Multi-stage expandable stent-graft

Abstract

Abstract An improved device for use in a conduit, such as a blood vessel, is provided. The device uniquely combines desirable properties from two distinct previous devices. The device (10) of the present invention assumes and is constrained to a first diametrical dimension (14) for insertion into the conduit. Once inserted and properly positioned in the conduit the device (10) expands to a second diametrical dimension within the conduit when the constraint is removed. The device (10) can then be dilated to one or more enlarged third diametrical dimensions by using a balloon catheter or similar device. The result is a device (10) that provides desirable properties of both self-expanding stents and balloon-expandable endoprostheses. The device (10) can be employed in a variety of applications.

Inventors

• 👤 Michael J. Vonesh
• 👤 Edward H. Cully
• 👤 Gerarld R. Martin
• 👤 Steven R. Bruun
• 👤 Dennis L. Salzmann

Bibliographic Details