| abstract |
A fastener (13) for gripping tissue, the fastener comprising: na first end, a second end and a middle portion, na plurality of gripping elements (14) located on said first end of said fastener, at least a portion nof said fastener being formed of a resilient material (15), said resilient material predisposing said fastener to form a curved or bent shape, nsaid fastener having an open position and a closed position, nwherein in said open position, said fastener is configured to pass through a generally cylindrical passage, nwherein in said closed position, sad fastener assumes said curved shape, said gripping elements located on a concave side of sad fastener when said fastener is in said closed position, thereby grasping the tissue between said gripping elements. |