Suture winding apparatus and method, device, and retainer associated therewith

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for winding a surgical suture into a suture retainer suitable for receiving a suture therein.

Description

SUTURE WINDING APPARATUS AND METHOD, DEVICE, AND RETAINERASSOCIATED THEREWITHCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 546,153, filed October 27, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] 1. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for winding a surgical suture into a suture retainer, and more particularly, to a suture winding apparatus including a suture winding device for winding a suture into a suture retainer, a method of winding a suture into a suture retainer, and a suture retainer suitable for receiving a suture therein.

[0004] 2. Related Art

[0005] Various systems and methods of winding sutures into a suture retainer are known. Although the systems, methods, and retainers of the prior art may be adequate for their intended use, it remains difficult and costly to wind sutures into a retainer and / or unwind sutures from a retainer. For example, many winding systems and methods utilize a winding device requiring the aid of additional equipment such as a stylus or other rotatable suture guide in trying to avoid improper placement of the sutures in the retainer. The additional equipment can often be expensive to develop, hard to maintain, and may wear over time leading to improper placement of the suture in the retainer. Misplacement of the suture inside the retainer can lead to a variety of issues including but not limited to the suture being loaded in an unorganized or crisscrossing configuration which can be difficult to withdraw due to increased friction between crisscrossing portions of the suture. This can result in damage to the suture during removal from the retainer, as well as complete disposal of the suture and retainer when a suture is unable to be completely removed from the retainer. Thus, there remains a need for novel winding systems, methods, and suture retainers that provide sutures wound in an organized, non-crisscrossing manner both during the winding process and maintained inside the retainer thereafter for ease of removal.SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure relates to suture winding apparatuses and suture winding devices for winding a suture into a suture retainer, methods of winding a suture into a suture retainer, and suture retainers suitable for receiving a suture therein which are less expensive, less complicated, and more efficient than prior devices, methods, retainers.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a suture retainer, and particularly a one- piece suture retainer, including at least a base, an outer wall, an inner wall, and suture channel defined therein. The outer wall is positioned along an outer periphery of the base and extend between a lower wall portion and an upper wall portion. The lower wall portion being attached to an outer portion of the base. The inner wall is spaced inward of the outer wall and includes a plurality of first wall segments and second wall segments each spaced apart by a slit defined through the base. Each of the first wall segments extend between a first segment lower portion and a first segment upper portion. The first segment lower portion is attached to a first inner portion of the base and fixed to the lower wall portion of the outer wall by an outer portion of the base. Each of the second wall segments are free of the outer wall and extend between a second segment lower portion and a second segment upper portion. The second segment lower portion is attached to a second inner portion of the base. The second segment upper portion includes a tab extending radially therefrom towards the outer wall. The suture channel being defined between the base, the outer wall, and the inner wall.

[0008] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the retainer is continuously positioned along the outer periphery of the base and includes a plurality of spaced dimples extending inward from the upper wall portion of the outer wall.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first and second wall segments of the retainer alternate along a length of the inner wall.

[0010] In some embodiments, each of the second segment lower portions of the second wall segment are spaced from the lower wall portion of the outer wall by a base opening and the base opening is connected to each slit positioned on each side of the second wall segment.

[0011] In some embodiments, the outer base portions positioned along the first wall segments and the base openings positioned along the second wall segments alternate along a length of the suture channel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the tab of second wall segment is configured to be lifted by deflecting the first inner portion of the base, the first segment lower portion of the first wall segment, or both.

[0013] In some embodiments, the suture retainer further includes a needle area inward of the inner wall, the needle area further comprising a cutout in the base, a needle park, a raised label slot, a winding pin hole, or any combination thereof. The needle area may include a first winding pin hole and one of the first wall segments along the inner wall is replaced with a second winding pin hole.

[0014] In some embodiments, the suture retainer further includes a suture needle assembly, wherein a suture of the suture needle assembly is wound and stacked in the suture channel in an organized or non-crisscrossing configuration. In some embodiments, the suture is wound and stacked in stepped or stadium-seating configuration. The organized, non-crisscrossing, stacked, and / or stepped configurations being maintained in the suture channel after loading is complete.

[0015] In some embodiments, the suture remains and / or is stored in the suture channel in multiple layers in a stepped and / or stadium-seating configuration. In some embodiments, the suture remains and / or is stored in the suture channel in a single layer lying in a generally flat and spaced configuration.

[0016] The present disclosure also relates to suture winding devices including a winding base and a complimentary winding cover. The winding device may be suitable for use with any suture retainer, and particularly the suture retainers described herein.

[0017] The winding base includes a retainer cavity configured to receive a suture retainer therein. The retainer cavity is defined by a winding base sidewall and a winding floor. The winding base sidewall includes a beveled top edge defining a lower suture guiding surface of the winding device. The suture guiding surface is configured and / or angled to guide a suture into the winding device. The winding cover includes a cover sidewall having a beveled bottom edge defining an upper suture guiding surface of the winding device. The suture guiding surface is configured and / or angled to guide a suture into the winding device. The winding cover is also configured to cover the winding basewhile leaving a gap between the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces to allow a suture to enter through the gap into the winding device.

[0018] In some embodiments, the winding base further includes a plurality of lifting pins spaced intermittently around an outer portion of the winding floor and a plurality of winding pins spaced inwardly from the lifting pins. The lifting pins are not configured to have a suture wound thereof. The plurality of wind pins may include a first and second winding pin wherein the second winding pin includes a conical extension and is greater in length than the first winding pin.

[0019] In some embodiments, the winding cover further includes a topside and an underside spaced by the cover sidewall, wherein the underside includes an underside platform positioned inward of an outer edge of the underside and projecting a distance downward from the underside. A plurality of struts may be positioned along the underside extending radially from the underside platform to the outer edge. One or more struts may include a winding beam projecting downward therefrom. The strut may further include a recess defined therein and configured to receive an inner wall of a suture retainer therein. The recess being positioned between the underside platform and the winding beam.

[0020] The winding beam may include a ramped body having an inclined winding surface leading to a lower tip generally perpendicular to the underside. The inclined winding surface is configured to wind a suture thereon in any suitable geometric configuration, such as in an organized stacked and / or a stepped or stadium-seating configuration.

[0021] The cover further includes a plurality of outwardly opening tab cavities. Each tab cavity being defined between a pair of neighboring struts and a portion of the underside and a section of a platform exterior wall positioned between the struts.

[0022] In some embodiments, the underside of the cover further includes a pin aperture defined therein. The pin aperture is configured to receive a winding pin of the winding base therein when the winding cover is properly seated on the winding base.

[0023] In some embodiments, the winding device is free of a stylus or other rotatable suture guide.

[0024] The present disclosure also relates to a suture winding apparatus including at least a winding platform, a suture holder, a suture winding device. The windingapparatus may be suitable for use with any suture retainer and any winding device, and particularly the suture retainers and winding devices described herein.

