US5277299A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Package for multiple sutures
Assignee: United States Surgical Corp
•
Filing: 1991-08-16
•
Granted: 1994-01-11
•
Expires: 2011-08-16
Abstract
Abstract A suture package is disclosed which is formed of a plurality of panels foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form a suture compartment between pairs of adjacent panels. A generally planar insert member includes portions cut out and lifted from the plane of the insert, respective pluralities of the cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of a plurality of suture needles positioned thereon to retain the needles in respective fixed spaced positions within the package such that the needles are positioned in one needle compartment and individual flexible suture portions connected to the needles are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels. In one embodiment portions of certain panels are cut away to reduce the girth of the folded package when loaded. Such portions may either be circular cut-outs or may be provided by dimensioning the length of certain panels less than the others. Apertures are preferably provided to provide access means for packing fluids into the package.
Inventors
- 👤 Henry A. Holzwarth
- 👤 Christopher M. Scanlon
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-03 07:42
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61B; A61B17/00; A61B17/04; A61B17/06; A61B17/06114; A61B17/06133; A61B17/06138; A61B2017/06142; A61B2017/06152
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 99
Claim 1
Independent Claim
111 words
A suture package storing at least two flexible suture portions, each having at least one needle attached thereto, which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a needle holding insert member attached to one of said panel members and retaining all such suture needles in respective fixed spaced positions wherein all such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation on said insert member and the individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in said individual suture compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
111 words
A suture package storing at least two flexible suture portions, each having at least one needle attached thereto, which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a needle holding insert member attached to one of said panel members and retaining all such suture needles in respective fixed spaced positions wherein all such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation on said insert member and the individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in said individual suture compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
30 words
The suture package according to claim 1 wherein each said individual flexible suture portion is individually wound in a separate suture compartment formed by adjacent panels folded upon each other.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
131 words
A suture package for storing at least two flexible suture portions, each having at least one suture needle attached thereto, which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member attached to one panel member and having portions cut and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of said suture needles to retain said needles in respective fixed positions whereby said needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
131 words
A suture package for storing at least two flexible suture portions, each having at least one suture needle attached thereto, which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member attached to one panel member and having portions cut and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of said suture needles to retain said needles in respective fixed positions whereby said needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
16 words
The suture package according to claim 3 wherein said planar insert member is of resilient material.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
13 words
The suture package according to claim 4 wherein said resilient material is plastic.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
38 words
The suture package according to claim 4 wherein said cut-out portions of said planar insert member are "V" shaped cuts whereby material surrounded by said "V" shaped cuts is lifted out of the plane of said insert member.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 6 wherein at least two of said "V" shaped cut-out portions are provided on said plastic insert member to retain each needle thereon.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 7 wherein said at least two of said slits are positioned for respective reception of corner portions of said planar insert member.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
24 words
The suture package according to claim 8 wherein said cut-out portions on said plastic insert member are respectively positioned to retain curved suture needles.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 9 wherein at least three of said cut-out portions are provided in said plastic insert member to retain each curved suture needle.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 10 wherein said plastic insert needle retainer is dimensioned and includes sufficient cut-out portions to retain at least two curved suture needles thereon.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 11 wherein said plastic insert needle retainer is dimensioned and contains sufficient cut-out portions to retain at least five curved needles thereon.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
128 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldable connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member formed of a resilient material and attached to one of said panel members and having portions cut and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of at least two suture needles to retain such needles in respective fixed positions, whereby such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions attached to such needles are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
128 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldable connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member formed of a resilient material and attached to one of said panel members and having portions cut and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of at least two suture needles to retain such needles in respective fixed positions, whereby such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions attached to such needles are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
34 words
The suture package according to claim 13 wherein said planar insert member is retained in position on said one panel member by insertion of marginal portions thereof into slits in said one panel member.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
17 words
The suture package according to claim 14 wherein said planar insert member is of generally rectangular configuration.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
38 words
The suture package according to claim 15 wherein said one panel member contains at least two slits positioned and dimensioned for reception of marginal portions of said planar insert member therein to retain said planar insert member thereon.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
