Metal devices used to connect surgically severed tissue and close incisions. Staples are made of a variety of materials, including titanium, stainless steel, and silver. They are particularly advantageous in situations where ordinary suturing (stitches) is difficult or when time is of the essence and the surgeon must work quickly for safety reasons. Some staples are used to close incisions and are removed after healing is complete. Others are left in place permanently. An example would be the staples that are used in reducing stomach size during bariatric surgery.