Importance

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Abstract

A staple for effecting e.g. an anastomosis between two vascular structures is combined with a delivery system for the staple, the delivery system comprising a suture having a needle connected thereto at one end. The needle is constructed for passage through an edge of each vascular structure, and further is constructed to pull the suture through the vascular structures. The staple according to one embodiment is connected to an end of the suture opposite the needle. After being drawn into place by the suture, the staple is hooked into a desired position with respect to the vascular structures such that the staple is engaged on both sides of the anastomosis. The staple then is crimped to form substantially a loop around the edge of the anastomosis to hold the vascular structures together, both internally and externally. The suture is constructed for ready separation from the staple once the staple is crimped. Once separated, e.g. by cutting, the delivery system is removed from the staple. The staple remains in place to hold the vascular structures together and provide a secure and substantially sealed anastomosis.

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First Claim