Needle parking portion and suture holder and method associated therewith

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a needle parking portion configured to receive one or more surgical needles and / or a suture holder including such a needle parking portion.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 546,154, filed October 27, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology 1. Technical Field This disclosure relates to a needle holder for holding a needle (such as a surgical needle), and more specifically to a needle holder that can be adjusted to hold surgical needles of different sizes and / or shapes in the same common position, and methods and suture retainers associated therewith.

[0003] 2. Related Technologies Needle rests and suture retainers including needle rests are known. Various techniques exist for holding needles. Various techniques exist for holding sutures. However, current methods do not allow for holding multiple sizes of needles using a single holding method. Instead, a typical needle rest includes a pair of stationary features spaced apart by a predefined distance, which is intentionally made smaller than the size of the specific needle designed to rest therein. Because the predefined space between the stationary features is smaller than the needle, a sufficient initial force must be applied to the stationary features via the specific needle to temporarily deform the stationary features, allowing the specific needle to enter the needle rest and rest between the stationary features in a compressed state. This initial force may unintentionally damage the needle or the features of the needle rest during loading. This initial force may also make it difficult to automate the needle loading process. It would be beneficial to provide a needle rest (and / or a suture retainer including a needle rest) suitable for accommodating multiple sizes of needles using a single holding method or a single rest. It would be even more beneficial to provide a needle rest (and / or a suture retainer including a needle rest) that can load the needle into the rest without initial force, regardless of its shape and / or size. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure relates to a needle rest, a suture retainer including the needle rest, and a method for loading surgical needles (particularly multiple surgical needles, more particularly multiple surgical needles of different sizes, uses and / or shapes) into the needle rest.

[0005] In some embodiments, a needle resting portion for securing a needle is described, the needle resting portion comprising: a needle resting portion base having an opening defined therein; a needle resting portion body positioned within the opening; and at least one first needle contact member. The needle resting portion body extends longitudinally between a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein a flexible leg connects the first end portion of the body to a first portion of the base. The flexible leg is configured to pivot the body across the opening and relative to the base. A head extends from the second end portion of the body. The head includes a first nose configured to allow a needle to rest along the front of the first nose. The first needle contact member is secured to a second portion of the base near the head and spaced apart from the first nose. The first needle contact member and the first nose are configured to interact to rest the needle in a first needle space located between the first needle contact member and the first nose.

[0006] The needle rest body can be generally flat and have a body thickness approximately equal to the base thickness. The thickness of the flexible leg, the head, or at least one of the two is greater than the body thickness, the base thickness, or at least one of the two thicknesses.

[0007] The head includes an actuation aperture defined therein and / or through it. The actuation aperture is configured to receive an insertable object therein for pivoting the head within the opening and relative to at least one of the base of the resting portion, the head, the first pin contact member, or any combination thereof.

[0008] The front of the first nose portion may include a first rounded outer wall, the first rounded outer wall including a stepped recess defined therein. The stepped recess is configured to allow a needle to rest along the stepped recess, wherein when the needle rests between the first nose portion and the first needle contact member, the tip of the first nose portion extends at least partially above the tip of the needle.

[0009] The first needle contact member may include at least a first static finger member spaced apart from a second static finger member along its base. The front of the first nose portion is substantially aligned between the first static retaining member and the second static retaining member.

[0010] In some embodiments, the flexible leg-like member is the only flexible component of the needle resting part.

[0011] In some embodiments, the needle rest described herein further includes a curved flexible wall positioned across the opening and attached to a head at a first end portion and to a third portion of the base at a second end portion. The flexible wall is configured to force the head to pivot toward the first needle contact member. The flexible wall can also maintain the flexible leg-like member in a planar orientation, thereby minimizing deflection relative to the base.

[0012] In some embodiments, the distal end portion of the body is divided into a first arm and a second arm, with a flexible neck positioned between the first arm and the second arm. The head is connected to the body via the flexible neck while remaining separated from and / or flexibly independent of the first and second arms. The flexible neck is configured to allow the head to pivot across an opening and relative to the first and second arms.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first arm is generally linear and includes a vertical stop positioned on a first free end portion of the first arm.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second arm is generally non-linear and includes an elbow that bends the second arm toward the first needle contact member to avoid and bypass the first nose. A second free end portion of the second arm includes a second nose. The second nose is positioned between the first nose and the first needle contact member, thereby dividing the first needle space into a first needle subspace and a second needle space, wherein the first needle space is positioned between the front of the second nose and the first contact member, and the second needle space is positioned between the front of the first nose and the back of the second nose. The back of the second nose includes a third needle contact member and a lug.

[0015] In some embodiments, the base of the retainer further includes a deflectable baffle that extends across the opening from a fourth portion of the base opposite to the first portion.

[0016] This document also describes suture retainers that include a needle rest portion as described herein. A suture retainer includes at least a retainer base and a needle rest portion. The suture retainer includes a retainer base defined by an outer edge, the base having an opening defined therein. The needle rest portion includes a needle rest portion body positioned across the opening. The needle rest portion body extends longitudinally between a first end portion and a second end portion. A flexible leg-like member connects the first end portion of the body to the retainer base. The flexible leg-like member is configured to pivot the needle rest portion body within the opening and relative to the retainer base. A head extends from the second end portion of the body. The head includes a first nose portion configured to allow a needle to rest along the front of the first nose portion. A first needle contact member is fixed to the base near the head and spaced apart from the nose portion. The first contact member and the nose portion are configured to allow a needle to rest in a first needle space located between the first contact member and the nose portion.

[0017] The suture retainer may further include a suture channel defined therein, the suture channel being positioned along an outer edge. The suture channel may surround a base opening, a needle rest, or at least one of both.

[0018] In some embodiments, the suture retainer is a one-piece retainer. In some embodiments, the suture retainer is a multi-piece retainer, such as a two-piece retainer or a three-piece retainer.

[0019] This article also provides a method for loading the needle rest and / or suture retainer. Attached Figure Description

[0020] This document describes embodiments of the currently disclosed suture winding apparatus, device, method, and / or retainer with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of the needle resting portion as described in at least one embodiment of this document; Figure 1B As described in at least one embodiment herein Figure 1A A partial side view of the needle parking section; Figure 2A This is a top perspective view of the suture retainer including the needle rest portion of FIG1 in an unloaded configuration, as described in at least one embodiment herein; Figure 2B This is a top perspective view of the suture retainer including the needle rest portion of FIG1, as described in at least one embodiment herein, in a loading configuration; Figure 2C As described in at least one embodiment herein Figure 2A and Figure 2B A partial cross-sectional side view of the suture retainer; Figure 3 As described in at least one embodiment herein Figure 2A A partial cross-sectional side view of an alternative suture retainer; Figure 4 This is a top perspective view of the needle resting portion as described in at least one embodiment of this document; Figure 5 This is a top perspective view of the needle resting portion as described in at least one embodiment of this document; Figure 6 It includes, as described in at least one embodiment herein. Figure 4 Top perspective view of the suture retainer in the unloaded configuration at the needle resting part; Figure 7A It includes, as described in at least one embodiment herein. Figure 5 Top perspective view of the suture retainer at the needle rest in the loading configuration; Figure 7B As described in at least one embodiment herein Figure 7A A partial side view of the needle parking section in the loading configuration; Figures 8A to 8C Each is as described in at least one embodiment herein. Figure 7A A top-view perspective view of the suture retainer in its unloaded configuration, schematically illustrating the process of loading one or more needles; Figure 9 This is a top perspective view of a multi-piece suture retainer including a needle rest section, as described in at least one embodiment herein; and Figure 10 This is a top perspective view of a circular suture retainer including a needle resting portion, as described in at least one embodiment of this document. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Embodiments of the needle rest and associated suture retainer disclosed herein will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals identify corresponding elements throughout the views.

