Suturing devices and methods for suturing an anatomic structure

Abstract

Suturing devices and systems used to close openings into a biological structure. The suturing device can comprise an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, one or more arms, and one or more needles. One or more sheaths may be used with the device to maintain or substantially maintain haemostasis while the device is used and while a procedure is performed in the biological structure.

1 .- 27 . (canceled) 
     
     
         28 . A method of performing a procedure on the heart of a patient, the method comprising:
 delivering an elongate device through a heart wall such that the a distal section of the device is positioned within the heart; and   removing fluid exiting the heart along the distal section of the elongate device and through the heart wall, said removing of fluid comprising causing said fluid to flow through at least one opening positioned on the elongate device on an outside of the heart to remove fluid that may accumulate between the outside of the heart and the pericardial sac.   
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein fluid flows through the at least one opening by applying negative pressure to the at least one opening from outside of the patient. 
     
     
         30 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein the elongate device comprises a distally facing surface in its distal section, and delivering the elongate device comprises pushing the distal facing surface against an outer surface of the heart. 
     
     
         31 . The method of  claim 30 , wherein the elongate device comprises a plurality of openings proximal to the distally facing surface. 
     
     
         32 .- 43 . (canceled)