Abstract:
An occlusion clip comprising: (a) a spring; (b) a first runner including a first open top and a first open end adjacent the first open top, the first runner including a first interior camming surface partially delineating a first interior cavity that is open by way of the first open top and the first open end; (c) a second runner including a second open top and a second open end adjacent the second open top, the second runner including a second interior camming surface partially delineating a second interior cavity that is open by way of the second open top and the second open end, where the spring is configured to be coupled to the first runner and the second runner, where the first interior cavity is configured to receive a first portion of the spring, where the second interior cavity is configured to receive a second portion of the spring, where the first camming surface is configured to engage a first cam of the spring, and where the second camming surface is configured to engage a second cam of the spring.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/906,924, entitled, “OCCLUSION CLIP,” filed Nov. 21, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     RELATED ART 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention is directed to occlusion clips and, more specifically, to open ended clips capable of occluding bodily tissue. 
         [0004]    2. Brief Discussion of Related Art 
         [0005]    Embolic stroke is the nation&#39;s third leading killer for adults. Embolic stroke is also a major cause of disability. The most common cause of embolic stroke is thrombus formation in the left appendage of the atrium. In almost all atrial fibrillation (AF) patients suffering from embolic stroke, a thrombus clot forms in the appendage of the left atrium. 
         [0006]    The primary therapy for the prevention of stroke in AF patients is the administration of oral anticoagulants. Although somewhat effective, there are numerous side effects, including bleeding and lifestyle compromises. 
         [0007]    Another therapy for the prevention of stroke in AF patients is the introduction of biomaterials into the left atrial appendage to plug the appendage. But these materials may break down over time and allow for a cavity of sufficient size to foster clot formation. 
         [0008]    Still another approach involves open chest and thoroscopic surgical procedures to remove or oversew the left atrial appendage. Alternatively, a percutaneous endocardial approach may be utilized to isolate the left atrial appendage from the inside of the heart. By way of example, a barrier or other device is anchored in the chamber of the left atrial appendage to prevent the passage of blood into and out of the chamber and thereby prevent clot formation. But, again, the barrier may break down and result in clotting. 
         [0009]    Endoscopic stapling devices, suture loops tied to the base of the appendage, and clips pinching the appendage from the outside surface to the base to close the appendage are used by physicians to isolate and remove the left atrial appendage. In the case of a clip, this clip may be applied outside of the heart at the base of the appendage. 
       INTRODUCTION TO THE INVENTION 
       [0010]    It is a first aspect of the present invention to provide an occlusion clip comprising: (a) a spring; (b) a first runner including a first open top and a first open end adjacent the first open top, the first runner including a first interior camming surface partially delineating a first interior cavity that is open by way of the first open top and the first open end; (c) a second runner including a second open top and a second open end adjacent the second open top, the second runner including a second interior camming surface partially delineating a second interior cavity that is open by way of the second open top and the second open end, where the spring is configured to be coupled to the first runner and the second runner, where the first interior cavity is configured to receive a first portion of the spring, where the second interior cavity is configured to receive a second portion of the spring, where the first camming surface is configured to engage a first cam of the spring, and where the second camming surface is configured to engage a second cam of the spring. 
         [0011]    In a more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, at least one of the first runner and the second runner is pivotally mounted to the spring. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first runner and the second runner are pivotally mounted to the spring. In a further detailed embodiment, the spring is configured to be removably coupled to at least one of the first runner and the second runner. In still a further detailed embodiment, the occlusion clip further includes a repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount at least one of the first runner and the second runner to the spring. In a more detailed embodiment, the repositionable lock includes a dowel received within an orifice associated with at least one of the spring, the first runner, and the second runner, the spring includes a first arm and a second arm, the first arm includes the first cam, and the second arm includes the second cam. In a more detailed embodiment, the repositionable lock includes a dowel received within an orifice associated with the first runner. In another more detailed embodiment, the repositionable lock includes a dowel received within an orifice associated with the first runner and the spring. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the repositionable lock includes a first dowel received within a first orifice associated with at least one of the first runner and the spring, and the repositionable lock includes a second dowel received within a second orifice associated with at least one of the second runner and the spring. In still another more detailed embodiment, the repositionable lock includes a third dowel received within a third orifice associated with at least one of the second runner and the spring. 
         [0012]    In yet another more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the repositionable lock is configured to allow pivotal movement between the spring and the first runner, and the repositionable lock is configured to inhibit at least one of rotational movement and longitudinal sliding movement between the spring and second runner. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the spring embodies a C-shape with a first leg and a second leg, and at least one of the first leg and the second leg includes a longitudinal variance. In a further detailed embodiment, the first leg and the second leg each include a longitudinal variance, and the longitudinal variance of the first leg forms a cavity along a longitudinal length of the first leg. In still a further detailed embodiment, the longitudinal variance of the second leg forms at least two cavities along a longitudinal length of the first leg. In a more detailed embodiment, the longitudinal variance of the first leg is configured to receive a first portion of the repositionable lock to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the longitudinal variance of the second leg is configured to receive a second portion and a third portion of the repositionable lock to mount the second leg to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the longitudinal variance of the first leg comprises a first V-shaped notch, the longitudinal variance of the second leg comprises a second V-shaped notch and a third V-shaped notch, the first portion includes a first dowel, the second portion includes a second dowel, and the third portion includes a third dowel. In another more detailed embodiment, the first runner includes an arcuate tissue contacting surface, and the second runner includes an arcuate tissue contacting surface, the arcuate tissue contacting surface of the first runner faces the arcuate tissue contacting surface of the second runner when the first and second runners are mounted to the spring. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the occlusion clip further includes a first repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the first runner to the spring, and a second repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the second runner to the spring. In still another more detailed embodiment, the first runner includes at least one of a depression and an orifice configured to receive a portion of the first repositionable lock, and the second runner includes at least one of a depression and an orifice configured to receive a portion of the second repositionable lock. 
         [0013]    In a more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the first runner includes an orifice configured to receive a portion of the first repositionable lock, and the second runner includes an orifice configured to receive a portion of the second repositionable lock. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the orifice of the first runner includes a first pair of orifices, the orifice of the second runner includes a second pair of orifices, the first repositionable lock includes a first dowel configured to be received by the first pair of orifices of the first runner, and the second repositionable lock includes a second dowel configured to be received by the second pair of orifices of the second runner. In a further detailed embodiment, the spring embodies a C-shape with a first leg and a second leg, the first leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive a first repositionable lock operative to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive a second repositionable lock operative to mount the second leg to the second runner. In still a further detailed embodiment, a distal end of the first leg includes the first camming surface, a distal end of the second leg includes the second camming surface, the distal end of the first leg includes a cavity configured to receive a first repositionable lock operative to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the distal end of the second leg includes a cavity configured to receive a second repositionable lock operative to mount the second leg to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the first runner includes at least one of a first runner cavity and a first runner orifice configured to receive a portion of the first repositionable lock, and the second runner includes at least one of a second runner cavity and a second runner orifice configured to receive a portion of the second repositionable lock. In a more detailed embodiment, the first runner includes a first runner orifice, the second runner includes a second runner orifice, the first repositionable lock comprises a first dowel configured to be concurrently received within the first runner orifice and the cavity of the first leg to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second repositionable lock comprises a second dowel configured to be concurrently received within the second runner orifice and the cavity of the second leg to mount the second leg to the second runner. In another more detailed embodiment, a distal end of the first leg includes the first camming surface, a distal end of the second leg includes the second camming surface, the distal end of the first leg includes an orifice configured to receive a first repositionable lock operative to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the distal end of the second leg includes an orifice configured to receive a second repositionable lock operative to mount the second leg to the second runner. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first runner includes at least one of a first runner cavity and a first runner orifice configured to receive a portion of the first repositionable lock, and the second runner includes at least one of a second runner cavity and a second runner orifice configured to receive a portion of the second repositionable lock. In still another more detailed embodiment, the first runner includes a first runner orifice, the second runner includes a second runner orifice, the first repositionable lock comprises a first dowel configured to be concurrently received within the first runner orifice and the orifice of the first leg to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second repositionable lock comprises a second dowel configured to be concurrently received within the second runner orifice and the orifice of the second leg to mount the second leg to the second runner. 
         [0014]    In yet another more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the occlusion clip further includes a first repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the first runner to the spring, and a second repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the second runner to the spring, wherein the spring embodies a C-shape with a first leg and a second leg, the first leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and at least one of the cavity and the orifice of the first leg is longitudinally offset from the at least one of the cavity and the orifice of the second leg. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a projection extending toward the second leg, and at least one of the cavity and the orifice of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and at least one of the cavity and the orifice of the first leg. In a further detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the cavity of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and the cavity of the first leg. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first leg includes an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the orifice of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and the orifice of the first leg. In a more detailed embodiment, the occlusion clip further includes a first repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the first runner to the spring, and a second repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the second runner to the spring, where the spring embodies a C-shape with a first leg and a second leg, the first leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the spring includes a first ancillary leg interposing the first leg and the second leg. In a more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the cavity of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and the cavity of the first leg. In another more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the orifice of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and the orifice of the first leg. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg is configured to engage the first runner without being fixedly attached to the first runner. 