[0022] Unless otherwise stated, any further reference to sutures, needles, or suture-needle assemblies shall be understood to refer to any surgical suture (e.g., monofilament sutures, multifilament sutures, coated sutures, barbed sutures, hollow sutures, sutures with needles, needleless sutures, double-needle sutures, absorbable sutures, non-absorbable sutures, etc.), any surgical needle (e.g., curved needles, straight needles, tapered needles, penetrating tapered needles, tapered cutting needles, regular cutting needles, reverse cutting needles, X-shaped cutting needles, blunt needles, blunt tapered needles, diamond-tipped needles, etc.), or any suture-needle assembly (including any combination of sutures and needles).

[0023] Figure 1A An embodiment of the needle rest portion 50 as provided herein is depicted. The needle rest portion 50 includes: a needle rest portion base 52 having an opening 54 defined therein; a needle rest portion body 56 positioned within the opening 54; and a first contact member 70 fixed to the base 52. The body 56 extends along a longitudinal axis A1 between a first end portion (i.e., a fixed end portion) 56a and a second end portion (i.e., a free end portion) 56b. The first end portion 56a is attached to a first portion 52a of the base 52 via a flexible leg-like member 58. The second end portion 56b is separated from the base 52 and includes a head 60 extending from the second end portion. The head 60 includes an actuation eyelet 62 defined therein and a first nose 64. The first contact member 70 and the first nose 64 are generally aligned, and a first needle space 66 is positioned between the first contact member and the first nose. The first contact member 70 and the first nose 64 are configured to allow needles of any shape and / or size (see below) to be inserted. Figure 2B The needle is positioned in the first needle space 66 located between the first contact member and the first nose. The first contact member 70 and the first nose 64 are also configured to allow needles of any shape and / or size (see [reference]) to be placed under zero placement force. Figure 2BIt is placed in the first needle space 66 located between the first contact member and the first nose.

[0024] The actuation aperture 62 is configured to at least partially receive an insertable object (e.g., a tool pin of a needle loading device, or a human operator's finger, or a robotic arm, or even a handheld tool including a pin) within the actuation aperture for pivoting the head 60 (and / or body 56) within the opening 54 and relative to at least one of the base 52, the first needle contact member 70, or both. The first nose 64 has a rounded outer sidewall 65. In some embodiments, the curved outer sidewall 65 of the first nose 64 may include a stepped recess 69 defined in the outer sidewall, the stepped recess 69 ( Figure 1B A needle cavity 67 is formed below the tip 64a of the nose 64. The needle tip 64a is configured to extend at least partially above the top of the needle when the needle is positioned between the first nose 64 (and / or the stepped recess 69) and the first contact member 70.

[0025] The needle rest body 56 may be generally flat, with a thickness approximately equal to the thickness of the needle rest base 52 (and / or the depth of the opening 54). The body 56 is configured to pivot (i.e., rotate or slide laterally) in the plane within the opening 54 and / or relative to the base 52 (and / or the first contact member 70) via a flexible leg 58. The flexible leg 58 has sufficient flexibility to pivot within and / or across the opening 54 when a force is applied thereto, such as... Figure 1A As indicated by the left arrow, the flexible leg retains sufficient elasticity to return to its original position when the force is removed. The pivoting of the flexible leg 58 causes the body 56, along with the head 60, to pivot away from the first contact member 70 within the opening 54, as... Figure 1A As indicated by the right arrow in the image, this is to further enlarge the size of the first needle space 66.

[0026] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1A As further shown, at least one (if not both) of the flexible leg-like member 58 or the head 60 may be defined by raised or vertical walls 59, 68, respectively, having a thickness or height greater than and extending from the needle rest body 56. In some embodiments, the vertical wall 50 of the flexible leg-like member 58 is generally T-shaped, wherein the top crossbar 58a of the T-shape is fixed to the rest base 52, and the straight base 58b of the T-shape is fixed to the rest body 56. The flexible leg-like member 58 may be the only flexible component of the needle rest 50.

[0027] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1AAs further shown, the head 60 is entirely defined by a continuous, raised or vertical head wall 68 that completely surrounds the actuation aperture 62. In some embodiments, the head 60 is generally teardrop-shaped.

[0028] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1A Further illustrated, the first needle contact member 70 is a static contact member anchored to the base 52 in a fixed position. The first contact member 70 may include one or more static fingers 71, 72, particularly a pair of fingers, each finger providing a contact point at its free end for holding the needle against that contact point. The fingers 71, 72 extend generally transversely to the longitudinal axis A1 of the body 56. As depicted, to better accommodate the nonlinear surgical needle within the first needle space 66, in some embodiments, the length of the first finger 71 is shorter than the length of the second finger 72, and / or the first finger 71 and the second finger 72 are not parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the first contact member 70 may be generally U-shaped.

[0029] Figure 2A A retainer 10 is depicted, including the needle rest 50 of FIG1. ​​The retainer 10 is shown as defining a one-piece, generally elliptical retainer, which includes a generally flat retainer base 12, having parallel long sides 14 and a generally semi-circular rounded end 16. However, the retainer 10 is not intended to be limited to a one-piece or elliptical shape, and may be defined as two or more pieces and / or any shape, including but not limited to circles, squares, triangles, rectangles, etc. Figures 9 to 10 Some additional, non-limiting examples are shown. The various needle rests described herein are configured to be combined with any suture retainer.

[0030] The retainer 10 includes a retainer outer wall 18 and a retainer inner wall 20 extending generally vertically from a retainer base 12. The outer wall is positioned along the outer periphery of the retainer base 12, and the retainer inner wall 20 is spaced inwardly relative to and generally parallel to the outer wall 18, thereby defining a suture channel 30 between the outer wall and the inner wall. The retainer inner wall 20 further defines a needle region 34, which includes a needle resting portion 50 within the inner wall 20. A needle base 52 is collinear with or parallel to the retainer base 12. In some embodiments, the needle base 52 and the retainer base 12 may be the same base.

[0031] The inner wall 20 of the retainer includes a combination of a first wall segment 22 and a second wall segment 24. The first wall segment 22 and the second wall segment 24 are spaced apart from each other along the length of the inner wall 20, and a slit 32 is positioned between the first wall segment and the second wall segment. The slit 32 is defined through the base 12 and is spaced apart from each other by either the first wall segment 22 or the second wall segment 24.

[0032] The first wall segment 22 and the second wall segment 24 may alternate around the inner circumference of the retainer base 12. Unlike the second wall segment 24, the first wall segment 22 may vary in shape and / or configuration along different portions of the inner wall 20. For example, in some embodiments, the first wall segment 22 may include a first set of generally symmetrical herringbone wall segments 21a and a second set of generally asymmetrical herringbone wall segments 21b along the rounded end 16 of the retainer 10, while a third set of generally linear wall segments 21c is positioned along the long side 14 of the retainer 10. Symmetry means that the apex 23a of the first set of herringbone segments 21a is centered along the wall segment 21a. Asymmetry means that the apex 23b of the second set of herringbone segments 21b is not centered and / or positioned closer to one end of the segment 21b than the other end.

[0033] Each first wall segment 22 extends generally vertically between a lower first segment portion 22a and an upper first segment portion 22b. Each lower first segment portion 22a is attached to the retainer base 12, particularly to a first outer portion 13 of the retainer base 12. The base 12, particularly the outer base portion 13 of the base 12, extends outward from each lower first segment portion 22a, thereby securing each lower first segment portion 22a of the inner wall 20 to the outer wall 18, particularly to the lower wall portion 18a of the outer wall 18.

