Abstract: A device for repairing a meniscus of a patient. An introducer having a sharpened distal end is manipulated to pierce the meniscus across a tear therein. A main body is carried within the introducer and has a distal end having a pair of wings that are biased toward an outwardly extending position where the wings form a tee at the distal end of the main body. When the introducer is properly placed, the main body is pushed so that the distal end of the main body emerges from the distal end of the introducer, thereby freeing the wings to spring to their outwardly biased position. The wings hold the outer surface of the torn meniscus and a fixation device is affixed to the main body to hold the inner surface of the meniscus such that the meniscus is sandwiched between the wings and the affixation device to hold the meniscus with the sides of the tear brought together.

Abstract: The invention in certain aspects relates to a surgical fastener for fastening tissue segments having tissue surfaces. The fastener includes a first fastener member having a base and a piercing element connected to the base for piercing the tissue segments to be fastened, a second fastener member having an opening for receiving and retaining the piercing element of the first fastener member such that the tissue segments to be fastened are retained between the first and second fastening members, and means for promoting adhesion between the tissue surfaces. The invention also relates to related methods and devices for promoting adhesion of tissue segments and preventing fastener migration, especially in an endoscopic procedure for the treatment of GERD.

Abstract: A tissue approximation device and processes for using the device are provided. The device is an implantable, biodegradable construct (except for hernia repairs) that has attachment points emanating from a supportive backing. The device improves the mechanical phase of wound healing and evenly distributes tension over the contact area between the device and tissue. Processes for using the device include wound closure, vascular anastomoses, soft tissue attachment and soft tissue to bone attachment.

Abstract: A method and the apparatus for anastomosing two hollow viscera that can be performed percutaneously or through the patients mouth. The apparatus includes an anchor assembly including a stationary T-bar anchor secured to the distal end of a suture and a sliding anchor that is attached to the suture proximal to the stationary T-bar anchor. The sliding anchor is held in place on the suture but can be slid along the suture when pressure is applied to it. The anchor assembly is inserted through the abdominal wall, into the stomach, and then through the stomach into the jejunum. The stationary anchor is then released into the jejunum and the sliding anchor is released in the stomach. A pusher is then used to push or slide the sliding anchor distally until the tissue between the stationary and sliding anchors are in close contact. After the anchor has been placed, the suture can be severed at the sliding anchor.

Abstract: Surgical instruments and methods are provided. In one aspect, a method of securing a fixation device within an opening in a tissue is provided, including delivering a material in a flowable state to said opening, and changing the state of the material so that the material forms an interference fit that secures the fixation device in the opening.

Abstract: A method for the suture of wounds, includes applying a sufficient quantity of a biocompatible, bio-adhesive mixture with at least 50% by weight of a methylidene malonate-based composition containing: 40 to 100% by weight of at least one methylidene malonate of formula (I):  in which: A and B independently represent a group (a) or (b): in which R1 and R2 independently represent a linear or branched alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms, n is an integer between 1 and 5, and at least one of A and B represents a (b) group; and/or one or more methylidene malonate oligomers with a molecular weight less than or equal to 6,000 and including recurrent units of formula (II): in which A and B are as defined above; and 0 to 60% by weight of at least one methylidene malonate polymer with a molecular weight greater than 6,000 and including recurrent units of formula (II).

Abstract: A device for closing and promoting the healing of a skin laceration in a predetermined skin portion of the body. The device comprising a first means engageable with a skin portion of the body for drawing such laceration together. A screen member disposed intermediate with the skin laceration and first means for maintaining closure of such skin laceration. A medical adhesive engageable with a screen member as a means for sealing the skin laceration together.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treating septal defects. A system for treating septal defects may comprise a first catheter having a distal end and a first lumen, a second catheter having a distal end a second lumen, a bridge member extending between the distal end of the first catheter and the distal end of the second catheter, and a first patch adapted to be disposed within the first lumen and movable out of the first lumen along the bridge member. A second patch may be used and be connectable to the first patch.

Abstract: A method for using a dressing mechanism having a first section, a second section, and a third section, the first section being coupled to the second section and the second section being coupled to the third section, the first and third section comprising an elastic material.