         [0015]    In a more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the occlusion clip further includes a first repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the first runner to the spring, and a second repositionable lock configured to fixedly mount the second runner to the spring, where the spring embodies a C-shape with a first leg and a second leg, the first leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes at least one of a cavity and an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the spring includes a first ancillary leg and a second ancillary leg. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the cavity of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and the cavity of the first leg. In a further detailed embodiment, the first leg includes an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the first repositionable lock, the second leg includes an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of the second repositionable lock, and the orifice of the second leg longitudinally interposes the projection and the orifice of the first leg. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg extends longitudinally between the first leg and the second leg, the second ancillary leg extends longitudinally between the first leg and the second leg, the first ancillary leg interpose the first leg and the second ancillary leg, and the second ancillary leg interpose the second leg and the first ancillary leg. In a more detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg is configured to engage the first runner without being fixedly attached to the first runner, and the second ancillary leg is configured to engage the second runner without being fixedly attached to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg comprises a first pair of ancillary legs, the second ancillary leg comprises a second pair of ancillary legs, the first leg interposes the first pair of ancillary legs, and the second leg interposes the second pair of ancillary legs. In another more detailed embodiment, the first pair of ancillary legs is configured to engage the first runner without being fixedly attached to the first runner, and the second pair of ancillary legs is configured to engage the second runner without being fixedly attached to the second runner. 
         [0016]    In yet another more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the occlusion clip further includes a wedge removably coupled to the spring proximate a living hinge of the spring, where the spring includes a first leg and a first ancillary leg on a first side of the living hinge, the spring includes a second leg and a second ancillary leg on a second side of the living hinge, and the wedge is operative, when coupled to the spring, to change a force necessary to increase a separation between the first leg and the second leg. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg extends longitudinally between the first leg and the second leg, the second ancillary leg extends longitudinally between the first leg and the second leg, the first ancillary leg interpose the first leg and the second ancillary leg, and the second ancillary leg interpose the second leg and the first ancillary leg. In a further detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg is configured to engage the first runner without being fixedly attached to the first runner, and the second ancillary leg is configured to engage the second runner without being fixedly attached to the second runner. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first ancillary leg comprises a first pair of ancillary legs, the second ancillary leg comprises a second pair of ancillary legs, the first leg interposes the first pair of ancillary legs, and the second leg interposes the second pair of ancillary legs. In a more detailed embodiment, the first pair of ancillary legs is configured to engage the first runner without being fixedly attached to the first runner, and the second pair of ancillary legs is configured to engage the second runner without being fixedly attached to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the occlusion clip further includes a fabric interposing the first and second runners. In another more detailed embodiment, the occlusion clip further includes a C-shaped fabric sleeve encapsulating the occlusion clip. 
         [0017]    It is a second aspect of the present invention to provide an occlusion clamp comprising: (a) a spring comprising at least two elongated legs coupled together at a first end and independently repositionable with respect to one another at second, free ends so that the spring is open-ended, the spring having a dominant dimension measured from the first end to one of the second ends; (b) a first runner coupled to a first leg of the at least two elongated legs, the first runner comprising an elongated occlusion beam having an occlusion surface, the first runner having a dominant dimension; (c) a second runner coupled to a second leg of the at least two elongated legs, the second runner comprising an elongated occlusion beam having an occlusion surface, the second runner having a dominant dimension, where the spring is configured to bias the occlusion surface of the first runner toward the occlusion surface of the second runner, and where the dominant dimensions of the spring, first runner, and the second runner extend in generally the same direction. 
         [0018]    In a more detailed embodiment of the second aspect, the second, free ends are spaced apart from one another along the dominant dimension of the spring, the first leg is coupled to the first runner at a first location, the second leg is coupled to the second runner at a second location and a third location, and the first location interposes the second and third locations along the dominant dimension. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first leg traps a first pin to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg traps a second pin and a third pin to mount the second leg to the second runner. In a further detailed embodiment, the first pin is mounted to the first runner, the second pin and the third pin are mounted to the second runner, the first leg includes a first discontinuity configured to receive the first pin so that the first leg interposes the first pin and the first runner to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg includes a second discontinuity configured to receive the second pin and a third discontinuity configured to receive the third pin so that the second leg interposes the second pin and the second runner and interposes the third pin and the second runner to mount the second leg to the second runner. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first discontinuity comprises at least one of a U-shaped segment and a V-shaped segment, the second discontinuity comprises at least one of a U-shaped segment and a V-shaped segment, and the third discontinuity comprises at least one of a U-shaped segment and a V-shaped segment. In a more detailed embodiment, the first discontinuity is received within a trench of the first runner, and the second discontinuity and the third discontinuity are received within a trench of the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the spring includes at least one of a rectangular, circular, or oblong cross-section. In another more detailed embodiment, the second, free ends are spaced apart from one another along the dominant dimension of the spring, the first leg is coupled to the first runner at a first location, the second leg is coupled to the second runner at a second location and contacts the second runner at a third location, and the first location interposes the second and third locations along the dominant dimension. In yet another more detailed embodiment, a first pin is mounted to the first runner, a second pin is mounted to the second runner, the first leg traps the first pin to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg traps the second pin to mount the second leg to the second runner. In still another more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a first discontinuity configured to receive the first pin so that the first leg interposes the first pin and the first runner to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg includes a second discontinuity configured to receive the second pin so that the second leg interposes the second pin and the second runner to mount the second leg to the second runner. 
         [0019]    In yet another more detailed embodiment of the second aspect, the first discontinuity comprises at least one of a U-shaped segment and a V-shaped segment, and the second discontinuity comprises at least one of a U-shaped segment and a V-shaped segment. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first discontinuity is received within a trench of the first runner, the second discontinuity is received within a trench of the second runner, the second leg includes a third discontinuity that is received within the trench of the second runner, and the third discontinuity occurs at the third location. In a further detailed embodiment, the spring further comprises a third leg mounted to at least one of the first leg and the second leg. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first leg is coupled to the first runner at a first location, the second leg is coupled to the second runner at a second location, and the first location is approximately the same as the second location along the dominant dimension. In a more detailed embodiment, a first pin is mounted to the first runner, a second pin is mounted to the second runner, the first leg traps the first pin to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg traps the second pin to mount the second leg to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a first orifice configured to receive the first pin so that the first leg interposes the first pin and the first runner to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg includes a second orifice configured to receive the second pin so that the second leg interposes the second pin and the second runner to mount the second leg to the second runner. In another more detailed embodiment, the first orifice is at least partially received within a trench of the first runner, and the second orifice is at least partially received within a trench of the second runner. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first and second legs delineate a U-shaped primary spring, and the third leg interposes the first and second legs. In still another more detailed embodiment, the third leg extends from a trough cooperatively formed by the intersection of the first and second legs, and the third leg comprises a partial U-shaped secondary spring. 
         [0020]    In a more detailed embodiment of the second aspect, the spring further comprises a third leg mounted to at least one of the first leg and the second leg, and the spring further comprises a fourth leg mounted to at least one of the first leg and the second leg. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first leg is coupled to the first runner at a first location, the second leg is coupled to the second runner at a second location, and the first location is approximately the same as the second location along the dominant dimension. In a further detailed embodiment, a first pin is mounted to the first runner, a second pin is mounted to the second runner, the first leg traps the first pin to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg traps the second pin to mount the second leg to the second runner. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a first orifice configured to receive the first pin so that the first leg interposes the first pin and the first runner to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg includes a second orifice configured to receive the second pin so that the second leg interposes the second pin and the second runner to mount the second leg to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the first orifice is at least partially received within a trench of the first runner, and the second orifice is at least partially received within a trench of the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the first and second legs delineate a U-shaped primary spring, the third leg interposes the first and second legs, and the fourth leg interposes the first and second legs. In another more detailed embodiment, the third and fourth legs extend from a trough cooperatively formed by the intersection of the first and second legs, and the third and fourth legs cooperate to delineate a U-shaped secondary spring. 
         [0021]    In a more detailed embodiment of the second aspect, the first and second legs comprise a primary spring, the third leg interposes the first and second legs, and the fourth leg interposes the first and second legs. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the third and fourth legs extend from the first end, the first end includes a cavity opposite the third and fourth legs, and the spring further includes a wedge configured to be received within the cavity to impart bias of second ends toward one another. In a further detailed embodiment, the spring comprises a first spring, the occlusion clamp further comprising: (a) a second spring mounted to the first spring, the second spring comprising at least two elongated legs coupled together at a first end and independently repositionable with respect to one another at second, free ends so that the second spring is open-ended, the second spring having a dominant dimension measured from its first end to one of its second ends; and, (b) a third spring mounted to the first spring, the third spring comprising at least two elongated legs coupled together at a first end and independently repositionable with respect to one another at second, free ends so that the third spring is open-ended, the third spring having a dominant dimension measured from its first end to one of its second ends. In still a further detailed embodiment, the first leg is coupled to the first runner at a first location, the second leg is coupled to the second runner at a second location, and the first location is approximately the same as the second location along the dominant dimension. In a more detailed embodiment, a first pin is mounted to the first runner, a second pin is mounted to the second runner, the first leg traps the first pin to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg traps the second pin to mount the second leg to the second runner. In a more detailed embodiment, the first leg includes a first orifice configured to receive the first pin so that the first leg interposes the first pin and the first runner to mount the first leg to the first runner, and the second leg includes a second orifice configured to receive the second pin so that the second leg interposes the second pin and the second runner to mount the second leg to the second runner. In another more detailed embodiment, the first orifice is at least partially received within a trench of the first runner, and the second orifice is at least partially received within a trench of the second runner. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the first spring comprises a U-shaped primary spring, the second spring comprises a first U-shaped secondary spring, and the third spring comprises a second U-shaped secondary spring. In still another more detailed embodiment, the first and second U-shaped secondary springs are mounted to opposite lateral sides of the U-shaped primary spring, and the second ends of each of the second and third U-shaped secondary springs include enlarged arcuate ends. 