[0034] Each second wall segment 24 extends generally vertically between a lower second segment portion 24a and an upper second segment portion 24b. Each lower second segment portion 24a is attached to the base 12, particularly to the inner portion 11 of the base 12. Each second wall segment 24 is separate from (and / or not attached to) the outer wall 18. The base 12 does not extend outward beyond the lower second segment portion 24a of the second wall segment 24, thereby creating a retainer base opening 28 in the suture channel 30 between the lower second segment portion 24a and the lower wall portion 18a of the outer wall 18.

[0035] The tabs 26 extend generally radially from each upper second segment portion 24b of the second wall section 24. The tabs 26 extend radially toward the outer wall 18, particularly the upper wall portion 18b, to a point near but not touching the outer wall 18 (and / or the dotted protrusions 29). The dotted protrusions 29 extend inwardly from the upper wall portion 18b of the outer wall 18 toward the tabs 26 without touching them, to prevent suture slippage after the suture has been loaded and / or wound into the retainer 10 and / or suture channel 30. The dotted protrusions 29 are intermittently spaced around the outer wall 18 in a manner aligned with the position of the tabs 26.

[0036] Generally, the base 12, outer wall 18, and inner wall 20 define a suture channel 30 along the outer perimeter of the retainer 10, wherein the needle rest 50 is surrounded by the suture channel 30. The suture channel 30 is configured to receive the suture 1 loaded / wound therein. Figure 2B The needle resting portion 50 is configured to receive a needle resting therein. More specifically, the outer base portion 13, the outer wall 18, the respective first wall sections 21a to 21c, and the second wall section 24 including the tab 26 define a suture channel 30 that is open (or closed) along different (and / or alternating) portions of the top and bottom of the suture channel 30.

[0037] The outer base portion 13 covers at least a majority (if not all) of the bottom portion 30a of the suture channel 30 along each of the first wall sections 21a to 21c. The upper first section portion 22b, without any tabs, opens at least a majority (if not all) of the top portion 30b of the suture channel 30 along each first wall section 22. This configuration along each first wall section 22 creates a first retainer recess 44, which is configured to receive a winding structure (e.g., a winding pin or winding beam) therein during any suitable suture loading / winding process.

[0038] A tab 26 (with or without a dotted protrusion 29) closes most of the top portion 30b of the suture channel 30 along the second wall section 24. A retainer base opening 28 opens at least most (if not all) of the bottom portion 30a of the suture channel 30 along the second wall section 24. This configuration along each second wall section 24 creates a second retainer recess 46, which is configured to receive a lifting pin and / or winding structure therein during any suitable suture loading / winding process. A first retainer recess 44 opens along the top portion 30b of the suture channel 30, while the second retainer recess 46 opens along the bottom portion 30a of the suture channel 30.

[0039] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2A As further illustrated, the suture retainer 10 includes a plurality of first retainer recesses 44 and a plurality of second retainer recesses 46 positioned along the length of the suture channel 30. In some embodiments, the first retainer recesses 44 and the second retainer recesses 46 alternate along the length of the suture channel 30.

[0040] The first wall section 22 and the second wall section 24 are separated by a slit 32 defined in the retainer base 12. The slit 32 extends radially inward from the retainer base opening 28 between each side of the wall sections 22, 24. The retainer base opening 28 is positioned below the tab 26 to allow a lifting pin to lift the tab 26 into an open configuration (not shown), thereby allowing the suture 1 to be loaded and / or wound into the retainer 10. Since the second wall section 24 is separated from the outer wall 18 and positioned between a pair of adjacent slits 32 connected to the retainer base opening 28, the second wall section 24 deflects vertically along the second inner base portion 11 when the tab 26 is generally raised, particularly by the lifting pin. By deflecting along the second inner base portion 11, the initial configuration or angle between the tab 26 and the upper second section portion 24b can be achieved in a closed configuration ( Figure 2A ) and open configuration ( Figure 2C Both remain essentially unchanged without causing significant deformation of the tab 26. For example, in a closed configuration... Figure 2A The generally L-shaped combination of the second wall section 24 (and / or the upper second section portion 24b) with the protrusion 26 shown in the diagram Figure 2C It remains essentially unchanged in the open configuration. Since the first wall section 22 is fixed to the outer wall 18 via the outer retainer base portion 13, the first wall section 22 cannot pivot and / or deflect.

[0041] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the tab 26 described herein can be configured to deform during jacking, while the inner wall 22 and the retainer base 12 remain in a fixed, rigid position to open the suture channel 30, and the retainer base may not be positioned with a slit between the inner wall segments.

[0042] The retainer 10 further includes a needle region 34 defined by a vertical inner wall 20. The needle region 34 includes a needle located therein. Figure 1A The needle rest portion 50, as described above, includes: a needle rest portion base 52 having a needle rest portion opening 54 defined therein; a needle rest portion body 56 pivotally positioned within the opening 54; and a first contact member 70 fixed to a second portion 52b of the needle rest portion base 52. A flexible leg-like member 58 connects the rest portion body 56 to the first portion 52a of the rest portion base 52, and a head 60 includes an eyelet 62 and a first nose 64. The second portion 52b of the rest portion base 52 is orthogonal to the first portion 52a of the rest portion base 52. The needle rest portion base 52 is collinear or parallel to the holder base 12. The perimeter or shape of the needle rest portion opening 54 generally corresponds to the perimeter or shape of the needle rest portion body 56 in a mirror image. The needle rest 50 is shown in an unloaded configuration (i.e., without a surgical needle). Figure 2A ) and needle loading configuration ( Figure 2B ).

[0043] The retainer base 12 may further include a cut 38 sized sufficiently to allow an end user (e.g., a medical professional) to manipulate the suture 1 and / or needle 2 directly or via a robotic arm to remove the needle 2 from the needle rest 50 and / or retainer 10. The base 12 may also include a plurality of raised label slots 42 positioned on top of the base 12 and within the needle region 34. The raised label slots 42 may be configured to attach a label (not shown), particularly a desiccant label, to at least a portion of the needle region 34 and / or the needle rest 50, at least covering the pointed end 2a of the needle 2 and / or the needle rest 50.

[0044] Figure 2B Showing Figure 2A The retainer 10 is configured in both needle-loading and suture-loading configurations and, after loading, is mounted on a tool device 90 (e.g., a needle and / or suture loading device). The tool device 90 includes a plurality of outer suture pins 92 (dashed lines), a plurality of inner suture pins 94, and / or a needle rest pivot pin 96 (i.e., an insertable object or tool pin). The outer suture pins 92 are spaced apart intermittently around the circumference of the tool device 90, and more specifically, the outer suture pins 92 are positioned below the tab 26 and through the base opening 28 of the retainer 10 to push the tab upward during suture loading to open the suture channel 30. The outer suture pins 92 for pushing can also be configured and / or used as winding pins adapted to wind the suture around the suture when it is loaded into the suture channel 30. The inner pin 94 is configured to wind the suture from inside the needle region 34 (and / or needle rest 50) through an opening in the inner wall 20 into the suture channel 30. The needle rest pivot pin 96 is positioned in a pivot channel 97 defined in the tool device 90 and is configured to be received in an actuation eyelet 62 of the head 60 of the needle rest 50. The pivot pin 96 may also pass through the rest opening 54. Movement of the pivot pin 96 within the channel 97 will pivot at least a portion of the head 60 relative to the base 52, the first contact member 70, and / or the body 56. Figures 8A to 8C The pivot pin 96 can pivot (i.e., slide laterally or rotate) across the parking opening 54, thereby using the pivot pin to pull the head 60 and the first nose 64 (and / or the body 56) away from the first contact member 70, so as to expand the first needle space 66, thereby allowing the needle to be positioned in the first needle space with zero placement force.

