Methods of use of a clip applier

A method for closing an opening formed in a wall of a body lumen or body tissue, the method comprising:

• positioning a carrier tube adjacent to the opening, the carrier tube having a distal portion with an outer surface retaining a shape-memory clip in a retaining configuration having a substantially asymmetrically-elongated tubular shape with a substantially trapezoidal longitudinal cross-sectional profile and a proximal end having a plurality of tines being longitudinally directed with a first tine of the plurality being more distally oriented compared to a substantially opposite second tine being more proximal when the clip is disposed in a clip applier;
• pushing the clip over a distal end of the carrier tube so that the clip retracts to a deploying configuration having a substantially tubular shape;
• and
• ejecting the clip from the carrier tube so that at least a portion of the plurality of tines engage a portion of the wall of the body lumen or the body tissue whereby the opening is drawn substantially closed, wherein the clip relaxes from the deploying configuration to a relaxed configuration having a substantially annular body defining a lumen with a plurality of tines directed inwardly from the body.