[0025] The winding platform extends between a proximal end portion and an opposite distal end portion along a central longitudinal axis. The platform also includes a platform channel defined therein. The platform channel extends longitudinally within the winding platform and in some embodiments may be positioned offset from the central longitudinal axis of the platform.

[0026] The suture holder is movable or slidable longitudinally along and within the platform channel. The suture holder is configured to hold the suture under constant tension during winding and while moving longitudinally closer to the winding device during winding.

[0027] The suture winding device of the apparatus may include a winding base having a lower suture guiding surface and a winding cover configured to be seated within the winding base and having an upper suture guiding surface with a gap therebetween.

[0028] In some embodiments, the winding apparatus may further include a suture lift member positioned between the suture winding device and the suture holder, the channel, or both. The suture lift member creates an approach angle for a suture to approach the winding device. The approach angle may vary and in some embodiments may be between 10 and 45 degrees inclusively.

[0029] The present disclosure also relates to methods of loading a suture-needle assembly into a suture retainer. The methods may be suitable for use with any suture retainer, winding device, and winding apparatus, and particularly the suture retainers, winding devices, and winding apparatuses described herein.

[0030] The methods include loading a suture retainer into a winding base of a winding device, securing a needle to the suture retainer, securing a portion of the suture to a suture holder spaced a distance from the suture winding device, covering the winding base with a winding cover configured to leave a gap between the winding base and the winding cover, and spinning the winding device to draw the suture into the winding device (and / or the winding base, suture retainer, suture channel of the suture retainer) through the gap between the winding cover and the winding base.

[0031] The loading of a suture retainer may include positioning a suture retainer in a retainer cavity of a winding base of a suture winding device. The retainer cavity may bedefined by a winding base sidewall and a winding floor, the winding base sidewall including a beveled top edge defining a lower suture guiding surface configured to guide a suture into the winding device.

[0032] The covering of the winding device may include covering of the winding base and / or the suture retainer with a winding cover including a cover sidewall having a beveled bottom edge defining an upper suture guiding surface configured to guide the suture into the winding device. The winding cover configured to cover the winding base while leaving a gap between the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces to allow the suture to enter the winding device through the gap,

[0033] The spinning of the winding device draws at least the central portion of the suture through the gap into the suture retainer positioned within the winding device and draws the suture holder closer to the winding device reducing the distance between the winding device and the suture holder.

[0034] In some embodiments, the methods described herein may further include positioning the central portion of the suture over a suture lift member prior to spinning the winding device. The suture lift member being spaced from the winding device and located between the winding device and the suture holder. The suture lift member has a height greater than a height of the winding base.

[0035] In some embodiments, the methods described herein may further include releasing the free end portion of the suture from the suture holder as the suture holder nears the suture lift member and continuing to spin the winding device to winding the free end portion of the suture into the suture retainer through the gap, wherein the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces are configured to redirect the free end portion of the suture towards the gap.

[0036] In some embodiments, the methods described herein may further include removing of the winding cover after loading of the suture into the retainer. A label may be applied to the suture retainer via raised label slots positioned thereon.

[0037] The steps of loading the suture retainer, securing the needle to the retainer, and securing the suture to the suture holder may occur in any chronological order.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Embodiments of the presently disclosed suture winding apparatuses, devices, methods and / or retainers are described herein with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0039] FIG. 1 is a top view of a suture-needle assembly as described in at least one embodiment herein;

[0040] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a suture retainer as described in at least one embodiment herein;

[0041] FIG. 2B is a partial cross-sectional side view of the suture retainer of FIG. 2A;

[0042] FIGS. 3 A and 3 B are a perspective and side view, respectively, of a suture winding apparatus as described in at least one embodiment herein;

[0043] FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective views of a winding base and winding cover, respectively, of a winding device as described in at least one embodiment herein;

[0044] FIG. 4C is a side view of a winding beam of winding cover of FIG. 4B as described in at least one embodiment herein; an r

[0045] FIGS. 5A-6 are schematic representations of a method of winding a suture into a suture retainer as described in at least one embodiment herein; and

[0046] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional sideview of a suture channel of a suture retainer loaded with a wound suture as described in at least one embodiment herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Embodiments of the presently disclosed suture winding apparatus, suture winding device, sutures, retainers, and methods associated therewith will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the various views.

[0048] Any surgical suture, with or without a surgical needle, may be used with the apparatuses, devices, retainers, and methods described herein. One suitable example is shown in FIG. 1 wherein suture 1 is armed with at least one surgical needle 2 to form surgical suture-needle assembly 3. Needle 2 is shown attached to first end portion la of suture 1 extending a length to an opposite second end portion 1c with central portion lb positioned therebetween. Needle 2 is a curved surgical needle, although it is contemplatedthat needle 2 may alternatively be a straight needle or any other suitable shape of surgical needle.

[0049] Suture 1 may be a monofdament or multifilament suture. Suture 1 may also include barbs along a length thereof and / or an end effector (i.e., anchor or loop) or additional needle on second end portion 1c thereof. Suture 1 (and / or the needle 2) may be made from any suitable biocompatible material including but not limited to biodegradable materials ( e.g., metals such as zinc or magnesium, or polymeric materials such as polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, polycaprolactone, polytrimethylene carbonate, or polydioxanone), non-biodegradable materials (e.g., metals such as stainless steel, or polymeric materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, or nylon), or combinations thereof. Suture 1 (and / or the needle 2) may be formed using any suitable method within the purview of those skilled in the art, including but not limited to, extrusion, molding, solvent casting, pressing, spinning, and combinations thereof.

[0050] FIG. 2A shows suture retainer 10 having suture needle assembly 3 loaded and / or wound therein. Retainer 10 is shown to define a one-piece, generally oval shape including a generally planar base 12, with parallel long sides 14 and essentially semicircular rounded ends 16. However, retainer 10 is not intended to be limited to only being one-piece or an oval shape and may define two or more pieces and / or any shape, including but not limited to circular, square, triangular, rectangular, and the like.

[0051] Outer retainer wall 18 is positioned along an outer periphery of base 12. Inward from and generally parallel to outer wall 18 is inner retainer wall 20. Outer retainer wall 18 wraps around a majority, if not an entirety, of an outer periphery of base 12. Inner retainer wall 20 wraps around a majority of an inner perimeter of base 12. One or both of outer and inner retainer walls 18, 20 may be vertical retainer walls extending generally perpendicular to base 12

[0052] Inner retainer wall 20 includes a combination of first and second wall segments 22, 24, respectively. First and second wall segments 22, 24 are spaced apart from each other along a length of inner retainer wall 20 (and / or inner perimeter of base 20) with slits 32 positioned therebetween. Slits 32 are defined through base 12 and are spaced apart from each other by one of first or second wall segments 22, 24.

[0053] First and second wall segments 22, 24 may alternate around an inner perimeter of base 12 generally parallel to outer retainer wall 18. Each first wall segment22 extends generally vertically between lower first segment portion 22a and upper first segment portion 22b. Each lower first segment portion 22a is attached to base 12, and particularly to first inner portion Ila of base 12. Base 12, and particularly outer base portion 13 of base 12, extends outwardly from each lower first segment portion 22a fixing each lower first segment portion 22a of inner wall 20 to outer wall 18, and particularly, lower wall portion 18a of outer wall 18.

[0054] Each second wall segment 24 extends generally vertically between lower second segment portion 24a and upper second segment portion 24b. Each lower second segment portion 24a is attached to base 12, and particularly second inner portion 1 lb of base 12. Each second wall segment 24 is free of (and / or not fixed to) outer wall 18. Base 12 does not extend outwardly beyond lower second segment portion 24a of second wall segments 24 creating a base opening 28 between lower second segment portion 24a and lower wall portion 18a of outer wall 18.

[0055] A tab 26 extends generally radially from each upper second segment portion 24b of second wall segment 24. Tab 26 extends radially toward outer wall 18, and particularly upper wall portion 18b, to a point close to, but not touching, outer wall 18 (and / or dimple 29). Dimples 29 extend inwardly from upper wall portion 18b of outer wall 18 towards tab 26 without touching to prevent suture escape after a suture is loaded and / or wound into retainer 10 and / or suture channel 30. Dimples 29 are spaced intermittently around outer wall 18 in a manner which aligns with the location of tabs 26.

[0056] Generally, base 12, outer wall 18, and inner wall 20 define suture channel 30 along an outer portion of retainer 10. Suture channel 30 is configured to receive suture 1 loaded / wound therein. More particularly, outer base portion 13, outer wall 18, first wall segments 22, and second wall segments 24 including tabs 26 define suture channel 30 which is open (or closed) along different (and / or alternating) portions of the top and bottom of suture channel 30.

[0057] Outer base portions 13 cover at least a majority, if not all, of bottom portion 30a of suture channel 30 along first wall segments 22. Upper first segment portions 22b, which are free of any tabs, leave open at least a majority, if not all, of top portion 30b of suture channel 30 along each first wall segment 22. This configuration along each first wall segment 22 creates first retainer pocket 44 configured to receive winding beams 138of winding cover 114 therein during a loading / winding process as described in more detail hereinbelow.

[0058] Tabs 26 (with or without dimples 29) close a majority of top portion 30b of suture channel 30 along second wall segments 24. Base openings 28 open at least a majority, if not all, of bottom portion 30a of suture channel 30 along second wall segments 24. This configuration along each second wall segment 24 creates second retainer pocket 46 configured to receive lifting pins 124 of winding base 112 therein during a loading / winding process as described in more detail hereinbelow. First retainer pocket 44 being open along top portion 30b of suture channel 30 and second retainer pocket 46 being open along a bottom portion 30a of suture channel 30.

[0059] In some embodiments, suture retainer 10 includes a plurality of first retainer pockets 44 and second retainer pockets 46 positioned along a length of suture channel 30. In some embodiments, first and second retainer pockets 44, 46 alternate along a length of suture channel 30.

[0060] First and second wall segments 22, 24 are separated by slits 32 defined in base 12. Slits 32 extend radially inward from base opening 28 on each side of wall segments 22, 24. Base opening 28 is positioned beneath tab 26 to allow lifting pins (FIG. 4A) of winding device 112 to lift tab 26 into an open configuration (FIG. 2B) to allow suture 1 to be loaded and / or wound into retainer 10. Since second wall segments 24 are free of outer wall 18 and positioned between a pair of neighboring slits 32 connected to base opening 28, second wall segments 24 pivot (and / or deflect) along second inner base portion 11b when tabs 26 are raised in general, and particularly by lifting pins 124. By pivoting along second inner base portion 1 lb, the initial configuration or angle between tab 26 and upper second segment portion 24b can remain predominantly unchanged in both the closed configuration (FIG. 2A) and the open configuration (FIG. 2B) without significantly deforming tab 26. For example, the generally L-shaped combination of second segment wall 24 (and / or upper second segment portion 24b) and tab 26 shown in FIG. 2A in the closed configuration remains predominantly unchanged in the open configuration of FIG. 2B. Since first wall segments 22 are fixed to outer wall 18 via outer base portions 13, first wall segments 22 are not pivotable and / or deflectable.

[0061] Retainer 10 may further include needle area 34 defined by inner vertical wall 20, Needle area 34 may include needle park 36 located therein. A plurality of aligned3-point needle parks 36 of various sizes are shown for automated needle load and to accommodate several different needle types. However any suitable needle park may be included in retainer 10.

[0062] Base 12 may further include a cutout 38 of sufficient size to allow for handling of suture 1 and / or needle 2 by an end user, such as a medical professional directly or via robotic arm, for removal from retainer 10. Base 12 may also include a pair of winding pin holes 40a, 40b defined therethrough for the passage of winding pins during winding and / or loading of suture 1 into suture channel 30. One winding pin hole 40a may be located in needle area 34 and another winding pin hole 40b may be located along inner vertical wall 20 replacing one of first wall segments 22 to create an inner wall opening 25 of sufficient size to connect suture channel 30 to needle area 34 and allow first end portion la of suture 1 to pass between suture channel 30 and needle area 34. A plurality of raised label slots 42 may also be positioned on top of base 12 and within needle area 34. Raised label slots 42 are configured to attach a label (not shown), and particularly a desiccant label, over at least a portion of needle area 34 to cover at least a sharp end 2a of needle 2 and / or needle park 36.

[0063] Retainer 10 may be made of any suitable material, such as but not limited to a polymeric materials including but not limited to polyethylene or polypropylene. As provided hereinbelow in more detail, the polymeric material affords second inner base portion 1 lb and lower second segment portion 24a to pivot and / or deflect along their connection thereby causing tab 26 to also lift upward and tilt inward, and particularly without significant deflection of the tab relative to second wall segment 24, to completely open top portion 30b of suture channel 30 allowing for insertion of suture 1 therein, as shown in FIG. 2B. Tab 26, second inner base portion 11b, and second wall segment 24 return back essentially to their original position to close parts of top portion 30b of suture channel 30 after loading and / or winding.

[0064] In some embodiments, second wall segment 24 may be thicker than tab 26 and / or second inner base portion 11b. In some embodiments, retainer 10 is an oval-shaped one-piece molded suture retainer.

[0065] Retainer 10 may be formed using any suitable method within the purview of those skilled in the art, including but not limited to, extrusion, molding, pressing, andcombinations thereof. Retainer 10 is designed to be used with winding apparatus 100 described in greater detail below.

[0066] FIGS. 3 A and 3B depict winding apparatus 100 including winding platform 102, suture holder 106, suture lift member 108 and winding device 110. Winding platform 102 is generally planar and extends a length along a central longitudinal axis Ai between first and second opposite end base portions 102a, 102b, respectively. Channel 104 is defined within winding base 102 and extends a majority of the length of base 102. In some embodiments, channel 104 may be offset from central longitudinal axis Ai.