[0045] Although the needle rest pivot pin 96 is shown to enter the eyelet 62 from below the retainer 10, in some embodiments, the pivot pin 96 may alternatively enter the eyelet 62 from above the retainer 10, particularly where the retainer does not have a needle rest opening through which it passes.

[0046] like Figure 2B Further depicted, in the loading configuration, the needle rest 50 can hold or retain needles of any shape and / or size. For example, the needle rest 50 is shown to hold a large curved surgical needle 2a, while demonstrating that the curved surgical needle 2a can alternatively have a smaller size 2b (dashed line) or a minimum size 2c (dashed line) relative to the needle 2a. Although shown in different sizes and / or curvatures, as described in more detail below, the needle rest 50 is also configured to hold needles of different shapes other than simple curved needles.

[0047] As depicted, the surgical needle 2a rests inside the nasal cavity 67 and abuts against the stepped recess 69, while the tip or edge 64a of the first nasal portion 64 is positioned on the top of the curved surgical needle 2a. With the needle 2a positioned between the contact member 70 and the first nasal portion 64, lateral movement of the needle 2a within the needle rest 50 and / or retainer 10 is largely prevented. With the needle 2a positioned below the overhanging tip 64a of the first nasal portion 64, vertical movement of the needle 2a from the needle rest 50 and / or retainer 10 is also largely prevented.

[0048] Now go to Figure 4 According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the needle parking portion is generally designated as needle parking portion 150. Needle parking portion 150 is similar to... Figures 1A to 1B The needle resting part 50 is therefore described herein only for the purpose of identification, focusing on its structural and operational differences. Throughout the following disclosure, the same reference numerals (i.e., 50, 150, 250, etc.) will be used to identify the same elements.

[0049] Generally speaking, Figure 4The needle rest portion 150 is similar to the needle rest portion 50 and includes: a needle rest portion base 152 having an opening 154 defined therein; a needle rest portion body 156 positioned within the opening 154 and connected to a first portion 152a of the base 152 via a flexible leg-like member 158; a first contact member 170 fixed to a second portion 152b of the base 152; and a head 160 including an eyelet 162 and a first nose 164. The body 156 extends along a longitudinal axis A2 between a first end portion (i.e., a fixed end portion) 156a and a second end portion (i.e., a free end portion) 156b. The first contact member 170 and the first nose 164 are generally aligned, and a first needle space 166 is positioned between the first contact member and the first nose. The first contact member 170 and the first nose 164 are configured to allow a needle of any shape or size to rest in a first needle space 166 located between the first contact member and the first nose.

[0050] Figure 4 The needle rest portion 150 further includes a flexible curved wall 174, a second contact member 178, and a deflectable baffle 176. In some embodiments, the needle rest portion 150 includes a plurality of flexible members that attach the needle rest portion body 156 to the needle rest portion base 152 (unlike a needle rest portion 50 having only a single flexible member for attachment, such as a flexible leg 58). Specifically, the needle rest portion 150 includes a first flexible member (e.g., a flexible leg 158) and a second flexible member (e.g., a flexible curved wall 174), the first flexible member connecting a first end portion 156a of the body 156 to a first portion 152a of the base 152, and the second flexible member connecting a second end portion 156b (particularly the head portion 160, more particularly defining the outer wall 168 of the eyelet 162) to a third portion 152c of the needle rest portion base 152. Like the flexible leg 158, the flexible wall 174 is flexible enough that it can pivot within the opening 154 when a force is applied thereto, such as Figure 4 As indicated by the arrow and shown in dashed lines, the flexible wall maintains sufficient elasticity to return to the original position of the flexible component when the force is removed. The flexible wall 174 further assists in pressing the first nose 164 against the first contact member 170 to enhance the holding strength of the needle rest 150. In addition, by positioning the flexible wall 174 generally opposite the first contact member 170 (laterally) and the flexible leg 158 (longitudinally), the flexible wall 174 also helps to maintain the rest body 156 and / or head 160 coplanar with the rest opening 154, thereby limiting and / or preventing any vertical tilting of the body 156 during pivoting and / or when removing the needle from the needle rest 150.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As further illustrated, the needle resting portion 150 may include a first contact member 170 and a second contact member 178, both of which are static contact members positioned in a fixed position on the top of the base 152. The first contact member 170 and the second contact member 178 are spaced apart from each other longitudinally along the base 152.

[0052] The first contact member 170 includes a pair of parallel fingers 171, 172, each finger providing a contact point at its free end to hold the needle against that contact point. The fingers 171, 172 extend generally transversely to the longitudinal axis A2 of the body 156. As depicted, in some embodiments, to better accommodate the nonlinear surgical needle within the first needle space 166, the length of the first finger 171 is shorter than the length of the second finger 172. The second contact member 178 includes only a single third finger providing a contact point at its free end. The free end of the second contact member 178 is generally longitudinally aligned with the free end of the second finger 172 to accommodate a straight needle between the two free ends.

[0053] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As further illustrated, the needle rest 150 may include a deflectable baffle 176. The deflectable baffle 176 is located in and extends across the rest opening 154. The deflectable baffle 176 is spaced apart from and opposite the head 160. The deflectable baffle 176 is configured to deflect vertically outward from the opening when pressed. For example, when attempting to remove a rested needle, surgical clamps can press against the baffle 176, forcing the baffle to reposition and deflect outward away from the needle and / or base. This allows the clamps to pass over the needle, although positioned generally along the base.

[0054] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As further shown, the head 160 includes a raised or vertical head wall 168 that completely surrounds the actuation aperture 162 and extends from the aperture 162 in a generally V-shape to form a nose 164. The nose 164 may or may not include stepped recesses along its curved sidewalls.

[0055] Now go to Figure 5 According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the needle parking portion is generally designated as needle parking portion 250. Needle parking portion 250 is similar to... Figure 4 The needle resting part 150 is described herein only for the purpose of identification, and the same reference numerals (i.e., 50, 150, 250, etc.) will be used to identify the same elements.

[0056] Generally speaking, Figure 5 The needle rest portion 250 is similar to the needle rest portion 150 and includes: a needle rest portion base 252 having an opening 254 defined therein; a needle rest portion body 256 positioned within the opening 254 and connected to a first portion 252a of the base 252 via a flexible leg-like member 258; a first contact member 270 fixed to a second portion 252b of the base 252; and a head 260 including an actuation eyelet 262 and a first nose 264. The needle rest portion 250 also includes a flexible curved wall 274, a second contact member 278, and a deflectable baffle 276, the flexible curved wall bridging the opening 254 between the head 260 and a third portion 252c of the base 252. The body 156 extends between a first end portion (i.e., a fixed end portion) 256a and a second end portion (i.e., a free end portion) 256b.

[0057] like Figure 5 As further shown, the distal end portion 256b of the needle resting part body 256 is divided into a first arm 255 and a second arm 257, with a flexible neck 261 positioned between the first arm and the second arm. The head 260 is connected to the body 256 via the flexible neck 261, while remaining separated from and / or spaced apart from the first arm 255 and the second arm 257, respectively. The flexible neck 261 is configured to allow the head 260 to pivot along the opening 260 and / or the base 252, and to pivot independently of the first arm 255 and the second arm 257, respectively.

