Abstract: An inserting device is disclosed for positioning a barbed tissue connector in tissue to close a wound. The barbed tissue connector is of a type which includes a generally rigid elongated body having a pointed leading end and a plurality of axially spaced barbs on the elongated body. The inserting device comprises a tubular body which is adapted to receive the connector therein with the pointed leading end of the connector protruding from an open leading end of the tubular body. The inserting device and the connector contained therein are positioned in tissue such that at least one of the barbs on the connector is engaging tissue, and the device is then retracted from the tissue, leaving the connector in place.