[0067] Suture holder 106 sits in channel 104 and travels and / or slides along the length of channel 104 towards the winding device 110 as suture 1 is wound into a suture retainer positioned within winding device 110. Suture holder 106 grips second end portion 1c of suture 1, i.e., the free end portion of the suture, using any suitable means. For example, the suture holder 106 may include a mechanical gripper, such as a clamp or pair of opposing jaw members, to grab or hold the suture. Alternatively or in combination, suture holder 106 may include vacuum ports or vacuum tubes secured to the suture holder 106 to fix suture 1 thereto. The vacuum ports or tubes being operably coupled to a vacuum source as is known in the art.

[0068] Suture holder 106 maintains a constant tension on suture 1 during the loading and / or winding process. Suture holder 106 also travels towards winding device 110 (and / or suture lift member 108), while maintaining constant tension on suture 1, during winding.

[0069] Suture lift member 108 is positioned between suture holder 106 and winding device 110 and has a height hi which is greater than a height ha of winding base 112 of winding device 110 (FIG. 5D), as well as suture holder 106. Suture lift member 108 acts like a fulcrum upon which suture 1 turns and / or changes direction creating an approach angle a2 at which suture 1 approaches winding device 110. By entering winding device 110 from approach angle a2, as opposed to simply entering horizontally straight in from a side, suture 1 is more easily tucked into a retainer, and particularly under tab 26 in a tilted configuration of retainer 10 positioned in winding device 110. However, the general design of winding apparatus 100, and particularly winding device 112, allows suture 1 to be wound from horizontal or from any angle.

[0070] The height hi of suture lift member 108 may be fixed or adjustable during the loading of suture 1. For example, suture lift member 108 may be configured to extend or retract from winding platform 102 to change approach angle a2 as needed. Approach angle a2 may range between 1 and 85 degrees, more particularly between 5 and 60 degrees and more particularly between 10 and 45 degrees, inclusively. In some embodiments, the approach angle may be from 0 to 30 degrees.

[0071] In some embodiments, suture lift member 108 may be a block in a fixed position longitudinally on winding platform 102. The block may define any suitable shape including but not limited to circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, and the like. In some embodiments, as shown, the block may be generally rectangular with rounded upper comers. The suture lift member 108 may be made from any suitable material sufficiently strong enough to support a suture thereacross without damaging the suture. Some nonlimiting examples include polymers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, etc., and / or metals, such as stainless steel, aluminum, etc.

[0072] As further shown in FIGS. 3 A and 3B, winding apparatus 100 includes suture winding device 110 including winding base 112 and winding cover 114 configured to cover winding base 112 with or without a suture retainer positioned therebetween. Winding base 112 includes a lower suture guiding surface 119 and winding cover 114 includes an upper suture guiding surface 129. When winding cover 114 is properly seated on winding base 112, and particularly when a suture retainer is positioned therebetween, a gap 121 is positioned between lower and upper suture guiding surfaces 119, 129 to allow for a suture to pass therethrough to enter into winding device 110, and particularly to enter into the suture retainer positioned inside winding device 110.

[0073] Gap 121 extends completely around an outer perimeter of winding device 110. In some embodiments, the lower and upper suture guiding surfaces 119, 129 may also extend completely around an outer perimeter of winding device 110. Winding device 110 is depicted and described in more detail below.

[0074] As indicated by the arrow in FIG. 3 A, winding device 110, and particularly winding base 112, is configured to rotate, i.e., spin, horizontally around a central point C. Although depicted as rotating in a clockwise manner, rotation of winding device 110 may alternatively be in a counterclockwise direction. Rotation of winding device 110, and particularly winding cover 114 including winding beams 138, draws a suture into windingdevice 110 thru gap 121. As the suture is wound around winding device 110 and / or drawn into a suture retainer positioned inside winding device 110, suture holder 106 slides longitudinally along channel 104 in the direction of winding device 110 while holding free end portion 1c of suture 1 under tension. Winding device 110 can be rotated manually or may include any suitable automated rotating means. In some embodiments, the winding device 110 may be rotated via a motor, such as a servo motor. In some embodiments, the winding device 110 may work independent of the suture holder 106.

[0075] FIGS. 4A and 4B separately depict winding base 112 and winding cover 114 of winding device 110. As shown in FIG. 4A, winding base 112 includes retainer cavity 116 defined therein. Retainer cavity 116 is defined by winding base side wall 118 surrounding winding floor 120. Winding base sidewall 118 is generally a vertical wall having a beveled or chamfered top edge 118b. By beveled or chamfered, top edge 118b is angled inwardly from a lower vertical portion 118a of sidewall 118. Although angled inwardly at an incline, top edge 118b may be generally smooth across the incline. Beveled top edge 118b forms a lower suture guiding surface 119 around a majority, if not all, of winding base 112. Lower suture guiding surface 119 directs a suture to gap 121 to enter winding device 110 (and / or a suture retainer and / or suture channel positioned in winding device 110), particularly when spun.

[0076] Retainer cavity 116 may have an overall shape matching the overall shape of the particular suture retainer to be placed therein. For example, retainer cavity 116 may be oval shaped to accommodate oval retainer 10 of FIG. 2A. Winding floor 120 may be generally planar. A depth of retainer cavity 116 may be generally equal to a height of a retainer, and particularly a height of outer wall 18 of retainer 10.

[0077] Winding base 112 holds a suture retainer in a fixed position within retainer cavity 116 during spinning of winding tool 110 and / or loading of a suture therein. A pair of winding pins 122a, 122b extend out of retainer cavity 116 from floor 120. Winding pins 122a, 122b act as an initial guide to properly positioning, i.e., seating, a suture retainer within cavity 116 and help maintain the retainer in a fixed position when spun. At least one of winding pins 122a, 122b also act as an initial guide to properly positioning, i.e., seating, winding cover 114 on to winding base 112 (with or without a suture retainer positioned therebetween) and help maintain the winding cover 114 in a fixed position when spun.

[0078] Winding pins 122a, 122b are located inward of a plurality of lifting pins 124. Lifting pins 124 are intermittently spaced around an outer perimeter of retainer cavity 116. Winding pins 122a, 122b are configured to have a suture wound around them. Winding pins 122a, 122b are not generally positioned or configured to lift tabs of a suture retainer. Lifting pins 124 are positioned and configured to lift tabs 26 of an inner wall and are not generally positioned or configured to have a suture wound therearound.

[0079] In some embodiments, and particularly useful with suture retainer 10, a first winding pin 122a and a second winding pin 122b may be positioned on floor 120 to align with first and second winding pin through-holes 40a, 40b, respectively, and / or lifting pins 124 may be positioned on floor 120 to vertically align with base openings 28 of retainer 10 (FIG.5 A).

[0080] In some embodiments, at least one of winding pins 122a, 122b may be in a fixed position relative to the winding floor 120. In some embodiments, at least one of winding pins 122a, 122b may be retractable into and / or expandable from winding floor 120. Lifting pins 124 are retractable into and / or expandable from winding floor 120.