[0058] The first arm 255 is generally linear and narrows toward its free end portion 255a. A raised or vertical stop member 286 is positioned on the first arm 255, particularly on the free end portion 255a. As provided in more detail below, the stop member 286 is configured to prevent the head 260 from pivoting or rotating beyond a certain position along the opening 254 or the base 252.

[0059] The second arm 257 is generally non-linear and includes at least one elbow 259 that bends the second arm toward the first contact member 270 to avoid and bypass the first nose 264 (and / or head 260). The free end portion 257a of the second arm 257 includes a second nose 282 spaced apart from and positioned between the first nose 264 and the first contact member 270. The second nose 282 divides the previously described first needle space (66, 166) into a first needle subspace 266a and a second needle subspace 266b, wherein the first needle space 266a is positioned between the second nose 282 and the first contact member 270, and the second needle space 266b is positioned between the first nose 264 and the second nose 282.

[0060] Similar to the first nose 264, the second nose 282 includes a curved face 285 configured to engage a needle thereon. In some embodiments, the curved face 265 of the first nose 264 and / or the curved face 285 of the second nose 282 may respectively include stepped recesses 269, 289 defined therein. Each stepped recess 269, 289 creates a needle cavity 267, 287 below the tips 264a, 282a of the first nose 264 and / or the second nose 282. Figure 7B Tips 264a and 282a are configured to extend at least partially above the tip of the needle when the needle is positioned in the first needle subspace 266a or the second needle subspace 266b, respectively.

[0061] The second nose portion 282 further includes a back surface 283, which includes a third needle contact member 284. The front surface 265 of the first nose portion 264 is separated from the third contact member 284 on the back surface 283 of the second nose portion 282 by the second needle subspace 266b. The third contact member 284 may include one or more contact points. As shown, in some embodiments, the third contact member 284 may include two spaced-apart contact points separated by a concave back surface. The second nose portion 282 may also include a distal lug 292 that extends along the opening 254 and is configured to rest the needle on the distal lug when the needle is positioned in the second needle subspace 266b.

[0062] The needle rest portion 250 includes three or more flexible members. Specifically, the needle rest portion 250 includes a first flexible member (e.g., a flexible leg 258), a second flexible member (e.g., a flexible curved wall 274), and a third flexible member (i.e., a flexible neck 261). The first flexible member connects a first end portion 256a of the body 256 to the base 152. The second flexible member connects the head portion 260, more particularly the outer wall 268 defining the eyelet 262, to a third portion 252c of the needle rest base 252. The third flexible member connects the body 256 to the head 260. Like the flexible leg 258 and the flexible wall 274, the flexible neck 261 is flexible enough to pivot within the opening 254 when a force is applied thereto, thereby causing the head 260 to also pivot within the opening relative to the body 256 and / or the base 252. Figure 5As indicated by the arrow, it maintains sufficient elasticity to return to the original position of the flexible component when the force is removed. The flexible neck 261 further assists in pressing the first nose 264 against the third contact member 282 of the second nose 282 to enhance the retention strength of the needle rest 250 in the second needle subspace 266b. The flexible neck 261, in conjunction with the arms 255, 257 which are fixed in position relative to each other, assists in pressing the second nose 282 against the static first contact member 270 to enhance the retention strength of the needle resting in the first needle subspace 266a.

[0063] Figures 6 to 7B A suture retainer 100 is depicted, the suture retainer including Figure 4 Needle parking section 150 or Figure 5 The needle rest 250. The suture retainer 100 is similar to... Figures 2A to 2B The suture retainer 10 is designed such that the same reference numerals (i.e., 18, 118, etc.) will be used to identify the same elements. It is conceivable that any of the needle rests described herein may be included in any of the suture retainers described herein.

[0064] Figure 6 The suture retainer 100 is shown in an empty or unloaded configuration in which the retainer 100 has no suture, needle and / or suture needle assembly. Figures 7A to 7B The suture retainer 100 is shown in a loaded configuration, in which the retainer 100 includes at least one needle 2a to 2c. For clarity, the suture is not shown, but it may also be loaded with suture.

[0065] The retainer 100 includes a retainer outer wall 118 and a retainer inner wall 120 extending generally vertically from a retainer base 112. The outer wall 118 is positioned along the outer periphery of the retainer base 112, and the retainer inner wall 120 is spaced inwardly relative to and generally parallel to the outer wall 118, thereby defining a suture channel 130 between the outer wall and the inner wall. A needle rest 150 is located within the inner wall 120. A needle base 152 is collinear with or parallel to the retainer base 112. In some embodiments, the needle base 152 and the retainer base 112 may be the same base.

[0066] like Figure 6As further illustrated, the inner wall 120 includes a plurality of intermittently spaced inner wall segments 124. Slits 132 are positioned on both sides of each inner wall segment 124. The slits 132 are defined through the retainer base 112. In addition to the slits 132, the inner wall segments 124 are further spaced by an outer portion 113 of the retainer base 112 extending to the outer wall 118. The retainer base 112 may not include any inner wall segments along the outer portion 113, particularly along the rounded end 116 of the suture retainer 100. In some embodiments, the suture retainer 100 includes only the inner wall segments 124.

[0067] Each inner wall segment 124 extends generally vertically between a lower segment portion 124a and an upper segment portion 124b. Each lower segment portion 124a is attached to a retainer base 112, particularly to the inner portion 111 of the retainer base 112. Each inner wall segment 124 is separate from (and / or not attached to) the outer wall 118. The retainer base 112 does not extend outward beyond the lower segment portion 124a of the inner wall segment 124, thereby creating a retainer base opening 128 in the suture channel 130 between the lower segment portion 124a and the lower wall portion 118a of the outer wall 118.

[0068] The tab 126 extends generally radially from each upper segment portion 124b of the inner wall section 124. The tab 126 extends radially toward the outer wall 118, particularly the upper wall portion 118b, to a point near but not touching the outer wall 118 (and / or the dotted protrusion 129). The dotted protrusion 129 extends inward from the upper wall portion 118b of the outer wall 118 toward the tab 126 without touching the tab, to prevent suture slippage after the suture is loaded and / or wound into the retainer 100 and / or suture channel 130. The dotted protrusion 129 is intermittently spaced around the outer wall 118 in a manner aligned with the position of the tab 126. The tab 126 may include a tab cut 127 designed to mirror and / or avoid the dotted protrusion 129.

[0069] Generally, the base 112, outer wall 118, and inner wall 120 define a suture channel 130 along the outer perimeter of the retainer 100, wherein a needle rest 150 is surrounded by the suture channel 130. The suture channel 130 is configured to receive sutures loaded / wound therein. The needle rest 50 is configured to receive needles resting therein. More specifically, the outer base portion 113, the outer wall 118, and the inner wall segment 124 including the tab 126 define the suture channel 130, which is open (or closed) at different (and / or alternating) portions of the top and bottom of the suture channel 130.

[0070] The outer base portion 113 covers at least most (if not all) of the bottom portion of the suture channel 130 between each inner wall segment 124. The top portion of the suture channel 130 above the outer retainer base portion 113 is open.

[0071] A tab 126 (with or without a dotted protrusion 129) along the inner wall segment 124 closes most of the top portion of the suture channel 130. A retainer base opening 128 along the inner wall segment 124 opens at least most (if not all) of the bottom portion of the suture channel 130. This configuration along each inner wall segment 124 creates a retainer recess 146, which is configured to receive a lifting pin and / or winding structure therein during any suitable suture loading / winding process. The retainer recess 146 opens along the bottom portion of the suture channel 130.

