| abstract |
Sutureless anastomosis system deployment concepts are disclosed herein. Specifically, anastomosis strain relief devices are disclosed which are disposed, at least partially, over an anastomosis bypass graft just proximal to an attachment site between a host vessel wall and the fitting. The strain relief devices provide additional support to the graft while preventing kinking of the graft, especially when it emanates at acute angles from the anastomosis site. Furthermore, the strain relief provides additional support to the graft during manipulations involved in inserting and attaching ends of the graft. The devices can have a variety of configurations, e.g., helical, zig-zag, etc., depending upon the desired functionality. The strain relief may also be either incorporated into the graft or placed exterior to the graft and bonded. Moreover, integrated fittings or collars may be incorporated into the strain relief to expand its functions. |