Abstract: A sewing device is provided for passing a thread through a substrate portion, particularly a portion of a patient's tissue. The device comprises a hollow needle movable between a first position in which it is out of the substrate portion and a second position in which it passes through the substrate portion. A thread carrier is attached to the thread and can be moved from a position being within the hollow needle to a position outside it.

Abstract: A device is provided for cutting threads, particularly curing surgery carried out using an endoscope. The device has a cutting member having at least one aperture extending therethrough of a size sufficient to permit the surgical thread to slide therethrough, the aperture having a thread-cutting edge. In use, the cutting member is located at the distal end of an endoscope.

Abstract: A device for use in securing a thread includes a tube having a distal end and a proximal end. The tube defines a recess at the distal end to receive therein a sleeve having a cavity in which a plug is removably inserted. The device further includes a generally U-shaped stirrup that is movably connected to the tube. The U-shaped stirrup is movable between a first position in which the base of the U holds the sleeve and plug in the recess and a second position in which the sleeve and plug are free to leave the recess. The base of the U is continuous.

Abstract: A sewing device is described for use in surgical procedures inside a patient, which can be used without the need to make an external incision in the patient. The device comprises a slot to which suction is applied at a plurality of locations to suck in a double-layer of tissue, and a needle for passing a tag into and through the double layer. The tag may have an article attached thereto, for example a sensor/transmitter.

Abstract: A sewing machine for forming stitches in a substrate, for example, in forming stitches in tissue during surgery, comprises a needle for passing thread into the substrate from one side thereof, at a first location and for withdrawing the thread from the substrate at a second location spaced from the first location. The needle is removably operable solely from one side of the substrate. A stapling machine is also disclosed operating on similar principles for similar purposes.

Abstract: A sewing machine for forming stitches in a substrate, for example, in forming stitches in tissue during surgery, comprises a needle for passing thread into the substrate from one side thereof at a first location and for withdrawing the thread from the substrate at a second location spaced from the first location. The needle is removably operable solely from the said one side of the substrate. A stapling machine is also disclosed operating on similar principles for similar purposes.