US Patent 7645293 Suture anchor installation system and method

An apparatus for placement of a suture anchor having a suture connected thereto includes a handle dimensioned for engagement by the user and an elongated member connected to the handle and extending therefrom. The elongated member has an anchor mount for mounting a suture anchor. The handle includes a frame having a suture retainer adapted for retaining a suture, at least one cover releasably mounted to the frame to at least partially enclose the suture retainer and a release button mounted to the frame and movable to release the at least one cover from the frame to expose the suture portion.