Abstract: A system for forming one or more barbs on a length of suture is provided. The system includes a suture nest and a punch apparatus. The suture nest defines a longitudinal passage configured for receipt of a length of suture. The suture nest includes at least one recess formed along the longitudinal passage and at least one opening corresponding to the at least one recess. The punch apparatus includes at least one punch member corresponding to the at least one opening in the suture nest. The at least one punch member is configured to be selectively received within the at least one opening in the suture nest.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically attaching loops of a coil together at desired points. The apparatus comprises a frame, a rotatable barrel, wire separators, alignment fingers, a clipping rack further comprising pincers, and a clipping gun. The barrel, wire separators and fingers cooperate to attach the alternate loops together at desired points. The barrel is driven by a stepper motor to rotate a specific distance about a central axis. The wire separators, pincers, and clipping gun are driven pneumatically. The motor and pneumatics are controlled electronically.