Devices and methods for interconnecting conduits and closing openings in tissue

摘要

The subject invention provides devices and methods for closing and sealing an opening in a conduit. The subject devices consist of an implantable flexible member adapted to conform to and seal with an inner surface of a conduit and further adapted to utilize the internal conduit pressure exerted thereon to form a substantially fluid-tight seal with the inner surface of the conduit whereby substances are prevented from leaking from the opening under normal physiological conditions. In the subject methods, a subject device is provided and positioned inside a conduit, operatively aligned over an opening to be sealed. The device is conformed to and sealed with an inner surface of the conduit and a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed between the device and the inner surface of the conduit utilizing the internal conduit pressure whereby substances within the conduit are prevented from leaking from the opening under normal physiological conditions.