Stent With Hollow Drug-Eluting Elements

A stent includes a plurality of cylindrical elements joined along a common longitudinal axis to form a tube. The cylindrical elements include struts joined by crowns. Hollow, drug-eluting elements are disposed between adjacent cylindrical elements and connect adjacent cylindrical elements to each other. A therapeutic substance fills the lumen of the drug-eluting elements, and openings in the walls of the drug-eluting elements allow elution of therapeutic substance from the lumen for treatment of a vessel.

Medical implant, in particular a stent, for implantation in an animal body and/or human body

A medical implant ( 10 a , 10 b ), in particular a stent ( 12 a , 12 b ), for implantation in an animal body and/or human body ( 14 a , 14 b ), comprising a base body ( 16 a , 16 b ) which includes at least two segments ( 18 a , 18 a′, 18 b , 18 b′; 20 a , 20 a′, 20 b , 20 b ′) having at least two deflection points ( 24 a , 24 b ; 26 a , 26 b ) that are diametrically opposed in the axial direction ( 22 a , 22 b ), and at least one adjusting means ( 28 a , 28 b ; 30 a , 30 b ) that acts on the deflection points ( 24 a , 24 b ; 26 a , 26 b ) to adjust an extension ( 32 a , 32 b ) of the base body ( 16 a , 16 b ) in the circumferential direction ( 34 a , 34 b ). It is provided that an axial distance ( 36 a , 36 b ) between the two deflection points ( 24 a , 24 b ; 26 a , 26 b ) can be shortened using the adjusting means ( 28 a , 28 b ; 30 a , 30 b ).

Modular vascular prosthesis and methods of use

The present invention relates a vascular prosthesis and related assembly methods that includes a plurality of modular segments inter-engaged by flexible, and preferably lockable, inter-engageable elements forming joints or other connector areas. The segments may have a number of different mechanical properties and may be assembled by the clinician, through mechanical or chemical joining, to customize the prosthesis for a specific patient or application.

Apparatus for attaching radiopaque markers to a stent

A mandrel for supporting a stent and rollers for pressing a radiopaque marker into a stent are disclosed. The mandrel can have a forward portion for carrying the stent and a rear portion for urging the stent forward portion into a gap between the rollers. The mandrel may be pushed or pulled into the gap, which is sized to allow the rollers to press the marker into engagement with the stent. Prior to moving the mandrel into the gap, the marker may be placed on a surface of the stent or partially inside a recess in the stent. Several markers can be efficiently and uniformly pressed onto the stent by moving the mandrel into the gap in one continuous movement in an axial or lateral direction. Markers can also be pressed onto the stent by placing the stent in the gap and rotating the stent about its central axis.

Method for attaching radiopaque markers to a stent

A mandrel for supporting a stent and rollers for pressing a radiopaque marker into a stent are disclosed. The mandrel can have a forward portion for carrying the stent and a rear portion for urging the stent forward portion into a gap between the rollers. The mandrel may be pushed or pulled into the gap, which is sized to allow the rollers to press the marker into engagement with the stent. Prior to moving the mandrel into the gap, the marker may be placed on a surface of the stent or partially inside a recess in the stent. Several markers can be efficiently and uniformly pressed onto the stent by moving the mandrel into the gap in one continuous movement in an axial or lateral direction. Markers can also be pressed onto the stent by placing the stent in the gap and rotating the stent about its central axis.

Bioabsorbable stent

A bioabsorbable stent has a relatively high radial force and can be placed directly at the lesion without the possibility or reducing the possibility of occluding the lesion again after placement. The bioabsorbable stent is formed from a mixture composed of a bioabsorbable aliphatic polyester and an aromatic compound having one or more aromatic rings.

Deformable Lumen Support Devices and Methods of Use

Lumen support devices and methods of their use are provided. A lumen support includes one or more plastically deformable cells having two stable configurations with no stable configurations between the two stable configurations. The lumen support device may be plastically deformed to other stable configurations.

Radially expandable polymer prosthesis and method of making same

Polymeric stents having fracture toughness and resistance to recoil after deployment are disclosed along with methods of manufacturing such stents. Improvements to mechanical characteristics and other improvements may be achieved by having polymer chains within individual stent struts oriented in a direction that is closer to or in line with the axis of the individual stent struts. The struts are connected to each other by hinge elements that are configured to bend during crimping and deployment of the stent. Ring struts form ring structures. A ring structure can have an overall curvilinear length from about 12 mm to about 15 mm.

Stents With Radiopaque Markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein.

Stent with actively varying ring density

A stent and method comprising inserting within a vessel an unexpanded stent that includes a first zone comprising a plurality of adjacent ring elements, not less than three in number, that are distributed along the stent with a first spacing, and a second zone comprising a plurality of adjacent ring elements that are distributed along the stent with a second spacing, and expanding the stent to cause the plurality of ring elements in the first zone to redistribute to a third spacing that is smaller than the first spacing and to cause ring elements in the second zone to distribute to a fourth spacing larger than the first spacing.

Methods of fabricating stents with enhanced fracture toughness

Stents and methods of manufacturing a stents with enhanced fracture toughness are disclosed.

INTRAVASCULAR STENT

An expandable stent for implantation in a body lumen, such as an artery, is disclosed. The stent consists of a plurality of radially expandable cylindrical rings generally aligned on a common longitudinal stent axis and interconnected by one or more interconnecting links placed so that the stent is flexible in the longitudinal direction. The link pattern is optimized to enhance longitudinal flexibility and high longitudinal strength compression of the stent. 1. A stent , comprising:a tubular body having a distal end ring and a proximal end ring and a plurality of body rings therebetween;the end rings and the body rings being positioned in an in-phase relationship;the end rings and the body rings being connected by links having a pattern of 3 links-2 links-3 links along the length of the stent; andthe distal end ring being connected to a first body ring by three links, the first body ring being connected to a second body ring by two links, the second body ring being connected to a third body ring by three links, each of the remaining body rings being connected by the alternating pattern of 3-2-3-2-3 links, and the proximal end ring being connected to an adjacent body ring by three links.2. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the links are substantially linear or non-linear claim 1 , more flexible.3. The stent of claim 2 , wherein the non-linear links have a both linear portion and a non-linear portion.4. The stent of claim 3 , wherein each of rings has a first crest and a second crest claim 3 , the first crest being shorter than the second crest.5. The stent of claim 4 , wherein the stent has a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration claim 4 , the non-linear portion of the link nests with the first crest when the stent is in the compressed configuration.6. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the 2-link configuration has linear links and the 3-link configuration has non-linear links.7. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the stent is formed from metal alloy taken from ...

INTRAVASCULAR STENT

A stent design reduces the likelihood of contact among structural members when the stent diameter is reduced before insertion into the body. In one approach, an undulating link has a J-shaped profile or has an angled portion on one side at the peak of the link, in order to reduce contact during crimping. The stent may also include structural features that improve such aspects as flexibility, the coatibility of a drug coating onto the stent, flare reduction, stent retention within the body and/or reduction of the minimum diameter of the stent during crimping. 158-. (canceled)59. A flexible intravascular stent for use in a body lumen , comprising:a plurality of cylindrical rings aligned along a common longitudinal axis;at least one link connecting adjacent cylindrical rings; anda proximal end ring having five symmetric crests of equal height.60. The stent of claim 60 , wherein the stent further comprises at least one undulating link attaching each cylindrical ring to an adjacent cylindrical ring claim 60 , the undulating links having a curved portion extending transverse to the stent longitudinal axis toward the second peak; andat least one undulating link having a first arm and a second arm, the first arm being substantially straight and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the second arm having a first substantially straight portion that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second, angled portion leading to the curve.61. The stent of claim 60 , wherein the stent is formed from a shape memory alloy.62. The stent of claim 60 , wherein the stent is formed from a superelastic or pseudoelastic metal alloy.63. The stent of claim 60 , wherein at least a portion of the stent has a variable thickness configuration.64. The stent of claim 60 , wherein at least some of the first peaks have a first radius and the second peaks have a second radius claim 60 , the second radius being greater than the first radius.65. The stent of claim 60 , ...

DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD OF DELIVERY

A delivery device can provide sequential delivery of a plurality of intraluminal devices held in a compressed state on the delivery device. Delivery platforms on the delivery device can hold an intraluminal device in a compressed position and be positioned between pusher bands that may also be radiopaque markers. A post deployment dilation device can be included. The post deployment dilation device can be a plurality of expansion filaments, a bellows, or a balloon. An intravascular device deployment method can include allowing a self-expanding intravascular device to expand, aligning the post deployment dilation device under the intravascular device, and causing the post deployment dilation device to expand radially to push outward on the intravascular device. 1. A delivery device comprising:an inner shaft configured to receive a self-expanding intraluminal device for deployment from the delivery device into a vessel;an outer sheath positioned about at least a portion of the inner shaft and movable with respect to at least a portion of the inner shaft, the outer sheath having a pre-deployment position in which the self-expanding intraluminal device is at least substantially covered and at least one delivery position in which the self-expanding intraluminal device is uncovered to release the self-expanding intraluminal device from the delivery device; and a balloon attached to the outer sheath of the delivery device, the balloon having a pre-actuated configuration having a pre-deployment diameter and an actuated configuration having a deployment diameter larger than the pre-deployment diameter;', 'at least one inflation fluid lumen in fluid communication with the balloon and extending along at least a portion of the outer sheath;, 'a post deployment dilation device comprisingwherein the post deployment dilation device is configured to apply a radial force to an inner surface of the self-expanding intraluminal device after deployment of the self-expanding intraluminal ...

Biodegradable endoprostheses and methods of their fabrication

A biodegradable stent prosthesis formed from a degradable material, having a plurality of luminal, abluminal, and side surface regions, wherein a surface portion extending between the abluminal and luminal surface region of at least some structural elements is convex.

