NiTi’s products are based on patented Nitinol (nickel titanium), a shape memory metal alloy that can be stretched far beyond the limits of other materials such as steel, yet completely returns to the original shape and mechanical properties. In practice as a Compression Anastomosis device, the exclusive Nitinol springs stretch to bring the ring or the clip to an open state. After the ring or the clip is set during colorectal surgery, the process of returning to the original closed position begins. The tissue trapped within the ring or the clip is cut off from its blood supply and becomes necrotic. The two pieces of tissue along the outside of the ring or the clip are held in close proximity to allow a naturally prescribed healing process.

Compression Anastomosis Clip (CAC™) placed in a side-to-side anastomosis in a colorectal surgery in a porcine model
(click on image to enlarge)

The first phase of wound healing – the lag or inflammatory phase – includes the critical task of phagocytosis or “cleaning” the damaged tissue of bacteria and other foreign cell matter. The lag phase is shorter with the NiTi Compression Anastomosis technology than with stapling because the extent of tissue trauma is minimal. With NiTi Compression Anastomosis, healing takes place by fibrous adhesion, without suppuration and formation of granulation tissue. This process is called “healing by first intention.” It results in re-epithelialization and the full adaptation of the wall layers of anastomosed tissue or, in other words, the full recovery of the natural multi-layer tissue structure.

Compression Anastomosis Ring (CAR™) 6 days post-operation in a porcine intestine (click on image to enlarge)

The ring or the clip releases only after the tissue has moved through the phases of healing and gained its full strength.

 
Compression Anastomosis Ring vs. Staplers Anastomosis in a colorectal surgery (click on image to enlarge)