Suture Fixation Assembly

Abstract

The suture fixation assembly includes a central hub. The central hub has a base portion with a through-opening and a base fixation surface. The base fixation surface extends along a base fixation ramp and along an axis that forms an acute angle with the axis of the central hub. The assembly also includes a lock collar configured to be coupled to the central hub. The lock collar includes a collar fixation ramp having a collar fixation surface. This collar fixation surface extends along a collar ramp axis that forms an acute angle with the hub axis. When a segment of the suture is inserted through the opening of the base portion and the lock collar is fixed to the central hub, a first portion of the suture engages a portion of the base fixation surface and a second portion of the suture engages a portion of the collar fixation surface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to surgical devices and, more particularly, to assemblies for securing sutures. [Background technology]

[0002] Sutures are sterilized fibers used to close wounds and provide strength during the healing process. In ancient times, metal wires and natural fibers were used for this purpose. More recently, synthetic fibers such as polyamide, polyester, and polypropylene have been introduced, which are more compatible with human tissue. These suture materials are biostable and maintain their strength for several years. After the wound has healed successfully, the sutures must be removed in a separate surgery.

[0003] To avoid the need for a separate procedure to remove sutures, bioabsorbable sutures have been developed. These bioabsorbable sutures degrade in the body environment and lose their strength within a few months. The use of threads made from ordinary gut, a natural collagen-based material, as absorbable sutures has been described since ancient times.

[0004] More modern examples of absorbable sutures include polylactic acid (PLA), an absorbable, non-toxic, and non-irritating synthetic material useful for surgical applications. From this, polymers of glycolic acid and copolymers of glycolic acid and lactic acid have been developed as effective materials for absorbable sutures.

[0005] Absorbable sutures are widely used, but when using small suture sizes such as 6-0, 7-0, 8-0, 9-0, 10-0, and 11-0, it can be difficult to secure the ends of the absorbable sutures securely. Therefore, there is a need for a suture anchor for small suture sizes that is easy to use, reliable, and made of bioabsorbable material. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1A] 1A-1C illustrate an embodiment of a suture anchor assembly. [Figure 1B] 10A and 10B are views of the suture anchor assembly from different directions. [Figure 1C] 10A and 10B are views of the suture anchor assembly from different directions. [Figure 1D] 10A and 10B are views of the suture anchor assembly from different directions. [Figure 1E] 10A and 10B are views of the suture anchor assembly from different directions.

[0007] [Figure 2A] 2A is a cross-sectional view of the suture anchor assembly of FIG. 1B taken along line 2A-2A.

[0008] [Figure 2B] 2B is a cross-sectional view of the suture anchor assembly of FIG. 1A taken along line 2B-2B.

[0009] [Figure 2C] 2C is a cross-sectional view of the suture anchor assembly of FIG. 1B taken along line 2C-2C.

[0010] [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the suture anchor assembly of FIG. 2C in cross section.

[0011] [Figure 3A] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a central hub and locking collar incorporated into the suture anchoring assembly of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a central hub and locking collar incorporated into the suture anchoring assembly of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a central hub and locking collar incorporated into the suture anchoring assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0012] [Figure 4A] 10A and 10B show the central hub of the suture anchor assembly. [Figure 4B] 10A and 10B are views of the central hub of the suture anchor assembly from different directions. [Figure 4C]10A and 10B are views of the central hub of the suture anchor assembly from different directions. [Figure 4D] 10A and 10B are views of the central hub of the suture anchor assembly from different directions.

[0013] [Figure 5A] 5A is a cross-sectional view of the central hub of FIG. 4A taken along line 5A-5A.

[0014] [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the central hub of FIG. 5A.

[0015] [Figure 5C] 5C is a cross-sectional view of the central hub of FIG. 4A taken along line 5C-5C.

[0016] [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a perspective view showing the central hub of FIG. 5C in cross section.

[0017] [Figure 5E] 5B shows the base fixed ramp of the central hub of FIG. 5A. FIG. [Figure 5F] 5B is a view of the central hub base fixed ramp of FIG. 5A from a different direction.

[0018] [Figure 5G] 5G is a cross-sectional view of the central hub of FIG. 4A taken along line 5G-5G of FIG. 4C.

[0019] [Figure 6A] 10A and 10B show a locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly. [Figure 6B] 10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG. [Figure 6C] 10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG. [Figure 6D] 10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG. [Figure 6E]10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG. [Figure 6F] 10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG. [Figure 6G] 10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG. [Figure 6H] 10 is a view of the locking collar of the suture anchoring assembly as viewed from a different direction. FIG.

[0020] [Figure 7A] 7A is a cross-sectional view of the locking collar of FIG. 6B taken along line 7A-7A.