STENT AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A stent for vascular interventions having a hybrid open cell geometry. Variants of the stent include bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents. Embodiments of the stent include end projections for radiopaque markers or a discontinuous partial radiopaque coating on low-stress or low-strain regions of the peripheral stent. The stents of the invention are characterized by having thin walls, nested rows of struts, high expansion ratio, high and uniform radial force over entire diametric size and length of device, crush resistance up to and including about 90% of its fully expanded diameter, high fatigue resistance and high corrosion resistance. 1. A method of making a stent , comprising the steps of:a. Providing a stent hypotube;b. Patterning the stent hypotube with a stent pattern;c. Forming a plurality of volume-enhancing features in or on an outer abluminal surface of the stent pattern;d. Releasing the stent pattern from the stent hypotube; ande. Coating the outer abluminal surface of the stent pattern with a drug-release coating and at least substantially filling the plurality of volume-enhancing features.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of providing a stent hypotube further comprises the step of making the stent hypotube from a binary claim 1 , ternary or quaternary shape memory or superelastic material.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of making a stent hypotube further comprises the step of alloying a radiopaque material with shape memory or superelastic material.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of coating at least a portion of the released stent pattern with a radiopaque material prior to conducting step e.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of coating low-stress regions of the released stent with a radiopaque material.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of patterning the stent hypotube further comprises the steps of:a. Forming a plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members ...

RADIOPAQUE MARKER ASSEMBLY

A radiopaque marker having a frame and a radiopaque cuff joined to the frame. The frame includes first and second end frame members and lateral frame members. The radiopaque cuff is joined to the frame such that the radiopaque cuff is substantially co-planar with the first and second end frame members. The radiopaque marker may be joined to a stent, such as for vascular interventions. Variants of the stent include bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents. Embodiments of the stent include end projections for radiopaque markers or a discontinuous partial radiopaque coating on low-stress or low-strain regions of the peripheral stent. The stents are characterized by having thin walls, nested rows of struts, high expansion ratio, high and uniform radial force over entire diametric size and length of device, crush resistance up to and including about 90% of its fully expanded diameter, high fatigue resistance and high corrosion resistance. 1. A radiopaque marker comprising , a frame member having a recessed portion and a radiopaque cuff coupled to the frame member and the recessed portion.2. The radiopaque marker of claim 1 , wherein the radiopaque cuff has a surface that is substantially co-planar with the frame member.3. The radiopaque marker of claim 1 , wherein the frame member further comprises a substantially quadrilateral frame having a central open region.4. The radiopaque marker of claim 3 , wherein the recessed portion further comprises at least one surface of the substantially quadrilateral frame.5. The radiopaque marker of claim 3 , wherein the radiopaque cuff has a portion thereof recessed within the central open region.6. The radiopaque marker of wherein the substantially quadrilateral frame further comprises a first end frame member and a second end frame member claim 3 , each of the first end frame member and the second end frame member having a longitudinal axis substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the substantially quadrilateral frame.7. ...

DEFORMATION OF A POLYMER TUBE IN THE FABRICATION OF A MEDICAL ARTICLE

Methods of manufacturing a medical article that include radial deformation of a polymer tube are disclosed. A medical article, such as an implantable medical device or an inflatable member, may be fabricated from a deformed tube. 152-. (canceled)53. A method for fabricating a stent from a tube made from a polymer , comprising:inducing crystallization in the tube comprising treating at least a portion of the tube with a solvent;radially and axially deforming the tube including radially deforming the tube between 100% and 400% while the tube has a temperature equal to or above the glass transition temperature of the polymer of the tube; andfabricating the stent from the deformed and treated tube including forming struts, wherein a strut has a straight portion and a curved portion.54. The method of claim 53 , wherein inducing crystallization occurs before the deforming step and lowers the glass transition temperature of the polymer claim 53 ,wherein the temperature during the radial and axial deformation is above the lowered glass transition temperature.55. The method of claim 53 , wherein inducing crystallization modifies the radial strength of the deformed tube.56. The method of claim 53 , wherein the tube is at least partially immersed in the solvent or spraying the tube with the solvent.57. The method of claim 53 , wherein the solvent decreases a crystallization temperature of the polymer.58. The method of claim 53 , wherein at least the portion of the tube is treated with the solvent prior to claim 53 , contemporaneously with claim 53 , and/or subsequent to deforming the tube.59. The method of claim 53 , wherein the tube is cooled after the radial and axial deformation.60. The method of claim 53 , wherein the polymer comprises poly(L-lactide).61. The method of claim 53 , wherein the fabricating the stent includes forming struts including straight and curved portions.62. The method of claim 53 , wherein the tube is heated prior to deforming the tube.63. A method ...

BIOERODABLE METALLIC STENT WITH BIODEGRADABLE POLYMER COATING

A device and a method of manufacturing an implantable medical device, such as a stent, are described herein. The device includes a metallic region composed of a bioerodable metal and a polymer region composed of a biodegradable polymer contacting the metallic region. The metallic region may erode at a different rate when exposed to bodily fluids than the polymer region when exposed to bodily fluids. In certain embodiments, the polymer region is an outer layer and the metallic region is an inner layer of the device. 1. A stent comprising:struts made of a metal comprising magnesium; anda coating on the struts, wherein the coating comprises a biodegradable polymer and a drug, wherein the biodegradable polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(L-lactic acid) and poly(D,L-lactic acid), and wherein the struts have surfaces and the coating completely covers the surfaces of the struts.2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. A stent comprising a scaffolding including a pattern of interconnecting struts , wherein a cross section of a strut of the struts includes a core and a coating around the core , wherein the core is made of a bioerodible metal and the coating comprises a biodegradable polymer and a drug , wherein the biodegradable polymer is selected from the group consisting of poly(L-lactic acid) , poly(D ,L-lactic acid) , and poly(lactide-co-glycolide).7. The stent of claim 6 , wherein the bioerodible metal is an alloy and comprises magnesium.8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. The stent of claim 6 , wherein upon implantation of the stent in a vessel claim 6 , the core is configured to erode when erosion of the coating exposes a portion of the core to bodily fluids.12. The stent of claim 6 , wherein upon implantation of the stent in a vessel claim 6 , the coating inhibits or prevents direct contact or exposure of the core to a vascular environment.1318-. (canceled)19. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the metal is an alloy. This is a ...

STENT WITH SEGMENTS CAPABLE OF UNCOUPLING DURING EXPANSION

Examples of a stent are provided with interlocking joints removably coupling adjacent axial stent segments. Mating elements forming the interlocking joints maintain engagement when the stent is in the radially compressed configuration, for example, during tracking of the stent to a treatment site of a body vessel, and become disengaged during radial expansion of the stent. When disengaged, the disconnected the axial stent segments remain discrete stent structures separated from one another along the point of treatment. 1. A stent disposed about a longitudinal axis , the stent having a radially compressed configuration and a radially expanded configuration , the stent comprising:a first stent segment disposed about the longitudinal axis and a plurality of stent struts forming a plurality of first outer apices that extend in a first longitudinal direction;a second stent segment disposed about the longitudinal axis and axially to adjacent to the first stent segment, the second stent segment having a plurality of stent struts forming a plurality of second outer apices that extend in a second longitudinal direction, opposite the first longitudinal direction; anda plurality of interlocking joints removably coupling the first stent segment and the second stent segment together, each of the interlocking joints comprising is a first mating element, a second mating element, and a third mating element, wherein the first mating element extends away from one of the first outer apices, the second mating element and the third mating element extend away from adjacent outer apices of the second outer apices, and an axial restrictor member extending away from the second stent segment, wherein, in the radially compressed configuration, the second and third mating elements are circumferentially engageable with the first mating element, and the axial restrictor member is axially engageable with the first mating element.2. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the axial restrictor member ...

LASER CUTTING PROCESS FOR FORMING STENTS

Systems and methods for improving the cutting efficiency and cut profile of stent strut is provided. A means for altering the energy distribution of a laser beam is provided, along with various ways of controlling a laser to provide for improved strut configurations are provided. A method for improved cutting speeds using a combination of laser sources is also provided. 1. (canceled)2. A method for shaping a laser beam for cutting a stent pattern into a stent , comprising:providing a laser beam having a first intensity distribution; andre-mapping the first intensity distribution of the laser beam to a second intensity distribution.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the first intensity distribution is a Gaussian intensity distribution.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the second intensity distribution is a top hat intensity distribution.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein the second intensity distribution is a non-Gaussian intensity distribution.6. A method for cutting a stent pattern into a tube claim 2 , comprising:remapping the intensity distribution of a laser beam to a non-Gaussian intensity distribution; andapplying the non-Gaussian intensity beam to a tube to remove at least a portion of a wall thickness of the tube.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein applying the beam to the tube includes exposing the tube to multiple passes of the laser beam.8. The method of claim 6 , wherein remapping includes providing a non-Gaussian intensity distribution to the laser beam claim 6 , the non-Gaussian intensity distribution having at least one characteristic resulting in removing material from the wall of the tube in a selected configuration.9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the selected configuration includes forming indentations on a surface of the tube.1020-. (canceled) This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/149,630, filed Feb. 3, 2009 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/149,664, filed Feb. 3, 2009 and U.S. Provisional Application ...

