Patent ID: 7591827
Filing Date: 2009-09-22
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of connecting two conduits comprising the steps of: positioning a first saddle disposed at a first end of a first coupler having a first channel within a first conduit, so that a portion of the first coupler is positioned on an inside wall of the first conduit, and another portion of the first coupler is positioned on an outside wall of the first conduit; positioning a second saddle disposed at a first end of a second coupler having a second channel within a second conduit, so that a portion of the second coupler is positioned on an inside wall of the first conduit, and another portion of the second coupler is positioned on an outside wall of the first conduit; clamping said first conduit to said first saddle of said first coupler, positioned within the first conduit, to conform a first tissue clamp substantially to a shape of said first saddle; clamping said second conduit to said second saddle of said second coupler, positioned within the second conduit, to conform a second tissue clamp substantially to a shape of said second saddle; and connecting said first coupler and said second coupler, thereby spacing a first flange of said first coupler from said first conduit and spacing a second flange of said second coupler from said second conduit; and wherein the step of connecting said first coupler and said second coupler comprises the steps of: