Patent ID: 6083223
Filing Date: 2000-07-04
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
Apparatus for welding a blood vessel comprising:a first member having a first blood vessel engaging surface and a portion defining a first opening extending through the first blood vessel engaging surface;a second member having a second blood vessel engaging surface and a portion defining a second opening extending through the second blood vessel engaging surface, the second opening aligned with the first opening, the second member operatively coupled to the first member to grasp the blood vessel to define an engagement plane;an extension member movable from a retracted position, wherein the extension member is remote from the engagement plane, to an extended position, wherein the extension member passes through the first and second openings and the engagement plane, the extension member adapted to contact and extend a portion of the blood vessel when moved to the extended position; anda first electrode disposed to apply RF energy to the portion of the blood vessel when the extension member is in the extended position.