Abstract: An instrument is set forth for pushing a knot formed extracorporeally through a trocar and into the operative region during endoscopic surgery. An elongated member having an axially extending groove at its distal end is dimensioned to permit the axial advance of a strand of suture material through the groove. A locking sleeve is carried by the elongated member at its distal end and adapted for rotation relative to the elongated member. The locking sleeve has an axially extending slit which in one position may be aligned with the groove for insertion of the suture strand. By rotating the sleeve to a second position, the suture strand is captively retained within the groove so as to permit axial advance of the suture strand as the knot is pushed through the trocar.