         [0022]    In yet another more detailed embodiment of the second aspect, a first of the second ends of the first spring, a first of the second ends of the second spring, and a first of the second ends of the third spring is at least partially received within a trench of the first runner, and a second of the second ends of the first spring, a second of the second ends of the second spring, and a second of the second ends of the third spring is at least partially received within a trench of the second runner. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the elongated occlusion beam of the first runner is linear and includes a linear occlusion surface, and the elongated occlusion beam of the second runner is linear and includes a linear occlusion surface. In a further detailed embodiment, the elongated occlusion beam of the first runner is linear and includes an arcuate occlusion surface, and the elongated occlusion beam of the second runner is linear and includes an arcuate occlusion surface. In still a further detailed embodiment, the elongated occlusion beam of the first runner is arcuate and includes an arcuate occlusion surface, and the elongated occlusion beam of the second runner is arcuate and includes an arcuate occlusion surface. In a more detailed embodiment, the elongated occlusion beam of the first runner is arcuate and includes a linear occlusion surface, and the elongated occlusion beam of the second runner is arcuate and includes a linear occlusion surface. In a more detailed embodiment, the spring is fabricated from at least one of a metal and a metal alloy, and at least one of the first runner and the second runner is fabricate from a polymer. In another more detailed embodiment, the clamp further includes a fabric interposing the first and second runners. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the clamp further includes a C-shaped fabric sleeve encapsulating the occlusion clamp. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0023]      FIG. 1  is an elevated perspective view of a first exemplary occlusion clip in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2  is a left profile view of the first exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0025]      FIG. 3  is a frontal view of the first exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0026]      FIG. 4  is an elevated perspective view of the spring and the dowels of the first exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0027]      FIG. 5  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a first runner of the first exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0028]      FIG. 6  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a second runner of the first exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0029]      FIG. 7  is an elevated perspective view of a second exemplary occlusion clip in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0030]      FIG. 8  is a right profile view of the second exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 9  is a frontal view of the second exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0032]      FIG. 10  is an elevated perspective view of the spring and the dowels of the second exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0033]      FIG. 11  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a first runner of the second exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 12  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a second runner of the second exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0035]      FIG. 13  is an elevated perspective view of a third exemplary occlusion clip in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0036]      FIG. 14  is a right profile view of the third exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 13 . 
           [0037]      FIG. 15  is a frontal view of the third exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 13 . 
           [0038]      FIG. 16  is an elevated perspective view of the spring and the dowels of the third exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 13 . 
           [0039]      FIG. 17  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a first runner of the third exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 13 . 
           [0040]      FIG. 18  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a second runner of the third exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 13 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 19  is an elevated perspective view of a fourth exemplary occlusion clip in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0042]      FIG. 20  is a right profile view of the fourth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0043]      FIG. 21  is a frontal view of the fourth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0044]      FIG. 22  is an elevated perspective view of the spring of the fourth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 23  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a first runner and dowel of the fourth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0046]      FIG. 24  is an elevated perspective view from the top of a second runner of the fourth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0047]      FIG. 25  is an elevated perspective view of a fifth exemplary occlusion clip in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0048]      FIG. 26  is a right profile view of the fifth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0049]      FIG. 27  is a frontal view of the fifth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0050]      FIG. 28  is an elevated perspective view of the spring of the fifth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0051]      FIG. 29  is an elevated perspective view from the top of an exemplary runner and dowel of the fifth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0052]      FIG. 30  is an elevated perspective view from the bottom of an exemplary runner of the fifth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0053]      FIG. 31  is a right profile view of the wedge of the fifth exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0054]      FIG. 32  is an elevated perspective view of a sixth exemplary occlusion clip in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0055]      FIG. 33  is a right profile view of the sixth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0056]      FIG. 34  is a frontal view of the sixth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0057]      FIG. 35  is an elevated perspective view of the spring of the sixth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0058]      FIG. 36  is an elevated perspective view from the top of an exemplary runner of the sixth exemplary occlusion clip of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0059]      FIG. 37  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the exemplary runner of  FIG. 36 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0060]    The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described and illustrated below to encompass devices, methods, and techniques for fabricating and using an occlusion clip. Of course, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments discussed below are exemplary in nature and may be reconfigured without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. However, for clarity and precision, the exemplary embodiments as discussed below may include optional steps, methods, and features that one of ordinary skill should recognize as not being a requisite to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0061]    Referencing  FIGS. 1-6 , a first exemplary occlusion clip  100  comprises a spring  102  mounted to a first runner  104  and a second runner  106  using a series of dowels  108 . The spring  102  includes a U-shaped end  110  from which extends a first arm  114  and a second arm  116 . The first arm  114  is mounted to the first runner  104  using a single dowel  108 , whereas the second arm  116  is mounted to the second runner  106  using a pair of dowels  108 . In this exemplary embodiment, the first arm  114  may be rectangular or circular in cross-section and a pair of linear segments  122 ,  124  that are interposed by a retention segment  126  that is V-shaped in exemplary form. The first linear segment  122  extends from the U-shaped end  110  and is many multiples in longitudinal length of the second linear segment  124 . In exemplary form, the end of the first arm  114  is denoted by the blunt end of the second linear segment  124 . Similarly, the second arm  116  also includes a rectangular cross-section and includes first, second, and third linear segments  130 ,  132 ,  134 . In this exemplary embodiment, the second linear segment  132  is longer than either the first or third linear segments  130 ,  134 . The total longitudinal length of the second arm  116  is greater than that of the first arm  114 , with the longitudinal end of the second arm  116  denoted by the blunt rectangular end of the third linear segment  134 . Interposing the linear segments  130 ,  132 ,  134  are two retention segments  136 ,  138  embodying an exemplary V-shaped configuration. 
         [0062]    In this exemplary embodiment, the first retention segment  126  longitudinally interposes the second and third retention segments  136 ,  138  while maintaining a vertically spaced apart orientation. More specifically, the first retention segment  126  is vertically oriented in the opposite direction than are the second and third retention segments  136 ,  138 . This results in the apex of the V-shaped profile of the first retention segments  126  facing vertically toward the apexes of the V-shaped profiles of the second and third retention segments  136 ,  138 . The depth of the V-shaped profile and the separation of the arms  114 ,  116  and linear segment  130  can serve to increase or decrease the spring force bias at the closed position of the occluding clip. Each of the retention segments  126 ,  136 ,  138  provides a contact area with a respective runner  104 ,  106 . 
         [0063]    The first and second runners  104 ,  106  have essentially the same shape. Specifically, both runners  104 ,  106  include a pair of parallel side-walls  150 , a longitudinal wall  152 , and an end wall  154  that is concurrently mounted to the foregoing walls. The longitudinal wall  152  interposes and joins the parallel walls  150 . In exemplary form, the interior surfaces  158  of the parallel walls  150  are planar and parallel to one another. These planar surfaces  158  cooperate with a planar interior surface  160  of the longitudinal wall  152  to delineate a block U-shaped longitudinal cavity  161  where the planar surfaces of the parallel walls are perpendicular to the planar surface of the longitudinal wall. In addition, the end wall  154  interposes and joins the parallel walls  150  to provide a longitudinal end cap. An interior surface  162  of the end wall is arcuately shaped and cooperates with the planar surfaces  158  of the parallel walls  150  to delineate a rounded U-shaped vertical cavity. In sum, the longitudinal end  166  of the runners  104 ,  106  opposite the end wall  154  is open, as is the vertical end opposite the planar interior surface  160  of the longitudinal wall  152 . 
         [0064]    The exterior of each runner  104 ,  106  includes a blunt end  170  that is rounded over at its periphery to join opposing longitudinal planar surfaces  172  and an arcuate longitudinal surface  174 . The longitudinal arcuate surfaces  174  are adapted to be the element of each runner  104 ,  106  that is closest to one another and interposed by tissue when in a tissue occluding position. 
