loose from the package when this occurs, the tray may actually travel some distance.

It might then land on the floor, hit a patient or the like, all of which are undesirable.

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