Tissue-PEXY systems and associated devices and methods

Abstract

The present technology is generally directed to tissue-pexy systems including a probe and a suture thrower removably coupleable to the probe. The probe can be partially inserted into a body cavity of a patient. The suture thrower can have a tissue-receiving portion and a needle. The tissue-receiving portion can include a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion and a second concave surface defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion. The needle can be movable between a retracted state and an extended state. The needle can be configured to pierce through the first and second tissue portions when moving from the retracted state to the extended state. Also, the needle can be configured to pull a suture device through the first and second tissue portions when moving from the extended state to the retracted state.

Description

TISSUE-PEXY SYSTEMS ANDASSOCIATED DEVICES AND METHODSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 655,932, filed June 4, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to medical systems and / or medical devices and, in particular, to tissue-pexy systems.BACKGROUND

[0003] Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS) is a medical condition characterized by difficulty or inability to pass stool due to structural or functional abnormalities in the pelvic organs or muscles. This condition can significantly impair a person’s quality of life, leading to discomfort, pain, and even social withdrawal. Tissue-pexy procedures are surgical interventions aimed at supporting and stabilizing weakened or prolapsed pelvic organs, and they play a crucial role in managing ODS and other medical conditions. By anchoring the affected tissue, such as the rectum or surrounding structures, tissue-pexy procedures help restore normal anatomical positioning and function, alleviating symptoms associated with ODS and other medical conditions. This procedure provides durable support to prevent further descent or displacement of pelvic organs. Accordingly, there is a need for improved systems, devices, and methods for performing tissue-pexy procedures that result in fewer complications and improved patient outcomes.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Many aspects of the present technology can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed on illustrating clearly the principles of the present technology. Furthermore, components can be shown as transparent in certain views for clarity of illustration only and not to indicate that the component is necessarily transparent. Components may also be shown schematically.

[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical system in an assembled configuration and configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0006] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a suture thrower configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0007] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end portion of the suture thrower of FIG. 2 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0008] FIG. 4 is an enlarged side view of a needle configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0009] FIGS. 5A and 5B are enlarged, side cross-sectional views of the suture thrower of FIG. 2 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0010] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a probe configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0011] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end portion of the probe of FIG. 6 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0012] FIGS. 8A-8C are enlarged side views of the medical system during different portions of a tissue-pexy procedure in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0013] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for threading tissue in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.

[0014] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for performing a tissue-pexy procedure in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONA. Overview

[0015] The present technology is directed to systems, devices, and methods for threading a suture device through target patient tissue to treat a medical condition. For example, in some embodiments, the present technology includes a tissue-pexy system including a probe and a suture thrower. The probe can have a first body portion and an insertion portion extending from the first body portion and configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient. The suture thrower can have a second body portion removably coupleable to the first body portion of theprobe, an elongate portion extending from the second body portion of the suture thrower, a tissue-receiving portion coupled to the elongate portion, and a needle extending along the elongate portion. The tissue-receiving portion can include a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion and a second concave surface spaced apart from the first concave surface and defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion. The needle can be movable between (i) a retracted state in which the needle is not positioned in the first or second recesses and (ii) an extended state in which the needle extends across the first and second recesses. The needle can be configured to pierce through the first and second tissue portions when moving from the retracted state to the extended state. Also, the needle can be configured to pull a suture device through the first and second tissue portions when moving from the extended state to the retracted state.

[0016] In some embodiments, a method for threading tissue includes positioning a probe and a suture thrower on either side of tissue. The suture thrower can include (i) a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion of the tissue and (ii) a second concave surface defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion of the tissue. The method can continue by moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction such that the needle pierces into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion. The method can continue by engaging, by the needle, a suture device at a distal end portion of the suture thrower. The method can continue by moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion.

[0017] In some embodiments, a method for performing a tissue-pexy procedure includes anchoring a first end portion of a suture device to a sacrospinous ligament of a patient, inserting a probe in a body cavity of the patient, coupling a second end portion of the suture device to a distal end portion of a suture thrower, and inserting the suture thrower in a surgical incision of the patient. The method can continue by coupling the suture thrower to the probe such that a tissue-prodding portion of the probe prods (i) a first tissue portion into a first recess defined by a first concave surface of the suture thrower and (ii) a second tissue portion into a second recess defined by a second concave surface of the suture thrower. The method can continue by moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion, and moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suturedevice into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion.

[0018] As explained in detail below, the tissue-pexy systems and associated devices and methods described herein are expected to provide several advantages over conventional systems. For example, operating a suture thrower having two or more concave surfaces that each define a recess for receiving a distinct tissue portion allows two or more passes of the suture device through the tissue (e.g., pararectal tissue) in a single piercing-and-retracting cycle of the needle. This is expected to result in a quicker tissue-pexy procedure and more secure suturing. Also, by anchoring the suture device at an anatomical part of the patient, such as the sacrospinous ligament, tissue-pexy systems configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology can perform native tissue repair by reinforcing and suspending the patient’s own natural connective tissues without, for example, a mesh implant. Some embodiments of the present technology may have other advantages in addition to or in lieu of those identified above.

[0019] The terminology used in the description presented below is intended to be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the present technology. Certain terms may even be emphasized below; however, any terminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be overtly and specifically defined as such in this Detailed Description section. Additionally, the present technology can include other embodiments that are within the scope of the examples but are not described in detail with respect to FIGS. 1-10.

[0020] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present technology. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0021] Reference throughout this specification to relative terms such as, for example, “substantially,” “approximately,” and “about” are used herein to mean the stated value plus or minus 10%.