Crush Recoverable Polymer Scaffolds

A method of manufacturing a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the marker support structures. 1. A method making a medical device , comprising:(a) providing a polymeric tube; (i) a set of rings including a proximal end ring, a distal end ring opposing the proximal end ring, and middle rings positioned between the end rings, wherein each ring is associated with its direct neighboring ring by links, and wherein at least one pair of neighboring middle rings can be delineated, via corresponding links there between, into closed cells comprising a W-V shaped zone;', '(ii) the rings include struts and crowns, the struts fold towards and unfold away from each other at the crowns;', '(iii) at least one of the links being a marker link, the marker link having a first structure off a first side wall of the marker link for holding a first marker and a second structure off a second, opposite side wall of the marker link for holding a second marker, wherein the first and second structures are not longitudinally off-set from one another off of the marker link; and', '(iv) wherein the polymeric tube is cut by the laser such that the set of rings and links are shaped to have a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of rings, between which the marker link resides, do not make contact with the first and second structures; and, '(b) cutting a pattern into the tube by a laser, wherein the pattern includes(c) placing the first and second markers in the structures and forming a stent;(d) crimping the stent to a crimped diameter on a section of a catheter delivery assembly, such that the pair of rings, between which the marker link ...

STENT AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A stent for vascular interventions having a hybrid open cell geometry. Variants of the stent include bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents. Embodiments of the stent include end projections for radiopaque markers or a discontinuous partial radiopaque coating on low-stress or low-strain regions of the peripheral stent. The stents of the invention are characterized by having thin walls, nested rows of struts, high expansion ratio, high and uniform radial force over entire diametric size and length of device, crush resistance up to and including about 90% of its fully expanded diameter, high fatigue resistance and high corrosion resistance. 1. A stent having an outer abluminal surface and an inner luminal surface , comprisinga. A plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members having peaks and valleys;b. A plurality of bridge members interconnecting adjacent pairs of sinusoidal circumferential ring members;c. A plurality of projection members extending from at least one of a proximal and a distal generally sinusoidal circumferential ring member at proximal and/or distal ends of the stent;d. A plurality of volume-enhancing features formed in or on the outer abluminal surface of the stent; ande. A drug eluting layer covering the entire outer abluminal surface of the stent and at least substantially filling the plurality of volume-enhancing features.2. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of sinusoidal circumferential ring members is configured to nest with adjacent sinusoidal circumferential ring members when the stent is in a diametrically unexpanded state.3. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of sinusoidal circumferential ring members further has a substantially zig-zag configuration.4. The stent of claim 3 , further comprising an offset section intermediate circumferentially adjacent peaks and valleys of each circumferential ring member.5. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring ...

Biodegradable endoprostheses and methods of their fabrication

A biodegradable stent prosthesis formed from a degradable material, having a plurality of luminal, abluminal, and side surface regions, wherein a surface portion extending between the abluminal and luminal surface region of at least some structural elements is convex.

Deformable lumen support devices and methods of use

Lumen support devices and methods of their use are provided. A lumen support includes one or more plastically deformable cells having two stable configurations with no stable configurations between the two stable configurations. The lumen support device may be plastically deformed to other stable configurations.

BALLOON EXPANDED POLYMER STENT

A medical device includes a polymer stent (or scaffold) crimped to a catheter balloon. The stent, after being expanded from a crimped state by the balloon, provides a crush recovery of about 90% of its expanded diameter after being pinched or crushed by an amount equal to about 50% of the expanded diameter. The stent has a pattern including a W-shaped or W-V shaped closed cell and links connecting the closed cells. 122-. (canceled)23. A medical device , comprising:a stent made from a polymer composition comprising poly (L-lactide),the stent has a pre-crimp diameter and a wall thickness such that a ratio of the pre-crimp diameter to the wall thickness is between 30 and 60,the stent is configured for being crimped to a balloon by plastic deformation of the stent, andthe stent has a pattern of interconnected elements, the interconnected elements including a plurality of undulating rings connected by links, wherein each ring includes struts that extend between crowns and the struts are configured to fold at the crowns when the stent is crimped to the balloon.24. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein the pre-crimp diameter is between 6 mm and 12 mm.25. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein the wall thickness is between 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm.26. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein the pre-crimp diameter is between 7 mm and 10 mm and the wall thickness is 0.2 mm.27. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein the pre-crimp diameter is between 9 mm and 10 mm and the wall thickness is 0.3 mm.28. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein a strut and a link each have a width and a thickness claim 23 , and wherein an aspect ratio (AR) of the width to wall thickness of the strut or the link is between 0.8 and 1.4.29. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein a link has a width and a thickness claim 23 , and wherein an aspect ratio (AR) of the width to wall thickness is between 0.4 and 0.9.30. The medical device of claim 23 , wherein each of the rings forms U crowns claim 23 , ...

INTRAVASCULAR STENT HAVING HIGH FATIGUE PERFORMANCE

This invention is directed to an expandable stent for implantation in a body lumen, such as an artery, and a method for making it from a single length of tubing. The stent consists of a plurality of radially expandable cylindrical elements generally aligned on a common axis and interconnected by one or more links. A Y-shaped member is comprised of a U-shaped member and a link having a curved portion and a straight portion to improve the flexibility and thereby improve the fatigue performance of the Y-link junction. 19.-. (canceled)10. A longitudinally flexible stent for implanting in a body lumen , comprising:a plurality of cylindrical rings including a first cylindrical ring, a second cylindrical ring, a third cylindrical ring, up to an eighteenth cylindrical ring, the cylindrical rings being generally independently expandable in the radial direction and generally aligned on a common longitudinal axis;each of the cylindrical rings having an undulating pattern of peaks and valleys, the undulating pattern of each of the cylindrical rings being in phase with the undulating pattern of each of the adjacent cylindrical rings;each of the cylindrical rings being interconnected by links to one of the adjacent cylindrical rings so that the cylindrical rings form a longitudinally flexible stent; andeach of the links having a straight section and a first curved section and a second curved section, the first curved section having a first curved length and the second curved section having a second curved length and wherein the first curved length is greater than the second curved length.11. The stent of claim 10 , wherein the straight section of each link has a length claim 10 , and the first curved length of the first curved section being greater than the length of the straight section.12. The stent of claim 10 , wherein the straight section of each link has a length claim 10 , and the second curved length of the second curved section being greater than the length of the ...

Stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers disposed within depots in the stent, are described herein.

BIDIRECTIONAL STENT AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

A bidirectional twistable stent is disclosed. The stent comprises a cylinder-shaped stent body having a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen and a plurality of flex connectors that connect at least two adjacent rows of struts in such a manner that allows the stent to be twisted clockwise or counter clockwise without causing deformation of any struts in the stent body. Also disclosed are the method of making the stent, method of using the stent, and a kit containing the stent. 140-. (canceled)41. A bidirectional stent , comprising:a cylinder-shaped stent body comprising a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen, wherein each of said rows of struts comprises struts inter-connected to form a wave-pattern with alternating peaks and troughs, wherein each peak has a tip and each trough has a bottom, and wherein said rows of struts form one or more row sections and wherein each row section comprises at least one row of struts; andflex connectors that connect adjacent row sections, wherein each of said flex connectors comprises a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is attached to a bottom of a first trough in an edge row of struts of a first row section, said first trough has a first trough amplitude, wherein said second end is attached to a bottom of a second trough in an edge row of struts of a second row section, said second trough has a second trough amplitude, and wherein said first row section is adjacent to said second row section, a first arm comprising said first end, wherein said first arm has a length that is the same as, or longer than said first trough amplitude;', 'a second arm comprising said second end, wherein said second arm has a length that is the same as, or longer than said second trough amplitude; and', 'a middle section connecting said first arm to said second arm,, 'wherein each of said flex connectors comprisewherein said stent body is capable of being twisted ...

Stents with increased flexibility

Stents that are adapted to be balloon-expanded and include a plurality of rings of repeating cells, wherein adjacent rings are connected by s-shaped or omega-shaped crosslink connectors or a combination of both connectors. The configurations, materials, and/or dimensions of these devices, including the unit cells and/or crosslink connectors allow the stents to be expanded to a greater extent (e.g., up to or greater than 12 mm of diameter), and optionally with reduced foreshortening and without increasing the strain on the materials forming the crosslink connectors and unit cells. The biphasic arrangement of trapezoidal unit cells, as well as the configuration and arrangement of the s-shaped connectors, may allow these stents to expand while maintaining their radial compression strength and longitudinal compression strength with minimal recoil and stent foreshortening.

ANTENNA FOR USE WITH AN INTRAVASCULAR DEVICE

Apparatus and methods are described including a stent () configured to be placed inside an aorta of a subject, the stent comprising one or more electrodes (), control circuitry (), and a first antenna () coupled thereto. A second antenna () is placed on the subject, such that the second antenna extends at least from above a left clavicle of the subject to below a jugular notch of the subject and from below the subject's jugular notch to above a right clavicle of the subject, the second antenna being con figured to transmit an electrical signal to the first antenna via inductive coupling. Other applications are also described. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the second antenna is configured to transmit power to the first antenna claim 1 , and wherein the control circuitry is configured to drive a current into the subject's aorta claim 1 , via the electrodes claim 1 , using the received power.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the stent is configured to be placed in a descending aorta of the subject.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the stent is configured to be placed in an aortic arch of the subject.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the stent is configured to be placed in the aorta such that the electrodes are placed in contact with a site disposed between a bifurcation of the aorta with a left subclavian artery and a bifurcation of the aorta with a fifth intercostal artery.6. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the stent and the second antenna are configured such that when the stent is placed in the aorta claim 1 , and the second antenna is placed on the subject such that the second antenna extends at least from above the subject's left clavicle to below the subject's jugular notch and from below the subject's jugular notch to above the subject's right clavicle claim 1 , a coupling coefficient between the first and second antennas is greater than 0.004 ...