[0072] Slits 132 extend radially inward from the retainer base opening 128 between each inner wall segment 124. The base opening 128 is positioned below the tab 126 to allow a lifting pin to lift the tab 126 into an open configuration (not shown), thereby allowing suture loading and / or winding into the retainer 100. Since the inner wall segments 124 are separated from the outer wall 118 and positioned between a pair of adjacent slits 132 connected to the retainer base opening 128, the inner wall segments 124 deflect vertically along the inner base portion 111 as the tab 126 is generally raised, particularly by the lifting pin. By deflecting along the inner base portion 111, the initial configuration or angle between the tab 126 and the upper segment portion 124b can remain substantially unchanged in both the closed and open configurations (similar to...). Figure 2C The shown tab 26), without significantly deforming tab 126. For example, in a closed configuration Figure 6 and Figure 7A The generally L-shaped combination of the inner wall segment 124 (and / or the upper segment portion 124b) and the tab 126 remains substantially unchanged in the open configuration (similar to...). Figure 2C The protrusion shown is 26).

[0073] like Figure 6 Further depicted, in some embodiments, the retainer 100 further includes a needle region 134 defined by a vertical inner wall 120 and including a needle located therein. Figure 4The needle rest portion 150, as described above, includes: a needle rest portion base 152 having a needle rest portion opening 154 defined therein; a needle rest portion body 156 pivotally positioned within the opening 154; and a first contact member 170 and a second contact member 178 fixed to the needle rest portion base 152. A flexible leg-like member 158 connects the rest portion body 156 to the rest portion base 152. The rest portion body 156 includes a head 160 having an eyelet 162 and a first nose 164. A flexible wall 174 connects the head 160 and / or the eyelet 162 to the base 152. A deflectable baffle 176 also extends across the needle rest portion opening 154 toward the head 160. The needle rest base 152 is collinear or parallel to the retainer base 112. The needle rest 150 is shown in an unloaded configuration (i.e., without a surgical needle).

[0074] The retainer base 112 may further include a plurality of raised label slots 142 positioned on the top of the base 112 and positioned along the parallel long side 114 of the retainer 100 between spaced-apart inner wall sections 124. The raised slots 142 extend outward beyond the inner wall sections 124 into the suture channel 130, thereby narrowing the suture channel 130 along the parallel long side 114 of the retainer 100. The raised label slots 142 may be configured to attach a label (not shown), particularly a desiccant label, to at least a portion of the needle region 134 and / or the needle rest 150, to at least cover the sharp end of the needle.

[0075] like Figure 7A Further depicted, in some embodiments, the retainer 100 further includes a needle region 134 defined by a vertical inner wall 120, and includes a needle located therein. Figure 5The needle rest portion 250, as described above, includes: a needle rest portion base 252 having a needle rest portion opening 254 defined therein; a needle rest portion body 256 pivotally positioned within the opening 254; and a first contact member 270 and a second contact member 278 fixed to the needle rest portion base 252. The second contact member can be used in conjunction with the first contact member to hold a straight needle (shown in dashed lines). A flexible leg-like member 258 connects the rest portion body 256 to the rest portion base 252. The rest portion body 256 is connected to a head 260 via a flexible neck 261. The head 260 is positioned between a first arm 255 and a second arm 257 of the body 256. The first arm 255 and the second arm 257 are fixed relative to each other, and the head 260 is movable relative to the arms 255, 257. The head 260 includes an eyelet 262 and a first nose 264. A first arm includes a stop member 286, and a second arm 257 includes a second nose 282. A flexible wall 274 connects the head 260 and / or the eyelet 262 to the base 252. A deflectable baffle 276 also extends across the needle rest opening 254 toward the head 260. The needle rest base 252 is collinear with or parallel to the retainer base 212. The needle rest 250 is shown in a loaded configuration, i.e., including two or more needles of different sizes, diameters, and / or shapes.

[0076] like Figure 7B As shown, similar to the first nose 264, the second nose 282 includes a curved face 285 configured to engage a needle thereon. In some embodiments, the curved face 265 of the first nose 264 and / or the curved face 285 of the second nose 282 may respectively include stepped recesses 269, 289 defined therein. Each stepped recess 269, 289 creates a needle cavity 267, 287 below the tips 264a, 282a of the first nose 264 and / or the second nose 282. Figure 7B Each tip 264a, 282a is configured to extend at least partially above the top of the needles 2c, 2a when the needle is positioned in the first needle subspace 266a or the second needle subspace 266b, respectively.

[0077] The second nose portion 282 further includes a back surface 283, which includes a third contact member 284. The front surface 265 of the first nose portion 264 is separated from the third contact member 284 on the back surface 283 of the second nose portion 282 by a second needle subspace 266b. The third contact member 284 may include one or more contact points 284a, 284b. As shown, in some embodiments, the third contact member 284 may include two spaced-apart contact points separated by a concave back surface 283. The second nose portion 282 may also include a distal lug 292 that extends along the opening 254 and is configured to rest the needle on the distal lug when the needle is placed in the second needle subspace 266b.

[0078] Figures 8A to 8C A method for loading at least one needle and / or suture-needle assembly into the needle rest 250 and / or suture retainer described herein is described. Loading can be performed manually, automatically, or both. A non-limiting example of automated loading includes placing the needle rest and / or suture retainer onto a loading device 90 and manipulating the needle rest 250 via an insertable object, such as a tool pin 96 (i.e., a needle rest pivot pin). A non-limiting example of manual loading includes manipulating the needle rest and / or suture retainer using an insertable object (such as a human operator's finger) or via a handheld pivot pin.

[0079] For the sake of brevity, pluggable objects designed to cover manual and / or automated processes will be used for description. Figures 8A to 8C The method. For clarity, the surgical needle is not shown, but it can be attached to the end of any surgical needle opposite to the sharp or piercing end.

[0080] like Figure 8A As shown, initially, in the initial unloaded or empty configuration, the insertable object 96 is positioned within the actuation eye 262 of the needle rest 250 and / or the suture retainer 100. In the initial configuration, the first needle space and the second needle space are in their narrowest state, i.e., the first nose is closest to the second nose and the second nose is closest to the first contact member, thereby forming a narrow first needle space and a second needle space, or a closed first needle space and a second needle space.

[0081] like Figure 8B As shown, the insertable object 96 is moved outward (as indicated by the arrow), thereby sliding laterally along the opening 254 or base 252 toward the outer wall 118 of the retainer 100 (i.e., in the upper left direction in the top view shown) to a first position, thereby causing the head 260 and body 256 to also move and / or slide away from the first contact member 270, thereby widening the first needle space 266a between the second nose 282 and the first contact member 270. The needle 2a can then be inserted... Figure 7B It is loaded into the first subspace 266a. Since the flexible neck 261 has greater stiffness or less flexibility than the flexible leg 258, the entire body 256 slides together with the head 260, so that the distance between the head 260 and the arms 255, 257 is initially kept approximately the same.

[0082] like Figure 8C As shown, the insertable object 96 continues to move outward to the second position, thereby allowing the head 260 to continue moving outward and / or sliding, while the first arm 255 and the second arm 257 are prevented from moving by the stop member 286, thereby widening the second needle space 266b between the first nose 264 and the second nose 282, while the first needle space 266a remains widened and unchanged. In the second position of the head 260, both the first needle space 266a and the second needle space 266b are configured to hold needles therein, and no placement force needs to be applied via the needles, regardless of their shape or size. When the stop member 286 contacts the sidewall or thickness of the needle rest base 252, the stop member 286 prevents the first arm 255 from rotating further. Once the first arm 255 is locked and cannot move further outward, any additional force applied to the head 260 by the object 96 will cause the neck 261 to flex, thereby allowing the head 260 to continue moving outward, while the first arm 255 and the second arm 257 do not move outward. As the first nostril 264 continues to move away from the second nostril 282, the second needle space 266b widens.

