Abstract: The invention generally relates to compositions and methods for preventing sternal wound infections, such as mediastinitis. In certain embodiments, the invention provides an antimicrobial composition including at least one bioresorbable polymer, such as a tyrosine-derived polyesteramide, and at least one antimicrobial agent, in which the composition is adapted to be topically applied to an esophageal perforation in a subject or a median sternotomy incision site in the subject, and in which the at least one antimicrobial agent is present in an amount effective to inhibit development of mediastinitis in the subject.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to compositions and methods for preventing sternal wound infections, such as mediastinitis. In certain embodiments, the invention provides an antimicrobial composition including at least one bioresorbable polymer, such as a tyrosine-derived polyesteramide, and at least one antimicrobial agent, in which the composition is adapted to be topically applied to an esophageal perforation in a subject or a median sternotomy incision site in the subject, and in which the at least one antimicrobial agent is present in an amount effective to inhibit development of mediastinitis in the subject.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing blunt tip surgical needles. Taper point needles having conventional piercing tips are placed into a vessel containing a grinding media. The needles are maintained in the vessel for a sufficient amount of time to convert the piercing point into a blunt. Additionally, the needles may be separated from the grinding media using a rotating magnetic drum such that the needles remain engaged with the magnetic drum while the grinding media is directed away to a collection tray. Needles are later removed from the magnetic drum.

Abstract: A needle for endoscopic surgery is curved into an arc of more than 180.degree. and twisted, so that it forms a part of a spiral, with a lateral offset between the needle point and barrel. The needle is sized to fit through a 10 mm trocar and is also blackened, to improve its visibility in a bloody field. The needle curvature is preferably not constant over its entire length, so that different sections have different radii of curvature. The needle is particularly well adapted for performing laporascopically a procedure (Burch Colposuspension) that is used to treat female stress incontinence.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing blunt tip surgical needles. Taper point needles having conventional piercing tips are placed into a vessel containing a grinding media. The needles are maintained in the vessel for a sufficient amount of time to convert the piercing point into a blunt tip.

Abstract: An endoscopic suture punch for use in endosurgical procedures, especially an anti-reflux procedure. This suture punch has an elongate frame and a handle mounted to one end of the frame. A pair of opposed jaws having tissue punches is mounted to the other end of the frame. One jaw is rigidly mounted to the frame while the other jaw is movably mounted to the frame, although both jaws can be movably mounted. An actuation handle is mounted to the frame for actuating the jaws. The suture punch has a suture pathway through the frame, the punches and the jaws for receiving the suture. There is a suture drive mechanism mounted to the frame for moving the suture through the suture pathway. The endoscopic suture punch is used with an invaginator for performing an anti-reflux procedure. The endoscopic suture punch may typically be used for suturing and other endoscopic procedures.

Abstract: Surgical needles are fabricated from a shape memory alloy. The alloy has a low temperature state, in which the needle is formable into an elongated shape to pass through an elongated tube, and a high temperature state, in which the needle forms an arc. The needle is particularly adapted for use in endoscopic surgery. A needle that has a remembered curved shape is straightened and passed to a surgical site through a cannula. It is then returned to its curved shape by heating it at the surgical site. After use, it is withdrawn through the cannula.