         [0065]    As introduced previously, the first runner  104  is mounted to the spring  102  using a dowel  108 , whereas the second runner  106  is mounted to the spring using a pair of dowels. Consequently, the first runner  104  includes a pair of openings  176  that extend through the parallel walls  150  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  176  are cylindrical and arranged approximately in the longitudinal middle of the first runner  104 . In contrast, the second runner  106  includes two pair of openings  178 ,  180  that extend through the parallel walls  150  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  178 ,  180  are cylindrical and the first pair of openings  178  occurs at approximately one-third the longitudinal length, whereas the second pair of openings  180  occurs at approximately two-thirds the longitudinal length of the second runner  106 . 
         [0066]    Assembly of the first exemplary occlusion clip  100  includes longitudinally sliding the runners  104 ,  106  with respect to the spring  102  when no dowels  108  are present. By way of example, the first runner  104  is oriented in parallel with the first arm  114  so that the open end of the first runner  104  is longitudinally aligned to receive the retention segment  126 . Thereafter, the first runner  104  is repositioned with respect to the first arm  114  so that the retention segment  126  is longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  161  until the retention segment  126  is aligned with the pair of openings  176 . Thereafter, the dowel  108  is inserted through the pair of openings  176  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  160  of the longitudinal wall  152  sandwich the retention segment  126 . After the dowel  108  is in position, the first runner  104  may not be longitudinally, vertically, or rotationally repositioned with respect to the first arm  114 . Mounting of the second runner  106  to the second arm  116  follows a similar process. 
         [0067]    Mounting the second runner  106  to the second arm  116  may include longitudinally sliding the second runner  106  with respect to the spring  102  when no dowels  108  extend through the second runner. For example, the second runner  106  is oriented in parallel with the second arm  116  so that the open end  166  of the first runner  106  is longitudinally aligned to receive the retention segments  136 ,  138 . Thereafter, the second runner  106  is repositioned with respect to the second arm  116  so that the retention segments  136 ,  138  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  161  until the retention segments  136 ,  138  are aligned with respective pairs of openings  178 ,  180 . Thereafter, two dowels  108  are inserted through the two pair of openings  178 ,  180  so that the dowels and the planar interior surface  160  of the longitudinal wall  152  sandwich the retention segments  136 ,  138 . After the dowels  108  are in position, the second runner  106  may not be longitudinally, vertically, or rotationally repositioned with respect to the second arm  116 . 
         [0068]    In operation, the spring  102  operates to bias the runners  104 ,  106  toward one another to exert an occlusion pressure upon tissue captured therebetween. To achieve this bias, the spring  102  may be cast, cut, or fabricated in the shape shown in  FIG. 4 . Thereafter, repositioning the first arm  114  away from the second arm  116  requires overcoming the bias of the spring  102 , including the bias attributed to the U-shaped end  110  and the bias attributed to the arms  114 ,  116  and the linear segment  130 . When no active force is exerted upon the arms  114 ,  116 , the arms will default to the position shown in  FIG. 2 . Consequently, when positioning the clip  100  to occlude bodily tissue, such as a left atrial appendage, the clip  100  is forced open so that the ends of the arms  114 ,  116  are forced farther away from one another to create a vertical gap between the runners  104 ,  106 . This vertical gap is wide enough to allow bodily tissue to interpose the runners  104 ,  106  and, when the active force is no longer exerted upon the arms  114 ,  116 , the bias of the spring  102  is operative to force the runners toward one another and discontinue circulation across the tissue interposing the runners. Eventually, the absence of circulation to one side of the clamped tissue leads to atrophy and occlusion of the bodily tissue in question. 
         [0069]    Occlusion of the bodily tissue is accomplished through transferal of the forces imparted by the spring  102  through the runners  104 ,  106  and transmitted to the tissue as a pressure profile. The presence of proximal and distal spring bias allows the occlusion clip runners  104 ,  106  to balance the force independently at the proximal and distal ends, allowing for non-uniform shapes of tissue to be evenly compressed between the runners. The desired pressure can be obtained through adjustment of both the spring force and the runner  104 ,  106  shape and size. The spring force is a function of the shape, thickness, and width of the spring  102  material and each can be independently adjusted to obtain the desired force at the desired separation. Additionally, it is desired that as the tissue atrophies, a significant force continues to be applied even as the runners  104 ,  106  compress the tissue between them to near zero or zero thickness. This “zero offset force” can be adjusted through design of the shape of the spring  102  causing the “free state” of the contact points of the spring to the runners  104 ,  106  to become closer together or to even offset in the negative direction. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that this offset may be designed into the spring  102  or may be introduced through intentional plastic deformation of the spring. 
         [0070]    Referencing  FIGS. 7-12 , a second exemplary occlusion clip  200  comprises a spring  202  mounted to a first runner  204  and a second runner  206  using a pair of dowels  208 . The spring  202  includes a U-shaped end  210  from which extends a first arm  214  and a second arm  216 . The first arm  214  is mounted to the first runner  204  using a first dowel  208 , whereas the second arm  216  is mounted to the second runner  206  using a second dowel  208 . In this exemplary embodiment, the first arm  214  has a rectangular, linear cross-section except for a distal end  218 . The distal end  218  is rounded over and includes spaced apart projections  220 ,  222  that delineate a channel  224  configured to receive a dowel  208 . In this exemplary embodiment, the channel  224  faces away from the second arm  216 . 
         [0071]    Similarly, the second arm  216  also has a rectangular, linear or circular cross-section except for a distal end  228  and a rounded hump  230  extending toward the first arm  214 . In this exemplary embodiment, the second arm  216  includes a first linear segment  232  and a second linear segment  234  that are interposed by the hump  230 . Though not required, the longitudinal length of the second linear segment  234  is greater than that of the first linear segment  232 . 
         [0072]    In this exemplary embodiment, the distal end  228  is rounded over and includes spaced apart projections  240 ,  242  that delineate a channel  244  configured to receive a dowel  208 . In exemplary form, the channel  244  faces away from the first arm  214 . It should also be noted that the rounded vertical height of the distal end  228  is approximately equal to the vertical height of the rounded hump  230 . Both the rounded hump  230  and rounded distal end  228  of the second arm  216  provide respective contact areas for the second runner  206 . 
         [0073]    The first and second runners  204 ,  206  have essentially the same shape. Specifically, both runners  204 ,  206  include a pair of parallel walls  250 , a longitudinal wall  252 , and an end wall  254  that is concurrently mounted to the foregoing walls. The longitudinal wall  252  interposes and joins the parallel walls  250 . In exemplary form, the interior surfaces  258  of the parallel walls  250  are planar and parallel to one another. These planar surfaces  258  cooperate with a planar interior surface  260  of the longitudinal wall  252  to delineate a block U-shaped longitudinal cavity  261  where the planar surfaces of the parallel walls are perpendicular to the planar surface of the longitudinal wall. In addition, the end wall  254  interposes and joins the parallel walls  250  to provide a longitudinal end cap. An interior surface  262  of the end wall is arcuately shaped and cooperates with the planar surfaces  258  of the parallel walls  250  to delineate a rounded U-shaped vertical cavity. In sum, the longitudinal end  266  of the runners  204 ,  206  opposite the end wall  254  is open, as is the vertical end opposite the planar interior surface  260  of the longitudinal wall  252 . 
         [0074]    The exterior of each runner  204 ,  206  includes a blunt end  270  that is rounded over at its periphery to join opposing longitudinal planar surfaces  272  and an arcuate longitudinal surface  274 . The longitudinal arcuate surfaces  274  are adapted to be the element of each runner  204 ,  206  that is closest to one another and interposed by tissue when in a tissue occluding position. 
         [0075]    As introduced previously, the first and second runners  204 ,  206  are mounted to the spring  202  using respective dowels  208 . Consequently, the first runner  204  includes a pair of openings  276  that extend through the parallel walls  250  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  276  are cylindrical and arranged distally just beyond the longitudinal middle of the first runner  204 . Likewise, the second runner  206  includes a pair of openings  278  that extend through the parallel walls  250  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  278  are cylindrical and the first pair of openings  278  are arranged approximately at eighty percent of the longitudinal length (i.e., nearest the distal end). 
         [0076]    Assembly of the second exemplary occlusion clip  200  includes longitudinally sliding the runners  204 ,  206  with respect to the spring  202  when no dowels  208  are present. By way of example, the first runner  204  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the first arm  214  so that the open end of the first runner  204  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  218 . Thereafter, the first runner  204  is repositioned with respect to the first arm  214  so that the distal end  218  is longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  261  until the distal end  218  is aligned with the pair of openings  276 . Thereafter, the dowel  208  is inserted through the pair of openings  276  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  260  of the longitudinal wall  252  sandwich the distal end  218 . After the dowel  208  is in position, the first runner  204  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the first arm  214 . But the first runner  204  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the first arm  214  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  208 . Mounting of the second runner  206  to the second arm  216  follows a similar process. 
         [0077]    Mounting the second runner  206  to the second arm  216  may include longitudinally sliding the runner  206  with respect to the spring  202  when no dowel  208  extends through the second runner. For example, the second runner  206  is oriented in parallel with the second arm  216  so that the open end  266  of the first runner  206  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  228 . Thereafter, the second runner  206  is repositioned with respect to the second arm  216  so that the rounded distal end  228  is longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  261  until the distal end is aligned with the pair of openings  278 . Thereafter, the dowel  208  is inserted through the pair of opening  278  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  260  of the longitudinal wall  252  sandwich the distal end  228 . After the dowel  208  is in position, the second runner  206  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the second arm  216 , but may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the second arm  216  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  208 . 