METHODS OF FABRICATING STENTS WITH ENHANCED FRACTURE TOUGHNESS

Stents and methods of manufacturing a stents with enhanced fracture toughness are disclosed. 1. (canceled)2. A method of treating a blood vessel with a biodegradable stent comprisingdeploying a biodegradable stent in a blood vessel from a crimped diameter to an intended deployment diameter, the biodegradable stent including a cylindrically-shaped scaffold extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the scaffold comprising a poly(L-lactide)-based biodegradable polymer,wherein the scaffold includes a pattern comprising a first cylindrical ring of struts adjacent to a second cylindrical ring of struts,wherein the first cylindrical ring of struts includes first bending elements with curved portions having apices and the second cylindrical ring of struts includes second bending elements with curved portions having apices,wherein apices pointing to a proximal end of the scaffold of the first bending elements are longitudinally aligned with the apices pointing to the distal end of the scaffold of the second bending elements,wherein longitudinal linking struts connect the first cylindrical ring with the second cylindrical ring, the scaffold formed by cutting the pattern in a tube,wherein the curved portions bend outward when the scaffold is deployed to allow for radial expansion of the scaffold,wherein no cracks form in the curved portions of the first and second bending elements when the stent is deployed to the intended deployment diameter.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the tube has been processed to increase crystallinity prior to cutting claim 2 , the biodegradable polymer after the processing has a crystallinity of less than 50%.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the biodegradable polymer after the processing has a crystallinity less than 40%.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein curved portions of the bending elements have no cracks at the crimped diameter claim 2 ,6. The method of claim 2 , wherein the bending elements have an angle greater than 90 ...

Methods for uniform crimping and deployment of a polymer scaffold

A medical device-includes a scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes one or more balloon pressurization steps. The balloon pressurization steps are selected to enhance scaffold retention to the balloon while retaining, at least partially, the original balloon folds as the balloon is pressurized and de-pressurized within a crimper head. By at least partially retaining the original balloon folds, a uniformity of scaffold expansion by the balloon is improved.

BIODEGRADABLE ENDOPROSTHESES AND METHODS FOR THEIR FABRICATION

The disclosure provides biodegradable implantable devices such as a stent comprising a biodegradable polymeric wherein the polymeric material is treated to control crystallinity and/or Tg. The stent is capable to expand at body temperature in a body lumen from a crimped configuration to a deployed diameter and have sufficient strength to support a body lumen. 1a tubular biodegradable polymeric material, said expandable stent at body temperature being expandable from a crimped configuration to a deployed configuration in a body lumen and have sufficient strength to support the body lumen after an inward recoil from said deployed configuration, wherein the stent further expands to a second larger configuration after deployment.. An expandable biodegradable stent, comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/420,615, filed Jan. 31, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/804,415, filed Jul. 21, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/461,159, filed Aug. 15, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/897,302, filed May 17, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/536,957, filed Jun. 28, 2012, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/473,354, filed May 16, 2012, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,323,760, which is in turn a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/016,085, filed Jan. 17, 2008 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,182,890 on May 22, 2012, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/885,700 filed on Jan. 19, 2007; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/536,957 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/434,555, filed Mar. 29, 2012, which is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/016,085, filed Jan. 17, 2008 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,182,890 on May 22, 2012, which in turn claims the ...

Vascular Stent

A medical stent includes a stent body defining a longitudinal axis and opposed longitudinal ends, and being adapted to expand from an initial condition to an expanded condition. The stent body includes a plurality of longitudinal cells. The longitudinal cells include opposed end cells and at least one intermediate cell disposed between the end cells. Each longitudinal cell has first and second structural members extending in an undulating pattern about the longitudinal axis. Intermediate connectors interconnect the first and second structural members of the at least one intermediate cell and end connectors interconnecting the first and second structural members of at least one end cell. The number of end connectors is greater than the number of intermediate connectors, and may double the number of end connectors.

Highly flexible stent and method of manufacture

Preferred embodiments of a stent with a high degree of flexibility are shown and described. The stent can include a continuous helical winding having interconnected struts joined at vertices, and having bridges connecting sections of the helical winding to each other. An annular ring can be provided at one or both ends of the helical winding, and the annular ring can have extensions extending to connect to the helical winding. One of the extensions can connect to a bridge and another extension can connect to a vertex. The struts at the ends of the helical winding can have strut lengths that differ from the strut lengths of the struts in a central portion of the winding between the ends of the winding.

Methods of intracerebral implant delivery

The method of delivering an implant in an intracranial vessel includes deploying an anchor of a tethering device in an anchoring vessel forming a first fixation point and advancing a guide-sheath to a location near the anchoring vessel. The tethering device has a tether extending proximally from the anchor and the guide-sheath has at least one lumen. The method includes attaching the guide-sheath to the tether of the tethering device forming a second fixation point proximal to the first fixation point, delivering an implant through the lumen of the guide-sheath towards a treatment site distal to the first fixation point and located within an intracranial vessel, and deploying the implant at the treatment site. Related devices, systems, and methods are also provided.

METHODS FOR CRIMPING A POLYMERIC STENT SCAFFOLD ONTO A DELIVERY BALLOON

A medical device includes a polymer stent scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. A process for forming the medical device includes placing the scaffold on a support supported by an alignment carriage, and deionizing the scaffold to remove any static charge buildup on the scaffold before placing the scaffold within a crimper to reduce the scaffold's diameter. The polymer scaffold is heated to a temperature below the polymer's glass transition temperature to improve scaffold retention without adversely affecting the mechanical characteristics of the scaffold when deployed to support a body lumen. 120-. (canceled)21. A method , comprising the steps of:positioning a scaffold comprising a polymer on a support, the polymer being characterized by a glass transition temperature (Tg) having a lower limit (Tg-low);deionizing the scaffold; andusing a crimping device, crimping the deionized scaffold to a balloon while the scaffold has a temperature between Tg-low and 15 degrees below Tg-low.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the scaffold is cut from a tube comprising the polymer.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein the scaffold is crimped to a balloon such that a deployed diameter of the scaffold is at least 2.5 times greater than a final crimp diameter.24. The method of claim 21 , wherein the scaffold has a final crimp diameter that is at least 2.5 times smaller than the scaffold's diameter before crimping.25. The method of claim 21 , wherein the scaffold further includes rings formed by ring struts claim 21 , wherein prior to crimping a pair of ring struts adjoined at a crown are each orientated at an angle of between 20 and 30 degrees with respect to an axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the scaffold claim 21 , and an angle of between 120 and 130 degrees spans between the adjoined ring struts.26. The method of claim 21 , wherein the scaffold is deionized before and/or during the crimping.27. The method of claim 21 , wherein the scaffold is ...

INTRAVASCULAR IMPLANTS

A radially expandable, tubular stent, includes a first section having a first crush resistance force and a second section have a second crush resistance force, wherein the first crush resistance force is less than the second crush resistance force. The first section is connected to the second section to form a tube, connection of the first and second sections extending in an axial direction of the tube. 127-. (canceled)28. A self-expanding stent , comprising:a plurality of rings spaced adjacently along the longitudinal axis of the stent, each of the rings including a plurality of struts interconnected to form alternating apexes and troughs; anda plurality of flexible bridge members extending between adjacent pairs of the plurality of rings and connecting to at least one of the apexes to connect the adjacent pairs, wherein the flexible bridge members are formed in a plurality of different geometries and the geometry of the flexible bridge members varies from one pair of connected rings to the next adjacent pair of connected rings along the longitudinal axis.29. The stent of claim 28 , wherein for each of the adjacent pairs of the plurality of rings claim 28 , the flexible bridge members connect between at least one apex of one of the rings to at least one apex of the other one of the rings.30. The stent of claim 29 , wherein from one pair of rings to the next adjacent pair of rings claim 29 , the flexible bridge members connect respective apexes at varying intervals along the circumferential axis.31. The stent of claim 28 , wherein for each pair of connected rings claim 28 , the geometry of the flexible bridge members is the same along the circumferential axis.32. The stent of claim 28 , wherein the plurality of different geometries of flexible bridge members comprise generally s-shaped bridge members with multiple rounded bends claim 28 , zig-zag-shaped bridge members with multiple acutely-angled bends claim 28 , and nesting elongated zig-zag-shaped bridge members. ...

Intravascular implants

A radially expandable, tubular stent, includes a first section having a first crush resistance force and a second section have a second crush resistance force, wherein the first crush resistance force is less than the second crush resistance force. The first section is connected to the second section to form a tube, connection of the first and second sections extending in an axial direction of the tube.

DRUG DELIVERY ENDOVASCULAR STENT AND METHOD OF USE

An improvement in drug-eluting stents, and method of their making, are disclosed. The surface of a metal stent is roughened to have a surface roughness of at least about 20 μin (0.5 μm) and a surface roughness range of between about 300-700 μin (7.5-17.5 μm). The roughened stent surface is covered with a polymer-free coating of a limus drug, to a coating thickness greater than the range of surface roughness of the roughened stent surface. 1. A method for making an expandable , metal stent having metal filaments coated with a polymer-free limus drug where the rate of occurrence and/or extent of restenosis or thrombosis resulting from vascular injury in a subject , is reduced relative to that observed by placing at a site of injury , a bare-metal expandable stent formed of interconnected metal filaments or by having a coating on the outer surface of the stent filaments of a polymer carrier containing a limus drug , the method comprising:roughening regions of the outer surface of the stent filaments to a surface roughness (Ra) of between 20-40 μin (0.5-1 μm), and a surface roughness range (Rt) of between 300-700 μin (7.5-17.5 μm), andcoating the roughened regions of the stent filaments with a polymer-free limus drug, to a coating thickness greater than the range of surface roughness of the roughened stent surface.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said roughening is carried out by abrading the outer surface regions of the stent filaments with a pressurized stream of abrasive particles.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said roughening is carried out by forming a hydrocarbon-film mask over regions of the surface of the stent filaments claim 1 , selectively removing stent material not covered by the mask claim 1 , and removing the mask.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said roughening is carried out by laser etching the outer surface regions of the stent filaments.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said roughening is carried out ...

