Patent ID: 8021377
Filing Date: 2011-09-20
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61M,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A connector apparatus for use in making an anastomotic connection between first and second tubular fluid conduits in a patient comprising: (a) a connector body configured to permit flow of bodily fluid between said first and second tubular fluid conduits, said connector body having a first portion configured for insertion into an axial end of said first tubular fluid conduit and a second portion configured for insertion through a sidewall of said second tubular fluid conduit, and (b) a locking member configured for engagement with said second portion of said connector body, wherein one of said connector body and said locking member comprises an electroactive polymer actuator that is configured to switch between a first state where said locking member and said connector body are securely engaged with one another and a second state where said locking member and said connector body are releasable from one another, said electroactive polymer actuator comprising an active member that comprises an electroactive polymer that contracts or expands in response to the flow of ions out of or into the active member; wherein said locking member is in the form of a ring, wherein said connector body comprises a groove, and wherein said ring securely engages said connector body through said groove when said electroactive polymer actuator is in said first state; and