[0021] [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing the locking collar of FIG. 7A in cross section. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing the locking collar of FIG. 7A in cross section. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the locking collar of FIG. 7A. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0022] As shown in Figures 1A-1E, one embodiment of a surgical fixation assembly 10 includes a central hub 12 and a locking collar 14 secured to the central hub 12. As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 2A, the central hub 12 includes an opening 16 extending through a base portion 18 of the central hub 12, with a base locking ramp 20 extending from a surface of the base portion 18. The base locking ramp 20 has a first end 24 that is located at or near the surface of the base portion 18 and adjacent the end of the opening 16. A base locking surface 22 extends along a portion of the base locking ramp 20. The locking collar 14 includes a collar locking ramp 26 having a collar locking surface 28. When a segment of suture 30 is passed through aperture 16 in base portion 18 and positioned along base fixation surface 22 of base portion 18, as shown in FIG. 3A , and locking collar 14 is secured to central hub 12, e.g., by one or more snap-fit ​​features, as shown in FIG. 3C , a first portion of the segment of suture 30 engages one or more portions of base fixation surface 22 and a second portion of the segment of suture 30 engages one or more portions of collar fixation surface 28, thereby securing the segment of suture 30 between base fixation surface 22 and collar fixation surface 28. In one embodiment, central hub 12 and locking collar 14 are each fabricated from a bioabsorbable material, thereby configuring central hub 12 and locking collar 14 to degrade within a body cavity after a minimally invasive procedure. During minimally invasive surgery, a surgeon can secure a segment of suture 30 within surgical fixation assembly 10 by inserting the segment of suture 30 through aperture 16 and along base fixation surface 22, and then coupling locking collar 14 to central hub 12. The engagement of central hub 12 and locking collar 14 allows smaller diameter sutures (such as 8-0, 9-0, 10-0, and 11-0 sutures) to be securely and easily secured by surgical fastening assembly 10.

[0023] Looking more closely at the surgical fastening assembly 10, as shown in FIG. 4A, the central hub 12 extends from a first end 34 to a second end 36 along a hub axle 32. The hub axle 32 extends along or parallel to the Z axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4D. The central hub 12 includes a base portion 18 having a first surface 38 disposed at a first end 40 of the base portion 18 and a second surface 42 disposed at a second end 44 of the base portion 18. The base portion 18 may be disc-shaped or generally cylindrical. When viewed along the hub axle 32, the base portion 18 may have a circular (or nearly circular) cross-sectional shape. The first surface 38 and the second surface 42 may each be planar or substantially planar, or may have any other shape or combination of shapes.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 4B, the aperture 16 extends through the base portion 18. In particular, as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A, a first end 46 of the aperture 16 is disposed on the first surface 38 of the base portion 18, and a second end 48 of the aperture 16 is disposed on the second surface 42 of the base portion 18. The aperture 16 has any suitable shape or combination of shapes to accommodate one or more portions (or segments) of suture. For example, the aperture 16 can have a "figure eight" shape when viewed along the hub axle 32. Furthermore, the aperture 16 need not have a uniform cross-sectional shape from the first end 46 to the second end 48 along an axis parallel to (or aligned with) the hub axle 32. In some embodiments, the aperture 16 widens from the second end 48 to the first end 46.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 4A , the central hub 12 can include a first arm 50 extending from a first end 54 to a second end 56 along a first arm axis 52. The first arm axis 52 extends parallel to or along the hub axis 32. The first end 54 of the first arm 50 is coupled to a portion of the base portion 18, such as a portion of the second surface 42 of the base portion 18. The second end 56 of the first arm 50 is located at or near the second end 36 of the central hub 12. The first arm 50 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape along the first arm axis 52, such as a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape. In this manner, the first arm 50 is cantilevered from the second surface 42 of the base portion 18, and when a force is applied to or near the second end 56 of the first arm 50 and directed perpendicular to the first arm axis 52 (i.e., along the Y axis of the reference coordinate system shown in Figures 4A and 4D), the second end 56 of the first arm 50 can bend in a direction along the Y axis relative to the fixed first end 54 of the first arm 50.

[0026] Continuing with reference to FIG. 4A , the first arm mating feature 58 is located at or near the second end 56 of the first arm 50. However, the first arm mating feature 58 may be located away from the second end 56 of the first arm 50, or at any suitable location between the first end 54 and the second end 56. The first arm mating feature 58 is any feature or combination of features configured to engage with a first collar mating feature 60 of the locking collar 14 (see, for example, FIG. 2C ), as described in more detail below. For example, the first arm mating feature 58 is a slot extending along the outward-facing surface 62 of the first arm 50, the slot extending in a direction perpendicular to both the first arm axis 52 and the Y axis of the reference coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4D (i.e., along the X axis of the reference coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4D ). The slot has one or more undercuts configured to engage with corresponding ridges of the first collar mating feature 60 of the locking collar 14. The undercut portion allows the first arm portion 50 to be displaced relative to the locking collar 14 in a first direction, but prevents the first arm portion 50 from moving relative to the locking collar 14 in a second direction.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 4A , the central hub 12 includes a second arm 62 that is a mirror image of but otherwise identical to the first arm 50. The plane of symmetry is a plane parallel to the X-Z plane (of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B ) that passes through the hub axis 32. The second arm 62 extends from a first end 66 to a second end 68 along a second arm axis 64. The second arm axis 64 extends parallel to (or along) the hub axis 32 and is parallel to the first arm axis 52. The first end 66 of the second arm 62 is coupled to a portion of the base 18, such as a portion of the second surface 42 of the base 18. The second end 68 of the second arm 62 is located at or near the second end 36 of the central hub 12. The second arm 62 has any suitable cross-sectional shape along the second arm axis 64, such as rectangular or substantially rectangular. In this manner, the second arm 62 is cantilevered from the second surface 42 of the base portion 18, and when a force is applied to or near the second end 68 of the second arm 62 and the force is directed perpendicular to the second arm axis 64 (i.e., along the Y axis of the reference coordinate system shown in Figures 4A and 4D), the second end 68 of the second arm 62 can bend in a direction along the Y axis relative to the fixed first end 66 of the second arm 62.

[0028] The second arm mating feature 70 can be located at or near the second end 68 of the second arm 62. However, the second arm mating feature 70 can also be located away from the second end 68 of the second arm 62, or at any suitable location between the first end 66 and the second end 68. The second arm mating feature 70 can be any feature or combination of features configured to engage with the second collar mating feature 72 of the locking collar 14 (see, for example, FIG. 2C ), as described in more detail below. For example, the second arm mating feature 70 is a slot extending along the outward surface 62 of the second arm 62. The slot extends in a direction perpendicular to both the second arm axis 64 and the Y axis of the reference coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4D (i.e., extends along the X axis of the reference coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4D ). The slot has one or more undercuts configured to engage with ridges of the second collar mating feature 72 of the locking collar 14. The undercut portion allows the first arm portion 50 to be displaced relative to the locking collar 14 in a first direction, but prevents the first arm portion 50 from moving relative to the locking collar 14 in a second direction.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4A , the central hub 12 includes a base fixed lamp 20 extending from a first end 24 to a second end 74 along a lamp base axis 73 that is parallel (or approximately parallel) to the hub axis 32. The first end 24 of the fixed lamp 20 is located at or near the second end 44 of the base 18. The first end 24 of the fixed lamp 20 may extend from the second surface 42 of the base 18 toward the second end 36 of the central hub 12. In some embodiments, a portion of the first end 24 of the fixed lamp 20 is located at or near the second end 48 of the opening 16. The second end 74 of the fixed lamp 20 is located away from the second end 56 of the first arm 50 and is located between the first end 54 and the second end 56 of the first arm 50 (i.e., approximately midway between the first end 54 and the second end 56). Similarly, the second end 74 of the fixed lamp 20 is positioned away from the second end 68 of the second arm 62 and is positioned between the first end 66 and the second end 68 of the second arm 62 (i.e., approximately midway between the first end 66 and the second end 68).

[0030] The fixed ramp 20 extends laterally (i.e., generally along the X-axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4D ) between the first arm 50 and the second arm 62. That is, a first lateral end 75 of the base fixed ramp 20 is located at or near an inner surface 76 of the first arm 50, and a second lateral end 78 of the fixed ramp 20 is located at or near an inner surface 80 of the second arm 62.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 4A , base-fixation ramp 20 includes base-fixation surface 22. Base-fixation surface 22 extends along a portion of base-fixation ramp 20 from first end 82 to second end 84 along base ramp axis 73 (see FIG. 5A ) or substantially along base ramp axis 73. Base-fixation surface 22 may extend along any portion or portions of base-fixation ramp 20, allowing all or a portion of base-fixation surface 22 to engage a segment of suture 30 when central hub 12 is secured to locking collar 14, as described below. In one embodiment, first end 82 of base-fixation surface 22 is located at or near first end 24 of base-fixation ramp 20, and second end 84 of base-fixation surface 22 is located at or near second end 74 of base-fixation ramp 20. However, the first end 82 of the base fixing surface 22 may be spaced apart from the first end 24 of the base fixing ramp 20, and / or the second end 84 of the base fixing surface 22 may be spaced apart from the second end 74 of the base fixing ramp 20. In some embodiments, the first end 82 of the base fixing surface 22 may be located at or near the second surface 42 of the base portion 18, and the first end 82 of the base fixing surface 22 may be adjacent to the second end 48 of the opening 16 (see FIG. 5A ). Referring to FIG. 5F , the base fixing surface 22 may extend laterally to the first lateral end 75 of the fixed ramp 20 and may also extend laterally to the second lateral end 78 of the fixed ramp 20. However, the base fixing surface 22 may not extend completely to the first lateral end 75 of the fixed ramp 20 and / or may not extend completely to the second lateral end 78 of the fixed ramp 20.

[0032] When viewed in a cross section along the Y axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C (the cross section is parallel to the XZ plane, passing through the hub axle 32 in FIG. 5A and offset from the hub axle 32 in FIG. 5C), the base fixation surface 22 extends from the first end 82 to the second end 84 along an axis 164 that forms an acute angle with the hub axle 32. This acute angle may be between 5° and 30°, for example. The axis 164 is linear and extends through or along the base fixation surface 22 in a general direction from the first end 82 to the second end 84, generally corresponding to the orientation of the base fixation surface 22 relative to the hub axle. For example, referring to FIG. 5A, the axis 164 intersects a first portion at or near the first end 82 and a second portion at or near the second end 84.

