Patent ID: 7022127

Claim:
A system for connecting a first hollow structure to a second hollow structure, comprising: a connector including an annular or tubular element that is expandable from a first diameter to a second, larger diameter, and at least two deformable outer elements extending from the annular or tubular element; and an applicator having a proximal end; a distal end; a longitudinal axis; a movable element movable between at least a first position and a second position, the movable element configured to expand the connector from the first diameter to the second diameter when the connector is associated with the applicator when the movable element is moved from the first position to the second position; and a sleeve at least partially disposed about the movable element of the applicator, said sleeve being movable between a first position and a second position whereby the sleeve causes at least a portion of deformable elements of the connector to deform outwardly away from the longitudinal axis, and wherein said at least two deformable outer elements extend in a proximal direction when said connector is associated with said applicator.