[0022] In the Figures, identical reference numbers identify generally similar, and / or identical, elements. Many of the details, dimensions, and other features shown in the Figures aremerely illustrative of particular embodiments of the disclosed technology. Accordingly, other embodiments can have other details, dimensions, and features without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. In addition, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that further embodiments of the various disclosed technologies can be practiced without several of the details described below.B. Embodiments of Tissue-Pexy Systems

[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical system 100 (“the system 100”) in an assembled configuration and configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. The system 100 can be a tissue-pexy system configured to treat various anatomical disorders, such as tissue prolapse in the pelvic region. The system 100 can include a suture thrower 110, a probe 120, and a suture device 130 (a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 1). The suture thrower 110 can include a proximal end portion 1 12a and a distal end portion 112b opposite the proximal end portion 112a. The probe 120 can include a proximal end portion 122a and a distal end portion 122b opposite the proximal end portion 122a.

[0024] To assemble the system 100, the suture thrower 110 can be removably coupled to the probe 120 between the proximal end portions 112a, 122a and the distal end portions 112b, 122b. Also, when the system 100 is in the assembled state, as shown, the suture thrower 110 can extend at an angle relative to the probe 120 such that the distal end portion 112b of the suture thrower 110 is positioned adjacent the distal end portion 122b of the probe 120.

[0025] The suture device 130 can be composed of, at least in part, polydioxanone or other suitable material(s). Prior to operating the system 100, the suture device 130 can be at least partially implanted in, anchored to, or otherwise fixed to an anatomical part of a patient. For example, the suture device 130 can include a tag (not shown) that may be inserted through an incision and anchored to a ligament (e.g., the sacrospinous ligament), and the suture can extend out from the incision for use by the suture thrower 110. Examples of the suture device 130 and medical systems that can be used to deploy the suture device 130 are further described in U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2022 / 0304673, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0026] Once the suture device 130 is anchored to an appropriate anatomical part, the distal end portion 112b of the suture thrower 110 can engage the suture device 130, as shown. The suture thrower 110 and the probe 120 can then be inserted into different regions of a patient (e.g. , surgical incision, body cavity) such that tissue is disposed between the distal end portion 112bof the suture thrower 110 and the distal end portion 122b of the probe 120. Then, as discussed in further detail herein, the suture thrower 110 can be operated to advance the suture device 130 through the tissue disposed between the distal end portion 112b of the suture thrower 1 10 and the distal end portion 122b of the probe 120. Thus, the system 100 can be used to perform a tissue-pexy procedure and, accordingly, secure one tissue to another.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the suture thrower 110 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. The suture thrower 110 can include a body portion, a plunger 220, an elongate portion 230, a tissue-receiving portion 240, and a needle 250. It will be appreciated that the suture thrower 110 can include additional, fewer, and / or alternative components compared to the illustrated embodiment.

[0028] The body portion 210 can include a handle portion 212, a latch 214, a pivot 216, and a concave portion 218. The handle portion 212 can be shaped and sized to be comfortably gripped by an operator during use. The handle portion 212 can include an aperture 211 that leads to a channel extending through the body portion 210 and to the elongate portion 230. The latch 214 can be coupled to rotate / pivotably move about the pivot 216 (e.g., a screw, a rod) between a first or open state (as shown in FIG. 2) and a second or closed state (as shown in FIG. 1). The latch 214 can be shaped to generally conform around the handle portion 212 when in the closed state. The concave portion 218 can be shaped to receive a portion of the probe 120 while the latch 214 is in the open state. Once the probe 120 is at least partially enclosed by the concave portion 218, the latch 214 can be rotated about the pivot 216 to the closed state, thus movably securing the suture thrower 110 to the probe 120. The body portion 210 can include one or more markings 215 that indicate whether the suture thrower 110 is clamped to the probe 120 in the correct position and / or orientation. The clamping mechanism of the latch 214 is described in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

[0029] The plunger 220 can be positioned at least partially inside the channel of the body portion 210 and extend toward the proximal end portion 1 12a of the suture thrower 1 10 through the aperture 211. The plunger 220 can be coupled to the needle 250 inside the body portion 210 such that moving the plunger 220 in and out of the aperture 211 moves the needle 250 through the elongate portion 230 and along the tissue-receiving portion 240 by the same distance.

[0030] The elongate portion 230 can extend from the body portion 210 and support the tissue-receiving portion 240 at the distal end portion 112b of the suture thrower 110. The elongate portion 230 can include a channel 232 extending therethrough. The channel 232 can beconnected to the channel in the body portion 210 such that the needle 250 can extend from the plunger 220, through the channel 232, and to the tissue-receiving portion 240. The elongate portion 230 can include one or more apertures 234 that connect to the channel 232 from the side of the elongate portion 230. The apertures 234 can provide visual access to the channel 232 to help operators determine the position of the needle 250.

[0031] The tissue-receiving portion 240 can be configured to receive or otherwise engage tissue (e.g., pararectal tissue) intended to receive the suture device 130 and be secured to other tissue (e.g., the sacrospinous ligament). The tissue-receiving portion 240 is illustrated in and described in further detail with reference to FIG. 3. The needle 250 can be configured to pierce the tissue received by the tissue-receiving portion 240, engage the suture device 130 at the tissuereceiving portion 240, and pull the suture device 130 through the tissue. The needle 250 is illustrated in and described in further detail with reference to FIG. 4.

[0032] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the distal end portion 112b and, in particular, the tissue-receiving portion 240 of the suture thrower 110 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, the tissuereceiving portion 240 includes a first concave surface 342a, a second concave surface 342b, and a divider portion 346 therebetween. The tissue receiving portion 240 further comprises a suturereceiving portion 348 distal of the first and second concave surfaces 342a, 342b.

[0033] The first concave surface 342a can define a first recess 343a, and the second concave surface 342b can define a second recess 343b. As described in further detail below, during operation, the first and second recesses 343a, 343b can receive different portions of tissue. While the first and second concave surfaces 342a, 342b are curved such that the first and second recesses 343a, 343b have generally half-cylindrical shapes in FIG. 3, in other embodiments the first and second concave surfaces 342a, 342b can have other shapes. Moreover, the first and second concave surfaces 342a, 342b can be of the same size (as shown) or of different sizes.

[0034] The first concave surface 342a, the second concave surface 342b, and the divider portion 346 can define a first slot 344a, and the second concave surface 342b can also define a second slot 344b. The first slot 344a and the second slot 344b can each have a lower portion with a width of DI and D3, respectively, and an upper portion with a width of D2 and D4, respectively. The lower portions of the first and second slots 344a, 344b can be aligned with the channel 232 of the elongate portion (FIG. 2) such that the needle 250 can extend from the channel 232 through the lower portions of the first and second slots 344a, 344b. Accordingly, the widthsD1 and D3 can be larger than a diameter D5 of the needle 250. The upper portions of the first and second slots 344a, 344b are connected to the corresponding lower portions and are open at the top, which, as described in further detail below, can allow the suture device 130 to exit out of the suture thrower 110. However, the widths D2 and D4 can be smaller than the diameter D5 of the needle 250 such that the needle 250 cannot exit the suture thrower 110 or bend upwards.

[0035] The suture-receiving portion 348 can be at the distal-most end of the tissuereceiving portion 240. Therefore, the suture-receiving portion 348 can have rounded edges such that insertion of the suture thrower 110 into an incision, body cavity, or other opening does not cause damage to the patient. As shown, the suture device 130 can be looped over the suturereceiving portion 348 such that the suture device 130 extends along the sides and the rear of the suture-receiving portion 348. In some embodiments, the suture-receiving portion 348 includes one or more notches 349 for receiving the suture device 130. The notches 349 can help keep the suture device 130 secured to the suture-receiving portion 348, at least prior to engagement of the suture device 130 by the needle 250.

[0036] It will be appreciated that the tissue-receiving portion 240 can include fewer or additional concave surfaces (e.g., one, three, four, five, six, etc.) that each defines a recess for receiving different portions of tissue. As described in further detail below, each additional concave surface and corresponding recess can provide an additional pass for the suture device 130 to pierce the tissue.

[0037] FIG. 4 is an enlarged side view of the needle 250 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. As shown, the needle 250 can include a sharp point or tip 452 for piercing through tissue, a sloped front surface 454 extending from the sharp tip 452 at the front of the needle 250, a hook 456 extending from the sloped front surface 454, a concave surface 458 extending from the hook 456 and into the needle 250, and a sloped rear surface 459 extend from the concave surface 458.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 together, as the plunger 220 is actuated to advance the needle 250 across the first and second recesses 343a, 343b and through tissue (not shown), the sharp tip 452 can reach the suture-receiving portion 348 of the tissue-receiving portion 240 at the distal end portion 112b of the suture thrower 110. The notches 349 can hold the suture device 130 at a height such that the sloped front surface 454 of the needle 250 first contacts the suture device 130. As the needle 250 is further advanced, the sloped front surface 454 can push the suture device 1 0 downward until the suture device 130 reaches the hook 456. In someembodiments, the needle 250 is further advanced until the suture device 130 contacts the sloped rear surface 459, and the needle 250 can then be retracted such that the suture device 130 is guided by the sloped rear surface 459 to contact the concave surface 458. In some embodiments, the suture device 130 can be under sufficient tension to snap upward and contact the concave surface 458 upon passing the hook 456. As the needle 250 is retracted, the suture device 130 can remain in the nook or groove defined by the hook 456 and the concave surface 458 (e.g., in contact with the curved surface 458) such that the suture device 130 is retracted with the needle 250.

[0039] FIGS. 5 A and 5B are enlarged, side cross-sectional views of the suture thrower 110 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. More specifically, FIG. 5A illustrates the latch 214 in the first or open state and the plunger 220 in a retracted state, and FIG. 5B illustrates the latch 214 in the second or closed state and the plunger 220 in a depressed state. Also, the needle 250 is coupled to the plunger 220 such that the needle 250 is movable between a retracted state corresponding to the retracted state of the plunger 220 (FIG. 5 A) and an extended state corresponding to the depressed state of the plunger 220 (FIG. 5B).

[0040] As shown, the body portion 210 can include a knob 510 (e.g., a screw), the plunger 220 can include a longitudinal slot 522, and the plunger 220 can be coupled to the body portion 210 such that the knob 510 is positioned within the slot 522. Also, the elongate portion 230 is shown coupled to an interior of the body portion 210, and the suture thrower 110 can also include a biasing member 524 (schematically shown as a box — e.g., a spring). The biasing member 524 can extend between the plunger 220 and either an internal wall of the body portion 210 or the elongate portion 230, and can be configured to bias the plunger 220 towards either the retracted state (FIG. 5A) or the depressed state (FIG. 5B).

[0041] Referring first to FIG. 5A, when the latch 214 is in the open state, the latch 214 is rotated about the pivot 216 away from the handle portion 212 to a lifted position. The latch 214 can include a protruded portion 514 adjacent the pivot 216. When the latch is in the open state, the protruded portion 514 is generally flush with and / or does not extend past the concave portion 218 of the body portion 210. Therefore, the probe 120 (e.g., a portion thereof) can be inserted into or out of the concave portion 218 without the protruded portion 514 interfering.

