Suture cutter embodiments include elements for cutting back the leads of a suture after the suture has been tied into a knot, e.g., as a result of drawing tissue portions together. The suture cutter may include mechanisms which can be used to push and position a knot, so that a single device may be used to both push a knot and trim the excess material therefrom.
1. An apparatus, comprising:
a receptacle for juxtaposing portions of a suture to be connected to each other;
a first heating element positioned to apply heat to the juxtaposed suture portions such that the juxtaposed suture portions are fastened together;
a second heating element positioned near the first heating element to sever at least one suture end portion, the second heating element being configured for operation independent from the first heating element; and
a collar positioned at least partially within the receptacle and configured to surround the juxtaposed suture portions, said first heating element disposed to apply heat to said collar;
wherein said first heating element fuses the collar to the suture portions.