Abstract: Wound closure methods and apparatus are provided which utilize blood fluid by activating the clotting cascade of the blood fluid outside the body within a substantially enclosed sterile container then introducing the blood fluid to the wound site to complete clotting. Methods and apparatus for providing ways of inhibiting anticoagulants and slowing fibrin clot degradation are also disclosed. Kits for practicing the invention singularly or in combination with and/or associated with preferred procedures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hemostatic device comprises an adhesive bandage and a hemostatic pad. The adhesive bandage includes an adhesive backing, an absorbent pad attached to a bottom surface of the adhesive backing, and a flexible disc attached to a top surface of the adhesive backing. The adhesive backing includes a central portion and two adhesive ends extending from the central portion. The hemostatic pad is attached to a bottom surface of the absorbent pad. A hemostatic effective amount of hemostatic agent is attached to a bottom surface of the hemostatic pad. The hemostatic pad defines an aperture at an approximately central point and an elongated cut extending from the aperture. The bandage defines an associate aperture and an elongated cut above the aperture and the elongated cut of the hemostatic pad. The apertures and the cuts allow the passage of an indwelling tubular element at the puncture wound.

Abstract: A biocompatible monomer composition includes: (A) at least one monomer, which forms a medically acceptable polymer, (B) at least one plasticizing agent present in the composition in an amount of from 0.5 wt. % to 15 wt. % of the composition; and (C) at least one acidic stabilizing agent having a pKa ionization constant of from about 1 to about 7. The composition can be applied to a variety of materials and is particularly suitable as in vivo tissue adhesive. A method of joining together in vivo two surfaces, e.g.

Abstract: A tissue approximation device and processes for using the device, particularly in the mid-face region, are provided. The device is an implantable, biodegradable construct that has attachment points emanating from at least one supportive backing. The device also has a connecting member or leash which extends between the backing and an anchor which is attached to bone or soft tissue. Attachment to soft tissue is accomplished by a second backing having attachment points emanating from the backing and attachment to bone is accomplished by a post. The connecting member allows for repeated adjustments in length between the anchor and the backing in vivo or ex vivo until the desired amount of tissue approximation is achieved. The device improves the mechanical phase of wound healing and evenly distributes tension over the contact area between the device and tissue.

Abstract: A tissue approximation device and processes for using the device are provided. The device is an implantable, biodegradable construct (except for hernia repairs) that has attachment points emanating from a supportive backing. The device improves the mechanical phase of wound healing and evenly distributes tension over the contact area between the device and tissue. Processes for using the device include wound closure, vascular anastomoses, soft tissue attachment and soft tissue to bone attachment. Several variations are particularly applicable to facilitating tissue approximation in surgical cosmetic applications, particularly brow lifts. Generally, scalp tissue to be lifted may be set on a brow lift device via attachment points, and the device may then be secured to a patient's cranium. Variations of the device are described along with a method of installing the brow lift device. Also described is a tool particularly useful for installing a brow lift device.

Abstract: An implantable medical device for at least partially obstructing a septal defect is disclosed. The implantable medical device includes an obstruction mechanism connected to a non-linear elongated tissue-puncturing end.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treating septal defects. A system for treating septal defects may comprise a first catheter having a distal end and a first lumen, a second catheter having a distal end a second lumen, a bridge member extending between the distal end of the first catheter and the distal end of the second catheter, and a first patch adapted to be disposed within the first lumen and movable out of the first lumen along the bridge member. A second patch may be used and be connectable to the first patch.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for closing a septal defect including a flap of tissue partially detached from a septum of a heart. A needle is advanced through a patient's vasculature within a delivery apparatus until the needle is disposed within a first chamber adjacent the septum. The needle is directed through the flap of tissue until the needle is disposed within a second chamber opposite the septum. A filament attached to an intermediate region of the needle is pulled, thereby causing the needle to pivot about the intermediate region such that the ends of the needle straddle the septal opening. A locking element is secured to the filament to secure the flap of tissue against the septum, and the filament is cut. Alternatively, the filament is biased to coil to engage the flap of tissue and secure the needle against the septum to close the opening.

Abstract: A sealing device and a wound closure device includes a sealing device for closing a wound in a wall of a vessel. The objective of the invention is to provide a sealing device and a wound closure device which has enhanced tightening properties. This problem is solved by the sealing device comprising an elongated member, which constitutes or is coated by a suture wire, having a constant thickness along its lock portion, the thickness being greater than the opening of the second sealing member. The sealing device is infinitely variable lockable along the distal lock portion.

Abstract: A fibrin adhesive or sealant composition comprising a biocompatible, bioabsorbable hyaluronic acid material, chitin material, or chitosan material to which fibrinogen and a fibrinogen-cleaving agent are applied, along with other components such as additional coagulation factors, anti-fibrinolytics, stabilizers and biologically active substances. The fibrinogen, fibrinogen-cleaving agent and other components can take the form of dry preparation, an aqueous or nonaqueous preparation, or a combination thereof. Such a composition can be placed directly on, around, or within a wound site and is fully reabsorbed into the body.

Abstract: A fastener system for use in reattaching a skull flap in an opening formed in a patient's skull during brain surgery is simple, quick and easy to use, and cost effective. The system includes a fastener element and a substantially disc shaped lock element. The fastener element has a shank with a plurality of ratchet teeth, and a plurality ridges extending upwardly from the shank a distance greater than the height of the ratchet teeth, and substantially perpendicular to the ratchet teeth. The ridges engage at least one of the skull and skull flap and either bend or collapse, or cut locking grooves into the skull or skull flap, to provide a force holding the shank in engagement with the skull and skull flap. The lock element may have force concentrating projections extending outwardly toward the fastener head, and the head may have a plurality of resilient[ outrigger leaves.

Abstract: A tissue approximation device and processes for using the device are provided. The device is an implantable, biodegradable construct (except for hernia repairs) that has attachment points emanating from a supportive backing. The device improves the mechanical phase of wound healing and evenly distributes tension over the contact area between the device and tissue. Processes for using the device include wound closure, vascular anastomoses, soft tissue attachment and soft tissue to bone attachment. Several variations are particularly applicable to facilitating tissue approximation in surgical cosmetic applications, particularly brow lifts. Generally, scalp tissue to be lifted may be set on a brow lift device via attachment points, and the device may then be secured to a patient's cranium. Variations of the device are described along with a method of installing the brow lift device. Also described is a tool particularly useful for installing a brow lift device.

Abstract: A medical fastener (18), preferably bioabsorbable, is used for repairing torn soft tissue, particularly meniscal tissue (16). The fastener (18) can have an enlarged head (22) at the proximate end to engage meniscal tissue (16) adjacent to a tear (14), and a pointed distal tip (21) at the other end to ease insertion of the fastener (18) into the meniscus (16). The shank (20) of the fastener (18) bridges across the tear (14). Opposite ends of the shank (20) are secured in the meniscal tissue (16) by a medical adhesive, preferably bioabsorbable, and preferably at locations remote from the tear (14) so as not to interfere with healing of the tear (14). The fastener (18) can have a blind bore (24) opening through the head (22) of the fastener (18) and extending through the shank (20) to a location close to the tip (21) and generally radial holes (26) communicating between the bore (24) and the exterior of the shank (20).

Abstract: A hydratable bioelectrode for use in an iontophoretic delivery device comprising a hydrating component and a bioelectrode component. The hydrating component includes a cradle having a chamber containing one or more fluid containing ampule(s) and ampule breaking means associated with the cradle for rapidly breaking the one or more fluid containing ampule(s).

Abstract: A reinforcing member or stent (7) is inserted into opposite end portions (1, 1) of a lacerated tendon and secured within the tendon by adhesive so that tension applied to the tendon is transmitted across the laceration by way of the reinforcing member (7).

Abstract: There is provided an apparatus (10) and method for maintaining manuary access to a sufflated body cavity of a patient through a fenestration formed in the patient's body tissue during a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The apparatus (10) generally comprises a seal section (100) and a sheath section (200) coupled thereto. The seal section (100) includes an endless loop portion (110) that defines an opening (120). The sheath section (200) includes a mouth portion (210), a glove portion (230), and a pliable intermediate portion (220) extending therebetween. The intermediate portion (220) maintains in reconfigurable manner a substantially gas impermeable barrier between the mouth and glove portions (210, 230) when the glove portion (230) is passed through the opening (120) into the body cavity responsive to manuary actuation.

Abstract: A release assembly is provided to aid the reversible and repositionable deployment of a defect occluder. The release assembly includes an occluder tether having a distal portion comprising at least one suture loop, and a snare structure having a distal portion comprising a snare element. The at least one suture loop is receivable through at least a portion of the defect occluder, and reversibly looped over an anchor element so as to permit reversible collapse the defect occluder for selective ingress and egress from a delivery catheter. The snare element is reversibly engageable with the anchor element so as to reversibly retain the at least one suture loop upon the anchor element, and thereby hold the defect occluder in a posture for reversible free-floating tethered deployment in a defect while being observable in a final position prior to release.