118 words
A suture package which comprises: a) at least two rows of generally rectangular panels connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member supported by one of said panel members and having portions cut out and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of suture needles to retain such needles in respective fixed positions whereby such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
118 words
A suture package which comprises: a) at least two rows of generally rectangular panels connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member supported by one of said panel members and having portions cut out and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of suture needles to retain such needles in respective fixed positions whereby such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
30 words
The suture package according to claim 17 wherein at least one row of said panels contains a plurality of rectangular panels connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
25 words
The suture package according to claim 18 wherein the second row includes a plurality of panels connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
33 words
The suture package according to claim 19 wherein said at least two rows of panels are respectively connected to each other on the short sides of at least one panel in each row.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
18 words
The suture package according to claim 20 wherein a first row of panels contains at least six panels.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
18 words
The suture package according to claim 21 wherein said second row of panels contains at least three panels.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 22 wherein at least one of said panels are formed of less material than the others to reduce the girth of the package.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
39 words
The suture package according to claim 22 wherein said three panels of said second row of panels includes a first centrally positioned panel to support said insert member and two adjacent panels foldably connected to said first central panel.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 24, wherein each panel of said second row is generally rectangular and is connected to the next adjacent panel on a longer side.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
41 words
The suture package according to claim 25 wherein said adjacent panels of said second row are connected to said central panel by a double fold line each of which defines edge panels to encompass said remaining panels in their folded condition.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
50 words
The suture package according to claim 25 wherein at least one panel of said first row is foldably connected to the next adjacent panel by a double fold line to define a second edge panel of width sufficient to encompass said panels and sutures in the folded and assembled condition.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
207 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels, each said panel containing at least four notches, at least two notches on at least one panel facing the notches on the next adjacent panel in the same row, in their folded condition, said notches being dimensioned and positioned for reception of suture winding pins therethrough for winding the flexible suture portions therearound; b) a second row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof; c) needle holding means associated with one of said panels of said second row of panels to retain at least two suture needles in respective fixed positions on said one panel whereby said needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in said individual suture compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels; and d) said first row of panels being connected to said second row of panels on the short sides of at least one panel in each row.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
207 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels, each said panel containing at least four notches, at least two notches on at least one panel facing the notches on the next adjacent panel in the same row, in their folded condition, said notches being dimensioned and positioned for reception of suture winding pins therethrough for winding the flexible suture portions therearound; b) a second row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof; c) needle holding means associated with one of said panels of said second row of panels to retain at least two suture needles in respective fixed positions on said one panel whereby said needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in said individual suture compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels; and d) said first row of panels being connected to said second row of panels on the short sides of at least one panel in each row.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
26 words
The suture package according to claim 28 wherein at least one of said panels of said first row contains an end flap on a short side.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
34 words
The suture package according to claim 29 wherein said end flap has a generally tapered end portion and said end flap is adapted to be folded over one shorter side to protect the sutures.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
195 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual sutures compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; b) a second row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof, said second row of panels including a first centrally positioned panel and two adjacent panels foldably connected to said first central panel, said central panel supporting a plastic needle insert with at least two needles being supported thereof, a first flexible suture portion connected to a first needle and being wound in a coiled configuration and positioned between a first panel and the next adjacent second panel of said first row, and, a second flexible suture portion connected to a second needle being positioned in coiled configuration between said second panel and the next adjacent third panel of said first row; and c) said first row of panels being connected to said second row of panels on the shorter sides of at least one panel in each row.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
195 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual sutures compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; b) a second row of a plurality of generally rectangular panels foldably connected to each other on the longitudinal sides thereof, said second row of panels including a first centrally positioned panel and two adjacent panels foldably connected to said first central panel, said central panel supporting a plastic needle insert with at least two needles being supported thereof, a first flexible suture portion connected to a first needle and being wound in a coiled configuration and positioned between a first panel and the next adjacent second panel of said first row, and, a second flexible suture portion connected to a second needle being positioned in coiled configuration between said second panel and the next adjacent third panel of said first row; and c) said first row of panels being connected to said second row of panels on the shorter sides of at least one panel in each row.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
