Abstract: A suture for use in cardiac valve repair comprises a flexible rod of ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) formed with end sections of a first diameter and a center section of a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter, and the end sections having a length sufficient to enable one to be fastened to the other. In one embodiment, the first diameter is about 1-1.6 mm and the second diameter is between about 1.8-4 mm. The center section can be about 2-9 cm in length. Surgical needles are preferably provided attached to the distal ends of the end sections. The center section has a density less than the end sections, the density of the center section being chosen to promote tissue ingrowth following implantation in heart tissue. Representative density range for the center section is 0.25-0.35 g/cm3.

Abstract: A surgical thoracic retractor has retraction members that grip the anterior and posterior surfaces of the ribs between vice-like jaws to prevent a crushing or other force being applied to the intercostal nerves, thus minimizing the patient's post-operative pain.