title: New, innovative packaging system for surgical sutures and needles.
abstract: A new, innovative packaging system for surgical needles and sutures has been developed that meets the special needs of emergency physicians, surgeons, and operating personnel. This packaging system consists of an overwrap, or breather pouch, as well as an innerwrap containing the needle swaged to a surgical suture. The flaps of the overwrap are offset and serrated to facilitate the opening and sterile transfer of the inner packet to the sterile field. The inner packet contains either a plastic labyrinth or craft board that maintains the suture as straight as possible until knot construction. The needle swaged to a suture is parked in foam to protect its sharp cutting edges and point.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville 22908.
authors.forename: R F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Edlich
authors.forename: L J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Pavlovich
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Towler
authors.forename: J G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Thacker
authors.forename: G T
authors.initials: GT
authors.lastname: Rodeheaver
mesh_terms: D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D004867:Equipment Design; D009339:Needles; D010969:Plastics; D013523:Surgical Equipment; D013537:Sutures; D013672:Technology
chemical_list: D010969:Plastics