Thimble type knot pusher: bioprosthesis stents no longer interfere with tying.

When a stented bioprosthetic valve is used for aortic valve replacement, the valve stents protruding to the aortic side can interfere with suture tying. To resolve this problem, we developed a novel knot pusher for use on the index finger. This device has a short push rod appropriate for replacing bioprosthetic aortic valve. Surgeons can complete the tying procedure without the help of an assistant.