A device useful for ligating an anatomical structure, e.g., a uterine artery, includes a crochet hook-like shaft, and tubular filament holder, and a housing that includes a thumb-slide attached to the shaft. After inserting the filament holder into tissue adjacent to the artery, the shaft is inserted to a point next to the holder, and a hook on the end of the shaft is used to snare the filament and pull it around the artery. The filament can then be tied down, ligating the artery.
