Abstract: A surgical tissue ligation clip and an applicator device for delivery of multiple ligation clips is provided. The surgical ligation clips have first and second leg members joined by a resilient hinge at one end and a deflectable hook member and a locking element on the opposite end. The surgical tissue ligation clip has a proximal tissue shield that prevents tissue from being pinched at the hinge, and/or a distal tissue shield that prevents tissue from being pinched between the hook member and locking element and interfering with securely closing the ligation clip for implantation. A minimally invasive applicator for the surgical ligation clip is provided for delivering individually arranged ligation clips in line, incising target tissue and delivering a plurality of surgical ligation clips at the tissue site.

Abstract: Apparatus for hypodermically implanting a genitourinary prosthesis comprising an extensible, inflatable tissue expanding containment membrane to be located in the proximal periurethral tissues to add bulk to these tissues and thereby overcome urinary incontinence by means of localized, controlled tissue volume increase. Hypodermic positioning, injecting and inflating instruments are also disclosed for implanting the containment membrane and for percutaneously infusing the membrane with biocompatible fluid or suspended particulate matter. The containment membrane functions as an envelope for retaining the fluid or particulate matter therewith in while controllably and advantageously increasing localized tissue volume and simultaneously preventing the migration of such fluid or particles. Accordingly, an increased passive occlusive pressure may be applied to the patient's urethra to achieve continence.