[0033] Base fixation surface 22 may have any suitable texture, combination of textures, or other surface treatment that facilitates engagement of segments of suture 30 when central hub 12 is coupled to locking collar 14. For example, base fixation surface 22 may include a plurality of ridges, bumps, protrusions, steps, nubs, or a combination of any or all of these features.

[0034] In one embodiment, the base fixing surface 22 has a general "pig's mouth" configuration. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5F , the base fixing surface 22 includes a first trough 166a that extends from the first end 82 to the second end 84 of the base fixing surface 22 on a first side of the hub axle 32 (or axle 164). Additionally, as shown in FIG. 5F , the base fixing surface 22 includes a second trough 166b that extends from the first end 82 to the second end 84 of the base fixing surface 22 on a second side of the hub axle 32. The first trough 166a is separated from the second trough 166b by a ridge 168 that extends from the first end 82 to the second end 84 of the base fixing surface 22 generally along the hub axle 32 (or axle 164). 4A, 5F, and 5G, first trough 166a extends laterally (i.e., along the Y-axis of the reference coordinate system of FIG. 5F) from a first end at or near first lateral end 75 of fixed ramp 20 to a second end at or near first portion of ridge 168, with a cross-sectional shape that substantially resembles an arc or a portion of a circle. Similarly, second trough 166b extends laterally (i.e., along the Y-axis of the reference coordinate system of FIG. 5F) from a first end at or near second portion of ridge 168 to a second end at or near second lateral end 78 of fixed ramp 20, with a cross-sectional shape that is the same as or substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of first trough 166a.

[0035] When first trough 166a is viewed along the Y-axis in a cross-section cut along a plane parallel to the X-Z plane of the reference coordinate system (i.e., FIG. 5C, which is a cross-section taken along line 5C-5C in FIG. 4A), first trough 166a has a series of steps or shelves 170a, 170b, 170c extending from first end 82 to second end 84 of base fixation surface 22. Each shelf 170a, 170b, 170c includes an edge ridge 172a, 172b, 172c (a raised portion with an edge). These edge ridges are configured to bite into or engage with segments of suture 30 when locking collar 14 is secured to central hub 12, preventing the segments of suture 30 from slipping relative to locking collar 14 and / or central hub 12. In some embodiments, first trough 166a may include additional or fewer shelves. The second trough 166b may be the same (or substantially the same) as the first trough 166a, but the second trough 166b may have any number or configuration of shelves. Furthermore, the base fixing surface 22 may include only a single trough, or may include three or more troughs. There may be multiple troughs, each having any suitable configuration or combination of configurations.

[0036] In some embodiments, the base fixation surface 22 may have a general configuration of multiple stairs (not shown) similar to the shelves 170a, 170b, and 170c. However, in this configuration, the base fixation surface 22 may not have the first trough 166a and the second trough 166b. Instead, the base fixation surface 22 may include a single multiple staircase (not shown) extending along the base fixation surface 22 from the first end 82 to the second end 84 along the axis 164. In some embodiments, the base fixation surface 22 may include between three and eight staircases. In some embodiments, the collar fixation surface 28 may have corresponding multiple staircases similar to (or identical to) the staircases of the base fixation surface 22, and may be oriented such that the multiple staircases of the base fixation surface 22 interlock or substantially interlock or mate with the multiple staircases of the collar fixation surface 28 when the central hub 12 is secured to the locking collar 14. However, in some configurations, the steps of the base securing surface 22 may be oriented so as not to interlock or mate with the steps of the collar securing surface 28 when the central hub 12 is secured to the locking collar 14.

[0037] Returning to FIG. 1A, the surgical fastening assembly 10 also includes a locking collar 14 secured to the central hub 12. As shown in FIG. 6A, the locking collar 14 extends along a locking collar axis 86 from a first end 88 to a second end 90. The locking collar axis 86 is parallel to or collinear with the Z-axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIG. 6B. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, when assembled to the central hub 12, the first end 88 of the locking collar 14 is disposed at or near the second face 42 (or second end 44) ​​of the base portion 18. Additionally, the second end 88 of the locking collar 14 is disposed at or near the second end 36 of the central hub 12.

[0038] 6A, the locking collar 14 includes a first slot 92 adapted to receive at least a portion of the first arm 50 of the central hub 12. As shown in FIG. 2C, the first slot 92 penetrates the top surface 89 of the locking collar 14 and extends from a first end 94 to a second end 96 along a first slot axis 93. The first slot axis 93 is parallel to the locking collar axis 86 and is parallel (or collinear) with the first arm axis 52 when the first arm 50 is disposed within the first slot 92. When the first arm 50 is within the first slot 92, the first end 54 of the first arm 50 is disposed at or near the first end 88 of the locking collar 14, and the second end 56 of the first arm 50 is disposed at or near the second end 90 of the locking collar 14. In one embodiment, the second end 56 of the first arm 50 is positioned between the first end 88 and the second end 90 of the locking collar 14, and the second end 56 of the first arm 50 is spaced from the second end 90 of the locking collar 14.

[0039] The first slot 92 is defined by two or more surfaces that are planar or substantially planar and extend along or generally along (or parallel to) the locking collar axis 86. The two or more surfaces may cooperate to define a cross-sectional shape (as measured perpendicular to the locking collar axis 86) that corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the cross-sectional shape (as measured perpendicular to the locking collar axis 86) of the first arm 50 of the central hub 12. For example, the cross-sectional shape (as measured perpendicular to the locking collar axis 86) of the first slot 92 may be substantially rectangular, the cross-sectional shape (as measured perpendicular to the first arm axis 52) of the first arm 50 of the central hub 12 may be substantially rectangular, and the dimensions of the first slot 92 may be slightly larger than the dimensions of the first arm 50 of the central hub 12, such that the first arm 50 of the central hub 12 is insertable into the first slot 92 and fits snugly within the first slot 92.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 6B , the one or more surfaces defining the first slot 92 at least partially define a first collar arm 98 of the locking collar 14. The first collar arm 98 extends along a first collar arm axis 100 from a first end 102 to a second end 104. The first collar arm axis 100 extends parallel to or along the locking collar axis 86. The first collar arm 98 is formed within or along a body portion 105 of the locking collar 14. The first collar arm 98 is defined by one or more slot segments extending through or along the body portion 105, such as a first longitudinal slot 106, a second longitudinal slot 108, and a transverse slot 110. The first end 102 of the first collar arm 98 is coupled to a portion of the body portion 105 remote from the first end 88 of the locking collar 14. The second end 104 of the first collar arm 98 may be located at or near the second end 96 of the locking collar 14 .

[0041] The first collar arm 98 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape along the first collar arm axis 100, such as a rectangular or substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. In this manner, the first collar arm 98 is cantilevered from a portion of the body 105 of the locking collar 14, and when a force is applied at or near the second end 104 of the first collar arm 98 and directed perpendicular to the first collar arm 98 (i.e., along the Y axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B ), the second end 104 of the first collar arm 98 will deflect in a direction along the Y axis relative to the fixed first end 102 of the first collar arm 98.

[0042] 2C , the first collar mating feature 60 of the locking collar 14 may be located at any suitable location on the first collar arm 98 so as to engage with the first arm mating feature 58 when the first arm 50 is fully inserted into the first slot 92 of the locking collar 14. In one embodiment, the first collar mating feature 60 is located at or near the second end 104 of the first collar arm 98. However, the first collar mating feature 60 may be located away from the second end 104 of the first collar arm 98, or may be located at any suitable location between the first end 102 and the second end 104.

[0043] The first collar mating feature 60 may be any feature or combination of features configured to engage with the first arm mating feature 58 of the first arm 50 of the central hub 12, as shown in FIG. 2C . For example, the first collar mating feature 60 may be a protruding or raised feature extending along the inner surface 112 of the first collar arm 98, with the slot extending in a direction perpendicular to both the first collar arm axis 100 and the Z axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIG. 6B (i.e., along the X axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIG. 6B ). The protruding or raised feature of the first collar mating portion 60 is configured to be at least partially received in the slot of the first arm mating feature 58, such that when the first arm 50 of the central hub 12 is fully inserted into the first slot 92 of the locking collar 14 (in a first direction relative to the locking collar 14), the protruding or raised feature is configured to be received in the slot, and this engagement may prevent the first arm 50 from disengaging from the locking collar 14 (i.e., in a second direction relative to the locking collar 14).

[0044] Referring to FIG. 6A, the locking collar 14 may include a second slot 114 adapted to receive at least a portion of the second arm 62 of the central hub 12. The second slot 114 is a mirror image of (or identical to) the first slot 92, with its plane of symmetry being a plane parallel to the X-Z plane (the X-Z plane of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B) passing through the locking collar axis 86. As shown in FIG. 2C, the second slot 114 extends through the top surface 89 of the locking collar 14 from a first end 116 to a second end 118 along a second slot axis 115. This second slot axis 115 is parallel to the locking collar axis 86 and is parallel (or collinear) with the second arm axis 64 when the second arm 62 is disposed within the second slot 114. When the second arm 62 is positioned within the second slot 114, the first end 66 of the second arm 62 is positioned at or near the first end 88 of the locking collar 14, and the second end 68 of the second arm 62 is positioned at or near the second end 90 of the locking collar 14. In some embodiments, the second end 68 of the second arm 62 may be positioned between the first end 88 and the second end 90 of the locking collar 14 and spaced apart from the second end 90 of the locking collar 14.

