Abstract:
Described here are self-expanding devices and methods of using and making them. The devices may be useful in a variety of locations within the body, for a number of different uses. In some variations, the devices have a first compressed configuration enabling low profile delivery through a delivery device, a second expanded configuration for apposition against tissue, and comprise either a single continuous filament or at least two non-intersecting filaments. In some variations, the device is formed into a shape having a series of peaks and valleys. At least one of the peaks and valleys may have a loop at then end thereof. At least a portion of these devices may be capable of biodegrading over a predetermined period of time, and the devices may be configured for drug delivery. Methods of treating one or more sinus cavities are also described here.
Abstract:
Methods and systems for manufacturing an implantable medical device, such as a stent, from a tube with desirable mechanical properties, such as improved circumferential strength and rigidity, are described herein. Improved circumferential strength and rigidity may be obtained by inducing molecular orientation in materials for use in manufacturing an implantable medical device. Methods of inducing circumferential molecular orientation by inducing circumferential flow in a molten polymer are disclosed.
Abstract:
Methods for improved stent retention on an expandable member during delivery are disclosed. Methods include fabricating delivery systems including a retention layer over the stent, the expandable member, or both for improving retention of the stent on the expandable member during delivery.
Abstract:
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.
Abstract:
Methods for improved stent retention on an expandable member during delivery are disclosed. Methods include fabricating delivery systems including a retention layer over the stent, the expandable member, or both for improving retention of the stent on the expandable member during delivery.
Abstract:
Provided herein is a method of using a bioabsorbable medical device that includes RGD attached to the device via a spacer compound. The method comprises implanting in a human being a bioaborbable device, e.g., a bioabsorbable stent, including a chemo-attractant for endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs).