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Anastomosis apparatus and methods

  • US 7,976,556 B2
  • Filed: 12/21/2006
  • Issued: 07/12/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/12/2002
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method of anastomosing a first tubular structure having an end portion to a second tubular structure having an opening formed therein where at least one of the structures comprises tissue, the method comprising:

  • prior to placing the first tubular structure into the opening of the second tubular structure;

    everting the end portion of the first tubular structure over a distal end of each of a plurality of arms provided with a support device,distally advancing a piercing member from within each of the arms to piece the first tubular structure and secure the first tubular structure to the support device;

    introducing the distal end of the arms into the opening;

    radially expanding the arms from a first state to a second state so that a portion of the first tubular structure is forced against a region of the second tubular structure that surrounds the opening;

    passing a plurality of fasteners through the tubular structures in the vicinity of the opening to secure the tubular structures together; and

    removing the support device from the tubular structures.

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