[0083] In an alternative embodiment, it is conceivable that the flexible neck may have less stiffness or greater flexibility compared to the flexible leg members, thereby allowing the head to move and / or slide outward between the first and second arms, while the first and second arms remain substantially stationary. This would initially open the second needle space. Then, when the head collides with the first arm and / or the stop member, the head will push the first arm (and second arm) away from the first contact member, moving and / or sliding, thereby subsequently opening the first needle space.

[0084] In some embodiments, after the two subspaces are opened / widened by the head being in the second outermost position, needles can be loaded into either the first needle subspace or the second needle subspace simultaneously.

[0085] In some embodiments, after one or two subspaces are opened / widened by positioning the head in a first outermost position or a second outermost position, needles can be loaded into the first needle subspace or the second needle subspace in sequence.

[0086] Once one or more needles are positioned in the first needle subspace and / or the second needle space, the insertable object can either retract inward toward its initial position or retract directly from the eyelet. In either case, the memory properties of the flexible plastic components, particularly the flexible leg-like member 258, the flexible neck 261, and / or the flexible wall 274, will force the body 256 to move inward toward the first contact member 270, thereby narrowing and / or closing each of the first needle subspace 266a and the second needle space 266b where one or more needles are positioned. Figure 7A ).

[0087] Removing a needle from the needle rest described herein typically does not require much force. The needle rest described herein, and in particular the flexible component described herein, is designed to have sufficient planar force to hold the needle laterally and / or horizontally between the nose and the contact member, while allowing the needle to be removed from the rest approximately vertically with the minimum force required to overcome the overhang of the nose tip.

[0088] Although the needle rest described herein is depicted together with a suture retainer that is generally oval in shape and made of a one-piece material, the needle rest described herein can be used with any suitable retainer. Figures 9 to 10 Some additional, non-limiting examples are depicted. For example, Figure 9 An elliptical two-piece suture retainer 300 is depicted, comprising a base 312 and a cap 311, the base and the cap being configured to snap together and / or thermally welded to each other, as known in the art. In some embodiments, the cap 311 may include a recessed platform 313 defining a suture channel 330 surrounding it. The recessed platform 313 includes a needle rest portion positioned thereon as described herein, such as the needle rest portion 50 of FIG. 1. The needle rest portion 50 is attached to the platform 313 via flexible leg-like members 58. However, in some embodiments, the needle rest portion 50 may not include an opening. Instead of pivoting within and / or across an opening in the platform 313, a needle body 56 may be vertically spaced from the platform 313 by the flexible leg-like members 58 and pivot parallel to and along the platform 313. Unlike the case in the needle rest portion 50 of FIG. 1, which is substantially collinear with the base 12, the body 56 is parallel to the platform 313. The needle resting part 50 is positioned to place the end portion of the resting needle on the platform cutout 317.

[0089] In another non-restrictive example, Figure 10A circular, one-piece molded suture retainer 400 is depicted, comprising a base 412 wherein a needle rest 250 is centered within an inner wall 420. The retainer 400 may include a paper cover (not shown) designed to snap under a rigid upper tab 417 on an outer wall 418 to close the suture channel 430 and / or the retainer 400.

[0090] The needle rest and / or suture retainer described herein can be manufactured using any suitable moldable material known to those skilled in the art. In embodiments, moldable plastics such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polysulfone, polyethylene terephthalate, and other suitable polymeric materials can be used to form the needle rest and / or suture retainer. The needle rest and / or suture retainer described herein are typically injection molded; however, the structure can be formed using any other conventional process and its equivalents, including thermoforming processes.

[0091] While several embodiments of this disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings, they are not intended to limit the disclosure thereto, as the aim is to make the scope of the disclosure as broad as is permitted in the art, and this specification should be read in the same manner. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as restrictive, but merely as examples of embodiments. Other modifications within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will be contemplated by those skilled in the art.

[0092] The invention can be further described with reference to the following numbered paragraphs: 1. A needle resting portion for securing a needle, the needle resting portion comprising: a base having an opening defined therein; a needle resting portion body positioned within the opening, the body extending longitudinally between the first end portion and the second end portion, a flexible leg connecting the first end portion of the body to a first portion of the base, the flexible leg being configured to pivot the body across the opening and relative to the base, and a head extending from the second end portion of the body, the head including a first nose configured to allow a needle to rest along the front of the first nose; and a first needle contact member secured to the second portion of the base and spaced apart from the first nose near the head, the first needle contact member and the first nose being configured to allow a needle to rest in a first needle space located between the first needle contact member and the first nose.

[0093] 2. The needle resting portion as described in paragraph 1, wherein the body is generally flat and has a body thickness approximately equal to the base thickness.

[0094] 3. The needle resting portion as described in paragraph 2, wherein the thickness of at least one of the flexible leg-like member, the head, or both is greater than the thickness of the body, the thickness of the base, or at least one of both.

[0095] 4. The needle rest portion as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the head includes an actuation aperture defined through the head, the actuation aperture being configured to receive an insertable object therein for pivoting the head within the opening and relative to at least one of the base, the head, the first needle contact member, or any combination thereof.

[0096] 5. The needle resting portion as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the front of the first nose portion includes a first rounded outer wall, the first rounded outer wall including a stepped recess defined therein, the stepped recess being configured to allow the needle to rest along the stepped recess, wherein when the needle rests between the first nose portion and the first needle contact member, the tip of the first nose portion extends at least partially above the top of the needle.

[0097] 6. The needle resting portion as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, wherein the first needle contact member includes at least a first static finger member, the first static finger member being spaced apart from a second static finger member along the base, and the front of the first nose portion being laterally aligned between the first static retaining member and the second static retaining member.

[0098] 7. The needle resting part as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the flexible leg-shaped member is the only flexible component of the needle resting part.

[0099] 8. The needle resting portion as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, further comprising a curved flexible wall positioned across the opening and attached to the head at a first end portion and to a third portion of the base at a second end portion, the flexible wall being configured to force the head to pivot toward the first needle contact member.

[0100] 9. The needle resting portion as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein the distal end portion of the body is divided into a first arm and a second arm, a flexible neck is positioned between the first arm and the second arm, the head is connected to the body via the flexible neck and is separated from the first arm and the second arm, the flexible neck being configured to allow the head to pivot across the opening and relative to the first arm and the second arm.

[0101] 10. The needle resting portion as described in paragraph 9, wherein the first arm is generally linear and includes a vertical stop positioned on a first free end portion of the first arm.

[0102] 11. The needle resting portion as described in any one of paragraphs 9 or 10, wherein the second arm is substantially non-linear and includes an elbow that bends the second arm toward the first needle contact member to avoid and bypass the first nose, and a second free end portion of the second arm includes a second nose.

[0103] 12. The needle resting portion as described in paragraph 11, wherein the second nose is positioned between the first nose and the first needle contact member, thereby dividing the first needle space into a first needle subspace and a second needle space, wherein the first needle space is positioned between the front of the second nose and the first contact member, and the second needle space is positioned between the front of the first nose and the back of the second nose.

[0104] 13. The needle resting portion as described in paragraph 12, wherein the back side of the second nose portion includes a third needle contact member and a lug.

[0105] 14. The needle resting portion as described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, wherein the base further includes a deflectable baffle extending across the opening from a fourth portion of the base opposite to the first portion.

