A suture package having a cover member and base member configured so that, when coupled together, they form a continuous channel therebetween. A dispensing port opening through the cover member is aligned with and provides access into the continuous channel. The package also includes a plurality of sutures extending substantially along the length of and within the channel, with an end region of each suture extending out of the channel through the dispensing port opening to a distal end that is removably secured to the package by the holding device. A pathway followed by each suture from the point at which the suture extends out from the suture channel through the dispensing port opening to the point at which the suture is removably secured to the package by the holding device, changes direction by at least 90 degrees.
