Modular structure

Abstract

Sutures are provided having a first elongate body and a separate, second elongate body. The first elongate body includes a first connection structure and the second elongate body may include a second connection structure.

1 . A suture comprising:
 a first length of suture including a first connection structure, the first connection structure including an interior threaded portion defining a cavity; and   a second length of suture including a second connection structure selectively connectable to the first connection structure, the second connection structure including a threaded extension configured to be received within the cavity of the first connection structure such that the threaded extension of the second connection structure engages the interior threaded portion of the first connection structure.   
     
     
         2 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein upon the receipt of the threaded extension of the second connection structure within the cavity of the first connection structure the first length of suture is secured to the second length of suture. 
     
     
         3 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second lengths of suture includes an end effector. 
     
     
         4 . The suture according to  claim 3 , wherein the end effector is selected from the group consisting of a loop and a knot. 
     
     
         5 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second lengths of suture includes a needle disposed at one end thereof. 
     
     
         6 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first or second lengths of suture includes a plurality of barbs formed along a length thereof. 
     
     
         7 . The suture according to  claim 6 , wherein the plurality of barbs prevents suture reversal. 
     
     
         8 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein the threaded extension includes a left-handed thread. 
     
     
         9 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein the threaded extension includes a right-handed thread. 
     
     
         10 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein the first and second connection structures create a reversible connection. 
     
     
         11 . The suture according to  claim 1 , wherein the first and second connection structures create an irreversible connection. 
     
     
         12 . A suture comprising:
 a first length of suture including a first connection structure, the first connection structure defining a socket; and   a second length of suture including a second connection structure connectable to the first connection structure, the second connection structure including a ball shaped member configured to be received within the socket of the first connection structure.   
     
     
         13 . The suture according to  claim 12 , wherein the socket is flange-shaped. 
     
     
         14 . The suture according to  claim 12 , wherein the ball shaped member is secured within the socket by a crimp. 
     
     
         15 . The suture according to  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first and second lengths of suture includes an end effector. 
     
     
         16 . The suture according to  claim 15 , wherein the end effector is selected from the group consisting of a loop and a knot. 
     
     
         17 . The suture according to  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first and second lengths of suture includes a needle disposed at one end thereof. 
     
     
         18 . The suture according to  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first or second lengths of suture includes a plurality of barbs formed along a length thereof. 
     
     
         19 . The suture according to  claim 18 , wherein the plurality of barbs prevents suture reversal.