Patent US5980559A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5980559A
Expired / Lapsed
US
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Suture anchor
Assignee: Bonutti Skeletal Innovations LLC
•
Filing: 1997-11-04
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Granted: 1999-11-09
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Expires: 2017-11-04
Abstract
Abstract A suture anchor is formed of a material which absorbs body liquid when exposed to body liquid. The anchor may be at least partially formed of a material having a strong affinity for body liquids. This enables the anchor to absorb body liquid and expand upon being inserted into a patient's body. At least one embodiment of the suture anchor has portions formed of a relatively hard material which does not absorb body liquids and is pressed against body tissue by the material which absorbs body liquid to mechanically interlock the suture anchor and the body tissue. The anchor may be at least partially formed of a cellular material. The cells expand to absorb body liquid. At least one embodiment of the anchor has a pointed leading end portion to form an opening in an imperforate surface on body tissue. The configuration of the anchor may be changed by tensioning the suture while the anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Inventors
- 👤 Peter M. Bonutti
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-04 23:13
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61B; A61B17/00; A61B17/04; A61B17/0401; A61B2017/0403; A61B2017/0409; A61B2017/0412; A61B2017/0414; A61B2017/0417; A61B2017/0427; A61B2017/0445; A61B2017/0446; A61B2017/0458; A61B17/0469; A61B2017/047
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 157
Claim 1
Independent Claim
134 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a jacket which at least partially encloses said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said jacket being expanded under the influence of force applied against said jacket by said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
134 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a jacket which at least partially encloses said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said jacket being expanded under the influence of force applied against said jacket by said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
48 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said jacket is formed of a material which is incapable of absorbing body liquids while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said jacket includes a one-piece portion which extends around said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue includes surface means for at least partially defining a passage which extends through said suture anchor means, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
40 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said anchor means includes means for at least partially defining a passage which extends through opposite sides of said jacket, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
67 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said suture anchor means includes a side portion which extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture anchor means includes means for defining a passage having first and second openings in said side portion of said suture anchor means, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage between said first and second openings.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
48 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said jacket includes an elastic material which is stretched under the influence of force which is applied against said jacket by said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
34 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said jacket at least partially defines a plurality of openings through which body liquid can move into said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
37 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein a plurality of openings are formed in said jacket to enable body liquid to be conducted through said jacket into said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
15 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 8 wherein said jacket has a one-piece construction.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
126 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes opposite end portions, said suture anchor means includes means for at least partially defining a passage which extends between said opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 15
Independent Claim
126 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes opposite end portions, said suture anchor means includes means for at least partially defining a passage which extends between said opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
73 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said second material at least partially defines a projection which engages body tissue and retains said suture anchor means against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
71 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said suture anchor means includes a plurality of retainers formed of a second material and connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said plurality of retainers being movable relative to each other under the influence of force applied against said plurality of retainers by said material which absorbs body liquid upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
48 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said second material being incapable of absorbing body liquids while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
56 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said suture anchor means includes a retaining portion formed of a second material which is incapable of absorbing body liquids while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said retaining portion being engageable with body tissue to form a mechanical interlock with the body tissue.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
83 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said suture anchor means includes a retainer portion which is formed of a second material which is harder than said material which absorbs body liquid, said retainer portion being pressed against body tissue under the influence of force transmitted from said material which absorbs body liquid to retain said suture anchor means against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of force transmitted from said suture means to said suture anchor means.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
21 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 21 wherein said retainer portion includes a plurality of ribs which engage body tissue.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
19 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 21 wherein said retainer portion includes a projection which engages body tissue.
Claim 26
Independent Claim
140 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a side portion which extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture anchor means includes means for defining a passage having first and second openings in said side portion of said suture anchor means, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage between said first an second openings.
Claim 27
Independent Claim
140 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a side portion which extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture anchor means includes means for defining a passage having first and second openings in said side portion of said suture anchor means, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage between said first an second openings.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
48 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said second material being incapable of absorbing body liquids while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 32
Independent Claim
162 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a side portion which extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture anchor means includes means for defining a passage having first and second openings, said first opening being disposed in one of said end portions of said suture anchor means and said second opening being disposed in said side portion of said suture anchor means, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage between said first and second openings.
