Wound closure device including suction step sleeve

Abstract

An access apparatus is adapted and configured to access an underlying body cavity. The access apparatus includes a sleeve including a plurality of tubules. The tubules are configured and adapted to suction fascia of opposing tissue tracts to facilitate wound closure. A method of using the access apparatus is also provided.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of closing an opening in tissue, comprising the steps of:
 providing a radially expandable sleeve including a plurality of tubules;   placing the sleeve within the opening in tissue;   applying suction to the plurality of tubules so as to apply suction to the tissue;   removing the sleeve from the opening; and   closing the opening.   
     
     
         2 . The method according to  claim 1 , further comprising partially closing the opening about the sleeve. 
     
     
         3 . The method according to  claim 2 , wherein partially closing the opening includes using adhesive to approximate a fascia of tissue. 
     
     
         4 . The method according to  claim 1 , further comprising placing the sleeve adjacent a fascia of tissue. 
     
     
         5 . The method according to  claim 4 , wherein placing the sleeve adjacent the fascia of tissue includes placing inlets of the plurality of tubules adjacent the fascia of tissue. 
     
     
         6 . The method according to  claim 1 , further comprising insufflating a body cavity. 
     
     
         7 . The method according to  claim 6 , wherein insufflating the body cavity includes inserting a pneumo-peritoneum needle through a lumen of the sleeve. 
     
     
         8 . The method according to  claim 1 , further comprising inserting an instrument within the sleeve. 
     
     
         9 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the tubules are disposed along the length of the sleeve. 
     
     
         10 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of tubules is at least partially woven together. 
     
     
         11 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of tubules is connected to an external source of suction. 
     
     
         12 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the sleeve includes a braided material. 
     
     
         13 . The method according to  claim 12 , wherein the braided material is covered by an elastic membrane. 
     
     
         14 . The method according to  claim 13 , wherein the sleeve is configured and adapted to expand as a surgical instrument is inserted through the sleeve. 
     
     
         15 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the mesh is configured and adapted to radially close upon removal of the surgical instrument.