48 words
The suture package according to claim 31 wherein said second row of folded panels is folded along said shorter side defining a fold line between said panels of each row of panels, said adjacent panels of said second row being respectively folded around the folded panels and sutures.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
24 words
The suture package according to claim 32 wherein said adjacent panels of said second row of panels include means for connecting said panels together.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
81 words
The suture package according to claim 33 wherein said connecting means in said adjacent panels of said second row comprise at least two slots in one of said end panels and at least two arcuate cuts in said other end panel to define arcuate tabs, said arcuate tabs being positioned and dimensioned for entry into said slots in said other adjacent panel to retain said panels in closed positions about said panels of said first row and said sutures positioned therebetween.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 34 wherein certain of said panels each define at least one aperture to reduce the girth of the package when fully loaded.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
24 words
The suture package according to claim 35 wherein certain of said panels define apertures to permit introduction of fluid into the compartments defined thereby.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
163 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner independent from said panels of said second row to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
163 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner independent from said panels of said second row to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
46 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein said needle retaining means comprises an insert member having portions cut out and lifted from the plane of the insert, respective pluralities of said cutout portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of said suture needles.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
16 words
The suture package according to claim 38 wherein said planar insert member is of resilient material.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
13 words
The suture package according to claim 39 wherein said resilient material is plastic.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
38 words
The suture package according to claim 38 wherein said planar insert member is retained in position on said central panel member of said second row by insertion of marginal portions thereof into slits in said central panel member.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
17 words
The suture package according to claim 41 wherein said planar insert member is of generally rectangular configuration.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
36 words
The suture package according to claim 42 wherein said central panel member contains at least four slits positioned and dimensioned for reception of corner portions of said insert member therein to retain said insert member thereon.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
38 words
The suture package according to claim 43 wherein said cut-out portions of said plastic insert member are "V" shaped cuts whereby material surrounded by said "V" shaped cuts is lifted out of the plane of said insert member.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 38 wherein at least two of said "V" shaped cut-out portions are provided on said plastic insert member to retain each needle thereon.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
24 words
The suture package according to claim 45 wherein said cut-out portions on said plastic insert member are respectively positioned to retain curved suture needles.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 46 wherein at least three of said cut-out portions are provided in said plastic insert member to retain each curved suture needle.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 47 wherein said plastic insert needle retainer is dimensioned and includes sufficient cut-out portions to retain at least two curved suture needles thereon.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 47 wherein said plastic insert needle retainer is dimensioned and contains sufficient cut-out portions to retain at least five curved needles thereon.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
39 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein said at least two rows of panels are respectively connected to each other by an intermediate panel, said intermediate panel attached to the short sides of one panel in each row.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
16 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein said first row contains at least six panels.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
33 words
The suture package according to claim 51 wherein at least two panels of said first row have a generally central portion cut away to reduce the girth of the combined sutures and panels.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
45 words
The suture package according to claim 51 wherein the lengths of at least two of said panels of said first row of panels are approximately one-half the lengths of the remaining panels to reduce the girth of the package when the panels are fully folded.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
18 words
The suture package according to claim 53 wherein said first row of panels possesses three such half panels.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
26 words
The suture package according to claim 54 wherein at least one of said panels of said first row contains an end flap on a shorter side.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
53 words
The suture package according to claim 54 wherein said shorter panels are connected to each other and one longer panel is connected to one end of said shorter panels on one side of said row and two of said longer panels are connected to another of said shorter panels on the opposite side.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
76 words
The suture package according to claim 56, wherein said one longer end panel has an end flap connected to a shorter side thereof such that when said panels are respectively folded with a plurality of needles positioned in the compartment and the flexible suture portions connected thereto respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by adjacent panels, said end flap is foldable over said needle compartment to cover and protect the upper end portions of said needles.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
26 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein said plurality of panels of said first row have apertures configured to receive pins for winding sutures thereof.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
15 words
The suture package according to claim 58 wherein said apertures have a generally tapered configuration.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
19 words
The suture package according to claim 59 wherein said tapered apertures extend across the fold line between adjacent panels.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
21 words
The suture package according to claim 59 wherein at least five panels of said first row each contain two tapered apertures.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
29 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein at least one panel on said first row contains a circular aperture to permit fluid to be added to said package.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein at least one of said panels of said second row contains an end flap foldably connected along a shorter side.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
83 words
The suture package according to claim 37 wherein an end panel is connected to one end panel of said second row such that when said panels are respectively folded within a plurality of needles positioned in said needle retaining means and the flexible suture portions connected thereto are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by folded adjacent connected panels of said first row, said end flap is foldable over said needle compartment to cover and protect the upper end portions of said needles.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
137 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form a suture compartment between pairs of adjacent panels, at least two panel members having a generally central portion cut away to reduce the girth of the combined sutures and panels; and b) a generally planar insert member having portions cut out and lifted from the plane of the insert, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of at least two suture needles positioned thereon to retain said needles in respective fixed position within the package whereby said needles are positioned in generally spaced relation in one compartment and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
137 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form a suture compartment between pairs of adjacent panels, at least two panel members having a generally central portion cut away to reduce the girth of the combined sutures and panels; and b) a generally planar insert member having portions cut out and lifted from the plane of the insert, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of at least two suture needles positioned thereon to retain said needles in respective fixed position within the package whereby said needles are positioned in generally spaced relation in one compartment and individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in individual compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
28 words
The suture package according to claim 65 wherein each panel member has a generally central portion cut away to reduce the girth of the combined sutures and panels.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
191 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of six generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides; b) a second row of three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides, the central panel of said second row being connected to a second panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof, said central panel of said second row defining a plurality of cuts for reception of a generally rectangular needle retainer panel; c) a flexible plastic needle retainer panel attached to said central panel of said second row by insertion of the corner portions thereof into said cuts in said panel and having a plurality of "V" shaped cut-outs adapted to be defined out of the plane of said insert for retaining five curved suture needles thereon; and d) said panels being respectively folded in a manner to form compartments between adjacent panel, each compartment containing at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, said panels being finally folded to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
191 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of six generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides; b) a second row of three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides, the central panel of said second row being connected to a second panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof, said central panel of said second row defining a plurality of cuts for reception of a generally rectangular needle retainer panel; c) a flexible plastic needle retainer panel attached to said central panel of said second row by insertion of the corner portions thereof into said cuts in said panel and having a plurality of "V" shaped cut-outs adapted to be defined out of the plane of said insert for retaining five curved suture needles thereon; and d) said panels being respectively folded in a manner to form compartments between adjacent panel, each compartment containing at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, said panels being finally folded to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
24 words
The suture package according to claim 67 wherein said flexible suture portions are each wound in their respective compartment in a Figure "8" configuration.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
55 words
The suture package according to claim 68 wherein an end flap is connected to at least one of said panels and adapted to be folded over said needles when positioned on said needle retainer panel, said end flap dimensioned and configured to cover and protect at least the needle portion connecting the flexible suture portions.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
37 words
The suture package according to claim 69 wherein said first row is connected to said second row by two panels foldably connected to each other, each said panel connected to each respective row along a fold line.
Claim 80
Independent Claim
260 words
A method of loading a suture package with a plurality of sutures, each suture having a flexible suture portion and a surgical needle attached to one end, said suture package having a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, a second row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to said first row, said panels of said second row being connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, and a needle retainer panel attached to at least one of said panels of said second row for releasably retaining the surgical needles in spaced relation, comprising: a) positioning at least two of said needles on said needle retainer panel; b) aligning the panels of said first row opposite said needle retainer panel on the winding fixture such that winding pins thereof extend upwardly adjacent said panel of said second row; c) winding the flexible suture portion connected to the first needle about the winding pins until the suture portion is coiled upon itself within the periphery of said panel; d) folding the next adjacent panel of said second row over said coiled suture portion; e) winding the flexible suture portion attached to the next adjacent needle about said winding pins until the suture portion is coiled within the periphery of said folded panel; and f) repeating steps a), b), c) and d) sufficient to position each needle and to coil and position each flexible suture portion within a respective compartment defined by adjacent panels.