Claim 33
Independent Claim
162 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a side portion which extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor means, said suture anchor means includes means for defining a passage having first and second openings, said first opening being disposed in one of said end portions of said suture anchor means and said second opening being disposed in said side portion of said suture anchor means, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage between said first and second openings.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
25 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 29 wherein said suture anchor means includes surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 29 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 29 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 29 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 38
Independent Claim
98 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 39
Independent Claim
98 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
25 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue has a conical configuration.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
69 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue is formed of a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said second material at least partially defines a point which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue during movement of said suture anchor means into the body tissue.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
73 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said suture anchor means has a body portion formed of said material which absorbs body liquid and an end portion which is connected with said body portion, said end portion being incapable of absorbing body liquid when said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue being disposed on said end portion.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is enclosed by a layer of elastic polymeric material which is stretched when said material which absorbs body liquid expands.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
50 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 further including a member which at least partially encloses and compresses said material which absorbs body liquid, said member being ineffective to compress said material which absorbs liquid when said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue and absorbs body liquid.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue is disposed on a leading end portion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
40 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and leading end portion, said surface means for piercing body tissue disposed on said leading end portion of said suture anchor means.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
71 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said suture anchor means includes a retainer which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said retainer at least partially defines a projection which engages body tissue and retains said suture anchor means against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
59 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said suture anchor means includes a plurality of separate pieces connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said plurality of separate pieces being movable relative to each other under the influence of force applied against said plurality of separate pieces by said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 52
Independent Claim
104 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and a sharp leading end portion for forming an opening in body tissue.
Claim 53
Independent Claim
104 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and a sharp leading end portion for forming an opening in body tissue.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
39 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said second material at least partially defines said sharp leading end portion.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
73 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said second material at least partially defines a projection which engages body tissue and retains said suture anchor means against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
84 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said suture anchor means includes a plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material and connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material being movable relative to each other under the influence of force applied against said plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material by said material which absorbs body liquid upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said suture anchor means has a body portion formed of said material which absorbs body liquid, said leading end portion being connected with said body portion, said leading end portion being incapable of absorbing body liquid when said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is enclosed by a layer of elastic polymeric material which is stretched when said material which absorbs body liquid expands.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 47 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 62
Independent Claim
132 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said second material at least partially defines a surface which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue during movement of said suture anchor means into the body tissue.
Claim 63
Independent Claim
132 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said second material at least partially defines a surface which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue during movement of said suture anchor means into the body tissue.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
54 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 56 wherein second material at least partially defines a projection which engages body tissue and retains said suture anchor means against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
61 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 56 wherein said suture anchor means includes a plurality of retainers connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said plurality of retainers being movable under the influence of force applied against said plurality of retainers by said material which absorbs body liquid upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
34 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 56 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is enclosed by a layer of elastic material which is stretched when said material which absorbs body liquid expands.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 56 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 56 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 56 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 70
Independent Claim
157 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material and connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material being movable relative to each other under the influence of force applied against said plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material by said material which absorbs body liquid upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 71
Independent Claim
157 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material and connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands, said plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material being movable relative to each other under the influence of force applied against said plurality of separate pieces formed of a second material by said material which absorbs body liquid upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
40 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said suture anchor means includes means for at least partially defining a passage which extends through said suture anchor means, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
38 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid defines a passage, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage in a spaced apart relationship with said plurality of separate pieces.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
21 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said plurality of separate pieces include surface means for piercing body tissue.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
41 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and a leading end portion, said plurality of separate pieces extend between said leading and trailing end portions of said suture anchor means.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
57 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said plurality of separate pieces at least partially define a projection which engages body tissue and retains said suture anchor means against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
28 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said plurality of separate pieces are engageable with body tissue to form a mechanical interlock with the body tissue.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
54 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said plurality of separate pieces are pressed against body tissue by said material which absorbs body liquid to retard movement of said suture anchor means relative to the body tissue under the influence of force transmitted from said suture means to said suture anchor means.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
57 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said plurality of separate pieces define ribs which are pressed against body tissue by said material which absorbs body liquid to retard movement of said suture anchor means relative to the body tissue under the influence of force transmitted from said suture means to said suture anchor means.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
56 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said plurality of separate pieces include projections which are pressed against body tissue by said material which absorbs body liquid to retard movement of said suture anchor means relative to body tissue under the influence of force transmitted from said suture means to said suture anchor means.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
43 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said suture anchor means has a leading end portion and a trailing end portion, said leading end portion of said suture anchor means being at least partially formed by said plurality of separate pieces.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
23 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 63 wherein said leading end portion of said suture anchor means has a generally conical configuration.
