A method for approximating tissue within a body including the step of
providing a device having a handle, at least one actuator, an elongated
hollow housing having a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal
end extending therefrom, a first and second cartridge. Each the cartridge
contains at least one fastener having at least two anchors connected
together by a non-resilient flexible suture which does not resist
deformation under compressible loads. The first cartridge being
releasably connected to the distal end of hollow housing. The method also
includes the step of inserting the first cartridge into a body and
deploying each anchor into tissue in a spaced apart position. The method
also involves moving the anchors adjacent one another by moving the
suture in a proximal direction, and removing the first cartridge from the
body and from the housing. The method then involves placing the second
cartridge onto the housing thereby replacing the first cartridge with the
second cartridge.