Abstract: The present invention is related to methods and apparatus that can enhance the security of a suture knot by annealing a portion of the suture knot. Such a suture knot is less likely to fail by slippage. Advantageously, the methods and apparatus can operate in a liquid environment, such as the inside of a body. Conventional knots made from monofilament sutures exhibit an unfortunate tendency to slip or untie. A surgeon can tie a conventional monofilament suture using standard knot tying techniques and anneal the suture. The annealing can fuse the tails of the suture together, thereby preventing failure by slippage. In one embodiment, the annealing textures the surface of the monofilament tails, thereby increasing friction and resistance to slippage. In another embodiment, the annealing is applied to the last throw in the knot.

Abstract: The present invention is related to methods and apparatus that can enhance the security of a suture knot by annealing a portion of the suture knot. Such a suture knot is less likely to fail by slippage. Advantageously, the methods and apparatus can operate in a liquid environment, such as the inside of a body. Conventional knots made from monofilament sutures exhibit an unfortunate tendency to slip or untie. A surgeon can tie a conventional monofilament suture using standard knot tying techniques and anneal the suture. The annealing can fuse the tails of the suture together, thereby preventing failure by slippage. In one embodiment, the annealing textures the surface of the monofilament tails, thereby increasing friction and resistance to slippage. In another embodiment, the annealing is applied to the last throw in the knot.