Claim 86
Independent Claim
120 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means has an eyelet through which said suture means extends, said eyelet being formed of a second material which is incapable of absorbing body liquid while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 87
Independent Claim
120 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor means has an eyelet through which said suture means extends, said eyelet being formed of a second material which is incapable of absorbing body liquid while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 78 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 78 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 78 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
38 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 78 wherein said suture anchor means has a leading end portion and a trailing end portion, said eyelet being disposed at one of said end portions of said suture anchor means.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
51 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 77 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid forms a body portion of said suture anchor means, said suture anchor means further including a wall portion connected with said body portion of said suture anchor means, said eyelet being connected with said wall portion.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
108 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said material which absorbs body liquid is enclosed by a layer of elastic polymeric material which is stretched when said material which absorbs body liquid expands.
Claim 94
Independent Claim
108 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue, said material which absorbs body liquid is enclosed by a layer of elastic polymeric material which is stretched when said material which absorbs body liquid expands.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 84 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 84 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 84 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
47 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 84 wherein said layer of elastic polymeric material includes surface means for defining a plurality of openings through which body fluid is conducted to said material which absorbs body liquid when said suture anchor means is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 84 wherein said layer of elastic polymeric material defines an opening through which said suture means extends into said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 100
Independent Claim
319 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which is compressible, and an inserter having a surface which is effective to apply force to said suture anchor means to maintain said compressible material of said suture anchor means in a compressed condition during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue, said suture anchor means being separable from said inserter when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue to enable said compressible material of said suture anchor means to expand from a first condition to a second condition in the body tissue, said suture anchor means having a length when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than a length of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means having a cross sectional area in a plane extending perpendicular to a central axis of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than the cross sectional area of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means includes a jacket which at least partially encloses said compressible material of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition and when said suture anchor means is in the second condition, said jacket being expanded under the influence of force applied against said jacket by said compressible material upon expansion of said compressible material from the first condition to the second condition.
Claim 101
Independent Claim
319 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which is compressible, and an inserter having a surface which is effective to apply force to said suture anchor means to maintain said compressible material of said suture anchor means in a compressed condition during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue, said suture anchor means being separable from said inserter when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue to enable said compressible material of said suture anchor means to expand from a first condition to a second condition in the body tissue, said suture anchor means having a length when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than a length of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means having a cross sectional area in a plane extending perpendicular to a central axis of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than the cross sectional area of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means includes a jacket which at least partially encloses said compressible material of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition and when said suture anchor means is in the second condition, said jacket being expanded under the influence of force applied against said jacket by said compressible material upon expansion of said compressible material from the first condition to the second condition.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 90 wherein said jacket includes an elastic material which is stretched when said compressible material expands from the first condition to the second condition.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
15 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 90 wherein said jacket has a one-piece construction.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
26 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 90 wherein said jacket includes a one-piece portion which extends around said compressible material of said suture anchor means.
Claim 105
Independent Claim
263 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which is compressible, and an inserter having a surface which is effective to apply force to said suture anchor means to maintain said compressible material of said suture anchor means in a compressed condition during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue, said suture anchor means being separable from said inserter when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue to enable said compressible material of said suture anchor means to expand from a first condition to a second condition in the body tissue, said suture anchor means having a length when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than a length of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means having a cross sectional area in a plane extending perpendicular to a central axis of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than the cross sectional area of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means includes surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 106
Independent Claim
263 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which is compressible, and an inserter having a surface which is effective to apply force to said suture anchor means to maintain said compressible material of said suture anchor means in a compressed condition during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue, said suture anchor means being separable from said inserter when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue to enable said compressible material of said suture anchor means to expand from a first condition to a second condition in the body tissue, said suture anchor means having a length when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than a length of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means having a cross sectional area in a plane extending perpendicular to a central axis of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than the cross sectional area of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means includes surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
42 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 93 wherein said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue is disposed on a leading end of said suture anchor means during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
25 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 93 wherein said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue has a conical configuration.
