Covidien Announces Launch of SILS Stitch Articulating Suturing Device

Dublin, Ireland based Covidien has announced the launch of their SILS Stitch Articulating Suturing Device. The device features extended length, along with an articulating and rotating tip to provide improved maneuverability to surgeons. Covidien is currently presenting the device at the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in San Francisco, which runs May 15-19.
From the product page:

Only the Covidien SILS™ Stitch instrument offers precise access to the surgical site, with distal shaft articulation, needle jaw tip rotation and additional shaft length. When these features are combined with the instrument’s proprietary toggle-activated needle-passing feature, the SILS™ Stitch instrument provides surgeons with unparalleled control and precision of suturing during conventional laparoscopic surgery, as well as during SILS™ procedures.
The articulating features of the SILS™ Stitch instrument are designed to provide the triangulation and visualization needed to facilitate laparoscopic surgery through a single incision.
Automated Suturing
The instrument has a proprietary toggle-activated, needle-passing technology that eliminates the need to load and unload the needle while passing it through tissue. This feature can potentially provide significant OR time savings during laparoscopic procedures when compared with needle drivers.*
Precision and Visibility
The rotating tip and visualization capabilities permit surgeons to place sutures at different planes and angles with greater precision—potentially increasing OR efficiency and possibly improving outcomes.
Operating in a Tight Space
The instrument’s ability to articulate up to 75° and its 360° tip rotation enable surgeons to operate effectively and efficiently in tight spaces during advanced MIS procedures.
Suturing Posteriorly
The longer shaft and greater maneuverability enable surgeons to perform endoscopic suturing for the placement of G- and J-tubes, mesh fi xation and closure of the peritoneum during TAPP procedures.