Claim 81
Independent Claim
260 words
A method of loading a suture package with a plurality of sutures, each suture having a flexible suture portion and a surgical needle attached to one end, said suture package having a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, a second row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to said first row, said panels of said second row being connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, and a needle retainer panel attached to at least one of said panels of said second row for releasably retaining the surgical needles in spaced relation, comprising: a) positioning at least two of said needles on said needle retainer panel; b) aligning the panels of said first row opposite said needle retainer panel on the winding fixture such that winding pins thereof extend upwardly adjacent said panel of said second row; c) winding the flexible suture portion connected to the first needle about the winding pins until the suture portion is coiled upon itself within the periphery of said panel; d) folding the next adjacent panel of said second row over said coiled suture portion; e) winding the flexible suture portion attached to the next adjacent needle about said winding pins until the suture portion is coiled within the periphery of said folded panel; and f) repeating steps a), b), c) and d) sufficient to position each needle and to coil and position each flexible suture portion within a respective compartment defined by adjacent panels.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
48 words
The method of loading a suture package according to claim 71 wherein an end flap is connected to one panel of said first row and said steps are followed by folding said end flap over the suture connecting portion of the needles to cover and protect the needles.
Claim 83
Independent Claim
302 words
A method of loading a suture package with a plurality of sutures, each suture having a flexible suture portion and a surgical needle attached to one end, said suture package having a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, a second row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to said first row, said panels of said second row being connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, a needle retainer panel attached to at least one of said panels of said second row for releasably retaining the surgical needles in spaced relation, and a needle protective end flap connected to the shorter side of at least one of said rectangular panels, the method comprising the steps of: a) positioning at least two of said needles on said needle retainer panel; b) aligning the panels of said first row opposite said needle retainer panel on the winding fixture such that winding pins thereof extend upwardly adjacent said panel of said second row; c) winding the flexible suture portion connected to the first needle about the winding pins until the suture portion is coiled upon itself within the periphery of said panel; d) folding the next adjacent panel of said second row over said coiled suture portion; e) winding the flexible suture portion attached to the next adjacent needle about said winding pins until the suture portion is coiled within the periphery of said folded panel; f) repeating steps a), b), c) and d) sufficient to position each needle and to coil and position each flexible suture portion within a respective compartment defined by adjacent panels; and g) folding said end flap over the suture connecting portion of the needles to cover and protect the needles.
Claim 84
Independent Claim
302 words
A method of loading a suture package with a plurality of sutures, each suture having a flexible suture portion and a surgical needle attached to one end, said suture package having a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, a second row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to said first row, said panels of said second row being connected to each other along fold lines extending along the longer sides thereof, a needle retainer panel attached to at least one of said panels of said second row for releasably retaining the surgical needles in spaced relation, and a needle protective end flap connected to the shorter side of at least one of said rectangular panels, the method comprising the steps of: a) positioning at least two of said needles on said needle retainer panel; b) aligning the panels of said first row opposite said needle retainer panel on the winding fixture such that winding pins thereof extend upwardly adjacent said panel of said second row; c) winding the flexible suture portion connected to the first needle about the winding pins until the suture portion is coiled upon itself within the periphery of said panel; d) folding the next adjacent panel of said second row over said coiled suture portion; e) winding the flexible suture portion attached to the next adjacent needle about said winding pins until the suture portion is coiled within the periphery of said folded panel; f) repeating steps a), b), c) and d) sufficient to position each needle and to coil and position each flexible suture portion within a respective compartment defined by adjacent panels; and g) folding said end flap over the suture connecting portion of the needles to cover and protect the needles.
