Importance

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Abstract

The primary object of the present invention is to provide an improved anastomotic connection between a conduit and a vessel by use of a cuff attached to one end of the conduit. By using a cuff, the conduit can be connected to a vessel without first cutting the vessel and without clamping the underlying vessel. In one embodiment of the invention, the cuff is contoured in the shape of a saddle to provide a connection cuff that contours to the cylindrical shape of the underlying vessel. The invention provides methods to connect the conduit to vessel without having the sutures located at the intersection of conduit and vessel, thereby minimizing the possibility that a secondary cutting operation of the vessel will also cutting the sutures. In one embodiment of the invention, a transition in compliance between the generally stiffer conduit and the generally softer vessel is accomplished by forming a compliance transitioning interface at the junction of the conduit and cuff.

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First Claim