| abstract |
Methods and devices for forming an anastomosis between hollow bodies utilize magnetic force to couple anastomotic components (360, 362) and connect the lumens of the hollow bodies. End-to-side, side-to-side and end-to-end anastomoses can be created with or without a mechanical connection between t he components (360, 362). The securing components (360, 362) have the ability t o produce a magnetic field and may include materials or assemblies. A componen t (278, 280) may also be used to form a port into the lumen of a vessel, the component (278, 280) being attached to the vessel by mechanical and/or magnetic means. Magnetic components (278, 280) may include means (282, 284) for concentrating the magnetic flux between respective components (278, 280) to increase the attraction force, thereby enhancing the security of the anastomosis. Components (398, 400) having an occlusion surface may be used t o close an opening in tissue, e.g., an atrial septal defect. |