BIDIRECTIONAL STENT AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

A bidirectional twistable stent is disclosed. The stent comprises a cylinder-shaped stent body having a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen and a plurality of flex connectors that connect at least two adjacent rows of struts in such a manner that allows the stent to be twisted clockwise or counter clockwise without causing deformation of any struts in the stent body. Also disclosed are the method of making the stent, method of using the stent, and a kit containing the stent. 140-. (canceled)41. A method of using a bidirectional stent , comprising:placing the bidirectional stent at a treatment site in a compressed state; andenlarging the stent to an expanded state at the treatment site to immobilize the stent, wherein the stent comprises: a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen, wherein each of the rows of struts comprises struts inter-connected to form a wave-pattern with alternating peaks and troughs, wherein each peak has a tip and each trough has a bottom, and wherein the rows of struts form one or more row sections and wherein each row section comprises at least one row of struts; and', 'flex connectors that connect adjacent row sections, wherein each of the flex connectors comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to a bottom of a first trough in an edge row of struts of a first row section, the first trough has a first trough amplitude, wherein the second end is attached to a bottom of a second trough in an edge row of struts of a second row section, the second trough has a second trough amplitude, and wherein the first row section is adjacent to the second row section,', a first arm comprising the first end, wherein the first arm has a length that is the same as, or longer than the first trough amplitude;', 'a second arm comprising the second end, wherein the second arm has a length that is the same as, or longer than the second trough amplitude; and', 'a ...

Stent with dual support structure

A intraluminal stent comprises a reticulated tube having an un-deployed diameter and expandable to an enlarged diameter. The tube includes a structural beam extending between first and second ends. The structural beam changes from a first geometry to a second geometry when the tube changes from the un-deployed diameter to the enlarged diameter. The structural beam includes first and second longitudinal elements each extending at least partially between the first and second ends and with a spacing between the first and second elements. Each of said first and second elements changes from the first geometry to the second geometry when the tube changes from the un-deployed diameter to the enlarged diameter for the spacing to remain substantially unchanged as the tube changes from the un-deployed diameter to the enlarged diameter.

CONSTRAINING STRUCTURE WITH NON-LINEAR AXIAL STRUTS

A constraining structure for use with a balloon catheter can include multiple longitudinal struts and multiple, sinusoidal shaped radial rings. The constraining structure can expand to form a pattern of channels including substantially square windows. The constraining structure can modify, restrict, and control a shape and/or size of the balloon when inflated. Inflating the balloon catheter within the constraining structure can provide nonuniform pressure on a vessel wall adjacent the balloon. 116.-. (canceled)17. A balloon catheter comprising:a catheter shaft;an inflatable balloon positioned at a distal portion of the catheter shaft; anda constraining structure mounted over the balloon and fixedly attached to the catheter shaft, the constraining structure comprising a plurality of struts, wherein each of the plurality of struts does not extend an entire length of the balloon,wherein the balloon catheter is configured to transition between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration.18. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the balloon catheter is biased to the collapsed configuration.19. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein in the collapsed configuration claim 17 , the constraining structure is closed on the inflatable balloon.20. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein in the collapsed configuration claim 17 , the inflatable balloon is folded.21. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the constraining structure comprises nitinol.22. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the constraining structure comprises an elastic polymer.23. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the constraining structure comprises fibers.24. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the constraining structure comprises mesh.25. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the constraining structure is fixedly attached to the catheter shaft using an adhesive.26. The balloon catheter of claim 17 , wherein the constraining structure is fixedly attached to ...

Hybrid stent

A stent includes a high radial/crush force segment and a highly flexible segment. In an aspect, a plurality of first ring struts connected such that each of the plurality of first rings comprises a sinusoidal pattern having a plurality of apices and troughs, each first ring connected to an adjacent first ring by at least one connector. The connector extends from a ring strut of the first ring from a position near an apex of the first ring to a ring strut of the adjacent first rings near an apex of the adjacent ring, and a second stent segment comprises a plurality of second rings connected to one another to form a series of second rings

BIODEGRADABLE ENDOPROSTHESES AND METHODS FOR THEIR FABRICATION

The disclosure provides biodegradable implantable devices such as a stent comprising a biodegradable polymeric wherein the polymeric material is treated to control crystallinity and/or Tg. The stent is capable to expand at body temperature in a body lumen from a crimped configuration to a deployed diameter and have sufficient strength to support a body lumen. 130.-. (canceled)31. An expandable biodegradable stent comprising biodegradable polymeric material which has been formed as a tubular body , said expandable stent being expandable from a crimped configuration to a larger deployed configuration. This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/804,415, filed Jul. 21, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/461,159, filed Aug. 15, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/897,302, filed May 17, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/536,957, filed Jun. 28, 2012, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/473,354, filed May 16, 2012, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,323,760, which is in turn a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/016,085, filed Jan. 17, 2008 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,182,890 on May 22, 2012, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/885,700 filed on Jan. 19, 2007; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/536,957 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/434,555, filed Mar. 29, 2012, which is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/016,085, filed Jan. 17, 2008 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,182,890 on May 22, 2012, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/885,700 filed on Jan. 19, 2007; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/536,957 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/016,077, filed Jan. 17, 2008, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional ...

BIDIRECTIONAL STENT AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

A bidirectional twistable stent is disclosed. The stent comprises a cylinder-shaped stent body having a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen and a plurality of flex connectors that connect at least two adjacent rows of struts in such a manner that allows the stent to be twisted clockwise or counter clockwise without causing deformation of any struts in the stent body. Also disclosed are the method of making the stent, method of using the stent, and a kit containing the stent. 129-. (canceled)30. A method for making a bidirectional stent , comprising:slitting a cylinder-shaped tube with a laser to create a matrix of struts and connectors that forma cylinder-shaped stent body comprising a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen, wherein each of said rows of struts comprises struts inter-connected to form a wave-pattern with alternating peaks and troughs, wherein each peak has a tip and each trough has a bottom, and wherein said rows of struts form one or more row sections and wherein each row section comprises at least one row of struts;non-flex connectors that connect adjacent rows of struts within each row section, wherein each of said non-flex connectors comprises a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is attached to a tip of a peak in a first row of struts, wherein said second end is attached to a tip of a peak in a second row of struts, wherein said first row of struts and said second row of struts are within the same row section and are adjacent to each other, and wherein no non-flex connector is present in a row section containing only one row of struts; andflex connectors that connect adjacent row sections, wherein each of said flex connectors comprises a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is attached to a bottom of a first trough in an edge row of struts of a first row section, said first trough has a first trough amplitude, wherein said second end is attached to ...

LOW PROFILE NON-SYMMETRICAL STENT

A stent for use in a medical procedure having opposing sets of curved apices, where the curved section of one set of apices has a radius of curvature that is greater than the curved section of the other set of apices. One or more such stents may be attached to a graft material for use in endovascular treatment of, for example, aneurysm, thoracic dissection, or other body vessel condition. 164-. (canceled)65. A stent comprising:a plurality of proximal and distal apices connected by a plurality of generally straight portions,where each proximal apex comprises a first curved portion and each distal apex comprises a second curved portion, where the first curved portion and the second curved portion each comprises at least one radius of curvature, and the radius of curvature of at least one of the proximal apices is greater than the radius of curvature of at least one of the distal apices; andwhere a first radius of curvature of one of the proximal apices is greater than 1.5 mm.66. The stent of claim 65 , where the first radius of curvature of one of the proximal apices is from about 4 mm to about 9 mm.67. The stent of claim 65 , where a second radius of curvature of one of the distal apices is from about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm claim 65 , andwhere a ratio of the second radius of curvature to the first radius of curvature is about 1:2.6 to about 1:18.68. The stent of claim 67 , where the second radius of curvature is about 1 mm claim 67 , and the first radius of curvature is about 6 mm.69. The stent of claim 65 , comprising a generally continuous plurality of proximal and distal apices claim 65 , the outer surfaces of which define a cylinder having a generally consistent circumference.70. The stent of claim 65 , where each of the proximal apices are circumferentially offset from the distal apices.71. The stent of comprising a generally continuous plurality of proximal and distal apices claim 65 , the outer surfaces of which define a frustum of a cone.72. A stent ...

MEDICAL DEVICE

A method for treating an aneurysm can include inserting a medical device partially in a first artery and partially in a third artery. The device can be expanded radially outwardly from a first position to a second position to engage an inner surface of the first artery and an inner surface of the third artery, so as to maintain a fluid pathway through said arteries. Further, the device can be positioned such that, when the device is in the second position, a porous membrane of the device is located at a neck of the aneurysm. 1. A medical device for treating a bifurcation or trifurcation aneurysm , in a patient , occurring at a first artery , the first artery and a second artery joining to a third artery , the device comprising:an expandable latticework frame having first and second struts that each define a radially outermost edge, a radially innermost edge, a circumferential strut width, and a wall thickness between the radially outermost and innermost edges; anda porous membrane that extends around and between the first and second struts, the membrane having a web portion that, between the first and second struts, extends only within a central region being (i) bounded radially between the radially outermost edges and the radially innermost edges of the first and second struts and (ii) bounded circumferentially between the first and second struts, the web portion defining a web thickness that is less than the wall thickness of the first or second struts;wherein the membrane is configured to (i) reduce blood supply into the aneurysm, and (ii) permit blood supply through pores of the membrane and into perforators and/or microscopic branches of the first artery so as not to inhibit blood supply functions of the perforators and/or microscopic branches.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the pores are between 20 and 100 microns in size.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein a distance between adjacent pores of the membrane does not exceed 100 microns.4. The device of claim 2 ...

Endoluminal prosthesis systems and methods

A stent includes a main body having a plurality of rings that form a helix. Each of the plurality of rings includes a plurality of skewed v-shaped elements that each have a first leg and a second leg that is longer than the first leg. The stent further includes a first end ring and a second end ring positioned to an opposite side of the main body from the first end ring. Each of the plurality of rings of the main body is angled with respect to the first end ring and the second end ring. The stent further includes a first transitional region for connecting the first end ring to the main body, and a second transitional region for connecting the second end ring to the main body.

TRACHEAL STENT

Tracheal stents may include a plurality of wave form structures each extending radially about the support structure, a plurality of axial loop members extending axially between adjacent wave form structures and a polymeric covering disposed thereover. Tracheal stents may include an expandable metal structure and a plurality of spacer fins extending above an outer surface of the expandable metal structure. The plurality of spacer fins may be formed of a material different than that of the expandable metal structure. 1. A medical stent extending from a first end to a second end , the medical stent comprising:a support structure defining a lumen extending from the first end to the second end, the support structure including a plurality of wave form structures each extending circumferentially about the lumen and a plurality of axial loop members extending axially across a gap defined between adjacent wave form structures; anda polymeric covering disposed over the support structure and spanning at least the adjacent wave form structures and the gap defined therebetween, the polymeric covering being configured to prevent tissue ingrowth into the lumen;wherein at least some of the plurality of axial loop members are configured to include an extended configuration in which the at least some of the plurality of axial loop members extend radially outward and above an outer surface defined by the polymeric covering.2. The medical stent of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the wave form structures extend circumferentially about 360 degrees about the lumen and form closed rings.3. The medical stent of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the wave form structures are formed from nitinol wire.4. The medical stent of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the wave form structures are defined by a wire diameter that is in a range of about 0.2 to about 0.5 millimeters.5. The medical stent of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the wave form structures are defined by a wave frequency in a ...

BIOABSORBABLE POLYMERIC MEDICAL DEVICE

In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend. 1. A bioabsorbable scaffold comprising expansion-crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer , the scaffold having a proximal open end and a distal open end , and being crimpable and expandable , comprising:a first multicomponent strut pattern helically coursing from the proximal open end to the distal open end of the scaffold; anda second multicomponent strut pattern helically coursing from the proximal open end to the distal open end of the scaffold.2. The scaffold of claim 1 , wherein the first multicomponent strut pattern is substantially the same in configuration throughout the scaffold.3. The scaffold of claim 1 , wherein the second multicomponent strut pattern is substantially the same in configuration throughout the scaffold.4. The scaffold of claim 1 , wherein the first and second multicomponent strut patterns are substantially the same in configuration throughout the scaffold.5. The scaffold of claim 1 , wherein the component of the first multicomponent strut pattern that opposes from about 120° to about 180° the component of the second multicomponent strut pattern are substantially the same in configuration.6. The scaffold of claim 5 , wherein the components of the first and second multicomponent struts that oppose form a stylized H configuration claim 5 , a stylized X configuration claim 5 , a stylized S configuration claim 5 , a stylized 8 configuration claim 5 , or a stylized I configuration.7. The scaffold of claim 1 , further comprising a third multicomponent strut pattern helically coursing from the proximal open end to the distal open end of the scaffold.8. The scaffold of claim 7 , further comprising a fourth multicomponent strut pattern helically coursing from said proximal open end to said distal open end of said scaffold.9. The scaffold ...

Biodegradable Cross-Linked Polymer, Vascular Stent and Manufacturing Methods Therefor

The present invention relates to the field of medical instruments. Specifically, a biodegradable cross-linked polymer and a manufacturing method therefor are provided. The cross-linked polymer is obtained by bonding crosslinkable reactive groups to terminal groups of a biodegradable prepolymer having two or more arms and further subjecting the prepolymer to thermal polymerization and/or light irradiation. The cross-linked polymer has an elastic modulus of 10-4,500 MPa, and a degradation rate of 3-36 months. A biodegradable vascular stent and a preparation method therefor are also provided. The vascular stent is formed by laser cutting of polymeric tubing having a three-dimensional cross-linked network structure. The vascular stent has ample mechanical strength, a high elastic modulus at body temperature, and a regulatable degradation rate. 1. A biodegradable cross-linked polymer , wherein the polymer is obtained by bonding crosslinkable reactive groups to terminal groups of a biodegradable prepolymer having two or more arms , and further subjecting the prepolymer to thermal polymerization and/or light irradiation.2. The cross-linked polymer of claim 1 , wherein the biodegradable prepolymer having two or more arms is selected from: n-arm-poly(L-lactide) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(L-lactide-co-D-lactide) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(L-lactide-co-DL-lactide) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(L-lactide-co-trimethyl carbonate) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(DL-lactide) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(DL-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(DL-lactide-co-trimethyl carbonate) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(ε-caprolactone) claim 1 , n-arm-poly(ε-caprolactone-co-glycolide) and n-arm-poly(ε-caprolactone-co-trimethyl carbonate) claim 1 , where n=2 claim 1 , 3 or 4; and if the biodegradable prepolymer is a copolymer claim 1 , the second comonomer is present in an amount of from 1% to ...

STENTS WITH RADIOPAQUE MARKERS

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein. 1. A method of crimping a stent on a balloon , comprising:(a) providing a biodegradable polymeric stent, wherein structural elements of the stent are made from a polymer;wherein the polymeric stent includes markers to provide capability of obtaining images of the markers with an imaging device during and after implantation of the stent in a vessel,wherein the stent has first and second markers being attached in an adjacent configuration about a proximal region of the stent, and third and fourth markers being attached in an adjacent configuration about a distal region of the stent, such that the stent has no other markers but for the four markers to allow for imaging of the markers and such that an entire length of the stent between the first pair and second pair of markers is devoid of any markers,wherein the first marker is positioned at a circumferential distance from its adjacent second marker,wherein the third marker is positioned at a circumferential distance from its adjacent fourth marker, andwherein the pair of markers about the proximal region of the polymeric stent are circumferentially off-set from the pair of markers about the distal region of the polymeric stent; and(b) crimping the stent on a balloon of a catheter assembly by application of a crimping pressure to the stent positioned over the balloon,wherein the four markers are deposited in cylindrical depots,wherein the four markers are a mixture or alloy of two types of metals, andwherein the four markers deposited in the cylindrical depots include a gluing material.2. A method of crimping a stent on a balloon , comprising:(a) providing a biodegradable polymeric stent, wherein the polymeric stent includes markers to provide capability of obtaining images of the markers with an imaging device during and after implantation of the stent in a vessel,wherein the stent has first and second markers being ...

Low profile non-symmetrical stent

A stent for use in a medical procedure having opposing sets of curved apices, where the curved section of one set of apices has a radius of curvature that is greater than the curved section of the other set of apices. One or more such stents may be attached to a graft material for use in endovascular treatment of, for example, aneurysm, thoracic dissection, or other body vessel condition.

LOW PROFILE NON-SYMMETRICAL STENT

A stent for use in a medical procedure having opposing sets of curved apices, where the curved section of one set of apices has a radius of curvature that is greater than the curved section of the other set of apices. One or more such stents may be attached to a graft material for use in endovascular treatment of, for example, aneurysm, thoracic dissection, or other body vessel condition. 142-. (canceled)43. A stent comprising:a plurality of proximal and distal apices connected by a plurality of generally straight portions,where each proximal apex comprises a first curved portion and each distal apex comprises a second curved portion, where the first curved portion and the second curved portion each comprises at least one radius of curvature, and the radius of curvature of at least one of the proximal apices is greater than the radius of curvature of at least one of the distal apices; andwhere a first radius of curvature of one of the distal apices is from about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm,where a second radius of curvature of one of the proximal apices is from about 4 mm to about 9 mm, andwhere a ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is about 1:2.6 to about 1:18.44. The stent of claim 43 , further comprising a graft having proximal and distal ends claim 43 , where at least one of the distal apices of the stent is attached to the graft.45. The stent of claim 44 , where each of the plurality of proximal and distal apices of the stent axially overlap with the graft.46. The stent of claim 44 , where the stent comprises at least one uncovered region facing radially inward or outward relative to the graft.47. The stent of comprising a generally continuous plurality of proximal and distal apices claim 43 , the outer surfaces of which define a cylinder having a generally consistent circumference.48. The stent of where the first radius of curvature is about 1 mm claim 43 , and the second radius of curvature is about 6 mm.49. The stent of where ...

Expandable vascular stent

Vascular stent, in particular made of an in vivo degradable plastic material, having individual ring segments (2), the webs (4) of which are of meandering configuration, and comprising connecting webs (3) arranged between adjacent ring segments (2), said webs converging in connection points (7) with the webs (4) of the ring segments (2), with recesses (9a, 9b) being arranged at angles of the connection points (7) that are compressed when the vascular stent (1) is expanded, said recesses being open towards the edge and extending through the ring segment webs (4) and connecting webs (3), with a view to reducing stresses arising during the expansion of the vascular stent (1).

POSTS WITH COMPLIANT JUNCTIONS

Apparatus and methods are described, including a stent configured to be placed in a lumen. The stent includes a generally cylindrical stent body comprising a plurality of struts, and a plurality of antenna posts protruding longitudinally from an end of the stent body. Each of the antenna posts includes a proximal and distal portions, each of which is configured to be generally straight in the absence of any force being applied to the antenna post, and a compliant junction disposed between the proximal and distal portions, the proximal and distal portions being configured to flex with respect to one another about the compliant junction. An antenna is disposed annularly on the distal portions of the antenna posts, such that the antenna posts separate the antenna from the end of the stent body. Other applications are also described. 128-. (canceled)29. Apparatus for use with a tubular structure shaped to define a lumen thereof , the apparatus comprising: a generally cylindrical stent body comprising a plurality of struts; and', a proximal portion and a distal portion, each of which is configured to be generally straight in the absence of any force being applied to the antenna post; and', 'a compliant junction disposed between the proximal portion and distal portion of the antenna post, the proximal portion and distal portion being configured to flex with respect to one another about the compliant junction; and, 'a plurality of antenna posts protruding longitudinally from an end of the stent body, each of the antenna posts comprising], 'a stent configured to be placed in the lumen, the stent comprisingan antenna disposed annularly on the distal portions of the antenna posts, such that the antenna posts separate the antenna from the end of the stent body.30. The apparatus according to claim 29 , wherein the lumen of the tubular structure includes a lumen of a blood vessel of a subject claim 29 , and wherein the stent is configured to be placed inside the lumen of subject ...

