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Abstract

An apparatus for stapling the plaque lining of an artery or vein to the wall of the artery or vein, which comprises first and second opposed cooperative elongated members pivotably associated with one another. The first and second elongated members have distal ends, and proximal ends forming handles. The first elongated member forms an anvil portion at its distal end which is configured for placement into an open end of a vein and/or an artery. A staple cartridge assembly is disposed on the distal end of the second elongated member and includes a staple magazine containing a multiplicity of staples longitudinally and sequentially aligned with the staple magazine. Actuating means are provided which are supported by the staple cartridge assembly for movement in a given direction therealong to drive the staples in the staple magazine toward a staple exit end.

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First Claim