         [0078]    In operation, the spring  202  operates to bias the runners  204 ,  206  toward one another to exert an occlusion pressure upon tissue captured therebetween. To achieve this bias, the spring  202  may be cast, cut, or fabricated in the shape shown in  FIG. 10 . Thereafter, repositioning the first arm  214  away from the second arm  216  requires overcoming the bias of the spring, principally the bias attributed to the U-shaped end  210 . When no active force is exerted upon the arms  214 ,  216 , the arms will default to the position shown in  FIG. 8 . Consequently, when positioning the clip  200  to occlude bodily tissue, such as a left atrial appendage, the clip  200  is forced open so that the ends of the arms  214 ,  216  are forced farther away from one another to create a vertical gap between the runners  204 ,  206 . This vertical gap is wide enough to allow bodily tissue to interpose the runners  204 ,  206  and, when the active force is no longer exerted upon the arms  214 ,  216 , the bias of the spring  202  is operative to force the runners toward one another and discontinue circulation across the tissue interposing the runners. Eventually, the absence of circulation to one side of the clamped tissue leads to atrophy and occlusion of the bodily tissue in question. 
         [0079]    As discussed previously, occlusion of the bodily tissue is accomplished through transferal of the forces imparted by the spring  202  through the runners  204 ,  206  and transmitted to the tissue as a pressure profile. The presence of proximal and distal spring bias allows the runners  204 ,  206  to balance the force independently at the proximal and distal ends, allowing for non-uniform shapes of tissue to be evenly compressed between the runners. The desired pressure can be obtained through adjustment of both the spring force and the runners  204 ,  206  shape and size. The spring force is a function of the shape, thickness, and width of the spring  202  material and each can be independently adjusted to obtain the desired force at the desired separation. Additionally, it is desired that as the tissue atrophies, a significant force continues to be applied even as the runners  204 ,  206  compress the tissue between them to near zero or zero thickness. This “zero offset force” can be adjusted through design of the shape of the spring  202  causing the “free state” of the contact points of the spring to the runners  204 ,  206  to become closer together or to even offset in the negative direction. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that this offset may be designed into the spring  202  or may be introduced through intentional plastic deformation of the spring. 
         [0080]    Referencing  FIGS. 13-18 , a third exemplary occlusion clip  300  comprises a spring  302  mounted to a first runner  304  and a second runner  306  using a pair of dowels  308 . The spring  302  includes a U-shaped end  310  from which extends a first arm  314  and a second arm  316 . The first arm  314  is mounted to the first runner  304  using a first dowel  308 , whereas the second arm  316  is mounted to the second runner  306  using a second dowel  308 . In this exemplary embodiment, the first arm  314  has a rectangular, linear cross-section except for a distal end  318 . The distal end  318  is rounded over and includes an orifice  324  configured to receive a dowel  308 . Similarly, the second arm  316  also has a rectangular, linear or circular cross-section except for a rounded distal end  328 . In this exemplary embodiment, the rounded end  328  includes an orifice  330  configured to receive the dowel  308 . In this exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length of each of the arms  314 ,  316  is approximately equal. 
         [0081]    In addition to the first and second arms  314 ,  316 , a secondary appendage  334  is mounted to the U-shaped end  310 . In exemplary form, the secondary appendage  334  is inset with respect to the U-shaped end  310  and includes an arcuate portion  336  that approximates the curvature of the U-shaped portion until transitioning to a linear portion  338  that extends distally and divergent with respect to the first arm  314 . Specifically, the linear portion  338  is acutely angled with respect to the first arm  314 . 
         [0082]    The first and second runners  304 ,  306  have essentially the same shape. Specifically, both runners  304 ,  306  include a pair of parallel walls  350 , a longitudinal wall  352 , and an end wall  354  that is concurrently mounted to the foregoing walls. The longitudinal wall  352  interposes and joins the parallel walls  350 . In exemplary form, the interior surfaces  358  of the parallel walls  350  are planar and parallel to one another. These planar surfaces  358  cooperate with a planar interior surface  360  of the longitudinal wall  352  to delineate a block U-shaped longitudinal cavity  361  where the planar surfaces of the parallel walls are perpendicular to the planar surface of the longitudinal wall. In addition, the end wall  354  interposes and joins the parallel walls  350  to provide a longitudinal end cap. An interior surface  362  of the end wall is arcuately shaped and cooperates with the planar surfaces  358  of the parallel walls  350  to delineate a rounded U-shaped vertical cavity. In sum, the longitudinal end  366  of the runners  304 ,  306  opposite the end wall  354  is open, as is the vertical end opposite the planar interior surface  360  of the longitudinal wall  352 . 
         [0083]    The exterior of each runner  304 ,  306  includes a blunt end  370  that is rounded over at its periphery to join opposing longitudinal planar surfaces  372  and an arcuate longitudinal surface  374 . The longitudinal arcuate surfaces  374  are adapted to be the element of each runner  304 ,  306  that is closest to one another and interposed by tissue when in a tissue occluding position. 
         [0084]    As introduced previously, the first and second runners  304 ,  306  are mounted to the spring  302  using respective dowels  308 . Consequently, the first runner  304  includes a pair of openings  376  that extend through the parallel walls  350  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  376  are cylindrical and arranged approximately at eighty percent of the longitudinal length (i.e., nearest the distal end) of the first runner  304 . Likewise, the second runner  306  includes a pair of openings  378  that extend through the parallel walls  350  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  378  are cylindrical and the first pair of openings  378  are arranged approximately at eighty percent of the longitudinal length (i.e., nearest the distal end). 
         [0085]    Assembly of the third exemplary occlusion clip  300  includes longitudinally sliding the runners  304 ,  306  with respect to the spring  302  when no dowels  308  are present. By way of example, the first runner  304  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the first arm  314  so that the open end of the first runner  304  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  318 . Thereafter, the first runner  304  is repositioned with respect to the first arm  314  so that the distal end  318  and the secondary appendage  334  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  361  until the distal end  318  is aligned with the pair of openings  376 . Thereafter, the dowel  308  is inserted through the pair of openings  376  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  360  of the longitudinal wall  352  sandwich the distal end  318 . After the dowel  308  is in position, the first runner  304  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the first arm  314 . But the first runner  304  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the first arm  314  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  308  where the bias of the secondary appendage  334  retards rotation of the proximal end of the runner  304  to approximate a parallel orientation with respect to the secondary appendage. Mounting of the second runner  306  to the second arm  316  follows a similar process. 
         [0086]    Mounting the second runner  306  to the second arm  316  may include longitudinally sliding the second runner  306  with respect to the spring  302  when no dowel  308  extends through the second runner. For example, the second runner  306  is oriented in parallel with the second arm  316  so that the open end  366  of the first runner  306  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  328 . Thereafter, the second runner  306  is repositioned with respect to the second arm  316  so that the rounded distal end  328  is longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  361  until the rounded distal end is aligned with the pair of openings  378 . Thereafter, the dowel  308  is inserted through the pair of opening  378  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  360  of the longitudinal wall  352  sandwich the distal end  328 . After the dowel  308  is in position, the second runner  306  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the second arm  316 , but may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the second arm  316  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  308 . 
         [0087]    In operation, the spring  302  operates to bias the runners  304 ,  306  toward one another to exert an occlusion pressure upon tissue captured therebetween. To achieve this bias, the spring  302  may be cast, cut, or fabricated in the shape shown in  FIG. 16 . Thereafter, repositioning the first arm  314  away from the second arm  316  requires overcoming the bias of the spring  302 , principally the bias attributed to the U-shaped end  310  and the secondary appendage  334 . When no active force is exerted upon the arms  314 ,  316  and the secondary appendage  334 , the arms and secondary appendage will default to the position shown in  FIG. 14 . Consequently, when positioning the clip  300  to occlude bodily tissue, such as a left atrial appendage, the clip  300  is forced open so that the distal ends of the arms  314 ,  316  are forced farther away from one another to create a vertical gap between the runners  304 ,  306 . This vertical gap is wide enough to allow bodily tissue to interpose the runners  304 ,  306  and, when the active force is no longer exerted upon the arms  314 ,  316  and secondary appendage  334 , the bias of the spring  302  is operative to force the runners toward one another and discontinue circulation across the tissue interposing the runners. Eventually, the absence of circulation to one side of the clamped tissue leads to atrophy and occlusion of the bodily tissue in question. 
         [0088]    As introduced previously, occlusion of the bodily tissue is accomplished through transferal of the forces imparted by the spring  302  through the runners  304 ,  306  and transmitted to the tissue as a pressure profile. The presence of proximal and distal spring bias allows the occlusion clip runners  304 ,  306  to balance the force independently at the proximal and distal ends, allowing for non-uniform shapes of tissue to be evenly compressed between the runners. The desired pressure can be obtained through adjustment of both the spring force and the runner  304 ,  306  shape and size. The spring force is a function of the shape, thickness, and width of the spring  302  material and each can be independently adjusted to obtain the desired force at the desired separation. Additionally, it is desired that as the tissue atrophies, a significant force continues to be applied even as the runners  304 ,  306  compress the tissue between them to near zero or zero thickness. This “zero offset force” can be adjusted through design of the shape of the spring  302  causing the “free state” of the contact points of the spring to the runners  304 ,  306  to become closer together or to even offset in the negative direction. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that this offset may be designed into the spring  302  or may be introduced through intentional plastic deformation of the spring. 
         [0089]    Referencing  FIGS. 19-24 , a fourth exemplary occlusion clip  400  comprises a spring  402  mounted to a first runner  404  and a second runner  406  using a pair of dowels  408 . The spring  402  includes a U-shaped end  410  from which extends a first arm  414  and a second arm  416 . The first arm  414  is mounted to the first runner  404  using the first dowel  408 , whereas the second arm  416  is mounted to the second runner  406  using the second dowel  408 . In this exemplary embodiment, the first arm  414  has a rectangular or circular cross-section except for a distal end  418 . The first arm  414  includes a first linear segment  420  that is obtusely angled with respect to a second linear segment  422  that terminates at the distal end  418 . The distal end  418  is rounded over and includes an orifice  424  configured to receive the dowel  408 . Similarly, the second arm  416  also has a rectangular or circular, linear cross-section except for a rounded distal end  428 . The second arm  416  includes a first linear segment  430  that is obtusely angled with respect to a second linear segment  432  that terminates at the distal end  428 . In this exemplary embodiment, the rounded end  428  includes an orifice  434  configured to receive the dowel  408 . In this exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length of each of the arms  414 ,  416  is approximately equal. 
         [0090]    In addition to the first and second arms  414 ,  416 , a pair of secondary appendages  444 ,  446  is mounted to the U-shaped end  410 . In exemplary form, the secondary appendages  444 ,  446  are inset with respect to the U-shaped end  410  and each appendage includes an arcuate portion  448 ,  449  that approximates the curvature of the U-shaped portion until transitioning to a linear portion  438 ,  440 . The first linear portion  438  extends distally and divergent with respect to the first arm  414 , whereas the second linear portion  440  extends distally and divergent with respect to the second arm  416 . Specifically, the first linear portion  438  is acutely angled with respect to the first arm  414 , while the second linear portion  440  is acutely angled with respect to the second arm  416 . 
         [0091]    The first and second runners  404 ,  406  have essentially the same shape. Specifically, both runners  404 ,  406  include a pair of parallel walls  450 , a longitudinal wall  452 , and an end wall  454  that is concurrently mounted to the foregoing walls. The longitudinal wall  452  interposes and joins the parallel walls  450 . In exemplary form, the interior surfaces  458  of the parallel walls  450  are planar and parallel to one another. These planar surfaces  458  cooperate with a planar interior surface  460  of the longitudinal wall  452  to delineate a block U-shaped longitudinal cavity  461  where the planar surfaces of the parallel walls  450  are perpendicular to the planar surface of the longitudinal wall. In addition, the end wall  454  interposes and joins the parallel walls  450  to provide a longitudinal end cap. An interior surface  462  of the end wall is arcuately shaped and cooperates with the planar surfaces  458  of the parallel walls  450  to delineate a rounded U-shaped vertical cavity. In sum, the longitudinal end  466  of the runners  404 ,  406  opposite the end wall  454  is open, as is the vertical end opposite the planar interior surface  460  of the longitudinal wall  452 . 
         [0092]    The exterior of each runner  404 ,  406  includes a blunt end  470  that is rounded over at its periphery to join opposing longitudinal planar surfaces  472  and an arcuate longitudinal surface  474 . The longitudinal arcuate surfaces  474  are adapted to be the element of each runner  404 ,  406  that is closest to one another and interposed by tissue when in a tissue occluding position. 
         [0093]    As introduced previously, the first and second runners  404 ,  406  are mounted to the spring  402  using respective dowels  408 . Consequently, the first and second runners  404 ,  406  each include a pair of openings  476  that extend through the parallel walls  450  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  476  are cylindrical and arranged approximately at eighty percent of the longitudinal length (i.e., nearest the distal end) of the runners  404 ,  406 . 
         [0094]    Assembly of the fourth exemplary occlusion clip  400  includes longitudinally sliding the runners  404 ,  406  with respect to the spring  402  when no dowels  408  are present. By way of example, the first runner  404  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the first arm  414  so that the open end of the first runner  404  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  418 . Thereafter, the first runner  404  is repositioned with respect to the first arm  414  so that the distal end  418  and a first of the secondary appendages  438  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  461  until the distal end  418  is aligned with the pair of openings  476 . Thereafter, the dowel  408  is inserted through the pair of openings  476  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  460  of the longitudinal wall  452  sandwich the distal end  418 . After the dowel  408  is in position, the first runner  404  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the first arm  414 . But the first runner  404  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the first arm  414  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  408  where the bias of a first of the secondary appendages  438  retards rotation of the proximal end of the runner  404  to approximate a parallel orientation with respect to the secondary appendage. Mounting of the second runner  406  to the second arm  416  follows a similar process. 
         [0095]    Mounting the second runner  406  to the second arm  416  may include longitudinally sliding the runner  406  with respect to the spring  402  when no dowel  408  extends through the second runner. For example, the second runner  406  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the second arm  416  so that the open end of the second runner  406  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  428 . Thereafter, the second runner  406  is repositioned with respect to the second arm  416  so that the distal end  428  and a second of the secondary appendages  440  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  461  until the distal end  428  is aligned with the pair of openings  476 . Thereafter, the dowel  408  is inserted through the pair of openings  476  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  460  of the longitudinal wall  452  sandwich the distal end  428 . After the dowel  408  is in position, the second runner  406  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the second arm  416 . But the second runner  406  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the second arm  416  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  408  where the bias of a second of the secondary appendages  440  retards rotation of the proximal end of the runner  406  to approximate a parallel orientation with respect to the secondary appendage. 
         [0096]    In operation, the spring  402  operates to bias the runners  404 ,  406  toward one another to exert an occlusion pressure upon tissue captured therebetween. To achieve this bias, the spring  402  may be cast, cut, or fabricated in the shape shown in  FIG. 22 . Thereafter, repositioning the first arm  414  away from the second arm  416  requires overcoming the bias of the spring, principally the bias attributed to the U-shaped end  410  and the secondary appendages  438 ,  440 . When no active force is exerted upon the arms  414 ,  416  and the secondary appendages  438 ,  440 , the arms and appendages will default to the position shown in  FIG. 20 . Consequently, when positioning the clip  400  to occlude bodily tissue, such as a left atrial appendage, the clip  400  is forced open so that the distal ends of the arms  414 ,  416  are forced farther away from one another to create a vertical gap between the runners  404 ,  406 . This vertical gap is wide enough to allow bodily tissue to interpose the runners  404 ,  406  and, when the active force is no longer exerted upon the arms  414 ,  416  and secondary appendages  438 ,  440 , the bias of the spring  402  is operative to force the runners toward one another and discontinue circulation across the tissue interposing the runners. Eventually, the absence of circulation to one side of the clamped tissue leads to atrophy and occlusion of the bodily tissue in question. 
         [0097]    As mentioned, occlusion of the bodily tissue is accomplished through transferal of the forces imparted by the spring  402  through the runners  404 ,  406  and transmitted to the tissue as a pressure profile. The presence of proximal and distal spring bias allows the occlusion clip runners  404 ,  406  to balance the force independently at the proximal and distal ends, allowing for non-uniform shapes of tissue to be evenly compressed between the runners. The desired pressure can be obtained through adjustment of both the spring force and the runner  404 ,  406  shape and size. The spring force is a function of the shape, thickness, and width of the spring  402  material and each can be independently adjusted to obtain the desired force at the desired separation. Additionally, it is desired that as the tissue atrophies, a significant force continues to be applied even as the runners  404 ,  406  compress the tissue between them to near zero or zero thickness. This “zero offset force” can be adjusted through design of the shape of the spring  402  causing the “free state” of the contact points of the spring to the runners  404 ,  406  to become closer together or to even offset in the negative direction. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that this offset may be designed into the spring  402  or may be introduced through intentional plastic deformation of the spring. 
         [0098]    Referencing  FIGS. 25-31 , a fifth exemplary occlusion clip  500  comprises a spring  502  mounted to a first runner  504  and a second runner  506  using a pair of dowels  508 . The spring  502  includes a V-shaped end  510  from which extends a first arm  514  and a second arm  516 . The first arm  514  is mounted to the first runner  504  using the first dowel  508 , whereas the second arm  516  is mounted to the second runner  506  using the second dowel  508 . In this exemplary embodiment, the first arm  514  has a rectangular cross-section except for a rounded distal end  518 . The first arm  514  is longitudinally arcuate and terminates at the distal end  518 . The distal end  518  includes an orifice  524  configured to receive the dowel  508 . Similarly, the second arm  516  also has a rectangular cross-section except for a rounded distal end  528 . The second arm  516  is longitudinally arcuate and terminates at the distal end  528 . In this exemplary embodiment, the rounded end  528  includes an orifice  534  configured to receive the dowel  508 . In exemplary form, the longitudinal length of each of the arms  514 ,  516  is approximately equal. 
