Shape Memory Fasteners And Method Of Use

A wound closure apparatus, comprising:

• an insertion instrument comprising:
• an elongated shaft;
• and
• an extension extending from a distal end of the elongated shaft, the extension including a distal end configured for operable engagement with a fastener, wherein the extension defines one or more vents through which suction may be provided to draw tissue thereabout;
• and
• a fastener having at least one pair of legs movable from a first open position to a second closed position, the surgical fastener being at least partially formed from a shape memory material, the legs moving from the first position to the second position upon activation of the shape memory material.

A method of inserting a surgical fastener to close an opening in tissue, the method including the steps of:

• providing an insertion instrument including a surgical fastener releasably secured to the distal end thereof, the surgical fastener having an open configuration and being closable;
• inserting the distal end of the insertion instrument into the opening;
• approximating at least one of the tissue or the distal end of the instrument towards to the other of the distal end of the instrument or the tissue;
• retracting the insertion instrument proximally through the incision such that legs of the surgical fastener engage tissue;
• closing the surgical fastener around the tissue;
• disengaging the insertion instrument from the surgical fastener;
• and
• withdrawing the insertion instrument from the incision.