A stapling instrument for end-to-end inverting anastomoses in the gastrointestinal tract

A stapling instrument is described for end-to-end inverting anastomoses applicable principally to low rectal anastomosis or esophagogastric or esophagojejunal anastomosis. The instrument creates an inverting anastomosis held by a double staggered row of stainless steel wire staples creating an anastomosis 21.2 mm internal diameter with no significant inverted flange. The early experience is encouraging.