[0042] When the plunger 220 is in the retracted state, one end of the slot 522 contacts the knob 510 to prevent the plunger 220 from further pulling out of the aperture 211. The size (e.g., diameter) of the knob 510 and the length of the slot 522 can define a distance D6 by which theplunger 220 can be moved relative to the body portion 210. Thus, the distance D6 is also the distance by which the needle 250, which is coupled to the plunger 220, can be moved. In some embodiments, the biasing member 524 includes a spring (e.g., coiled around a portion of the needle 250).

[0043] Referring next to FIG. 5B, when the latch 214 is in the closed state, the latch 214 is rotated about the pivot 216 towards the handle portion 212 to a lowered position such that the protruded portion 514 extends past the concave portion 218 of the body portion 210. Therefore, once the probe 120 (e.g., a portion thereof) is positioned in the concave portion 218, the protruded portion 514 can prevent the probe 120 from exiting the concave portion 218, thus removably coupling the suture thrower 110 to the probe 120. Also, the protruded portion 514 can be sized and positioned such that when the latch 214 is in the closed state, the latch 214 clamps onto the probe 120 and therefore further secures the position of the suture thrower 110 relative to the probe 120.

[0044] When the plunger 220 is in the depressed state, the other end of the slot 522 contacts the knob 510 to prevent the plunger 220 from further sliding into the aperture 21 1. In some embodiments, the biasing member 524 includes a spring configured to bias the plunger towards the retracted state (FIG. 5A), and the spring is compressed by the plunger 220 when the plunger 220 is in the depressed state. In some embodiments, the biasing member 524 includes a spring configured to bias the plunger towards the depressed state (FIG. 5B), and the spring is under reduced when the plunger 220 is in the depressed state.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the probe 120 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. The probe 120 can include a body portion 610 extending towards the proximal end portion 122a, and an insertion portion 620 extending from the body portion 610 towards the distal end portion 122b. It will be appreciated that the probe 120 can include additional, fewer, and / or alternative components compared to the illustrated embodiment.

[0046] The body portion 610 can include a handle portion 612 and an attachment bracket 614 protruding from the handle portion 612. The handle portion 612 can be shaped and sized such that an operator can grip on the handle portion 612. The attachment bracket 614 can include a base portion 614a connected to the handle portion 612, a top portion 614b, and a waist portion 614c between the base portion 614a and the top portion 614b. The waist portion 614c can be sized and shaped to fit in the concave portion 218 of the suture thrower 1 10. Each of the baseportion 614a and the top portion 614b can be thicker (e.g., have a greater cross-sectional dimension) than the waist portion 614c to prevent movement of the suture thrower 110 once coupled to the attachment bracket 614. The attachment bracket 614 can extend from the handle portion 612 along an attachment axis A- A. By contrast, the handle portion 612 and the insertion portion 620 can extend along a longitudinal axis L-L. The attachment axis A-A can be angled (e.g., at a non-right angle) relative to the longitudinal axis L-L such that the suture thrower 110, when coupled to the probe 120, extends towards the distal end portion 122b as illustrated in FIG. 1. Also, the top portion 614b can include one or more markings 616 that may align with the marking 215 to visually indicate to the operator that the suture thrower 110 and the probe 120 are properly aligned.

[0047] The insertion portion 620 can be sized and shaped to be inserted into an incision, body cavity, or other opening in the patient. The insertion portion 620 can have a smaller cross- sectional dimension than the body portion 610 to define a shoulder 622 facing the distal end portion 122b and configured to act as a stop when inserting the insertion portion 620 in the patient. The insertion portion 620 can also have one or more depth markings 624 to visually indicate to the operator the depth of the insertion portion 620 that has been inserted.

[0048] The insertion portion 620 can further include a first recess 626a and a second recess 626b for receiving the suture thrower 110. In FIG. 1, for example, the suture thrower 110 is coupled to the probe 120 in a first orientation such that the suture thrower 110 is positioned at the first recess 626a. The suture thrower 1 10 can also he coupled to the probe 120 in a second orientation such that the suture thrower 110 is positioned at the second recess 626b. In some embodiments, the determination of whether to couple the suture thrower 110 to the probe 120 in the first or second orientation can be based on where the suture device 130 is implanted or anchored. For example, the suture thrower 110 can be coupled to the probe 120 in the first orientation if the suture device 130 is implanted in or anchored to the left sacrospinous ligament, and in the second orientation if the suture device 130 is implanted in or anchored to the right sacrospinous ligament.

[0049] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the distal end portion 122b of the probe 120 configured in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. As shown, the probe 120 can include a first tissue-prodding portion 730a on a first side of the probe 120 adjacent the first recess 626a, a second tissue-prodding portion 730b on a second side of the probe 120 adjacent the second recess 626b, and a distal surface 738. Each of the first and secondtissue -prodding portions 730a, 730b can include a first hump 732a, 732b (“the first humps 732”), a second hump 736a, 736b (“the second humps 736”), and a recess 734a, 734b (“the recesses 734”) therebetween. As discussed in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, the first and second tissue-prodding portions 730a, 730b can prod or push tissue toward the tissuereceiving portion 240 of the suture thrower 110 during a tissue-pexy procedure, and can be sized and shaped accordingly. The distal surface 738 can be curved and smooth to facilitate insertion of the probe 120 into the patient.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first humps 732 and the second humps 736 has a generally arched form factor (e.g., half-cylindrical in shape). In other embodiments, each of the first humps 732 and the second humps 736 can have other shapes (e.g., triangular, rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.), and the first humps 732 and the second humps 736 can have the same or different shapes and / or sizes.C. Methods for Performing Tissue-Pexy Procedures

