Inventors:
John W. Jessen - Seattle WA
Assignee:
Avatar Design and Development, Inc. - Seattle WA
International Classification:
A61B 1704
Abstract:
A stent or support is disclosed for use in the connection or anastomosis of severed vessels to support and seal the anastomotic site. The stent includes substantially cylindrical sections separated by a tapered transitional region. The cylindrical sections are provided with flanges that define tapered sealing surfaces. The dimensions of the two sections are selected to correspond with the diameter of the portions of the vessel to be supported. The stent is preferably made of polyglycolic acid and the dimensions of the stent are selected to provide optimal support and sealing characteristics with a minimum of damage to the epithelial lining of the vas deferens. In three preferred applications, the stent is used in anastomosis of the severed ends of a vas deferens, a Fallopian tube, and a blood vessel. A gauge is used to measure the severed ends and, in that manner, determine the appropriate dimensions of the stent. A technique of forming porous stents, and other structures, is also disclosed.