A new anastomosis tool using a pair of medical magnets has been developed by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, US.

According to proof-of-concept study results published in the Journal of American College of Surgeons, the device was safe and easy for surgical use, even during complicated surgical reconstruction.

Anastomosis is a surgical connection between tubular anatomic structures such as blood vessels, urinary tract, or bowel, and is commonly performed using suturing or staples.

The new magnetic compression anastomosis technique features a Magnamosis device with two rare-earth magnets encompassed in a medical grade polycarbonate shell.

As the magnetic implants have different polarities, they are attracted to one another, and the difference in their shapes allows for a smooth fit.

The technique works by applying a force of magnetic attraction to create an anastomosis, eliminating the need for complicated sutures or expensive staples.

"None of the patients reported problems with anastomosis or magnet-related complications such as leaking, bleeding or stricture."

Three patients with bladder and bowel complications and two with end-stage renal disease participated in the study, during which surgeons were able to create an anastomosis within 25-35 minutes of using the Magnamosis device.

During follow-up check-ups, none of the patients reported problems with anastomosis or magnet-related complications such as leaking, bleeding or stricture.

University of California San Francisco surgery professor emeritus Michael Harrison said: “The development of the Magnamosis device is at a very early stage.

“It has an investigative device exemption from the US Food and Drug Administration, so it can be tested under clinical trial conditions.”

While Magnamosis was developed at the University, it is undergoing marketing development through medical device company Magnamosis.