PROCESSES FOR MAKING CRUSH RECOVERABLE POLYMER SCAFFOLDS

Methods for making scaffolds for delivery via a balloon catheter are described. The scaffold, after being deployed by the balloon, provides a crush recovery of about 90% after the diameter of the scaffold has been pinched or crushed by 50%. The scaffold structure has patterns that include an asymmetric or symmetric closed cell, and links connecting such closed cells. 118-. (canceled)19. A method for making a medical device , comprising:forming a scaffold from a tube made from a polymer;crimping the scaffold to a balloon, wherein the scaffold is plastically deformed to have a crimped state; andfitting a removable sheath over the scaffold and balloon following crimping to limit recoil of the crimped scaffold;wherein the scaffold has an expanded diameter when plastically deformed from the crimped state by the balloon; andwherein the scaffold attains greater than 90% of the expanded diameter after being crushed by an amount equal to at least 33% of the expanded diameter.20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the scaffold is heated to a temperature below the glass transition temperature.21. The method of claim 19 , wherein the polymer is poly (L-lactide) (PLLA) claim 19 , a polymer made from at least 80% L-lactide claim 19 , a block copolymer with a PLLA block claim 19 , or a copolymer of PLLA.22. The method of claim 19 , wherein the crimping step reduces the diameter of the scaffold by a factor of 2:1 claim 19 , 3:1 or more than 3:1.23. The method of claim 19 , wherein the scaffold is crimped to a balloon of a balloon-catheter having a distal end claim 19 , wherein the sheath includes a distal end that extends beyond the catheter distal end claim 19 , and wherein the sheath includes flaps that are folded to enable the flaps to be gripped and pulled to remove the sheath from the scaffold.24. The method of claim 19 , wherein the scaffold includes rings having crowns and the crowns form crown angles claim 19 , wherein during crimping a ring is reduced in diameter by plastic ...

Biodegradable endoprostheses and methods for their fabrication

The disclosure provides biodegradable implantable devices such as a stent comprising a biodegradable polymeric wherein the polymeric material is treated to control crystallinity and/or Tg. The stent is capable to expand at body temperature from a crimped configuration to a deployed diameter and have sufficient strength to support a body lumen.

STENT AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A stent for vascular interventions having a hybrid open cell geometry. Variants of the stent include bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents. Embodiments of the stent include end projections for radiopaque markers or a discontinuous partial radiopaque coating on low-stress or low-strain regions of the peripheral stent. The stents of the invention are characterized by having thin walls, nested rows of struts, high expansion ratio, high and uniform radial force over entire diametric size and length of device, crush resistance up to and including about 90% of its fully expanded diameter, high fatigue resistance and high corrosion resistance. 1. A stent having an outer abluminal surface and an inner luminal surface , comprisinga. A plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members having peaks and valleys;b. A plurality of bridge members interconnecting adjacent pairs of sinusoidal circumferential ring members;c. A plurality of volume-enhancing features formed in or on the outer abluminal surface of the stent; andd. A drug eluting layer covering the entire outer abluminal surface of the stent and at least partially filling the plurality of volume-enhancing features.2. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members is configured to nest with adjacent generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members when the stent is in a diametrically unexpanded state.3. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members further has a substantially zig-zag configuration.4. The stent of claim 3 , further comprising an offset section intermediate circumferentially adjacent peaks and valleys of each generally sinusoidal circumferential ring member.5. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of generally sinusoidal circumferential ring members and the plurality of bridge members have a wall thickness between about 50 μm and about 100 μm.6. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Hybrid stent

A stent includes a high radial/crush force segment and a highly flexible segment. In an aspect, a plurality of first ring struts connected such that each of the plurality of first rings comprises a sinusoidal pattern having a plurality of apices and troughs, each first ring connected to an adjacent first ring by at least one connector. The connector extends from a ring strut of the first ring from a position near an apex of the first ring to a ring strut of the adjacent first rings near an apex of the adjacent ring, and a second stent segment comprises a plurality of second rings connected to one another to form a series of second rings

INTRAVASCULAR STENT

A stent design reduces the likelihood of contact among structural members when the stent diameter is reduced before insertion into the body. In one approach, an undulating link has a J-shaped profile or has an angled portion on one side at the peak of the link, in order to reduce contact during crimping. The stent may also include structural features that improve such aspects as flexibility, the coatibility of a drug coating onto the stent, flare reduction, stent retention within the body and/or reduction of the minimum diameter of the stent during crimping. 172-. (canceled)73. A flexible intravascular stent for use in a body lumen , comprising:a plurality of cylindrical rings aligned along a common longitudinal axis and interconnected to form the stent, each cylindrical ring having a first delivery diameter and a second implanted diameter;each cylindrical ring having a first peak and a plurality of second peaks; andan undulating link attaching each cylindrical ring to an adjacent cylindrical ring, each undulating link having a curved portion extending transverse to the stent longitudinal axis toward the first peak, the curved portion having a first bend and a second bend, wherein the first bend is positioned on the curved portion to nest with a portion of the first peak.74. The stent of claim 73 , wherein the first bend has a curvature which extends in a different direction from the curvature of the second bend.75. The stent of claim 73 , wherein the first bend has a curvature which matches a portion of the curvature of the first peak.76. The stent of claim 73 , wherein the first peak has a longitudinal height which is shorter that the longitudinal height of each of the second peaks77. The stent of claim 76 , wherein the first peak is located between one of the second peaks and the undulating link.78. The stent of claim 77 , wherein the undulating links is positioned between the first peak and one of the second peaks. The invention relates to vascular repair ...

UNCAGING STENT

A stent (scaffold) or other luminal prosthesis comprising circumferential structural elements which provides high strength after deployment and allows for scaffold to uncage, and/or allow for scaffold or luminal expansion thereafter. The circumferential scaffold may be formed from degradable material, or may be formed from non-degradable material and will be modified to expand and/or uncage after deployment. 1. An endoluminal prosthesis comprising:a scaffold comprising a plurality of axially adjacent circumferential rings, said scaffold being configured to expand from a crimped configuration to an expanded configuration;wherein at least one first element from a first ring is joined to a second element from an adjacent second ring, wherein an end of a third element from the first ring is detachably attached to said second ring, wherein the element from the said first ring and element from the said second ring are configured to remain attached after the third element detaches, and wherein each said detachment of the third element provides a separation of the third element from said second ring and provides a discontinuity in the circumferential path of the first circumferential ring.2. An endoluminal prosthesis as in claim 1 , wherein said first and second elements are joined through an axial link.3. An endoluminal prosthesis as in claim 2 , wherein the third detachably attached element is attached to said axial link.4. An endoluminal prosthesis as in claim 1 , wherein the detachable attachment of the third element comprises a separation region configured to form at least one discontinuity when said third element detaches after expansion in a physiologic environment.5. An endoluminal prosthesis as in claim 1 , wherein at least some of the elements comprise struts.6. An endoluminal prosthesis as in claim 1 , wherein at least some of the elements comprise crowns joining struts.7. An endoluminal prosthesis as in claim 2 , wherein the axial link is configured to remain ...

Bidirectional stent and method of use thereof

A bidirectional twistable stent is disclosed. The stent comprises a cylinder-shaped stent body having a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen and a plurality of flex connectors that connect at least two adjacent rows of struts in such a manner that allows the stent to be twisted clockwise or counter clockwise without causing deformation of any struts in the stent body. Also disclosed are the method of making the stent, method of using the stent, and a kit containing the stent.

Drug-eluting coatings on poly(dl-lactide)-based scaffolds

Stents including a poly(D,L-lactide)(PDLLA)-based scaffold and PDLLA based therapeutic layer are disclosed. The PDLLA based scaffold may be amorphous and may include a primer layer. Methods of applying the PDLLA-based coating to the scaffold are disclosed with solvent processing methods using a solvent blend are also disclosed. Methods of removing residual solvent from a PDLLA-base coating that also condition the scaffold are disclosed. Methods of treating restenosis that release drugs to prevent restenosis without interfering with the natural positive remodeling of a vessel are disclosed.

Crush Recoverable Polymer Scaffolds

A method of manufacturing a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the marker support structures. 1. A method making a medical device , comprising:(a) providing a polymeric tube; (i) a set of rings including a proximal end ring, a distal end ring opposing the proximal end ring, and middle rings positioned between the end rings, wherein each ring is associated with its direct neighboring ring by links, and wherein at least one pair of neighboring middle rings can be delineated, via corresponding links there between, into closed cells comprising a W-V shaped zone;', '(ii) the rings include struts and crowns, the struts fold towards and unfold away from each other at the crowns;', '(iii) at least one of the links being a marker link, the marker link having a first structure off a first side wall of the marker link for holding a first marker and a second structure off a second, opposite side wall of the marker link for holding a second marker, wherein the first and second structures are not longitudinally off-set from one another off of the marker link; and', '(iv) wherein the polymeric tube is cut by the laser such that the set of rings and links are shaped to have a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of rings, between which the marker link resides, do not make contact with the first and second structures; and, '(b) cutting a pattern into the tube by a laser, wherein the pattern includes(c) placing the first and second markers in the structures and forming a stent;(d) crimping the stent to a crimped diameter on a section of a catheter delivery assembly, such that the pair of rings, between which the marker link ...

