Importance

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Abstract

This invention is a surgical clip (10) including three lengths of wire integrally formed of a shape memory alloy, two of which (12, 22) each form closed geometrical shapes similar in configuration and magnitude to each other, and the third (18) connects the first two. When at a first temperature or higher, the first and second lengths of wire (12, 22) are positioned in a side by side closed position. The shape memory alloy is in an elastic sate. When at a second temperature or lower, below the first temperature, the shape memory alloy is in a plastic state, thereby enabling the first and second lengths of wire (12, 22) to be moved into and to retain a spaced apart position. Upon heating of the clip to a temperature at least equal to the first temperature, the first and second lengths of wire return to the side by side closed position, thereby to apply a compressive force to tissue located therebetween; and a method of anastomosing a gastrointestinal tract with such a surgical clip (10).

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First Claim