[0045] The second slot 114 is defined by two or more surfaces. These surfaces are planar or substantially planar and extend along or approximately along (or parallel to) the lock collar axis 86. The two or more surfaces cooperate to define a cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the lock collar axis 86) that corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the second arm axis 64) of the second arm 62 of the central hub 12. For example, the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the lock collar axis 86) of the second slot 114 is substantially rectangular, and the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the second arm axis 64) of the second arm 62 of the central hub 12 is substantially rectangular. The dimensions of the second slot 114 are slightly larger than the dimensions of the second arm 62 of the central hub 12, such that the second arm 62 of the central hub 12 is insertable into the second slot 114 and fits snugly within the second slot 114.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 6B , the one or more surfaces defining the second slot 114 also at least partially define a second collar arm 120 of the locking collar 14. The second collar arm 120 extends along a second collar axis 122 from a first end 124 to a second end 126. The second collar axis 122 extends parallel to or along the locking collar axis 86. The second collar arm 120 is formed within or along the body portion 105 of the locking collar 14. The second collar arm 120 is defined by one or more slot segments extending through or along the body portion 105, such as a first longitudinal slot 128, a second longitudinal slot 130, and a transverse slot 132. The first end 124 of the second collar arm 120 is coupled to a portion of the body portion 105, such as a portion of the body portion 105 remote from the first end 88 of the locking collar 14. The second end 126 of the second collar arm 120 is located at or near the second end 118 of the locking collar 14 .

[0047] The second collar arm 120 has any suitable cross-sectional shape along the second collar axis 122, such as a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape. In this manner, the second collar arm 120 is cantilevered from a portion of the body portion 105 of the locking collar 14. When a force is applied to or near the second end 126 of the second collar arm 120 and the force is directed perpendicular to the second collar arm 120 (i.e., along the Y-axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B ), the second end 126 of the second collar arm 120 deflects in a direction along the Y-axis relative to the fixed first end 124 of the second collar arm 120.

[0048] 2C , the second collar mating feature 72 of the locking collar 14 may be located at any suitable position on the second collar arm 120 so as to be able to engage with the second arm mating feature 70 when the second arm 62 is fully inserted into the second slot 114 of the locking collar 14. In some embodiments, the second collar mating feature 72 may be located at or near the second end 126 of the second collar arm 120. However, the second collar mating feature 72 may also be located away from the second end 126 of the second collar arm 120, or may be located at any suitable position between the first end 124 and the second end 126.

[0049] The second collar mating feature 72 may be any feature or combination of features configured to engage with the second arm mating feature 70 of the second arm 62 of the central hub 12, as shown in FIG. 2C . For example, the second collar mating feature 72 may be a protruding or raised feature extending along the inwardly facing surface 134 of the second collar arm 120, with the slot extending in a direction perpendicular to both the second collar axis 122 and the Z axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIG. 6B (i.e., along the X axis of the reference coordinate system shown in FIG. 6B ). The protruding or raised feature of the second collar mating feature 72 is configured to be at least partially received in the slot of the second arm mating feature 70. When the second arm 62 of the central hub 12 is fully inserted into the second slot 114 of the locking collar 14 (in a first direction relative to the locking collar 14), the protruding or raised feature is received in the slot, and this engagement can prevent the first arm portion 50 from disengaging from the locking collar 14 (i.e., in a second direction relative to the locking collar 14).

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4A , the locking collar 14 includes a collar locking ramp 26. The collar locking ramp 26 extends from a first end 144 to a second end 146 along a ramp collar axis 148 and includes two or more segments, one or more of which are nonlinear, e.g., arc-shaped. The first end 144 of the collar locking ramp 26 is located at or near the top surface 89 of the locking collar 14 and / or the first end 88 of the locking collar 14. The first end 144 of the collar locking ramp 26 is located at or near a portion of an upper opening 150 formed in the top surface 89 of the locking collar 14. The upper opening 150 is in communication with a portion of the first slot 92 and the second slot 114. The second end 146 of the collar locking ramp 26 may be located at or near the second end 90 of the locking collar 14, or may be spaced longitudinally (i.e., along the Z axis of the reference coordinate system of FIG. 7A ) from the second end 90 of the locking collar 14. The second end 146 of the collar locking ramp 26 may be located at or adjacent a side opening 152 formed in the outer periphery 154 of the body portion 105 of the second end 90 of the locking collar 14 .

[0051] The collar locking ramp 26 includes a collar locking surface 28 that extends along all or a portion of the collar locking ramp 26. The collar locking surface 28 may extend from a first end 156 to a second end 158. The collar locking surface 28 may extend along any portion or portions of the collar locking ramp 26 such that all or a portion of the collar locking surface 28 can engage a segment of the suture 30 when the central hub 12 is secured to the locking collar 14. In one embodiment, the first end 156 of the collar locking surface 28 is at or near the first end 144 of the collar locking ramp 26, and the second end 158 of the collar locking surface 28 is located at a midpoint between the first end 144 and the second end 146 of the collar locking ramp 26. However, the first end 156 of the collar locking surface 28 may be spaced apart from the first end 156 of the collar locking ramp 26, and / or the second end 158 of the collar locking surface 28 may be located at or near the second end 146 of the collar locking ramp 26.