Claim 109
Independent Claim
269 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which is compressible, and an inserter having a surface which is effective to apply force to said suture anchor means to maintain said compressible material of said suture anchor means in a compressed condition during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue, said suture anchor means being separable from said inserter when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue to enable said compressible material of said suture anchor means to expand from a first condition to a second condition in the body tissue, said suture anchor means having a length when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than a length of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means having a cross sectional area in a plane extending perpendicular to a central axis of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than the cross sectional area of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and a sharp leading end portion for forming an opening in body tissue.
Claim 110
Independent Claim
269 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means being at least partially formed of a material which is compressible, and an inserter having a surface which is effective to apply force to said suture anchor means to maintain said compressible material of said suture anchor means in a compressed condition during movement of said suture anchor means into body tissue, said suture anchor means being separable from said inserter when said suture anchor means is disposed in the body tissue to enable said compressible material of said suture anchor means to expand from a first condition to a second condition in the body tissue, said suture anchor means having a length when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than a length of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means having a cross sectional area in a plane extending perpendicular to a central axis of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the second condition which is greater than the cross sectional area of said suture anchor means when said suture anchor means is in the first condition, said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and a sharp leading end portion for forming an opening in body tissue.
Claim 111
Independent Claim
152 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension force, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means includes a plurality of cells which are expandable from a collapsed condition to an expanded condition in body tissue to increase the volume of said suture anchor means while said suture anchor means is in the body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a jacket which at least volume of said suture anchor means while said suture anchor means is in the body tissue, said suture anchor means includes surface means which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue during movement of said suture anchor means into the body tissue.
Claim 112
Independent Claim
152 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension force, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means includes a plurality of cells which are expandable from a collapsed condition to an expanded condition in body tissue to increase the volume of said suture anchor means while said suture anchor means is in the body tissue, said suture anchor means includes a jacket which at least volume of said suture anchor means while said suture anchor means is in the body tissue, said suture anchor means includes surface means which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue during movement of said suture anchor means into the body tissue.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
33 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 97 wherein said jacket includes an elastic material which is stretched upon expansion of said plurality of cells from the collapsed condition to the expanded condition.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
32 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 99 wherein said elastic material of said jacket extends around said plurality of cells which are expanded from the collapsed condition to an expanded condition.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
15 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 97 wherein said jacket has a one-piece construction.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
40 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 97 wherein said jacket at least partially defines a plurality of openings through which body liquids are conducted upon expansion of said plurality of cells from the collapsed condition to the expanded condition.
Claim 117
Independent Claim
136 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension force, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means includes a plurality of cells which are expandable from a collapsed condition to an expanded condition in body tissue to increase the which at least partially encloses said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, said second material being pressed against body tissue under the influence of force which is transmitted from said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 118
Independent Claim
136 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension force, and suture anchor means connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor means includes a plurality of cells which are expandable from a collapsed condition to an expanded condition in body tissue to increase the which at least partially encloses said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, said second material being pressed against body tissue under the influence of force which is transmitted from said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
28 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 103 wherein said surface means which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue has a conical configuration.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
50 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 103 wherein said suture anchor means includes a trailing end portion and a leading end portion, said surface means which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue is disposed on said leading end portion of said suture anchor means.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
50 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 103 wherein said suture anchor means includes a second material which is connected with said plurality of cells which are expandable, said second material at least partially defines said surface means which forms an opening in an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 122
Independent Claim
128 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and a suture anchor connected with said suture means, said suture anchor being effective to retain at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor includes a second material partially encloses said plurality of cells, said jacket being expandable under the influence of force transmitted from said plurality of cells upon expansion of said plurality of cells from the collapsed condition to the expanded condition.
