Abstract A package which is easily opened without visualization is provided by providing a plurality of tear-initiating areas on one edge of the package and on any other edge of substantially similar shape and length. The package comprises two adjacent sheets joined at the margins to provide a sealed compartment for an object, such as a sterile suture, between the sheets. One edge of the package is provided with a plurality of tear-initiating areas, such as slots or notches, and the package is opened by tearing through that edge. By providing a plurality of notches on the edge, it is unnecessary for the user to hold the edge at a single, precise point on that edge thus rendering it virtually unnecessary to look at the edge during tearing. In order to render it unnecessary to visualize the package during tearing, all edges of the package, or at least each edge that is the same shape and length as said one edge, is provided with a plurality of tear-initiating areas in the same manner.
A suture package having a sealed compartment containing a suture in an elongate configuration, said package being substantially four sided and having two opposite sides substantially shorter than the other two sides, a plurality of tear-initiating areas being provided in said pair of shorter sides, said tear-initiating areas comprising slots in the package material extending from the edges of the shorter sides of the package inwaRdly towards the sealed compartment whereby upon pulling one end of the package adjacent the tear-initiating area a section of one of the longer sides of the package may be readily removed to expose the suture along the elongate face thereof.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
106 words
A suture package having a sealed compartment containing a suture in an elongate configuration, said package being substantially four sided and having two opposite sides substantially shorter than the other two sides, a plurality of tear-initiating areas being provided in said pair of shorter sides, said tear-initiating areas comprising slots in the package material extending from the edges of the shorter sides of the package inwaRdly towards the sealed compartment whereby upon pulling one end of the package adjacent the tear-initiating area a section of one of the longer sides of the package may be readily removed to expose the suture along the elongate face thereof.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
28 words
A suture package according to claim 1 wherein the package is rectangular and the slots comprising the tear-initiating areas on the shorter sides of the package are aligned.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
32 words
A suture package according to claim 2 wherein the slots are spaced apart a distance equal to not more than about one-fourth of the length of the shorter side of the package.