[0081] Winding pin 122b may further include a conical extension 126 rendering it longer in length than the other winding pin 122a. Conical extension 126 allows winding pin 122b to interact with cover underside 132 of winding cover 114, and particularly pin aperture 148 defined within cover underside 132.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 4B, winding cover 114 includes cover sidewall 128 extending between cover topside 130 and cover underside 132. Cover sidewall 128 is generally a vertical wall having a beveled (i.e., beveled or chamfered) bottom edge 128a. By beveled, bottom edge 128a is angled inwardly from upper vertical portion 128b of sidewall 128. Although angled inwardly at an incline, bottom edge 128a may be generally smooth across the incline. Beveled bottom edge 128a forms an upper suture guiding surface 129 around a majority, if not all, of an outer perimeter of winding cover 114. Upper suture guiding surface 129 directs a suture to enter winding device 110 (and / or a suture retainer and / or suture channel positioned in winding device 110), particularly when spun.

[0083] Cover underside 132 is defined by an outer edge 133 defining a perimeter slightly smaller than topside 130. Underside platform 134 projects a distance from underside 132 and is positioned inward of outer edge 133. The platform distance maygenerally be equal to or greater than a depth of retainer cavity 116 of winding base 112. In some embodiments, platform 134 may be centered on cover underside 132.

[0084] A plurality of winding struts 136 extend along cover underside 132 in a generally radial manner from platform 134 towards outer edge 133. Each winding strut 136 includes winding beam 138 extending generally perpendicular therefrom. Winding beam 138 includes winding surface 140 configured to wind a suture therearound. Winding surface 140 defines a particular geometry that allows a suture wound thereon to mimic and maintain inside a suture retainer. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C, winding beam 138 may be a ramp body including an inclined winding surface 140 and suture 1 may be wound around winding surface 140 to produce suture 1 stacked in an inclined manner (i.e., stepped or stadium-seating configuration) mimicking the geometry of winding surface 140. The wound suture 1 maintains an organized and non-crisscrossing configuration inside the retainer 10 after removal of the winding beam 138. For example, in some embodiments, the stacked suture maintains a generally stepped or stadium-seating configuration inside the retainer after removal of winding beam 138 (FIG. 2A).

[0085] Winding surface 140 extends at a winding angle as ranging between 90° and 180° relative to the cover underside 132. In some embodiments, the winding angle as is between 95° and 170°. In some embodiments, the winding angle as is between 100° and 160°. In some embodiments, the winding angle as is between 120° and 150°. In some embodiments, the winding angle as is about 135°.

[0086] In some embodiments, winding beam 138 may further include a tip 141 extending from inclined winding surface 140 in a generally perpendicular manner relative to underside 132. Tip 141 configured to wind at least a first elliptical layer 143 of a suture 1 therearound before successive elliptical layers 145 wound around winding surface 140 are stepped outwardly therefrom, such as seen in stadium seating.

[0087] In some embodiments, tip 141 is configured to form a single first elliptical suture layer 143. In some embodiments, tip 141 is configured to form two or more first elliptical suture layers 143 creating a foundation of suture layers in a vertical configuration before reaching inclined winding surface 140 and stepped outwardly therefrom.

[0088] In some embodiments, winding beam 138 (and / or winding surface 140) has a length which is greater than a height of beam 138. In some embodiments, winding beam138 (and / or winding surface 140) has a length and / or height which is generally equal to a length and / or height, respectively, of first retainer pocket 44 of retainer 10.

[0089] Winding beam 138 may be outwardly spaced from platform 134 by recess 146 defined within winding support 136. Recess 146 is configured to receive therein and / or sit on top of an inner wall of a suture retainer, and particularly first wall segment 22 of retainer 10. Recess 146 is shown to define a generally rectangular shape, however recess 146 may define any suitable shape.

[0090] As further shown in FIG. 4B, cover 114 includes a plurality of cavities 142. Each cavity 142 is configured to be of sufficient size to receive at least a lifted or tilted tab therein so that the tab is raised above upper suture guiding surface 129. (FIG. 5F). Each cavity 142 may also be of sufficient size or dimension to receive at least a tab and an upper second segment portion of an inner wall attached thereto when lifted or tilted into an open configuration. (FIG. 5F).

[0091] Each cavity 142 opens outwardly and is defined on top by a portion 132a of underside 132, defined on the sides by neighboring struts 136 (and / or neighboring winding beams 138), and defined on the rear or inner side by a section 144a of platform exterior wall 144 extending between struts 136 and / or beams 138.

[0092] Cover underside 132 may also include pin aperture 148 defined therein.Pin aperture 148 is positioned and configured to receive winding pin 122b, and particularly conical extension 126 of winding pin 122b, therein when winding cover 114 is properly seated on winding base 112 to form winding device 110.

[0093] When cover 114 is properly seated on base 112, upper and lower suture guiding surface 119, 129 can direct a free end of a suture into gap 121 upon release from suture holder 106. In some embodiments, winding apparatus 100 or winding device 110 may further include a vacuum port or tube capable of directing or drawing a free end portion of a suture into the winding device through gap 121, with the assistance of the pair of suture guiding surfaces 119, 129. The vacuum ports or tubes may be positioned in base floor 120 and aligned with base openings 28. Alternatively, the vacuum ports or tubes may be integrated into lifting pins 124 and activated whenever lifting pins 124 are in an extended configuration. Alternatively, or in combination with the use of vacuuming, the winding system may further include a blower system designed to blow air (air, nitrogen,etc.) towards the winding device blowing the free end portion of the suture from the suture holder towards the winding device.

[0094] In some embodiments, winding apparatus 100 or winding device 110 may further include a stylus or suture guide attached thereto for handling of at least a free end of a suture after release from suture holder 106. In some embodiments, winding apparatus 100 or winding device 110 is free of any sort of stylus or additional suture guide attached thereto.

[0095] Winding device 110 and / or winding apparatus 100 may be operated manually or automated at least in part, if not completely.

[0096] FIGS. 5A-6 schematically depict and describe various methods of loading a suture-needle assembly into a suture retainer. Although suture-needle assembly 3 and suture retainer 10 are specifically depicted, the methods, apparatuses, and devices described herein may be used with any suitable sutures, needles, and / or retainers.

[0097] Generally, the methods described herein may include the steps of loading a suture retainer into a winding base of a winding device and / or winding apparatus SI, securing a suture-needle assembly to the suture retainer and a suture holder S2, covering the winding base with a winding cover configured to leave a gap between the winding base and the winding cover S3, and spinning the winding device to draw the suture through the gap into the winding device and / or the suture retainer S4.

[0098] As illustrated in FIG. 5 A, suture retainer 10 may be loaded into retainer cavity 116 of winding base 112 (S 1 ) . Retainer cavity 116 defined by base sidewall 118. In some embodiments, retainer 10 may be loaded into winding base 112 including first suture guiding surface 119 on top of base sidewall 118.