[0106] 15. A suture retainer comprising: a base defined by an outer edge, the base having an opening defined therein; a needle resting portion including a body positioned across the opening, the body extending longitudinally between the first end portion and the second end portion, a flexible leg connecting the first end portion of the body to the base, the flexible leg being configured to pivot the body within the opening and relative to the base, and a head extending from the second end portion of the body, the head including a first nose configured to allow a needle to rest along the front of the first nose; and a first needle contact member secured to the base near the head and spaced apart from the nose, the first contact member and the nose being configured to allow a needle to rest in a first needle space located between the first contact member and the nose.

[0107] 16. The suture retainer as described in paragraph 15, further comprising a suture channel defined therein, the suture channel being positioned along the outer edge.

[0108] 17. The suture retainer as described in paragraph 16, wherein the suture channel surrounds the opening, the needle rest, or at least one of both.

[0109] 18. The suture retainer as described in any one of paragraphs 15 to 17, wherein the retainer is a one-piece retainer.

[0110] 19. The suture retainer as described in any one of paragraphs 15 to 17, wherein the retainer is a two-piece retainer.

[0111] 20. A method of loading a needle into a needle resting portion, comprising: pivoting a needle resting portion body in a first direction laterally across an opening defined in a base and laterally away from a first needle contact member, thereby creating a first needle space between the needle resting portion body and the first needle contact member, the needle resting portion body extending longitudinally between a first end portion and a second end portion being pivotally attached to a first portion of the base by a flexible leg-like member, and the first needle contact member being fixed to a second portion of the base; placing a first needle into the first needle space; and pivoting the needle resting portion body in a second direction laterally across the opening in the base and laterally toward the first needle contact member, thereby resting the first needle in the first needle space located between the body and the first needle contact member.

[0112] 21. The method as described in paragraph 20, wherein the placement force generated by the needle on the needle resting portion when the needle is placed in the needle space is zero.

[0113] 22. The method as described in paragraph 21, wherein the second end portion of the body includes a head having a nose configured to allow the needle to rest along the front side of the nose, wherein the front side has a rounded outer wall including a stepped recess defined therein, the stepped recess being configured to extend at least partially above the top of the needle when the needle rests between the nose and the needle contact member.

[0114] 23. A method of loading a needle into a needle rest portion connected to a base having an opening defined therein, the needle rest portion including a needle rest portion body positioned with the opening and extending longitudinally between the first end portion and the second end portion, the second end portion being divided into a first arm and a second arm, a flexible neck positioned between the first arm and the second arm, a head connected to the body via the flexible neck and including a first nose and an actuation eye defined therein, the method comprising: pivoting the head of the needle rest portion body laterally outward in a first direction across the opening defined in the base and away from a first needle rest portion contact. To a first position, in which the first needle space between the second nose, located on the free end portion of the second arm, and the first needle contact member is widened; the head of the needle resting part is further pivoted across the opening in the first direction to a second position, in which the second needle space between the back surfaces of the first nose and the second nose is widened; one or more needles are positioned in at least one of the first needle space or the second needle space; and the head of the needle resting part body is laterally pivoted inward in a second direction opposite to the first direction to rest the one or more needles in at least one of the first needle space or the second needle space.

[0115] 24. The method as described in paragraph 23 further includes: positioning an insertable object into the actuation orifice of the needle resting portion to pivot the head.

[0116] 25. The method as described in paragraph 23, wherein the size of the first needle space remains unchanged when the head pivots to the second position to widen the first needle space.

Claims

1. A needle resting part for fixing a needle, the needle resting part comprising: A base having an opening defined therein; A needle-holding body is positioned within the opening and extends longitudinally between a first end portion and a second end portion. A flexible leg connects the first end portion of the body to a first portion of the base. The flexible leg is configured to pivot the body across the opening and relative to the base. A head extends from the second end portion of the body and includes a first nose configured to allow a needle to rest along the front of the first nose. as well as A first needle contact member is fixed to a second portion of the base near the head and spaced apart from the first nose. The first needle contact member and the first nose are configured to allow the needle to rest in a first needle space located between the first needle contact member and the first nose.

2. The needle resting portion as described in claim 1, wherein, The body is generally flat and has a body thickness that is approximately equal to the base thickness.

3. The needle resting portion as described in claim 2, wherein, The thickness of the flexible leg, the head, or at least one of the two is greater than the thickness of the body, the thickness of the base, or at least one of the two thicknesses.

4. The needle resting part as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The head includes an actuation aperture defined therethrough, the actuation aperture being configured to receive an insertable object therein. For use in pivoting the head within the opening and relative to at least one of the base, the head, the first needle contact member, or any combination thereof.

5. The needle resting portion as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The front of the first nose includes a first rounded outer wall, the first rounded outer wall including a stepped recess defined therein, the stepped recess being configured to allow the needle to rest along the stepped recess, wherein when the needle rests between the first nose and the first needle contact member, the tip of the first nose extends at least partially above the top of the needle.

6. The needle resting portion as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The first needle contact member includes at least a first static finger member, which is spaced apart from a second static finger member along the base, and the front of the first nose is laterally aligned between the first static retaining member and the second static retaining member.

7. The needle resting portion as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, This flexible leg-shaped component is the only flexible part of the needle resting section.

8. The needle resting portion as claimed in any of the preceding claims further includes a curved flexible wall positioned across the opening and attached to the head at a first end portion and to a third portion of the base at a second end portion, the flexible wall being configured to force the head to pivot toward the first needle contact member.

9. The needle resting part as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The distal end portion of the body is divided into a first arm and a second arm, with a flexible neck positioned between the first arm and the second arm. The head is connected to the body through the flexible neck while being separated from the first arm and the second arm. The flexible neck is configured to allow the head to pivot across the opening and relative to the first arm and the second arm.

10. The needle resting portion as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The first arm is generally linear and includes a vertical stop positioned on a first free end portion of the first arm.

11. The needle resting portion as described in any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein, The second arm is generally non-linear and includes an elbow that causes the second arm to bend toward the first needle contact member to avoid and bypass the first nose, and the second free end portion of the second arm includes the second nose.

12. The needle resting portion as claimed in claim 11, wherein: The second nose is positioned between the first nose and the first needle contact member, thereby dividing the first needle space into a first needle subspace and a second needle space; The first needle space is positioned between the front of the second nose and the first contact member; The second needle space is positioned between the front of the first nose and the back of the second nose; and The back of the second nose includes a third needle contact member and a lug.

13. The needle resting portion as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The base further includes a deflectable baffle that extends across the opening from a fourth portion of the base opposite to the first portion.

14. A suture retainer, comprising: A base, defined by an outer edge, having an opening defined therein; The needle resting portion includes a body positioned across the opening, the body extending longitudinally between a first end portion and a second end portion, a flexible leg connecting the first end portion of the body to the base, the flexible leg being configured to pivot the body within the opening and relative to the base, and a head extending from the second end portion of the body, the head including a first nose configured to allow the needle to rest along the front of the first nose; as well as A first needle contact member is fixed to the base near the head and spaced apart from the nose. The first contact member and the nose are configured to allow the needle to rest in a first needle space located between the first contact member and the nose.

15. A method for loading a needle into a needle resting portion, comprising: The needle resting part body of the needle resting part is pivoted laterally across the opening defined in the base in a first direction and pivoted laterally away from the first needle contact member, thereby creating a first needle space between the needle resting part body and the first needle contact member. The needle resting part body, which extends longitudinally between a first end portion and a second end portion, is pivotally attached to a first portion of the base by a flexible leg-like member, and the first needle contact member is fixed to a second portion of the base. Place the first needle into the first needle space; as well as The needle-stopping part body of the needle-stopping part is pivoted laterally across the opening in the base in the second direction and laterally pivoted toward the first needle contact member, thereby stopping the first needle in the first needle space located between the body and the first needle contact member.

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