Abstract: Devices, methods and kits for forming and/or advancing one or more knots in a tether (e.g., during a tissue modification procedure) are described. In some variations, a tether may be used to gather or compress tissue by bringing two pieces or sections of the tissue together. The tether, which may be under tension, may then be locked to maintain the tension (e.g., by forming one or more knots in the tether). In some variations, an open knot may be advanced along a tether before being converted into a closed knot. The devices, methods and/or kits may be used, for example, in minimally invasive procedures.

Abstract: Described here are devices, methods, and kits for the deployment of tissue anchors. In some variations, the devices may comprise a shaft defining a lumen for housing at least one anchor therein and a mechanism for deploying the anchor distally from the lumen. In certain variations, the devices may comprise one or more stop elements. For example, a device may comprise a stop element that limits the advancement of the device through an opening in a wall portion or at the distal end of another device.

Abstract: Devices and methods for locking and/or cutting tethers during a tissue modification procedure are described. In some variations, a tether may be used to tighten tissue by bringing two pieces or sections of the tissue together. The tether, which may be under tension, may be locked to maintain the tension, and excess tether may be severed, using one or more of the devices and/or methods. The devices and/or methods may be used, for example, in minimally invasive procedures.

Abstract: Devices and methods for locking and/or cutting tethers during a tissue modification procedure are described. In some variations, a tether may be used to tighten or compress tissue by bringing two pieces or sections of the tissue together. The tether, which may be under tension, may be locked to maintain the tension, and excess tether may be severed, using one or more of the devices and/or methods. The devices and/or methods may be used, for example, in minimally invasive procedures.