Method for joining grafts in a common body passageway

摘要

A method for endoluminally treating a pathological defect is disclosed using grafts having a shape memory alloy disposed along their length. The method comprises the steps of introducing first and second grafts through respective first and second access sites on a first side of a pathological defect; advancing the grafts within delivery sheaths until each extends across the defect and is positioned within a common body passageway on a second side of the pathological defect; releasing the grafts from their respective delivery sheaths with the grafts opening in response to action of the shape memory alloy; and joining or attaching the grafts together within the common body passageway.