[0099] In some embodiments, loading retainer 10 may further include passing winding pins 122a, 122b of base 112 through winding pin through-holes 40a, 40b of retainer 10 to secure retainer 10 in cavity 116. Lifting pins 124 of base 112 may also be passed through base openings 28 of retainer 10, as well as vertically aligned with tabs 26. Lifting pins 124, unlike winding pins 122a, 122b, being in a retracted configuration.

[0100] As illustrated in FIGS. 5B and 5C, suture-needle assembly 3, and particularly needle 2, may be secured to retainer 10 and free end portion 1c of suture 1 may be secured to suture holder 106 (S2). In some embodiments, needle 2 of sutureneedle assembly 3 is parked in needle park 36 of retainer 10. In some embodiments, aproximal or fixed end portion la of suture 1 is wound around winding pins 122a, 122b across needle area 34 and suture channel 30 with suture 1 extending away from retainer 10 towards suture holder 106.

[0101] In addition, in some embodiments, methods of loading may further include placing central portion lb of suture 1 over suture lift member 108, between suture holder 106 and winding base 112, thereby creating a suture approach angle a2. (FIG. 5D).

[0102] In some embodiments, the suture retainer may be loaded into the winding base prior to the needle being secured to the retainer or the suture being secured to the suture holder. In some embodiments, the needle may be secured to the suture retainer prior to loading the retainer into the winding device or securing the suture to the suture holder. In still other embodiments, the suture may be secured to the suture holder prior to loading the suture retainer into the winding base or securing the needle to the suture retainer.

[0103] As illustrated in FIG. 5E, winding base 112 and suture retainer 10 including suture-needle assembly 3 may be covered with winding cover 114 with a gap 121 positioned between wind base 112 and cover 114 (S3). Base 112 includes first lower suture guiding surface 119 and cover 114 includes second upper suture guiding surface 129 with gap 121 therebetween.

[0104] When cover 114 is properly seated over winding base 112 and suture retainer 10 (FIG. 5E), winding beams 138 (FIG. 4B) are positioned within first retainer pocket 44 (FIG. 2A) in a manner which places wind beams 138 (and winding surface 140) closer to outer wall 18 of retainer 10 than lifting pins 124.

[0105] Lifting pins 124 may transition from the retracted configuration (FIGS. 5A- 5B) to an extended configuration (FIG. 5F). In the extended configuration, lifting pins 124 cause tabs 26 to lift and tilt inwardly into tab cavities 142 defined within underside 132 of cover 114. Each tab 26 raised a sufficient distance above gap 121 while remaining at or below upper suture guiding surface 129.

[0106] In some embodiments, lifting pins 124 may be configured to lift and / or lower each tab 26 individually (or in smaller groups of the total number of lifting pins) as needed as suture 1 is wound around winding device 110. In some embodiments, lifting pins 124 may be configured to lift and / or lower each tab 26 collectively before and / or after suture 1 is completely wound around winding device 110.

[0107] Once covered, winding base 112, including retainer 10 and cover 114, can be spun about a center thereof to wind suture 1 around winding beams 138 positioned with suture channel 30 of retainer 10. As indicated by the arrows of FIG. 3 A, spinning of winding device 110 (left arrow) draws central portion lb of suture 1 into winding device 110 while free end portion 1c of suture 1 remains secured to slidable suture holder 106. As central portion lb of suture 1 is wound into retainer 10 inside spinning winding base 112, suture holder 106 is slid or walked longitudinally (right arrow) towards winding device 110 along channel 104 reducing the distance between winding device 110 and the suture holder 106. Suture holder 106 maintains tension on suture 1 until holder 106 reaches an end portion 104b of channel 104 spaced from winding device 110 and suture lift member 108.

[0108] In some embodiments, the methods described herein may further include releasing suture 1 from suture holder 106 while winding base 112 may continue to spin. It is envisioned that when suture holder 106 releases free end portion 1c of suture 1, the free end suture portion 1c may continue to be drawn towards device 110 and may or may not be vertically displaced from the approach angle ai due to the lack of tension. The pair of suture guiding surfaces 119, 129 being of sufficient thickness to accommodate for the vertical displacement of free end portion 1c of suture 1 and redirect the free end portion 1c back to gap 121.

[0109] Once free end portion 1c of suture 1 is wound into retainer 10, lifting pins 124 can be retracted back towards base floor 120 allowing tabs 26 to lower and return to covering portions of suture channel 30. In some embodiments, the generally L-shaped configuration between upper second segment portion 24b and tab 26 is maintained both during lifting and lowering of tabs 26 via lifting pins 124. Cover 114 can then be removed from base 112 and a label or desiccant label can be attached to the retainer via raised label slots 42 using any suitable manner. The retainer and suture-needle assembly can then be sterilized and / or further packaged using any suitable manner.

[0110] FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment wherein the wound suture 1 maintains an organized and non-crisscrossing configuration inside the retainer 10. As depicted in FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the suture 1 is positioned and / or stored in the suture channel 30 in a single layer lying in a generally flat and spaced configuration along theplanar base 12 of the retainer 10 following the completion of the winding process and / or the removal of any winding beams used.

[0111] In some embodiments, the suture 1 may display a stiffness and / or natural bias that forces each non-crisscrossed layer 145 of the stacked wound suture 1 of FIG. 4C to expand outwardly away from the winding beam 138 upon removal of any tension applied to the suture during the winding process. The stiffness and / or natural bias of the suture in combination with the winding of the suture in a non-crisscrossing outwardly layered configuration (as shown in FIG. 4C) may allow the stiff and / or biased suture to easily expand radially outward away from the winding beam 138 and fall to the base 12 of the retainer 10 in a non-stepped and / or non-stacked configuration. As shown in Fig. 7, the suture 1 may he flat inside the retainer 10 in an organized, unstacked, spaced, and noncrisscrossing manner for easy removal from the retainer 10.

[0112] In some embodiments, the winding angle as of the inclined winding surface 140 is greater than 135° and less than 165° to maintain the suture in an organized, noncrisscrossed, spaced, and non-stacked configuration as shown in FIG. 7.

[0113] In some embodiments, the suture that maintains an organized, noncrisscrossed, spaced, and non-stacked configuration inside the retainer (see FIG.7) is a monofilament suture.

[0114] In some embodiments, the winding angle as of the inclined winding surface 140 is greater than 105° and less than 135° to maintain the suture in an organized, noncrisscrossed, stepped and / or stadium-seating configuration as shown in FIG. 2A.In some embodiments, the suture that maintains an organized, non-crisscrossed, stepped or stadium-seating configuration inside the retainer (see FIG. 2A) is a multifilament suture.

[0115] While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplification of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.