Abstract: A positioning device comprises a rod-shaped portion which in its distal end, is releasable attachable to said first sealing member such that a rotational movement and a directional movement of the rod-shaped portion are transferable to the first sealing member, which makes the positioning of said first sealing member controllable and the way of sealing improved and more secure.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bandage for closing a wound or incision, and methods for the use of same. The bandage comprises a first flat flexible component having adhesive on a lower surface and one or more first elongated connectors extending in an offset manner from one edge thereof in a first direction. The bandage further comprises a second flat flexible component having adhesive on a lower surface and one or more second elongated connectors extending in an offset manner from one edge thereof in a second direction generally opposite to the first direction. Pulling elements are joined to the first and second elongated connectors. Means are provided for attaching the first elongated connectors to the second flat flexible component and the second elongated connectors to the first flat flexible component.

Abstract: A temporary intravascular arteriotomy seal for insertion into and retrieval from a blood vessel through an opening in the wall of the vessel. The seal comprises a thin flexible sheet material. According to one embodiment, in an untensioned state, the seal is curved and foldable in the width direction. It is adapted to be folded in the width direction upon exertion for a force on the gripping element directed in the length direction, and upon contacting of the sheet material by the sides of the opening in the vessel wall. By use of the sealing device, arterial by-pass grafting in a briefly-occlusive or non-occlusive end-to-side or side-to-side anastomosis technique is possible with virtually no obstruction to flow, little endothelial denudation and otherwise no wall damage by the intravascular device, and without blocking of side branches.

Abstract: A surgical prosthesis for repairing a hernia in a sturdy tension-free manner. The prosthesis includes a layer of adhesion resistant material and a first layer of tissue ingrowth receptive mesh material affixed to the layer of adhesion resistant material. A second layer of tissue ingrowth receptive mesh material is positioned adjacent the first layer of tissue ingrowth receptive mesh material and a connecting thread is interwoven between the midsections of the layers for forming a midsectional seam fastening together the three layers. The prosthesis is implanted in the hernial area of the patient in such a manner as to duplicate the structure of the original unherniated fascial tissue. The adhesion resistant layer faces inwardly to prevent adhesion of internal body viscera to the prosthesis.

Abstract: A method for spreading skin grafts, wherein the skin grafts are placed on an elastic membrane, after which the membrane is stretched in at least two directions substantially perpendicular to each other and the skin grafts present on the membrane are spread. A spreading means, a stretcher and a membrane to be used therewith, as well as to a method for applying skin grafts to a burn.

Abstract: A prosthesis for abdominal surgery and the method of using it, in which a two-sheet prosthetic is attached to the facia only at opposite sides of an incision. The sheets permit opening and reclosing of the incision and maintaining tension on the facia to bring the edges closer together with each opening and closing to allow for final fascia-to-fascia closure. The method of detoxifying the two-sheet facia prosthesis also is disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for forming an anastomosis between hollow bodies using magnetic force to couple anastomotic securing components and create a fluid-tight connection between the lumens of the hollow bodies. End-to-side, side-to-side and end-to-end anastomoses can be created without using suture or any other type of mechanical fasteners, although any such attachment means may be used in conjunction with the magnetic attachment The securing components have magnetic, ferromagnetic or electromagnetic properties and may include one or more materials, for example, magnetic and nonmagnetic materials arranged in a laminated structure. The system of anastomotic securing components may he used in many different applications including the treatment of cardiovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, forming AV shunts for dialysis patients, etc., and may be sized and configured for forming an anastomosis to a specific hollow body, for example, a coronary artery or the aorta.

Abstract: An anchor connected with a suture is moved through a passage between opposite sides of a bone. The anchor is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second anchor is connected with the suture. While tension is maintained in the suture, the suture is secured against movement relative to the anchors. This may be done by tying the suture or by using a suture retainer to hold the suture. A suture retainer may be used in place of the second anchor. The passage may extend across a fracture in the bone. The passage may have either a nonlinear or linear configuration. A tubular member may be positioned in the passage with the tubular member extending into portions of the passage on opposite sides of the fracture. Opposite end portions of the tubular member may be disposed in a compact outer layer of the bone. If desired, a member other than a suture may be used as a force transmitting member between the two anchors. The tubular member may be formed of bone.

