Semiautomatic suturing device (Maniceps) for laparoscopic surgery

The only automatic device now available to laparoscopic surgeons is Endo-Stitch, which is costly for single use and has the disadvantage of leaving a large needle hole in the tissue. A semiautomatic suturing device (Maniceps) for laparoscopic use was developed from a forceps-type of needle holder for open pelvic surgery. The first generation of the instrument was designed for use with the abdominal wall-lift method of laparoscopic surgery, whereas the second generation can be applied for gas insufflation as well. Exchange of the needle is done by an automatic grasping action of a resilient slit in one jaw and by manual pull-down of the needle via the thread onto the other jaw. The new instrument was employed in 10 cases of laparoscopic surgery for various procedures including suture of the perforated gallbladder wall and running suture of the peritoneum after mesh placement in transabdominal repair of inguinal hernia. Maniceps provides an economic advantage and has the merit of a smaller needle hole.