[0051] As discussed above with reference to FIG. 1, prior to operating the suture thrower 110 and the probe 120, the suture device 130 can be implanted in, anchored to, or otherwise fixed inside a patient, such as at a sacrospinous ligament, by inserting the suture device 130 through an incision, a body cavity, etc. The probe 120 can then be inserted into an anatomical region of the patient with tissue that requires the tissue-pexy procedure, such as the anus. As discussed above with reference to FIG. 6, the insertion portion 620 can be inserted until the opening contacts the shoulder 622 of the probe 120. The suture device 130 can then be looped around the suture-receiving portion 348 of the suture thrower 110, as illustrated in FIG. 3. More specifically, the suture device 130 can be pulled into the notch 349 until the suture device 130 snaps into place. The free end of the loop of the suture device 130 can have a length of about 4 cm, 6 cm, 8 cm, 10 cm, 12 cm, 14 cm, 16 cm, 4-16 cm, or other values. The plunger 220, and thus the needle 250, can be in the retracted state (FIG. 5A).

[0052] Next, the suture thrower 110 can be inserted into a different but adjacent anatomical region of the patient, such as through a surgical vaginal incision. More specifically, the distal end portion 112b can be positioned adjacent the distal end portion 122b. The positions of the suture thrower 110 and the probe 120 can be controlled such that the portion of the tissue (e.g., pararectal tissue) intended to receive the suture device 130 therethrough is positioned between (i) the tissue-receiving portion 240 and (ii) either the first or second tissue-prodding portions 730a, 730b depending on where the suture device 130 was implanted in or anchored.For example, the suture thrower 110 can be in the first orientation (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1) if the suture device 130 is implanted in or anchored to the left sacrospinous ligament, and can be in the second orientation if the suture device 130 is implanted in or anchored to the right sacrospinous ligament.

[0053] The suture thrower 110 can then be coupled to the probe 120. In particular, the concave portion 218 of the suture thrower 110 can be slid onto the attachment bracket 614 of the probe 120 while the latch 214 is in the open state, and once the suture thrower 110 is at a desired position relative to the probe 120, the latch 214 can be moved to the closed state to clamp the suture thrower 110 onto the probe 120. Coupling the suture thrower 1 10 to the probe 120 in this manner ensures proper engagement of the tissue intended to receive the suture device 130 therethrough.

[0054] FIGS. 8A-8C are enlarged side views of the system 100 during different portions of a tissue-pexy procedure in accordance with select embodiments of the present technology. Referring to FIGS. 8A-8C together, the tissue-prodding portion 730 (either of the first or second tissue-prodding portions 730a, 730b) of the probe 120 and the tissue-receiving portion 240 of the suture thrower 110 are positioned to sandwich tissue therebetween. More specifically, the first hump 732 and the first concave surface 342a sandwich a first tissue portion 802a positioned in the first recess 343a, and the second hump 736 and the second concave surface 342b sandwich a second tissue portion 802b positioned in the second recess 343b. The clamping of the suture thrower 1 10 to the probe 120 can apply a compressive force onto the first tissue portion 802a and the second tissue portion 802b (collectively referred to as “the tissue portions 802” — illustrated schematically by dashed lines).

[0055] The first hump 732 and the second hump 736 can have a size and shape generally corresponding to the first concave surface 342a and the second concave surface 342b, respectively. This facilitates proper engagement of the tissue portions 802 to prevent undesired movement of the tissue portions 802 while the needle 250 moves therethrough, as discussed in further detail below. Also, the divider portion 346 extends towards the recess 734 to sandwich tissue between the first and second tissue portions 802a, 802b therebetween. Moreover, the tissue-receiving portion 240 and the tissue-prodding portion 730 can each have a smooth, arched surface engaging the tissue portions 802 to avoid damaging the tissue portions 802 during the tissue-pexy procedure.

[0056] Now referring specifically to FIG. 8 A, the suture device 130 is positioned in the suture-receiving portion 348 and secured in the notch 349. The plunger 220 (not shown) is in the retracted state such that the needle 250 (also not shown) is inside the channel 232 but not yet in contact with the tissue portions 802. As shown, the tissue portions 802 are sandwiched in their respective recesses 343. The divider portion 346 can have a height D7 relative to the lower portion of the first and second concave surfaces 342a, 342b. The height D7 and the vertical position of the needle 250 relative to the lower portion of the first and second concave surfaces 342a, 342b can define the suture depth of the suture device 130 once threaded through the tissue portions 802.

[0057] Referring next to FIG. 8B, the plunger 220 has been pushed to the depressed state such that the needle 250 is at an extended state and has pierced through both tissue portions 802 and the sharp tip 452 is positioned beyond (e.g., to the right of in FIG. 8B) the notch 349. The suture device 130 may be in contact with the needle 250, but has not yet contacted the tissue portions 802. As the plunger 220 is pulled hack towards the retracted state, the needle 250 can engage the suture device 130 as discussed above with reference to FIG. 4. For example, the suture device 130 can be in the notch defined by the concave surface 458 and kept there by the hook 456 of the needle 250.

[0058] Finally, referring to FIG. 8C, the plunger 220 has been fully retracted such that the needle 250 is likewise retracted in the channel 232. As the needle 250 is retracted through the tissue portions 802, the needle 250 pulls the suture device 130 through the tissue portions 802 as well, thereby threading the suture device 130 through the tissue portions. Because the divider portion 346 is positioned between the first tissue portion 802a and the second tissue portion 802b, the suture device 130 is threaded into and out of the second tissue portion 802b first, then is subsequently threaded into and out of the first tissue portion 802a. As discussed above, having two or more pairs of humps (e.g., the first hump 732, the second hump 736) and concave surfaces (e.g., the first concave surface 342a, the second concave surface 342b) allows two or more passes of the suture device 130 through the tissue in a single piercing- and-retracting cycle of the needle 250.

