Patent ID: 6602263
Filing Date: 2003-08-05
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
Method for making an anastomotic connection between a first opening in a side wall of a first vessel and a second opening in a side wall of a second vessel, comprising:providing a connector structure having a first end portion configured to engage the first vessel and a second end portion configured to engage the second vessel, the connector structure being plastically deformable from a first configuration to a second configuration having an enlarged annular dimension; providing a balloon having an expanded configuration defining a substantially large diameter adjacent the distal end thereof; making the first opening in the side wall of the first vessel; attaching the first vessel to the connector structure; making the second aperture in the side wall of the second vessel; providing an introduction structure for the connector structure comprising a first introduction configuration and a second removal configuration having smooth proximal surface; inserting the introduction structure along with the second end portion of the connector structure into the second opening; and attaching the first vessel to the second vessel adjacent the first and second openings to form a fluid-tight anastomotic connection therebetween by annularly enlarging the connector structure to the second configuration with the distal end portion of the balloon.