         [0099]    In addition to the first and second arms  514 ,  516 , a pair of secondary appendages  544 ,  546  is mounted to the V-shaped end  510 . In exemplary form, the secondary appendages  544 ,  546  are inset with respect to the V-shaped end  510  and each appendage is longitudinally arcuate. The first secondary appendage  544  extends distally and divergent with respect to the first arm  514 , whereas the second secondary appendage  546  extends distally and divergent with respect to the second arm  516 . 
         [0100]    The first and second runners  504 ,  506  have essentially the same shape. Specifically, both runners  504 ,  506  include a pair of parallel walls  550 , a longitudinal wall  552 , and an end wall  554  that is concurrently mounted to the foregoing walls. The longitudinal wall  552  interposes and joins the parallel walls  550 . In exemplary form, the interior surfaces  558  of the parallel walls  550  are planar and parallel to one another. These planar surfaces  558  cooperate with a planar interior surface  560  of the longitudinal wall  552  to delineate a block U-shaped longitudinal cavity  561  where the planar surfaces of the parallel walls are perpendicular to the planar surface of the longitudinal wall. In addition, the end wall  554  interposes and joins the parallel walls  550  to provide a longitudinal end cap. An interior surface  562  of the end wall is arcuately shaped and cooperates with the planar surfaces  558  of the parallel walls  550  to delineate a rounded U-shaped vertical cavity. In sum, the longitudinal end  566  of the runners  504 ,  506  opposite the end wall  554  is open, as is the vertical end opposite the planar interior surface  560  of the longitudinal wall  552 . 
         [0101]    The exterior of each runner  504 ,  506  includes a blunt end  570  that is rounded over at its periphery to join opposing longitudinal planar surfaces  572  and an arcuate longitudinal surface  574 . The longitudinal arcuate surfaces  574  are adapted to be the element of each runner  504 ,  506  that is closest to one another and interposed by tissue when in a tissue occluding position. 
         [0102]    As introduced previously, the first and second runners  504 ,  506  are mounted to the spring  502  using respective dowels  508 . Consequently, the first and second runners  504 ,  506  each include a pair of openings  576  that extend through the parallel walls  550  and are coaxial with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  576  are cylindrical and arranged approximately at eighty percent of the longitudinal length (i.e., nearest the distal end) of the runners  504 ,  506 . 
         [0103]    In this exemplary embodiment, a wedge  580  is coupled to the spring  502  to change the bias exerted by the first and second arms  514 ,  516 . In this exemplary embodiment, the wedge  580  is welded to the spring  502 . Exemplary forms of welding include, without limitation, sonic welding, friction welding (including friction stir welding), electromagnetic pulse welding, co-extrusion welding, cold welding, diffusion bonding, exothermic welding, high frequency welding, hot pressure welding, and induction welding. Nevertheless, other forms of attachment may be utilized to mount the wedge  580  to the spring  502  using various forms of attachment including, without limitation, adhesive, friction fit, and snap-fit (including detents, etc.). 
         [0104]    Those skilled in the art will be aware that changing the shape of the wedge  580  with respect to the spring  502  is operative to change the bias exerted by the first and second arms  514 ,  516 . Accordingly, the shape and angle of the wedge  580  and the cavity within the spring  502  into which the wedge is received is a matter of design choice. For example, as the pie-shape of the wedge increases in angle, the bias exerted upon the first and second arms  514 ,  516  will generally increase. Conversely, as the pie-shape of the wedge  580  decreases in angle, the bias exerted upon the first and second arms  514 ,  516  will generally decrease. It should be understood that shapes other than a pie-shape may be used to define the contour of the wedge  580 . Those skilled in the art in view of the disclosure herein will readily understand these design alternatives. 
         [0105]    Assembly of the fifth exemplary occlusion clip  500  includes longitudinally sliding the runners  504 ,  506  with respect to the spring  502  when no dowels  508  are present. By way of example, the first runner  504  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the first arm  514  so that the open end of the first runner  504  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  518 . Thereafter, the first runner  504  is repositioned with respect to the first arm  514  so that the distal end  518  and a first of the secondary appendages  544  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  561  until the distal end  518  is aligned with the pair of openings  576 . Thereafter, the dowel  508  is inserted through the pair of openings  576  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  560  of the longitudinal wall  552  sandwich the distal end  518 . After the dowel  508  is in position, the first runner  504  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the first arm  514 . But the first runner  504  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the first arm  514  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  508  where the bias of a first of the secondary appendages  544  retards rotation of the proximal end of the runner  504  to approximate a parallel orientation with respect to the secondary appendage. Mounting of the second runner  506  to the second arm  516  follows a similar process. 
         [0106]    Mounting the second runner  506  to the second arm  516  may include longitudinally sliding the runner  506  with respect to the spring  502  when no dowel  508  extends through the second runner. For example, the second runner  506  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the second arm  516  so that the open end of the second runner  506  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  528 . Thereafter, the second runner  506  is repositioned with respect to the second arm  516  so that the distal end  528  and a second of the secondary appendages  546  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  561  until the distal end  528  is aligned with the pair of openings  576 . Thereafter, the dowel  508  is inserted through the pair of openings  576  so that the dowel and the planar interior surface  560  of the longitudinal wall  552  sandwich the distal end  528 . After the dowel  508  is in position, the second runner  506  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the second arm  516 . But the second runner  506  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the second arm  516  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  508  where the bias of a second of the secondary appendages  546  retards rotation of the proximal end of the runner  506  to approximate a parallel orientation with respect to the secondary appendage. 
         [0107]    In operation, the spring  502  and wedge  580  operate to bias the runners  504 ,  506  toward one another to exert an occlusion pressure upon tissue captured therebetween To achieve this bias, the spring  502  may be cast, cut, or fabricated in the shape shown in  FIG. 28 . Repositioning the first arm  514  away from the second arm  516  requires overcoming the bias of the spring  502 , principally the bias attributed to the V-shaped end  510  and the secondary appendages  544 ,  546 . It should be noted that the bias of the spring  502  changes depending upon the properties of the wedge  580  including, without limitation, size, shape, and material composition. In exemplary form, the bias of the spring  502  is most often increased when the wedge  580  is mounted to the spring. Conversely, when the wedge  580  is not mounted to the spring  502 , the bias associated with the spring will most often decrease as the spring  502  flexes about its hinge  590 . When no active force is exerted upon the arms  514 ,  516  and the secondary appendages  544 ,  546 , the arms and appendages will default to the position shown in  FIG. 26 . Consequently, when positioning the clip  500  to occlude bodily tissue, such as a left atrial appendage, the clip  500  is forced open so that the distal ends of the arms  514 ,  516  are forced farther away from one another to create a vertical gap between the runners  504 ,  506 . This vertical gap is wide enough to allow bodily tissue to interpose the runners  504 ,  506  and, when the active force is no longer exerted upon the arms  514 ,  516  and secondary appendages  544 ,  546 , the bias of the spring  502  is operative to force the runners toward one another and discontinue circulation across the tissue interposing the runners. Eventually, the absence of circulation to one side of the clamped tissue leads to atrophy and occlusion of the bodily tissue in question. 
         [0108]    Similar to the foregoing embodiments, occlusion of the bodily tissue is accomplished through transferal of the forces imparted by the spring  502  through the runners  504 ,  506  and transmitted to the tissue as a pressure profile. The presence of proximal and distal spring bias allows the occlusion clip runners  504 ,  506  to balance the force independently at the proximal and distal ends, allowing for non-uniform shapes of tissue to be evenly compressed between the runners. The desired pressure can be obtained through adjustment of both the spring force and the runner  504 ,  506  shape and size. The spring force is a function of the shape, thickness, and width of the spring  502  material and each can be independently adjusted to obtain the desired force at the desired separation. Additionally, it is desired that as the tissue atrophies, a significant force continues to be applied even as the runners  504 ,  506  compress the tissue between them to near zero or zero thickness. This “zero offset force” can be adjusted through design of the shape of the spring  502  causing the “free state” of the contact points of the spring to the runners  504 ,  506  to become closer together or to even offset in the negative direction. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that this offset may be designed into the spring  502  or may be introduced through intentional plastic deformation of the spring. 
         [0109]    Referencing  FIGS. 32-37 , a sixth exemplary occlusion clip  600  comprises a spring  602  mounted to a first runner  604  and a second runner  606  using a pair of dowels  608 . The spring  602  includes a U-shaped end  610  from which extends a first arm  614  and a second arm  616 . The first arm  614  is mounted to the first runner  604  using the first dowel  608 , whereas the second arm  616  is mounted to the second runner  606  using the second dowel  608 . In this exemplary embodiment, the first arm  614  has a rectangular or circular cross-section except for a rounded distal end  618 . The first arm  614  is longitudinally linear and terminates at the distal end  618 . The distal end  618  includes an orifice  624  configured to receive the dowel  608 . Similarly, the second arm  616  also has a rectangular cross-section except for a rounded distal end  628 . The second arm  616  is longitudinally linear and terminates at the distal end  628 . In this exemplary embodiment, the rounded end  628  includes an orifice  634  configured to receive a dowel  608 . In exemplary form, the longitudinal length of each of the arms  614 ,  616  is approximately equal. 
