Visceral anastomotic device and method of using same

Abstract

A temporary biocompatible stent and method for visceral anastomosis. The stent is provided with integral means for maintaining the structural stability of the stent while providing substantial flexibility. The method comprises fitting the luminal stumps of the viscus over either end of a stent of the invention, and joining the ends of each stump together. A short time after completion of the anastomosis, the stent dissolves and is absorbed safely into the body. The stent and method can be beneficially used in laparoscopic or more invasive traditional surgical procedures. The stent and method are particularly well suited for anastomosis of the bowel.

1 . A biocompatible stent for mammalian luminal visceral anastomosis, said stent comprising: 
 a stent wall comprised substantially of a biocompatible material, wherein said stent wall forms a substantially tubular hollow structure, and wherein integral to said stent wall is means for providing flexibility to the stent without compromising the strength thereof.    
   
   
       2 . The stent according to  claim 1 , wherein said means for providing flexibility comprises circumferential crimping of a portion of the stent wall.  
   
   
       3 . The stent according to  claim 2 , wherein said crimped portion of the stent wall is integrally connected to two terminal sections of stent wall having substantially smooth surfaces, and wherein said smooth surface sections are located on opposite sides of said circumferential crimping.  
   
   
       4 . The stent according to  claim 1 , wherein said stent wall has a diameter chosen such that the stent can fit snugly inside the luminal viscus.  
   
   
       5 . The stent according to  claim 1 , wherein said biocompatible material substantially dissolves into the body after the anastomosis.  
   
   
       6 . The stent according to  claim 5 , wherein said said biocompatible material is polyglycolic acid.  
   
   
       7 . The stent according to  claim 1 , wherein the luminal viscus is the bowel.