Importance

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Abstract

A prosthetic element is securely joined to a natural element of the human body using a ductile metal alloy coupling member which has a transition-temperature range and which has been deformed from its original shape at a temperature below its transition-temperature. Heating the coupling member to a temperature above the transition temperature, as by passing electric current therethrough, causes the coupling to try to return to its original shape and effect a secure joinder. A prosthetic device for long-term implantation in the human body can be made by using such a coupling element to join a circumscribing member, e.g., a sewing cuff, to a generally tubular, rigid portion of a prosthetic device, e.g., a heart valve body.

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First Claim