Abstract: A fusionless method of correcting spinal deformities in growing adolescents is disclosed utilizing a shape memory alloy staple. Various embodiments of the shape memory alloy staple include features such as barbs on the inner and outer surfaces of the prongs in the shape memory alloy staple as well as the use of notches on the crossbar or cross plate connecting the prongs to the shape memory alloy staple. In some embodiments, the shape memory alloy staple has an aperture defined through the cross plate for receiving a bone screw or other bone anchor which in turn allows the interconnection of a longitudinal member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to suture organizing device for use with surgical retractors and devices for stabilizing a predetermined area of the body during a surgical procedure, more particularly to a suture organizing device that is attachable to surgical retractors used in connection with minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting surgical procedures and heart valve procedures, and more specifically to a suture organizing device having a plurality of suture slots thereon for the releasable attachment of sutures thereto during a surgical procedure to enable the surgeon to retract tissue from the surgical field and wherein the suture organizing device is oriented to extend laterally of the outer surface of the arms of the surgical retractor.

Abstract: A grasping forceps for an endoscope according to the present invention comprises a flexible insertion section, an operating wire passing through said insertion section and adapted to be advanced and retreated in accordance with an operation of an operating section connected to a hand side end of the operating wire, and an elastic grasping section arranged in the leading end portion of said operating wire and composed of at least four elastic grasping members different in length having a habit of so flexing that leading end grasping portions formed at the leading ends of said elastic grasping members spread outwards from a center axis of said insertion section, wherein the leading end grasping portions formed at the leading ends of the plurality of elastic grasping members different in length are spread in a spiral arrangement at the time of spreading of the elastic grasping section.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bandage for closing a wound or incision, and methods for the use of same. The bandage comprises a first flat flexible component having adhesive on a lower surface and a plurality of first elongated connectors extending from one edge thereof in a first direction. The bandage further comprises a second flat flexible component having adhesive on a lower surface and one or more second elongated connectors extending from one edge thereof in a second direction generally opposite to the first direction. Pulling elements are joined to the first and second elongated connectors. Means are provided for attaching the first elongated connectors to the second flat flexible component and the second elongated connectors to the first flat flexible component.

Abstract: A device for rapid reattachment of a bone flap to a cranium after a surgical operation is provided. The device comprises a pin comprising an elongated shaft, an inner disk and an outer disk. At least the outer disk comprises a central bore. The pin and inner disk are adapted to be assembled together to form a pin and inner disk assembly such that the inner disk is located at one end of the pin. The outer disk is adapted to be mounted on the shaft of the pin with the shaft of the pin extending through the central bore of the outer disk.

Abstract: A device is proposed for inserting hemostatic material through a tissue channel and against the outside wall of a blood vessel of a patient, wherein the blood vessel wall has a puncture therein adjacent the tissue channel. The device includes a charge of hemostatic material and a hollow sheath adapted to pass through the tissue channel, the sheath having a cross sectional profile larger than the puncture. The device places the hemostatic material in the hollow sheath and advances the hemostatic material through the sheath to the outside of the vessel wall around the puncture.

Abstract: A catheter delivered device to close a septal defect, the device comprising a cylindrical shaft of metal or polymeric material with concentric parallel cuts through the wall of the device which create flattened support struts. The center of the support struts move radially away from the axis in a hinge like fashion in response to the movement of the device's proximal and distal ends toward the center of the device. This movement is reversibly effected through mechanical means. The device can be coated with growth factors, mitogenic factors or other determinants which can improve tissue growth such that tissue ingrowth can occur over a period of time. The catheter itself may be an ultrasonic imaging catheter.

Abstract: A helical fastener having a high retentive surface area is provided and has a first end for enhancing penetration into tissue and a second end comprising a coil sectioning a diameter of the fastener for receiving longitudinal and rotational forces. The helical fasteners are attached to body tissue by a fastener applicator having a proximal portion comprising a handle and an actuator and an elongate distal portion for housing a plurality of fasteners. A transferring action of the actuator provides longitudinal and rotational movement of the fasteners out of the distal portion and into body tissue.

Abstract: Surgical devices such as implants or suture fastenings are assembled from a plurality of discrete components, one of which components includes a heat bondable plastic material for bonding the components together. At least two components are bonded to each other by the applying heat to the heat bondable plastic material of one component. The heat bondable plastic material is preferably a polymeric or composite material suitable for surgical applications and implantation in humans, and may be a biodegradable material. A laser may be used as the heat source. The present invention is advantageously embodied in heat bonded fastenings for sutures or K-wires, in which a variety of different suture anchors are usable, including expandable distal suture anchors.