Claim 85
Independent Claim
570 words
A method of loading a suture package with a plurality of needled sutures into a suture package on a suture wrapping fixture having upstanding suture winding pins wherein said suture package includes a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides, a second row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to said first row, said panels of said second row being connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides, the central panel of said second row being connected to a second panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof, said central panel of said second row having means to attachment of a needle retainer panel; a needle retainer panel attached to said central panel of said second row and adapted to removably retain a plurality of needles comprising: a) securing said first curved needle to a first group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion onto the second panel of said first row of panels; b) folding a third panel of said first row of panels onto said second panel to form a compartment for the flexible suture portion wound on said second panel; c) securing said second curved needle to a second group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion thereof onto the rear side of said third panel of said first row of panels; d) folding a fourth panel of said first row of panels onto said third panel to form a compartment for the flexible portion suture wound on said third panel; e) securing said third curved needle to a third group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion onto the fourth panel of said first row of panels; f) folding a first panel of said first row of panels onto said fourth panel to form a compartment for the flexible suture portion wound on said fourth panel; g) securing said fourth curved needle to a fourth group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion onto the rear side of said first panel of said first row of panels; h) folding a fifth panel of said first row of panels onto said first panel to form a compartment for the flexible suture portion wound on said first panel; i) securing said fifth curved needle to a fifth group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture onto the rear side of said fifth panel of said first row of panels; j) folding a sixth panel of said first row of panels onto said fifth panel to form a compartment for the suture wound on said fifth panel; k) folding said second row of panels onto said first row of panels along said fold line connecting said first and second row; l) folding a third panel of said second row of panels onto said folded first row of panels; m) folding a first panel of said second row of panels onto said folded first row of panels and onto said third panel of said second row; and n) securing said first panel of said second row to said third panel of said second row to form said fully folded suture package.
Claim 86
Independent Claim
570 words
A method of loading a suture package with a plurality of needled sutures into a suture package on a suture wrapping fixture having upstanding suture winding pins wherein said suture package includes a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides, a second row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to said first row, said panels of said second row being connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides, the central panel of said second row being connected to a second panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof, said central panel of said second row having means to attachment of a needle retainer panel; a needle retainer panel attached to said central panel of said second row and adapted to removably retain a plurality of needles comprising: a) securing said first curved needle to a first group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion onto the second panel of said first row of panels; b) folding a third panel of said first row of panels onto said second panel to form a compartment for the flexible suture portion wound on said second panel; c) securing said second curved needle to a second group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion thereof onto the rear side of said third panel of said first row of panels; d) folding a fourth panel of said first row of panels onto said third panel to form a compartment for the flexible portion suture wound on said third panel; e) securing said third curved needle to a third group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion onto the fourth panel of said first row of panels; f) folding a first panel of said first row of panels onto said fourth panel to form a compartment for the flexible suture portion wound on said fourth panel; g) securing said fourth curved needle to a fourth group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture portion onto the rear side of said first panel of said first row of panels; h) folding a fifth panel of said first row of panels onto said first panel to form a compartment for the flexible suture portion wound on said first panel; i) securing said fifth curved needle to a fifth group of "V" shaped cuts of said needle retainer panel and winding the flexible suture onto the rear side of said fifth panel of said first row of panels; j) folding a sixth panel of said first row of panels onto said fifth panel to form a compartment for the suture wound on said fifth panel; k) folding said second row of panels onto said first row of panels along said fold line connecting said first and second row; l) folding a third panel of said second row of panels onto said folded first row of panels; m) folding a first panel of said second row of panels onto said folded first row of panels and onto said third panel of said second row; and n) securing said first panel of said second row to said third panel of said second row to form said fully folded suture package.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
48 words
The method of loading a suture package according to claim 74 wherein an end flap is connected to one panel of said second row and said steps are followed by folding said end flap over the suture connecting portion of the needles to cover and protect the needles.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
184 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least two panels having a generally central portion cut away to reduce the girth of the combined sutures and panels when the package is in a folded condition; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least one panel of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means attached to said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
184 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least two panels having a generally central portion cut away to reduce the girth of the combined sutures and panels when the package is in a folded condition; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least one panel of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means attached to said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
