The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for the
stabilization and fastening of two pieces of tissue. A single device may
be used to both stabilize and fasten the two pieces of tissue, or a
separate stabilizing device may be used in conjunction with a fastening
device. The stabilizing device may comprise a probe with vacuum ports
and/or mechanical clamps disposed at the distal end to approximate the
two pieces of tissue. After the pieces of tissue are stabilized, they are
fastened together using sutures or clips. One exemplary embodiment of a
suture-based fastener comprises a toggle and suture arrangement deployed
by a needle, wherein the needle enters the front side of the tissue and
exits the blind side. In a second exemplary embodiment, the suture-based
fastener comprises a needle connected to a suture. The needle enters the
blind side of the tissue and exits the front side. The suture is then
tied in a knot to secure the pieces of tissue. One example of a
clip-based fastener comprises a spring-loaded clip having two arms with
tapered distal ends and barbs. The probe includes a deployment mechanism
which causes the clip to pierce and lockingly secure the two pieces of
tissue.