[0052] 7A, which has a cross section parallel to the XZ plane and extending through the locking collar axis 86. The collar locking surface 28 extends from a first end 156 to a second end 158 along a curved profile having the shape of a portion of a circular arc. The cross-sectional shape may be uniform from the first lateral end 160 of the collar locking ramp 26 to the second lateral end 162 of the collar locking ramp 26 (i.e., along the Y axis). However, the cross-sectional shape of the collar locking surface 28 may vary along the Y axis from the first lateral end 160 of the collar locking ramp 26 to the second lateral end 162 of the collar locking ramp 26, thereby forming one or more complex surfaces along all or a portion of the collar locking surface 28.

[0053] The collar fixation surface 28 may have any suitable texture, combination of textures, or other surface treatment that facilitates engagement of the segments of the suture 30 when the central hub 12 is coupled to the locking collar 14. For example, the collar fixation surface 28 may include a plurality of ridges, bumps, protrusions, steps, nubs, or a combination of any or all of these features. In some embodiments, the collar fixation surface 28 may have the same surface features or surface treatment as the base fixation surface 22 of the central hub 12. However, in some embodiments, all or a portion of the collar fixation surface 28 may be smooth or substantially smooth, without any surface treatment or surface features.

[0054] 6A and 6H , collar fixing surface 28 may extend laterally to first lateral end 160 of collar fixing ramp 26 and may extend laterally to second lateral end 162 of collar fixing ramp 28. However, collar fixing surface 28 (or one or more portions of collar fixing surface 28) may not extend completely to first lateral end 160 of collar fixing ramp 26 and / or may not extend completely to second lateral end 162 of collar fixing ramp 26.

[0055] Referring to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7A, the locking collar 14 includes a collar channel 136. The collar channel 136 extends through the locking collar 14 along a collar axis 138 from a first end 140 to a second end 142. The collar axis 138 may have two or more segments, one or more of which may be non-linear, e.g., arc-shaped. The first end 140 of the collar channel 136 is defined in part by an upper opening 150 located in the upper surface 89. The second end 142 of the locking collar channel 136 is defined at least in part by a side opening 152 formed or located in an outer surface 154 of the body portion 105. The collar channel 136 is further defined by one or more surfaces of or within the locking collar 14, such as one or more surfaces of the collar locking ramp 26. The one or more surfaces of the collar locking ramp 26 may include all or a portion (or two or more portions) of the collar locking surface 28.

[0056] During surgery, a surgeon may wish to secure a segment of suture 30 used in surgery. A suture 30 segment is one or more portions of a suture, such as one or more free ends of a suture used to secure a patient's tissue or an object to a patient's tissue. Regardless of the type of suture or the suture segment's end function, the surgeon threads the suture 30 segment (along with other suture 30 segments) through the opening 16 in the central hub 12, positioning a portion of the suture 30 segment on the base fixation surface 22 and generally aligning it with the hub axis 32 (see FIG. 3A). The surgeon then feeds the suture 30 segment through (along) the collar channel 136 of the locking collar 14 (see FIG. 7C). This causes the suture 30 segment to extend through the top opening 150 of the locking collar 14, along the collar fixation surface 28, and through the side opening 152. As shown in FIG. 3B, the first arm 50 of the central hub 12 is inserted into the first slot 92 of the locking collar 14 (see FIG. 2C). The second arm 62 of the central hub 12 is inserted into the second slot 114 of the locking collar 14 (see FIG. 2C). Next, as shown in FIGS. 2C and 3C, the first arm 50 and the second arm 62 of the central hub 12 are advanced into the first slot 92 and the second slot 114 of the locking collar 14, respectively, until the first arm mating feature 58 engages with the first collar mating feature 60 and the second arm mating feature 70 engages with the second collar mating feature 72. In this position, the segment of suture 30 is disposed under pressure between the base fixation surface 22 and the collar fixation surface 28. This pressure is maintained by the first arm mating feature 58 engaging with the first collar mating feature 60 and the second arm mating feature 70 engaging with the second collar mating feature 72. The segments of suture 30 are further retained by the texture, combination of textures, or other surface treatments of base fixation surface 22 and collar fixation surface 28.For example, edge ridges 172a, 172b, 172c on corresponding shelves 170a, 170b, 170c of first and second troughs 166a, 166b can bite into or apply pressure to a portion of a segment of suture 30 when central hub 12 is coupled to locking collar 14.

[0057] The surgeon can position the suture anchor assembly 10 so that it maintains proper tension on the suture when the central hub 12 is coupled to the locking collar 14. The surgeon can repeat this process for other desired portions of the suture 30 in the manner described above. Because the suture anchor assembly 10 can be made from an absorbable material, it is not necessary to remove the suture anchor assembly 10 from the patient after surgery. The surgeon can assemble the suture anchor assembly 10 and / or position the segments of the suture 30 manually or with the assistance of one or more devices.

[0058] The central hub 12 may be a single, integral part that is injection molded as a single piece. Similarly, the locking collar 14 may be a single, integral part that is manufactured as a single piece using an injection molding process, a three-dimensional printing process, or the like. However, either or both of the central hub 12 and the locking collar 14 may be an assembly of one or more parts that are bonded, joined, or otherwise assembled to form the final part.