[0116] The invention may be further described by reference to the following numbered paragraphs:

[0117] 1. A one-piece suture retainer comprising: a base; an outer wall positioned along an outer periphery of the base, the outer wall extending between a lower wall portion and an upper wall portion, the lower wall portion attached to an outer portion of the base; an inner wall spaced inward of the outer wall, the inner wall including a plurality of first wall segments and second wall segments each spaced apart by a slit defined through the base, each of the first wall segments extend between a first segment lower portion and a first segment upper portion, the first segment lower portion attached to a first inner portion of the base and fixed to the lower wall portion of the outer wall by an outer portion of the base, and each of the second wall segments are free of the outer wall and extend between a second segment lower portion and a second segment upper portion, the second segment lower portion is attached to a second inner portion of the base, and the second segment upper portion includes a tab extending radially therefrom towards the outer wall; and a suture channel defined between the base, the outer wall, and the inner wall.

[0118] 2. The suture retainer according to paragraph 1, wherein the outer wall is continuously positioned along the outer periphery of the base and includes a plurality of spaced dimples extending inward from the upper wall portion of the outer wall.

[0119] 3. The suture retainer according to paragraphs 1 or 2, wherein the first and second wall segments alternate along the inner wall.

[0120] 4. The suture retainer according to any of paragraphs 1-3, wherein each of the second segment lower portions are spaced from the lower wall portion by a base opening and the base opening is connected to the slit positioned on each side of the second wall segment.

[0121] 5. The suture retainer according to paragraph 4, wherein the outer base portions positioned along the first wall segments and the base openings positioned along the second wall segments alternate along the suture channel.

[0122] 6. The suture retainer according to paragraphs 4 or 5, wherein the tab of second wall segment is configured to be lifted by deflecting the first inner portion of the base, the first segment lower portion of the first wall segment, or both.

[0123] 7. The suture retainer according to any of paragraphs 1-6, further comprising a needle area inward of the inner wall, the needle area further comprising acutout in the base, a needle park, a raised label slot, a winding pin hole, or any combination thereof.

[0124] 8. The suture retainer according to paragraph 7, wherein the needle area includes a first winding pin hole and one of the first wall segments along the inner wall is replaced with a second winding pin hole.

[0125] 9. The suture retainer according to any of paragraphs 1-8 further comprising a suture needle assembly, wherein a suture of the suture needle assembly is wound and stacked in the suture channel in a stepped or stadium-seating configuration.

[0126] 10. A suture winding device comprising: a winding base including a retainer cavity configured to receive a suture retainer therein, the retainer cavity defined by a winding base sidewall and a winding floor, the winding base sidewall including a beveled top edge defining a lower suture guiding surface configured to guide a suture into the winding device, and a winding cover including a cover sidewall having a beveled bottom edge defining an upper suture guiding surface configured to guide the suture into the winding device, the winding cover configured to cover the winding base while leaving a gap between the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces to allow a suture to enter through the gap into the winding device.

[0127] 11. The suture winding device according to paragraph 10, wherein the winding base further comprises a plurality of lifting pins spaced intermittently around an outer portion of the winding floor and a plurality of winding pins spaced inwardly from the lifting pins, wherein the lifting pins are not configured to have a suture wound thereof.

[0128] 12. The suture winding device according to paragraph 11, wherein the plurality of wind pins includes a first and second winding pin wherein the second winding pin includes a conical extension and is greater in length than the first winding pin.

[0129] 13. The suture winding device according to paragraphs 10-12, wherein the winding cover further comprises a topside and an underside spaced by the cover sidewall, wherein the underside includes an underside platform positioned inward of an outer edge of the underside and projecting a distance downward from the underside,

[0130] 14. The suture winding device according to paragraph 13, further comprising a plurality of struts positioned along the underside and extending radially from the underside platform to the outer edge, each strut including a winding beam projecting downward therefrom.

[0131] 15. The suture winding device according to paragraph 14, wherein the winding beam comprises a ramped body having an inclined winding surface leading to a lower tip generally perpendicular to the underside, the inclined winding surface configured to wind a suture thereon in a stepped or stadium-seating configuration.

[0132] 16. The suture winding device according to paragraphs 14 or 15, wherein each strut further comprises a recess configured to receive an inner wall of a suture retainer therein, the recess positioned between the underside platform and the winding beam.

[0133] 17. The suture winding device according to paragraph 14, 15, or 16, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of outwardly opening tab cavities, each tab cavity defined between a pair of neighboring struts and a portion of the underside and a section of a platform exterior wall positioned between the struts.

[0134] 18. The suture winding device according to any of paragraphs 14-17, wherein the underside further comprises a pin aperture defined therein and configured to receive a winding pin therein when the winding cover is properly seated on the winding base.

[0135] 19. The suture winding device according to any of paragraphs 14-18, wherein the winding device is free of a stylus.

[0136] 20. A suture winding apparatus comprising: a winding platform extending between a proximal end portion and an opposite distal end portion along a central longitudinal axis, a platform channel defined within the winding platform, a suture holder movable longitudinally along and within the platform channel, the suture holder configured to maintain a suture under constant tension during winding, and a suture winding device including a winding base having a lower suture guiding surface and a winding cover configured to be seated within the winding base and having an upper suture guiding surface.

[0137] 21. The suture winding apparatus according to paragraph 20, wherein the platform channel is offset form the central longitudinal axis of the winding platform.

[0138] 22. The suture winding apparatus according to paragraphs 20 or 21, further comprising a suture lift member positioned between the suture winding device and the suture holder, the channel, or both.

[0139] 23. The suture winding apparatus according to paragraph 22, wherein the suture lift member creates an approach angle for a suture to approach the winding device, wherein the approach angle is between 10 and 45 degrees inclusively.

[0140] 24. A method of loading a suture-needle assembly into a suture retainer comprising: positioning a suture retainer in a retainer cavity of a winding base of a suture winding device, the retainer cavity defined by a winding base sidewall and a winding floor, the winding base sidewall including a beveled top edge defining a lower suture guiding surface configured to guide a suture into the winding device, parking a needle of a suture-needle assembly on the suture retainer, the suture-needle assembly including a suture having a fixed end portion attached to the needle, a free end portion, and a central portion positioned therebetween, securing the free end portion of the suture to a suture holder spaced a distance from the suture winding device, covering the suture retainer with a winding cover including a cover sidewall having a beveled bottom edge defining an upper suture guiding surface configured to guide the suture into the winding device, the winding cover configured to cover the winding base while leaving a gap between the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces to allow the suture to enter the winding device through the gap, and spinning the winding device to draw the central portion of the suture through the gap into the suture retainer positioned within the winding device and reducing the distance between the winding device and the suture holder.

[0141] 25. The method according to paragraph 24, further comprising positioning the central portion of the suture over a suture lift member prior to spinning the winding device, the suture lift member spaced from the winding device and located between the winding device and the suture holder, the suture lift member having a height greater than a height of the winding base.

[0142] 26. The method according to paragraphs 24 or 25, further comprising releasing the free end portion of the suture from the suture holder as the suture holder nears the suture lift member and continuing to spin the winding device to winding the free end portion of the suture into the suture retainer through the gap, wherein the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces are configured to redirect the free end portion of the suture towards the gap.

