Importance

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Abstract

A method for implanting a tubular graft within a preselected blood vessel utilizes apparatus embodiments for inserting the graft endwise and axially through the blood vessel into place therein and for operatively securing the graft to the inside wall of the blood vessel with surgical staple-like clips. For inserting the graft through the blood vessel, an apparatus embodiment includes a lengthy conduit for insertion through the blood vessel and having a distal end adapted to selectively expand and contract for cooperating with a preformed hole in the sidewall of the graft for binding the graft to or releasing the graft from the distal end. For securing the graft to the wall of the blood vessel, an apparatus embodiment includes an inflatable body adapted to retain the staple-like clips in a circular formation so that the pointed legs of the clips are directed generally radially outwardly of the circular formation and a mechanism for abruptly inflating the inflatable body to thereby drive the clips radially outwardly and through the wall of the tubular graft. A magnet can be used to retain the clips in condition against the inflatable body prior to being driven outwardly as aforesaid. The method of the invention includes the steps involved in implanting the tubular graft in the preselected blood vessel.

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First Claim