188 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least two of said panels being approximately one-half the length of the remaining panels to reduce the girth of the package when the panels are in the fully folded condition. b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
188 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least two of said panels being approximately one-half the length of the remaining panels to reduce the girth of the package when the panels are in the fully folded condition. b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, at least one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
184 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) an end flap foldably connected to a shorter side of at least one of said panels of said second row; d) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and e) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner independent from said panels of said second row to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to containing at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
184 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a first row of a plurality of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) an end flap foldably connected to a shorter side of at least one of said panels of said second row; d) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and e) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner independent from said panels of said second row to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to containing at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
188 words
A suture package which comprises: `a) a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereon, said panels having apertures to receive pins for winding sutures therein, each said apertures having a generally tapered configuration and extending across the fold line between adjacent panels; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner independent from said panels in said second row to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
188 words
A suture package which comprises: `a) a first row of generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereon, said panels having apertures to receive pins for winding sutures therein, each said apertures having a generally tapered configuration and extending across the fold line between adjacent panels; b) a second row of at least three generally rectangular shaped panels connected to each other by fold lines along the longer sides thereof, one of said panels of said second row being a connector panel connected to a panel of said first row by a fold line along the shorter sides thereof; c) needle retaining means associated with said connector panel of said second row; and d) said panels of said first row being respectively foldable in a manner independent from said panels in said second row to form compartments between adjacent panels, each compartment adapted to contain at least one flexible suture portion therein in a wound configuration, each suture attached to a needle held by said needle retaining means, said panels being finally foldable to form a generally rectangular suture package.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
134 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member formed of a resilient material and attached to one of said panel members and having portions cut and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of at least two suture needles to retain such needles in respective fixed positions, wherein such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions attached to such needles are each individually wound and positioned in a separate suture compartment formed by adjacent panels folded upon each other.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
134 words
A suture package which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a substantially planar insert member formed of a resilient material and attached to one of said panel members and having portions cut and lifted from the plane of the insert member, respective pluralities of said cut portions being dimensioned and positioned to engage respective portions of at least two suture needles to retain such needles in respective fixed positions, wherein such needles are positioned in generally spaced relation and individual flexible suture portions attached to such needles are each individually wound and positioned in a separate suture compartment formed by adjacent panels folded upon each other.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
115 words
A suture package for storing a plurality of flexible suture portions, each having at least one needle attached thereto, which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a needle holding insert sheet attached to one of said panel members and adapted to retain all such suture needles in respective fixed spaced positions whereby all such needles may be positioned in generally spaced relation on said insert sheet and the individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in said individual suture compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
115 words
A suture package for storing a plurality of flexible suture portions, each having at least one needle attached thereto, which comprises: a) a plurality of panel members foldably connected to each other and arranged to fold upon each other to form at least two individual suture compartments between pairs of adjacent panels; and b) a needle holding insert sheet attached to one of said panel members and adapted to retain all such suture needles in respective fixed spaced positions whereby all such needles may be positioned in generally spaced relation on said insert sheet and the individual flexible suture portions are respectively positioned in said individual suture compartments formed by the remaining adjacent folded panels.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
GB680089A
Cited
US3136418A
Cited
US3338019A
Cited
US3162307A
Cited
US3206018A
Cited
US3280971A
Cited
US3338401A
Cited
NL6504467A
Cited
US3490192A
Cited
US3363751A
Cited
US3487917A
Cited
US3444994A
Cited
US3545608A
Cited
US3613879A
Cited
US3627120A
Cited
US3759376A
Cited
NL7302081A
Cited
US3779375A
Cited
US3857484A
Cited
US3959947A
Cited
US3939969A
Cited
US3972418A
Cited
US3985227A
Cited
FR2331638A1
Cited
US4034850A
Cited
US4089409A
Cited
US4063638A
Cited
US4126221A
Cited
US4120395A
Cited
US4135623A
Cited
US4183431A
Cited
US4284194A
Cited
FR2455880A1
Cited
USD263505S
Cited
US4249656A
Cited
US4253563A
Cited
DE3027836A1
Cited
USD272600S
Cited
US4412613A
Cited
US4369880A
Cited
US4574948A
Cited
US4391365A
Cited
US4412614A
Cited
US4424898A
Cited
US4406363A
Cited
US4427109A
Cited
US4483437A
Cited
GB2148232A
Cited
US4549649A
Cited
US4573575A
Cited
US4574957A
Cited
US4699271A
Cited
GB2161130A
Cited
US4496045A
Cited
US4533041A
Cited
US4555016A
Cited
US4572363A
Cited
US4615435A
Cited
US4700833A
Cited
US4708241A
Cited
US4813537A
Cited
US4896767A
Cited
US4884681A
Cited
US4946043A
Cited
FR2639215A1
Cited
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1997-01-10 | 1997-07-12 | 1998-01-11 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2001-01-10 | 2001-07-12 | 2002-01-11 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2005-01-10 | 2005-07-12 | 2006-01-11 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |