A combination tissue apposition and suture capturing device (100) for
performing endoscopic procedures typically in the gastro-esophageal
tract. The device (100) is particularly adapted for forming multiple
plications used in a gastroplasty procedure devised to cure or ameliorate
gastro-esophageal reflux disease. The device include a tissue sewing
capsule (102) attached to the distal end of an endoscope having a needle
(120) that is deposited in a capsule (102) distal tip cavity following
the suturing of a tissue fold and retrieved to enable the suturing of a
subsequent tissue fold without the need for multiple intubations. A
suture clip delivery device (200) is also disclosed that is adapted to
fit within the capsule to enable suture capture without the need for
multiple intubations. The combination device eliminates the need for an
overtube and maximizes the speed efficiency of the gastroplasty
procedure. A method for using the combination device is also disclosed.