Claim 123
Independent Claim
128 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and a suture anchor connected with said suture means, said suture anchor being effective to retain at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, said suture anchor includes a second material partially encloses said plurality of cells, said jacket being expandable under the influence of force transmitted from said plurality of cells upon expansion of said plurality of cells from the collapsed condition to the expanded condition.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
41 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said second material at least partially defines an opening through which body liquid moves into said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
44 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 108 wherein said second material includes a portion having a one-piece construction and extending around at least a portion of said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
33 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 109 wherein at least a portion of said second material is elastic and is stretched during expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
39 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 108 wherein said second material includes a plurality of separate pieces which are connected with said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said second material at last partially defines a rib which is pressed against body tissue upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said second material at least partially defines a projection which is pressed against body tissue upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
50 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein a portion of said second material moves in a first direction and a portion of said second material moves in a second direction which is different than said first direction upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
79 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands defines a first surface area which is disposed at a first end of said suture anchor and is exposed to body liquid when said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue and a second surface area which is disposed at a second end of said suture anchor and is exposed to body liquid when said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
39 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 115 further including a passage extending through said suture anchor at a location disposed between said first and second surface areas, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
34 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 115 further including a passage extending between said first and second ends of said suture anchor, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
41 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
30 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 107 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 137
Independent Claim
127 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in a bone in a patient's body, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and a suture anchor connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to the bone under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in the bone, said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a surface area which is pressed against the bone under the influence of force transmitted from said suture means to said suture anchor to retard movement of said suture anchor relative to the bone.
Claim 138
Independent Claim
127 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in a bone in a patient's body, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and a suture anchor connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to the bone under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in the bone, said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a surface area which is pressed against the bone under the influence of force transmitted from said suture means to said suture anchor to retard movement of said suture anchor relative to the bone.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
47 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 121 further including a second material which extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said second material being pressed against bone under the influence of force which is transmitted from said material which absorbs body liquid and expands.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 121 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
41 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 121 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
30 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 121 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
Claim 143
Independent Claim
152 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and a suture anchor connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, said material which absorbs body liquid extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said suture anchor includes a member which is formed of a second material which is ineffective to absorb body liquid, said member extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor and is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said member being pressed against body tissue upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 144
Independent Claim
152 words
An apparatus which is at least partially received in body tissue, said apparatus comprising suture means for transmitting tension forces, and a suture anchor connected with said suture means for retaining at least a portion of said suture means against movement relative to body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means, said suture anchor being at least partially formed of a material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, said material which absorbs body liquid extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said suture anchor includes a member which is formed of a second material which is ineffective to absorb body liquid, said member extends between opposite end portions of said suture anchor and is connected with said material which absorbs body liquid, said member being pressed against body tissue upon expansion of said material which absorbs body liquid.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
54 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said member is a jacket which at least partially encloses said material which absorbs body liquid, said jacket being expanded under the influence of force applied against said jacket by said material which absorbs body liquid while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
64 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue includes surface means for at least partially defining a passage which is disposed between and is spaced apart from the opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
43 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said suture anchor includes means for at least partially defining a passage which extends between the opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said suture means being at least partially disposed in said passage.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
77 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein material which absorbs body liquid includes a side portion which extends between the opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said material which absorbs body liquid includes means for defining a passage having first and second openings in said side portion at a location between the opposite end portions of said suture anchor, said suture means being partially disposed in said passage between said first an second openings.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
30 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein one of the end portions of said suture anchor includes surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
25 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 131 wherein said surface means for piercing an imperforate surface area on body tissue has a conical configuration.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
28 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein one of the portions of said suture anchor means a sharp surface for forming an opening in body tissue.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
52 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said member at least partially defines a projection which engages body tissue and retains said suture anchor against movement relative to the body tissue under the influence of tension in said suture means when said suture anchor is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
51 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein the opposite end portions of said suture anchor absorb body liquid when said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue, the opposite end portions of the suture anchor include surfaces which at least partially define openings through which said suture means extends.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
25 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said member includes elastic material which is stretched when said material which absorbs body liquid expands.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
45 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands includes a plurality of cells which expand from a first size to a second size which is larger than the first size as said material absorbs body liquid.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
41 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid is a material which is effective to attract body liquid under the influence of molecular attraction while said suture anchor is disposed in the body tissue.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
30 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 126 wherein said material which absorbs body liquid and expands while said suture anchor is disposed in body tissue is a hydrophilic material.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2002-11-08 | 2003-05-10 | 2003-11-09 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2006-11-08 | 2007-05-10 | 2007-11-09 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2010-11-08 | 2011-05-10 | 2011-11-09 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |