A surgical tool or applier operable to deploy an anastomotic ring comprises a handle connected to an elongate shaft. The elongate shaft comprises an anastomotic ring deployment mechanism on a distal portion of the shaft. The ring deployment mechanism is moveable from an unactuated position to an actuated position. The elongate shaft comprises a rigid, curved member, thereby rendering the tool applicable for colorectal applications. In one embodiment, the tool comprises an actuating mechanism that is operable to transfer an actuating force to the ring deployment mechanism via a flexible connecting member.