[0059] Afterwards, the suture thrower 110 and the probe 120 can be pulled out from the patient while the suture device 130 remains anchored to an anatomical part (e.g., the sacrospinous ligament) and pierced through the tissue portions 802. When removing the suture thrower 110, the suture device 130 can remain with the tissue portions 802 because the suturethrower 110 includes the first and second slots 344a, 344b (FIG. 3) that are open at the top and sized to allow the suture device 130 to pass through. Therefore, the system 100 can perform the tissue-pexy procedure as illustrated and described to implant the suture device 130 in a manner that holds tissue (e.g., pararectal tissue) from an anatomical part (e.g., the sacrospinous ligament).

[0060] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method 900 for threading tissue. It will be appreciated that the method 900 can be performed using the system 100 illustrated and described herein or other suitable systems configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. The method 900 can include additional, fewer, and / or alternative steps than what is described below. Moreover, while the method 900 is described in a particular order, one or more steps of the method 900 can be performed in a different order.

[0061] The method 900 begins at block 902 by positioning a probe and a suture thrower on either side of tissue. The suture thrower can include (i) a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion of the tissue and (ii) a second concave surface defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion of the tissue. In some embodiments, positioning the probe and the suture thrower on either side of the tissue comprises positioning the probe in an anus of a patient and positioning the suture thrower in a surgical vaginal incision of the patient. The tissue can include pararectal tissue of the patient.

[0062] At block 904, the method 900 continues by moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction such that the needle pierces into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion. In some embodiments, moving the needle in the first direction comprises moving the needle through a slot in a divider portion of the suture thrower. The divider portion can be positioned between the first and second concave surfaces and configured to divide the tissue into the first tissue portion in the first recess and the second tissue portion in the second recess.

[0063] At block 906, the method 900 continues by engaging, by the needle, a suture device at a distal end portion of the suture thrower. In some embodiments, engaging the suture device comprises moving the suture device to a groove defined by a hook of the needle. At block 908, the method 900 continues by moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion. In some embodiments, moving the needle in the second direction comprises moving the needle in the second directionwhile the suture device is at the groove defined by the hook such that the needle pulls the suture device.

[0064] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method 1000 for performing a tissue-pexy procedure. It will be appreciated that the method 1000 can be performed using the system 100 illustrated and described herein or other suitable systems configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. The method 1000 can include additional, fewer, and / or alternative steps than what is described below. Moreover, while the method 1000 is described in a particular order, one or more steps of the method 1000 can be performed in a different order.

[0065] The method 1000 begins at block 1002 by anchoring a first end portion of a suture device to a sacrospinous ligament of a patient. At block 1004, the method 1000 continues by inserting a probe in a body cavity of the patient. At block 1006, the method 1000 continues by coupling a second end portion of the suture device to a distal end portion of a suture thrower. At block 1008, the method 1000 continues by inserting the suture thrower in a surgical incision of the patient.

[0066] At block 1010, the method 1000 continues by coupling the suture thrower to the probe such that a tissue-prodding portion of the probe prods (i) a first tissue portion into a first recess defined by a first concave surface of the suture thrower and (ii) a second tissue portion into a second recess defined by a second concave surface of the suture thrower. In some embodiments, coupling the suture thrower to the probe comprises (i) sliding an attachment bracket of the probe into a concave portion of the suture thrower while a latch of the suture thrower is in an open state, and (ii) moving the latch of the suture thrower to a closed state such that the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion.

[0067] At block 1012, the method 1000 continues by moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion. At block 1014, the method 1000 continues by moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion.D. Examples

[0068] Several aspects of the present technology are set forth in the following examples:1. A tissue-pexy system, comprising: a probe having a first body portion and an insertion portion extending from the first body portion, wherein the insertion portion is configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient; and a suture thrower including — a second body portion removably coupleable to the first body portion of the probe; an elongate portion extending from the second body portion of the suture thrower; a tissue-receiving portion coupled to the elongate portion, the tissue-receiving portion including a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion of the patient and a second concave surface spaced apart from the first concave surface and defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion of the patient; and a needle extending along the elongate portion, wherein the needle is movable between (i) a retracted state in which the needle is not positioned in the first or second recesses and (ii) an extended state in which the needle extends across the first and second recesses, wherein, during a tissue-pexy procedure — the needle is configured to pierce through the first and second tissue portions of the patient when moving from the retracted state to the extended state, and the needle is configured to pull a suture device through the first and second tissue portions of the patient when moving from the extended state to the retracted state.2. The tissue-pexy system of example 1 wherein the tissue-receiving portion further includes a divider portion positioned between the first and second concave surfaces, wherein a vertical dimension of the divider portion defines, at least in part, a suture depth of the suture device in the first and second tissue portions.3. The tissue-pexy system of example 1 or example 2 wherein: the first body portion of the probe includes an attachment bracket; the second body portion of the suture thrower includes a latch and a concave portion sized and shaped to receive the attachment bracket, andthe latch is movable between (i) an open state in which the attachment bracket is freely movable in and out of the concave portion and (ii) a closed state in which the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion. The tissue-pexy system of example 3 wherein, when the latch is in the closed state and the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion, the probe and the suture thrower are positioned to apply a compressive force on the first and second tissue portions. The tissue-pexy system of example 3 wherein: the first body portion and the insertion portion extend along a longitudinal axis of the probe, the attachment bracket extends along an attachment axis, and the attachment axis is angled relative to the longitudinal axis such that when the suture thrower is coupled to the probe, the first and second body portions are spaced apart and the tissue-receiving portion is positioned adjacent a distal end portion of the insertion portion. The tissue-pexy system of any of examples 1-5 wherein the insertion portion of the probe includes a tissue-prodding portion, and wherein the tissue-prodding portion includes: a first hump configured to prod the first tissue portion into the first recess; and a second hump spaced apart from the first hump and configured to prod the second tissue portion into the second recess. The tissue-pexy system of any of examples 1-6 wherein the tissue-receiving portion includes a suture-receiving portion distal to the first and second concave surfaces, and wherein the suture-receiving portion includes one or more notches configured to receive the suture device prior to the suture device being pulled by the needle. The tissue-pexy system of any of examples 1-7 wherein the needle includes: a sloped front surface configured to contact and slidably engage the suture device as the needle moves to the extended state; and a hook configured to grab the suture device as the needle moves to the retracted state.The tissue-pexy system of any of examples 1-8 wherein the suture thrower further includes: a plunger slidably coupled to the second body portion and fixedly coupled to the needle, wherein the plunger is movable between (i) a retracted state corresponding to the retracted state of the needle and (ii) a depressed state corresponding to the extended state of the needle; and a biasing member coupled between the plunger and at least one of the second body portion or the elongate portion, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the plunger towards the retracted state. The tissue-pexy system of any of examples 1-9 wherein the tissue-receiving portion further includes a third concave surface spaced apart from the first and second concave surfaces and defining a third recess for receiving a third tissue portion. A method for threading tissue, the method comprising: positioning a probe and a suture thrower on either side of tissue of a patient, wherein the suture thrower includes (i) a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion of the tissue and (ii) a second concave surface defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion of the tissue; moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction such that the needle pierces into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion; engaging, via the needle, a suture device at a distal end portion of the suture thrower; and moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion. The method of example 11 wherein moving the needle in the first direction comprises moving the needle through a slot in a divider portion of the suture thrower, and wherein the divider portion is positioned between the first and second concave surfaces and configured to divide the tissue into the first tissue portion in the first recess and the second tissue portion in the second recess.The method of example 11 or example 12 wherein engaging the suture device comprises moving the suture device to a groove defined by a hook of the needle, and wherein moving the needle in the second direction comprises moving the needle in the second direction while the suture device is at the groove defined by the hook such that the needle pulls the suture device. The method of any of examples 11-13 wherein positioning the probe and the suture thrower on either side of the tissue comprises positioning the probe in an anus of a patient and positioning the suture thrower in a surgical vaginal incision of the patient, and wherein the tissue comprises pararectal tissue of the patient. A method for performing a tissue-pexy procedure, the method comprising: anchoring a first end portion of a suture device to a sacrospinous ligament of a patient; inserting a probe in a body cavity of the patient; coupling a second end portion of the suture device to a distal end portion of a suture thrower; inserting the suture thrower in a surgical incision of the patient; coupling the suture thrower to the probe such that a tissue-prodding portion of the probe prods (i) a first tissue portion of the patient into a first recess defined by a first concave surface of the suture thrower and (ii) a second tissue portion of the patient into a second recess defined by a second concave surface of the suture thrower; moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion; and moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion. The method of example 15 wherein coupling the suture thrower to the probe comprises: sliding an attachment bracket of the probe into a concave portion of the suture thrower while a latch of the suture thrower is in an open state; andmoving the latch of the suture thrower to a closed state such that the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion.17. The method of example 15 or example 16, further comprising: engaging the suture device with a hook of the needle after moving the needle in the first direction and before moving the needle in the second direction.18. The method of any of examples 15-17 wherein moving the needle in the first direction comprises: moving a latch of the suture thrower from an open state toward a closed state to move a plunger coupled to the needle from a retracted state toward an extended state, wherein the plunger is coupled to the needle such that moving the plunger from the retracted state toward the extended state advances the needle toward the distal end of the suture thrower.19. The method of example 18 wherein the plunger is biased towards the retracted state.20. The method of any of examples 15-19 wherein the first direction and the second direction are parallel to a longitudinal axis of the suture thrower.E. Conclusion

[0069] It will be apparent to those having skill in the art that changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles of the present disclosure. In some cases, well known structures and functions have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments of the present technology. Although steps of methods may be presented herein in a particular order, alternative embodiments may perform the steps in a different order. Similarly, certain aspects of the present technology disclosed in the context of particular embodiments can be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. Furthermore, while advantages associated with certain embodiments of the present technology may have been disclosed in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments can also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages or other advantages disclosed herein to fall within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompassother embodiments not expressly shown or described herein, and the invention is not limited except as by the appended claims.

[0070] Throughout this disclosure, the singular terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Additionally, the term “comprising,” “including,” and “having” should be interpreted to mean including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same feature and / or additional types of other features are not precluded.

[0071] Reference herein to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments” or similar formulations means that a particular feature, structure, operation, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the present technology. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or formulations herein are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, various particular features, structures, operations, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0072] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing concentrations, shear strength, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present technology. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Additionally, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “1 to 10” includes any and all subranges between (and including) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10, i.e. any and all subranges having a minimum value of equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10, e.g., 5.5 to 10.

[0073] The disclosure set forth above is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim requires more features than those expressly recited in that claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects he in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following this Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on itsown as a separate embodiment. This disclosure includes all permutations of the independent claims with their dependent claims.

