Patent ID: 7914552
Filing Date: 2011-03-29
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method of creating an end-to-end anastomosis between a first portion of intestinal tissue having a first cross-sectional opening and a second portion of intestinal tissue having a second cross-sectional opening, wherein the method comprises: a) inserting an expandable biodegradable stent and a stent expansion device located inside the expandable biodegradable stent longitudinally into the first cross-sectional opening; b) expanding the stent expansion device to expand the stent in the first portion of intestinal tissue; c) everting an end of the first portion of intestinal tissue on the expanded stent such that the entire everted portion radially folds back and directly contacts the exterior surface of the first portion of intestinal tissue; d) removing the stent expansion device from the expanded stent, such that the expanded stent remains within the first portion of intestinal tissue, wherein during the act of removing the stent expansion device, the entire everted portion remains in direct contact with the exterior surface of the first portion of intestinal tissue; e) drawing the end of the second portion of intestinal tissue over the everted end to create an overlapping joint, wherein during the act of drawing the end of the second portion, the entire everted portion remains in direct contact with the exterior surface of the first portion of intestinal tissue; f) wrapping the overlapping joint with a bandage containing an adhesive, wherein during the act of wrapping the overlapping joint, the entire everted portion remains in direct contact with the exterior surface of the first portion of intestinal tissue; and g) securing the first portion and the second portion of intestinal tissue together in an anastomosis by saturating the bandage with an adhesive initiator applied using an applier to initiate adhesion of the first portion of intestinal tissue and the second portion of intestinal tissue to the bandage, wherein the expanded stent remains within the first portion of intestinal tissue after the act of saturating the bandage, wherein the expanded stent is configured to permit fluid communication from the first portion of intestinal tissue to the second portion of intestinal tissue through the expanded stent, wherein during the act of securing the first portion and the second portion of intestinal tissue together, the entire everted portion remains in direct contact with the exterior surface of the first portion of intestinal tissue.