An apparatus for treating a heart includes a housing member having a plurality of elongate channels defined therein and is movable between a first collapsed position and a second expanded position. A tissue attachment member is positioned in each channel. In one aspect, the apparatus is adapted for performing an
anastomosis and includes a housing member having a plurality of elongate channels defined therein and which is movable between a
fist collapsed position and a second expanded position. A surgical clip is positioned in each channel. A clip deployment mechanism projects the clips from their respective housings and a registration member approximates and aligns the first and second tubular structures. In a further aspect,
helical barbs are movably affixed within sleeves formed on a sheetg of
biocompatible material adapted for placement within a heart
ventricle. Methods for treating a heart and reducing the volume of a heart
ventricle are also provided. In a still further aspect,
helical barbs provide attachment for patches for closure of a
wound site or for suturing of
a site needing closure. In yet another aspect of the invention, the
helical barbs provide an attachment regine for implantable devices, as a well as a means to deliver medically efficacious materials to chosen sites with secure means. The helical device of the present invention further serves as a
stent.