         [0110]    In addition to the first and second arms  614 ,  616 , a first and second pair of ancillary appendages  644 ,  646  are mounted to the U-shaped end  610 . In exemplary form, the ancillary appendages  644 ,  646  sandwich a respective arm  614 ,  616 . Each of the ancillary appendages  644 ,  646  comprises a rectangular cross-section except for a rounded distal end  647 ,  649 . Each ancillary appendage  644 ,  646  is longitudinally arcuate to curve toward the interior interposing the arms  614 ,  616 , where the distal ends  647 ,  649  are closest to one another. 
         [0111]    The first and second runners  604 ,  606  have essentially the same shape. Specifically, both runners  604 ,  606  have a cylindrical, linear exterior surface  650  that tapers to create a domed end  652 . A proximal end  654  defines a U-shaped opening that leads into a longitudinally extending channel  656  delineated by interior walls configured to receive a respective arm  614 ,  616  and a respective pair of ancillary appendages  644 ,  646 . In particular, the interior walls define a pair of spaced apart inclined, linear ramps  658  (from proximal to distal) that provide a bearing surface upon which a respective distal end  647 ,  649  slides. In order to fix the orientation and mount the ancillary appendages  644 ,  646  to the runner  604 ,  606 , the interior of the runner adjacent the distal end of each ramp  658  defines a pocket  660 . Interposing the pockets is a primary inclined linear ramp  664  (from proximal to distal) that provide a bearing surface upon which a respective distal end  618 ,  628  slides. In order to fix the orientation and mount a respective arm  614 ,  616  to a runner  604 ,  606 , the interior of the runner adjacent the distal end of each ramp  658  defines a primary pocket  668 . Extending transverse across this primary pocket is a pair of orifices  670  extending through the exterior surface  650 . Each orifice  670  is cylindrical and sized to accept the dowel  608  in order to lock a respective arm  614 ,  616  to a respective runner  604 ,  606 . In this exemplary embodiment, the orifices  670  are cylindrical and arranged approximately at eighty percent of the longitudinal length (i.e., nearest the distal end) of the runners  604 ,  606 . 
         [0112]    Assembly of the sixth exemplary occlusion clip  600  includes longitudinally sliding the runners  604 ,  606  with respect to the spring  602  when no dowels  608  are present. By way of example, the first runner  604  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the first arm  614  so that the open end of the first runner  604  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  618 . Thereafter, the first runner  604  is repositioned with respect to the first arm  614  so that the distal end  618  and the first pair of ancillary appendages  644  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  656 . Initially, the rounded distal end  618  contacts and rides upon the primary ramp  664 , followed by continued longitudinal movement that causes the distal ends  647  of the first ancillary appendages  644  to slide upon a respective linear ramp  658 . Eventual longitudinal movement of the spring  602  with respect to the first runner  604  coincides with the rounded distal end  618  reaching the primary pocket  668  at approximately the same time as the distal ends  647  reaching respective pockets  660 . Thereafter, the dowel  608  is inserted through the pair of openings  670  and through the orifice  624  of the first arm  614  to lock the first arm to the runner. After the dowel  608  is in position, the first runner  604  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the first arm  614 . But the first runner  604  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the first arm  614  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  608  where the bias of the first pair of ancillary appendages  644  retards rotation of the proximal end of the runner  604 . Mounting of the second runner  606  to the second arm  616  follows a similar process. 
         [0113]    Mounting the second runner  606  to the second arm  616  may include longitudinally sliding the runner  606  with respect to the spring  602  when no dowel  608  extends through the second runner. For example, the second runner  606  is oriented to be slightly angled with respect to the second arm  616  so that the open end of the second runner  606  is longitudinally aligned to receive the rounded distal end  628 . Thereafter, the second runner  606  is repositioned with respect to the second arm  616  so that the distal end  628  and the first pair of ancillary appendages  646  are longitudinally repositioned within the U-shaped cavity  656 . Initially, the rounded distal end  628  contacts and rides upon the primary ramp  664 , followed by continued longitudinal movement that causes the distal ends  649  of the second ancillary appendages  646  to slide upon a respective linear ramp  658 . Eventual longitudinal movement of the spring  602  with respect to the second runner  606  coincides with the rounded distal end  628  reaching the primary pocket  668  at approximately the same time as the distal ends  649  reaching respective pockets  660 . Thereafter, the dowel  608  is inserted through the pair of openings  670  and through the orifice  624  of the second arm  616  to lock the second arm to the second runner. After the dowel  608  is in position, the second runner  606  may not be longitudinally or vertically repositioned with respect to the second arm  616 . But the second runner  606  may be rotationally repositionable with respect to the second arm  616  about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal length of the dowel  608  where the bias of the second pair of ancillary appendages  646  retards rotation of the proximal end of the second runner  606 . 
         [0114]    In operation, the spring  602  operates to bias the runners  604 ,  606  toward one another to exert an occlusion pressure upon tissue captured therebetween. To achieve this bias, the spring  602  may be cast, cut, or fabricated in the shape shown in  FIG. 35 . Repositioning the first arm  614  away from the second arm  616  requires overcoming the bias of the spring  602 , principally the bias attributed to the U-shaped end  610 . When no active force is exerted upon the arms  614 ,  616  and the ancillary appendages  644 ,  646 , the arms and appendages will default to the position shown in  FIG. 33 . Consequently, when positioning the clip  600  to occlude bodily tissue, such as a left atrial appendage, the clip  600  is forced open so that the distal ends of the arms  614 ,  616  are forced farther away from one another to create a vertical gap between the runners  604 ,  606 . This vertical gap is wide enough to allow bodily tissue to interpose the runners  604 ,  606  and, when the active force is no longer exerted upon the arms  614 ,  616  and ancillary appendages  644 ,  646 , the bias of the spring  602  is operative to force the runners toward one another and discontinue circulation across the tissue interposing the runners. Eventually, the absence of circulation to one side of the clamped tissue leads to atrophy and occlusion of the bodily tissue in question. 
         [0115]    Consistent with the foregoing embodiments, occlusion of the bodily tissue is accomplished through transferal of the forces imparted by the spring  602  through the runners  604 ,  606  and transmitted to the tissue as a pressure profile. The presence of proximal and distal spring bias allows the occlusion clip runners  604 ,  606  to balance the force independently at the proximal and distal ends, allowing for non-uniform shapes of tissue to be evenly compressed between the runners. The desired pressure can be obtained through adjustment of both the spring force and the runners  604 ,  606  shape and size. The spring force is a function of the shape, thickness, and width of the spring  602  material and each can be independently adjusted to obtain the desired force at the desired separation. Additionally, it is desired that as the tissue atrophies, a significant force continues to be applied even as the runners  604 ,  606  compress the tissue between them to near zero or zero thickness. This “zero offset force” can be adjusted through design of the shape of the spring  602  causing the “free state” of the contact points of the spring to the runners  604 ,  606  to become closer together or to even offset in the negative direction. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that this offset may be designed into the spring  602  or may be introduced through intentional plastic deformation of the spring. 
         [0116]    The exemplary occlusion clips may be fabricated from any number of materials including, without limitation, plastics, composites, metals, and ceramics. For example, the exemplary runners and springs may both be fabricated from a biologically compatible titanium. By way of further example, the exemplary runners may be fabricated from a biologically compatible plastic and the springs fabricated from a biologically compatible metal. By way of further example, the runners may be fabricated from high density polyethylene and the springs may be fabricated from nitinol. Conversely, the exemplary runners may be fabricated from any biologically compatible material and the springs fabricated from a biologically compatible material exhibiting sufficient elastic characteristics. By way of further example, the runners may be fabricated from titanium and the springs fabricated from stainless steel. By way of further example, the runners and springs may be fabricated from bioabsorbable materials and/or materials that accommodate or promote the ingrowth of tissue. 
         [0117]    It is also within the scope of the invention for the exemplary occlusion clips to be shrouded in a tissue ingrowth material. For example, the exemplary occlusion clips may be encased in a C-shaped, loop sleeve that is cylindrical and closed at opposing ends in order to accommodate opening and closing of the exemplary clips (i.e., separation or spacing between the runners sufficient to position tissue therebetween). Those skilled in the art are familiar with tissue ingrowth materials such as porous fabrics, including knitted, braided, or woven PET yarn or including Gore Dualmesh (available from W. L. Gore &amp; Associates, www.gore.com) that may be used to shroud the foregoing exemplary embodiments. 
         [0118]    Following from the above description and invention summaries, it should be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, while the methods and apparatuses herein described constitute exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is to be understood that the inventions contained herein are not limited to the above precise embodiment and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following proposed points of novelty. Likewise, it is to be understood that it is not necessary to meet any or all of the identified advantages or objects of the invention disclosed herein in order to fall within the scope of the invention, since inherent and/or unforeseen advantages of the present invention may exist even though they may not have been explicitly discussed herein.