[0059] The central hub 12 and the locking collar 14 can each be manufactured using any suitable material. In certain embodiments, the central hub 12 and the locking collar 14 can each be manufactured using any suitable bioabsorbable or biodegradable material, including any suitable collagen-based or synthetic material. Specific materials include amino acid-based biodegradable polyesteramide fibers, polylactic acid (PLA), polydioxanone, polytrimethylene carbonate, collagen poly-p-dioxanone (PDS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polybutester polyamide polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), stainless steel polyesteramide (PEA), amino acid polyesteramide (AA-PEA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA).

[0060] Various advantages of the suture anchoring assembly have been described. The embodiments discussed herein are described by way of example. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the foregoing detailed disclosure is intended to be presented by way of example, not limitation. Although not expressly stated herein, various changes, improvements, and modifications may occur and will be contemplated by those skilled in the art. These changes, improvements, and modifications are intended to be suggested by this specification and are within the spirit and scope of the claimed invention. The drawings included herein are not necessarily drawn to scale. Furthermore, the described order of process elements or sequences, or the use of numerical, letter, or other designations, is not intended to limit the claims to any order, unless specified in the claims. Accordingly, the present invention is limited only by the following claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. 1. A suture anchoring assembly comprising: a central hub extending from a first end to a second end along a hub axis; and a locking collar configured to be coupled to the central hub and extending from the first end to the second end along a locking collar axis, the central hub includes a base, a base-mounted ramp, a first arm, and a second arm; the base portion has a first surface disposed at a first end of the base portion and a second surface disposed at a second end of the base portion, an opening extending through the base portion, the first end of the opening disposed at the first surface and the second end of the opening disposed at the second surface; the base fixed ramp extends from the second surface of the base toward the second end of the central hub, the base fixed ramp having a base fixed surface that extends along a portion of the base fixed ramp from a first end to a second end along a base ramp axis, the first end of the base fixed ramp being located (a) at or near the second surface of the base and (b) adjacent the second end of the opening, and the base ramp axis forming a first acute angle with the hub axis; the first arm extends from a first end to a second end along the hub axle, the first end of the first arm is coupled to a first portion of the base, the second end of the first arm is located at or near the second end of the central hub, and a first arm mating feature is located at or near the second end of the first arm; the second arm extends from a first end to a second end along the hub axle, the first end of the second arm is coupled to a second portion of the base, the second end of the second arm is located at or near the second end of the central hub, and a second arm mating feature is located at or near the second end of the second arm; The locking collar is a first slot adapted to receive at least a portion of the first arm of the central hub; a second slot adapted to receive at least a portion of the second arm of the central hub; a first collar mating feature configured to engage with the first arm mating feature when a portion of the first arm is disposed within the first slot; a second collar mating feature configured to engage with the second arm mating feature when a portion of the second arm is disposed within the second slot; a collar fixing ramp extending from a first end to a second end, the collar fixing ramp having a collar fixing surface, the collar fixing surface extending from the first end to the second end along a collar lamp axis, the collar lamp axis forming a second acute angle with the hub axis; Equipped with the locking collar is secured to the central hub when the first arm mating feature engages with the first collar mating feature and the second arm mating feature engages with the second collar mating feature; a suture anchoring assembly, wherein when a suture segment is placed through the opening in the base portion and along the base fixation surface of the base portion and the locking collar is secured to the central hub, a first portion of the suture segment engages with one or more portions of the base fixation surface and a second portion of the suture segment engages with one or more portions of the collar fixation surface, such that the suture segment is secured between the base fixation surface and the collar fixation surface.

2. The suture anchor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the base portion has a cylindrical shape with a substantially circular cross-section along the hub axis.

3. The suture anchor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the central hub and the locking collar are fabricated from a bioabsorbable material.

4. 2. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 1, wherein the first slot extends from a first end to a second end, the first end of the first slot being disposed at the first end of the locking collar, and the second slot extends from a first end to a second end, the first end of the second slot being disposed at the first end of the locking collar.

5. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first end of the collar anchoring ramp is located at or near the first end of the locking collar.

6. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first end of the collar anchoring surface is located at or near a first end of the collar anchoring ramp.

7. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 1 , wherein the base anchoring surface is non-planar.

8. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 1 , wherein the one or more portions of the base anchoring surface are one or more of a first plurality of ridges.

9. the locking collar further comprises a first arm extending from a first end to a second end along the locking collar axis, and a second arm extending from the first end to a second end along the locking collar axis; the first end of the first arm is spaced from the first end of the locking collar, the second end of the first arm is spaced from the second end of the locking collar, and the first collar mating feature is disposed on a portion of the first arm; 2. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the second arm is spaced from the first end of the locking collar, the second end of the second arm is spaced from the second end of the locking collar, and the second collar mating feature is disposed on a portion of the second arm.

10. 10. The suture anchoring assembly of claim 9, wherein the first collar mating feature is located at or near the second end of the first arm of the locking collar and the second collar mating feature is located at or near the second end of the second arm of the locking collar.

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