[0143] 27. The method according to paragraph 26, wherein the winding base further comprises a vacuum source for applying a vacuum near the gap to aid in drawing the free end portion of the suture into the retainer.

[0144] 28. The method according to paragraph 27, further comprising removing of the winding cover and applying of a label to the suture retainer via raised label slots positioned thereon.

[0145] 29. The method according to any of paragraphs 24-28, wherein the suture retainer comprises a base, an outer wall positioned along an outer periphery of the base, an inner wall spaced inward of the outer wall defining a suture channel therebetween, the suture channel including a plurality of first retainer pockets and second retainer pockets defined therein, each first retainer pocket being open along a top of the suture channel and defined by a first wall segment of the inner wall, an outer portion of the base, and the outer wall, each second retainer pocket being open along a bottom of the suture channel and defined by a second wall segment of the inner wall, a tab extending radially outward from the second wall segment, and the outer wall.

[0146] 30. The method according to paragraph 29, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of winding beams extending downward therefrom, and each winding beam is positioned within one of the first retainer pockets of the retainer when covered, each winding beam including a winding surface configured to have the suture wound thereon, each winding surface having a geometric pattern defined therein.

[0147] 31. The method according to paragraph 30, wherein the first wall segments and the second wall segments are each spaced apart by a slit defined through an inner portion of the base.

[0148] 32. The method according to paragraph 31, further comprising extending one or more lifting pins from a floor of the winding base to lift one or more tabs to provide access to the suture channel.

[0149] 33. The method according to paragraph 32, wherein the one or more lifting pins are located closer to the second inner wall segments than the winding beams are located to the first inner wall segments in order for the suture to be wound around the winding beams and not the lifting pins.

[0150] 34. The method according to any of paragraphs 29-33, wherein parking the needle comprises parking the needle in a needle park positioned in a needle area of the suture retainer defined inward of the inner wall.

[0151] 35. The method according to any of paragraphs 24-34, wherein the steps of positioning the suture retainer in the retainer cavity, parking the needle on the suture retainer, and securing the free end portion of the suture to the suture holder may occur in any chronological order.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A one-piece suture retainer comprising: a base; an outer wall positioned along an outer periphery of the base, the outer wall extending between a lower wall portion and an upper wall portion, the lower wall portion attached to an outer portion of the base; an inner wall spaced inward of the outer wall, the inner wall including a plurality of first wall segments and second wall segments each spaced apart by a slit defined through the base, the base, the outer wall, and the inner wall defining a suture channel therebetween, wherein: each of the first wall segments extend between a first segment lower portion and a first segment upper portion, the first segment lower portion attached to a first inner portion of the base and fixed to the lower wall portion of the outer wall by an outer portion of the base, and each of the second wall segments are free of the outer wall and extend between a second segment lower portion and a second segment upper portion, the second segment lower portion is attached to a second inner portion of the base, and the second segment upper portion includes a tab extending radially therefrom towards the outer wall.

2. The suture retainer of claim 1, wherein the outer wall is continuously positioned along the outer periphery of the base and includes a plurality of spaced dimples extending inward from the upper wall portion of the outer wall.

3. The suture retainer of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first and second wall segments alternate along the inner wall.

4. The suture retainer of any of claims 1-3, wherein each of the second segment lower portions are spaced from the lower wall portion by a base opening and the base opening is connected to the slit positioned on each side of the second wall segment.

5. The suture retainer of claim 4, wherein the outer base portions positioned along the first wall segments and the base openings positioned along the second wall segments alternate along the suture channel.

6. The suture retainer of claims 4 or 5, wherein the tab of second wall segment is configured to be lifted by deflecting the first inner portion of the base, the first segment lower portion of the first wall segment, or both.

7. The suture retainer of any of claims 1-6, further comprising a needle area inward of the inner wall, the needle area further comprising a cutout in the base, a needle park, a raised label slot, a winding pin hole, or any combination thereof.

8. The suture retainer of any of claims 1-7 further comprising a suture needle assembly, wherein a suture of the suture needle assembly is wound and stacked in the suture channel in a stepped or stadium-seating configuration.

9. The suture retainer of any of claims 1-7 further comprising a suture needle assembly, wherein a suture of the suture needle assembly is a single layer lying in a generally flat and spaced configuration in the suture channel.

10. A suture winding device comprising: a winding base including a retainer cavity configured to receive a suture retainer therein, the retainer cavity defined by a winding base sidewall and a winding floor, the winding base sidewall including a beveled top edge defining a lower suture guiding surface configured to guide a suture into the winding device, and a winding cover including a cover sidewall having a beveled bottom edge defining an upper suture guiding surface configured to guide the suture into the winding device, the winding cover configured to cover the winding base while leaving a gap between the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces to allow a suture to enter through the gap into the winding device.

11. The suture winding device of claim 10, wherein the winding base further comprises a plurality of lifting pins spaced intermittently around an outer portion of the winding floor and a plurality of winding pins spaced inwardly from the lifting pins, wherein the lifting pins are not configured to have a suture wound thereof.

12. The suture winding device of claims 10 or 11, wherein the winding cover further comprises a topside and an underside spaced by the cover sidewall, wherein the underside includes a plurality of winding beams projecting downward therefrom each winding beam comprising a ramped body having an inclined winding surface leading to a lower tip generally perpendicular to the underside, the inclined winding surface configured to wind a suture thereon in a stepped or stadium-seating configuration.

13. A suture winding apparatus comprising : a winding platform extending between a proximal end portion and an opposite distal end portion along a central longitudinal axis, a platform channel defined within the winding platform, a suture holder movable longitudinally along and within the platform channel, the suture holder configured to maintain a suture under constant tension during winding, and a suture winding device including a winding base having a lower suture guiding surface and a winding cover configured to be seated within the winding base and having an upper suture guiding surface.

14. The suture winding apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a suture lift member positioned between the suture winding device and the suture holder, the channel, or both.

15. A method of loading a suture-needle assembly into a suture retainer comprising: positioning a suture retainer in a retainer cavity of a winding base of a suture winding device, the retainer cavity defined by a winding base sidewall and a winding floor, the winding base sidewall including a beveled top edge defining a lower suture guiding surface configured to guide a suture into the winding device, securing a needle of a suture-needle assembly on the suture retainer, the sutureneedle assembly including a suture having a fixed end portion attached to the needle, a free end portion, and a central portion positioned therebetween,securing the free end portion of the suture to a suture holder spaced a distance from the suture winding device, covering the suture retainer with a winding cover including a cover sidewall having a beveled bottom edge defining an upper suture guiding surface configured to guide the suture into the winding device, the winding cover configured to cover the winding base while leaving a gap between the upper and lower suture guiding surfaces to allow the suture to enter the winding device through the gap, spinning the winding device to draw at least the central portion of the suture through the gap into the suture retainer positioned within the winding device and reducing the distance between the winding device and the suture holder.

Images