Abstract: A suture assembly made of bioabsorbable material is disclosed having a central body member with a plurality of elongated lateral members extending therefrom, each lateral member having body tissue retention means such as provided from a plurality of barb members extending at an acute angle therefrom and/or an adhesive disposed thereon. The lateral members are inserted laterally into the two sides of a cut in body tissue, such lateral members each drawn into place, in one embodiment, by its attached thread member which is connected to a needle member at the end thereof. Also disclosed is a method for utilizing the suture assembly of this invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for performing hemostasis at two symmetrically located puncture sites in the femoral arteries or veins of a patient. It comprises a beam member (6, 8) provided with two attachment devices (10, 12) for pressure pads. There are belts for securing the device to the patient to provide a pressure on the puncture sites, and means (18, 20, 24, 26) for adjusting the distance between said attachment. The invention also provides a method of controlled hemostasis at two puncture sites in each femoral artery or vein of a patient after catheterization, comprising providing a beam member having two pressure pads, adapted to bear against each puncture site, adjusting the center-to-center distance of said pressure pads by moving at least one of said pressure pads along said beam member, applying said pressure pads at said puncture sites, securing said beam member carrying said pressure pads to the body of said patient, by tightening a belt around the body.

Abstract: A bone member fastener for closing a craniotomy includes a cap and a base interconnected by a narrow cylindrical collar. The cap has an externally threaded stud that screws into an internally threaded bore of the collar, thereby allowing the cap and base to be brought into clamping engagement against the internal and external faces of a bone plate and surrounding bone. In a particularly disclosed embodiment, the base of the fastener is placed below a craniotomy hole with the collar projecting into the hole, and the stud of the cap is screwed into the bore of the base from above the hole to clamp a bone flap against the surrounding cranium. This device provides a method of quickly and securely replacing a bone cover into a craniotomy. The distance between the cap and base can be selected by how far the threaded stud of the cap is advanced into the internally threaded collar. The fastener is therefore adaptable for use in several regions of the skull having various thicknesses.

Abstract: An external tissue expansion device applies constant continuous low grade force to skin to obtain additional tension free skin and subcutaneous tissue prior to a surgical procedure. The device consists of two suture plates each being laminated structure of steel and an adhesive attached foam cushion. On the each end of one suture plate is a housing that contains a constant force spring placed over a post. The ends of the constant force spring protrude from the housing and there is a hook attached to the end of the constant force spring. On each end of the other suture plate there is a housing, with a opening that can accept the hook of the opposite suture plate. These suture plates are constructed so that they can be manually shaped to conform to the topography of the body part to be corrected and are attached to skin near the defect to be corrected prior to a surgical procedure.

Abstract: The self securing suture includes a suture having at least one terminal end and a toggle, formed of suture material, at the suture's terminal end. In one embodiment, the suture toggle is a bar. In another embodiment the suture is a wire and the toggle is a wire element toggle. The wire element toggle is a double strand segment or an open loop segment. The suture delivery system includes a slotted needle configured such that a protruding tab or leg of the toggle bar fits within slot of the needle. For wire sutures, the open loop wire element toggle fits within the slotted needle. In another embodiment, a depending wire tip, from the wire element toggle, fits within the slot in the needle.

Abstract: A prosthesis device for repairing a hernia having an insertion canal made of sheet material for extending through the hernia. The insertion canal is attached at one end to a collar and at the other end to a base that is to be on the inside of the abdominal cavity. The base may be a sheet or a pouch that is to be brought to bear on the inside the wall of the abdominal cavity. The insertion canal providing a simple way of deploying the sheet or pouch against the wall of a abdominal cavity.

Abstract: An anchor connected with a suture is moved through a passage between opposite sides of a bone. The anchor is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second anchor is connected with the suture. While tension is maintained in the suture, the suture is secured against movement relative to the anchors. This may be done by tying the suture or by using a suture retainer to hold the suture. A suture retainer may be used in place of the second anchor. The passage may extend across a fracture in the bone. The passage may have either a nonlinear or linear configuration. A tubular member may be positioned in the passage with the tubular member extending into portions of the passage on opposite sides of the fracture. Opposite end portions of the tubular member may be disposed in a compact outer layer of the bone. If desired, a member other than a suture may be used as a force transmitting member between the two anchors. The tubular member may be formed of bone.