METHOD OF CRIMPING STENT ON CATHETER DELIVERY ASSEMBLY

A method of crimping a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the maker support structures. 1(a) positioning a PLLA-based polymeric stent over a section of a catheter delivery assembly, wherein the stent comprises:(i) a set of rings including a proximal end ring, a distal end ring opposing the proximal end ring, and middle rings positioned between the end rings, wherein each ring is associated with its direct neighboring ring by links, and wherein at least one pair of neighboring middle rings can be delineated, via corresponding links there between, into closed cells comprising a W- or a general W-shaped zone included within the closed cell;(ii) at least one of the links being a marker link, the marker link having a first cylindrical or part-cylindrical protrusion off a first side wall of the marker link for holding a first marker and a second cylindrical or part-cylindrical protrusion off a second, opposite side wall of the marker link for holding a second marker, wherein a distance of the first marker from an end point of the marker link is equal to the distance of the second marker from the same end point of the marker link such that the first and second protrusions are symmetrically aligned off of the marker link and are not longitudinally off-set from one another off of the marker link; and(iii) wherein the set of rings includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of rings, between which the marker link resides, do not make contract with a bulging perimeter of the first and second protrusions; and(b) crimping the stent to a crimped diameter on the section of the catheter delivery assembly, wherein the ...

INTRAVASCULAR STENT HAVING HIGH FATIGUE PERFORMANCE

This invention is directed to an expandable stent for implantation in a body lumen, such as an artery, and a method for making it from a single length of tubing. The stent consists of a plurality of radially expandable cylindrical elements generally aligned on a common axis and interconnected by one or more links. A Y-shaped member is comprised of a U-shaped member and a link having a curved portion and a straight portion to improve the flexibility and thereby improve the fatigue performance of the Y-link junction. 1. A longitudinally flexible stent for implanting in a body lumen , comprising:a first cylindrical ring, a second cylindrical ring, a third cylindrical ring, up to an Nth cylindrical ring, the cylindrical rings being generally independently expandable in the radial direction and generally aligned on a common longitudinal axis;each of the cylindrical rings having an undulating pattern of peaks and valleys, the undulating pattern of each of the cylindrical rings being in phase with the undulating pattern of each of the adjacent cylindrical rings;each of the cylindrical rings being interconnected by links to one of the adjacent cylindrical rings so that the cylindrical rings form a longitudinally flexible stent; andeach of the links having a straight section and a curved section, the curved section having a first curved length and a second curved length.2. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the straight section of each link has a length claim 1 , and the curved section has a length claim 1 , the length of the curved section being greater than the length of the straight section.3. The stent of claim 2 , wherein the first curved length of each link is greater than the second curved length.4. The stent of claim 2 , wherein the links have a width that is uniform along the straight section and the curved section.5. The stent of claim 3 , wherein the first curved length is 0.027 inch (0.68 mm) and the second curved length is 0.024 inch. (0.60 mm).6. The stent of claim ...

Angioplasty stents

An angioplasty stent comprises a body comprising a plurality of successive segments connected in pairs by bridge means so that the successive segments can be oriented relative to one another for the purposes of bending of the body in any direction defined by a linear combination of respective orientation axes defined by the bridge connection means. During the radial expansion of the stent, the axial contraction of the segments resulting from the opening-out of the respective loops is compensated by axial projection of the bridge elements from the respective concave portions. The wall of the body comprises arms for supporting a lumen as well as regions which are selectively deformable during the expansion of the stent, the arms and the selectively deformable regions having different cross-sections and/or cross-sectional areas. At least one portion of the body may have a substantially reticular structure, the branches of which define geometrical figures identifiable as fractals.

Stent with protruding branch portion for bifurcated vessels

The present invention is directed to a stent for use in a bifurcated body lumen having a main branch and a side branch. The stent comprises a radially expandable generally tubular stent body having proximal and distal opposing ends with a body wall having a surface extending therebetween. The surface has a geometrical configuration defining a first pattern, and the first pattern has first pattern struts and connectors arranged in a predetermined configuration. The stent also comprises a branch portion comprised of a second pattern, wherein the branch portion is at least partially detachable from the stent body.

Stent with protruding branch portion for bifurcated vessels

Intravascular stent

An intravascular stent assembly for implantation in a body vessel, such as a coronary artery, includes undulating circumferential rings having peaks on the proximal end and valleys on the distal end. Adjacent rings are coupled together by links. The rings and links are arranged so that the stent has good conformability as it traverses through, or is deployed in, a tortuous body lumen. The stent is also configured such that the likelihood of peaks and valleys on adjacent rings which point directly at each other to overlap in tortuous body vessels is reduced.

Polymer and metal composite implantable medical devices

A device and a method of manufacturing an implantable medical device, such as a stent, are described herein. The device includes a metallic region composed of a bioerodable metal and a polymer region composed of a biodegradable polymer contacting the metallic region. The metallic region may erode at a different rate when exposed to bodily fluids than the polymer region when exposed to bodily fluids. In certain embodiments, the polymer region is an outer layer and the metallic region is an inner layer of the device. A further aspect of the invention includes device and a method of manufacturing the device that includes a mixture of a biodegradable polymer and bioerodable metallic particles. The mixture may be used to fabricate an implantable medical device or to coat an implantable medical device. In some embodiments, the metallic particles are metallic nanoparticles.

Polymer and metal composite implantable medical devices

A device and a method of manufacturing an implantable medical device, such as a stent, are described herein. The device includes a metallic region composed of a bioerodable metal and a polymer region composed of a biodegradable polymer contacting the metallic region. The metallic region may erode at a different rate when exposed to bodily fluids than the polymer region when exposed to bodily fluids. In certain embodiments, the polymer region is an outer layer and the metallic region is an inner layer of the device. A further aspect of the invention includes device and a method of manufacturing the device that includes a mixture of a biodegradable polymer and bioerodable metallic particles. The mixture may be used to fabricate an implantable medical device or to coat an implantable medical device. In some embodiments, the metallic particles are metallic nanoparticles.

Polymeric stent patterns

Patterns for polymeric radially expandable implantable medical devices such as stents for implantation into a bodily lumen are disclosed.

Stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers disposed within depots in the stent, are described herein.

Methods of fabricating stents with enhanced fracture toughness

Stents and methods of manufacturing a stents with enhanced fracture toughness are disclosed.

Stent with a radiopaque marker and method for making the same

A stent includes a marker that has a biodegradable body and a plurality of radiopaque nanoparticles dispersed in the body. The marker is disposed in a hole on a biodegradable structural element of the stent, and the marker and the hole have substantially the same configuration. A method for making a stent includes mixing radiopaque nanoparticles with a biodegradable material to form a stent marker, forming a hole on a structural element of a biodegradable stent for accommodating the stent marker, wherein the stent marker and hole have substantially the same configuration, and disposing the stent marker in the hole.

Composite polymeric and metallic stent with radiopacity

Various embodiments of stents with a polymeric body with radiopaque metallic particles incorporated in the stent body.

Method of making stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein.

Deformation of a polymer tube in the fabrication of a medical article

Methods of manufacturing a medical article that include radial deformation of a polymer tube are disclosed. A medical article, such as an implantable medical device or an inflatable member, may be fabricated from a deformed tube.

Crush recoverable polymer scaffolds

A method of manufacturing a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the marker support structures.

Methods for uniform crimping and deployment of a polymer scaffold

A medical device-includes a scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes one or more balloon pressurization steps. The balloon pressurization steps are selected to enhance scaffold retention to the balloon while retaining, at least partially, the original balloon folds as the balloon is pressurized and de-pressurized within a crimper head. By at least partially retaining the original balloon folds, a uniformity of scaffold expansion by the balloon is improved.

Stent having improved stent design

Stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers disposed within depots in the stent, are described herein.

Stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers disposed within depots in the stent, are described herein.

Stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein.

Stent with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein.

Method of making stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein.

Stents with radiopaque markers

Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers arranged in patterns are described herein.

Methods of fabricating stents with enhanced fracture toughness

Stents and methods of manufacturing a stents with enhanced fracture toughness are disclosed.

Composite polymeric and metallic stent with radiopacity

Various embodiments of stents with a polymeric body with radiopaque metallic particles incorporated in the stent body.

Method of crimping stent on catheter delivery assembly

A method of crimping a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the maker support structures.

Crush recoverable polymer scaffolds

A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold, after being deployed by the balloon, provides a crush recovery of about 90% after the diameter of the scaffold has been pinched or crushed by 50%. The scaffold has a pattern including an asymmetric closed cell connecting links connecting the closed cells.

Method of making a stent

A method of manufacturing a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the marker support structures.

Balloon expanded polymer stent

A medical device includes a polymer stent (or scaffold) crimped to a catheter balloon. The stent, after being expanded from a crimped state by the balloon, provides a crush recovery of about 90% of its expanded diameter after being pinched or crushed by an amount equal to about 50% of the expanded diameter. The stent has a pattern including a W-shaped or W-V shaped closed cell and links connecting the closed cells.

Method of crimping stent on catheter delivery assembly

A method of crimping a stent is disclosed. The stent includes a minimum crimped diameter such that in the minimum crimped diameter, a pair of stent rings, between which marker support structures reside, do not make contact with the marker support structures. The crimped profile of the stent of the present invention can be as small as the crimped profile of a same stent but without the maker support structures.

Temporal Intraluminal Stent, Methods of Making and Using

A biodegradable polymer stent with radiopacity and a method of making and using a stent with enhanced mechanical strength and/or controlled degradation for use in a bodily lumen is described.

Temporal intraluminal stent, methods of making and using

A biodegradable polymer stent with radiopacity and a method of making and using a stent with enhanced mechanical strength and/or controlled degradation for use in a bodily lumen is described.