Claims

CLAIMSI / We claim:

1. A tissue-pexy system, comprising: a probe having a first body portion and an insertion portion extending from the first body portion, wherein the insertion portion is configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient; and a suture thrower including — a second body portion removably coupleable to the first body portion of the probe; an elongate portion extending from the second body portion of the suture thrower; a tissue-receiving portion coupled to the elongate portion, the tissue-receiving portion including a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion of the patient and a second concave surface spaced apart from the first concave surface and defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion of the patient; and a needle extending along the elongate portion, wherein the needle is movable between (i) a retracted state in which the needle is not positioned in the first or second recesses and (ii) an extended state in which the needle extends across the first and second recesses, wherein, during a tissue-pexy procedure — the needle is configured to pierce through the first and second tissue portions of the patient when moving from the retracted state to the extended state, and the needle is configured to pull a suture device through the first and second tissue portions of the patient when moving from the extended state to the retracted state.

2. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein the tissue-receiving portion further includes a divider portion positioned between the first and second concave surfaces, wherein a vertical dimension of the divider portion defines, at least in part, a suture depth of the suture device in the first and second tissue portions.

3. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein: the first body portion of the probe includes an attachment bracket; the second body portion of the suture thrower includes a latch and a concave portion sized and shaped to receive the attachment bracket, and the latch is movable between (i) an open state in which the attachment bracket is freely movable in and out of the concave portion and (ii) a closed state in which the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion.

4. The tissue-pexy system of claim 3 wherein, when the latch is in the closed state and the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion, the probe and the suture thrower are positioned to apply a compressive force on the first and second tissue portions.

5. The tissue-pexy system of claim 3 wherein: the first body portion and the insertion portion extend along a longitudinal axis of the probe, the attachment bracket extends along an attachment axis, and the attachment axis is angled relative to the longitudinal axis such that when the suture thrower is coupled to the probe, the first and second body portions are spaced apart and the tissue-receiving portion is positioned adjacent a distal end portion of the insertion portion.

6. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein the insertion portion of the probe includes a tissue-prodding portion, and wherein the tissue-prodding portion includes: a first hump configured to prod the first tissue portion into the first recess; and a second hump spaced apart from the first hump and configured to prod the second tissue portion into the second recess.

7. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein the tissue-receiving portion includes a suturereceiving portion distal to the first and second concave surfaces, and wherein the suturereceiving portion includes one or more notches configured to receive the suture device prior to the suture device being pulled by the needle.

8. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein the needle includes: a sloped front surface configured to contact and slidably engage the suture device as the needle moves to the extended state; and a hook configured to grab the suture device as the needle moves to the retracted state.

9. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein the suture thrower further includes: a plunger slidably coupled to the second body portion and fixedly coupled to the needle, wherein the plunger is movable between (i) a retracted state corresponding to the retracted state of the needle and (ii) a depressed state corresponding to the extended state of the needle; and a biasing member coupled between the plunger and at least one of the second body portion or the elongate portion, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the plunger towards the retracted state.

10. The tissue-pexy system of claim 1 wherein the tissue-receiving portion further includes a third concave surface spaced apart from the first and second concave surfaces and defining a third recess for receiving a third tissue portion.

11. A method for threading tissue, the method comprising: positioning a probe and a suture thrower on either side of the tissue of a patient, wherein the suture thrower includes (i) a first concave surface defining a first recess for receiving a first tissue portion of the tissue and (ii) a second concave surface defining a second recess for receiving a second tissue portion of the tissue; moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction such that the needle pierces into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion; engaging, via the needle, a suture device at a distal end portion of the suture thrower; and moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein moving the needle in the first direction comprises moving the needle through a slot in a divider portion of the suture thrower, and whereinthe divider portion is positioned between the first and second concave surfaces and configured to divide the tissue into the first tissue portion in the first recess and the second tissue portion in the second recess.

13. The method of claim 11 wherein engaging the suture device comprises moving the suture device to a groove defined by a hook of the needle, and wherein moving the needle in the second direction comprises moving the needle in the second direction while the suture device is at the groove defined by the hook such that the needle pulls the suture device.

14. The method of claim 11 wherein positioning the probe and the suture thrower on either side of the tissue comprises positioning the probe in an anus of the patient and positioning the suture thrower in a surgical vaginal incision of the patient, and wherein the tissue comprises pararectal tissue of the patient.

15. A method for performing a tissue-pexy procedure, the method comprising: anchoring a first end portion of a suture device to a sacrospinous ligament of a patient; inserting a probe in a body cavity of the patient; coupling a second end portion of the suture device to a distal end portion of a suture thrower; inserting the suture thrower in a surgical incision of the patient; coupling the suture thrower to the probe such that a tissue-prodding portion of the probe prods (i) a first tissue portion of the patient into a first recess defined by a first concave surface of the suture thrower and (ii) a second tissue portion of the patient into a second recess defined by a second concave surface of the suture thrower; moving a needle of the suture thrower in a first direction into the first tissue portion, out of the first tissue portion, into the second tissue portion, and out of the second tissue portion; and moving the needle in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the needle pulls the suture device into the second tissue portion, out of the second tissue portion, into the first tissue portion, and out of the first tissue portion.

16. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the suture thrower to the probe comprises: sliding an attachment bracket of the probe into a concave portion of the suture thrower while a latch of the suture thrower is in an open state; and moving the latch of the suture thrower to a closed state such that the attachment bracket is clamped to the concave portion.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: engaging the suture device with a hook of the needle after moving the needle in the first direction and before moving the needle in the second direction.

18. The method of claim 15 wherein moving the needle in the first direction comprises: moving a latch of the suture thrower from an open state toward a closed state to move a plunger coupled to the needle from a retracted state toward an extended state, wherein the plunger is coupled to the needle such that moving the plunger from the retracted state toward the extended state advances the needle toward the distal end of the suture thrower.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein the plunger is biased towards the retracted state.

20. The method of claim 15 wherein the first direction and the second direction are parallel to a longitudinal axis of the suture thrower.

Images