U.S. patent application number 09/416994 was filed with the patent office on 2001-11-29 for non-foreshortening intraluminal prosthesis.
This patent application is currently assigned to RAYMOND SUN. Invention is credited to Plyley, Alan K., Redmond, Russell J., White, Geoffrey Hamilton.
Application Number | 20010047200 09/416994 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23652164 |
Filed Date | 2001-11-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010047200 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
White, Geoffrey Hamilton ;
et al. |
November 29, 2001 |
NON-FORESHORTENING INTRALUMINAL PROSTHESIS
Abstract
A stent has a plurality of cells disposed about the
circumference of the stent, with at least one cell having a
plurality of struts that are connected together to form the cell.
At least one strut has a portion that compensates for
foreshortening of the struts during expansion of the stent.
Inventors: |
White, Geoffrey Hamilton;
(Sydney, AU) ; Redmond, Russell J.; (Goleta,
CA) ; Plyley, Alan K.; (Goleta, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RAYMOND SUN
12420 WOODHALL WAY
TUSTIN
CA
92782
|
Assignee: |
RAYMOND SUN
|
Family ID: |
23652164 |
Appl. No.: |
09/416994 |
Filed: |
October 13, 1999 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
623/1.15 ;
623/1.17 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2002/91516
20130101; A61F 2002/91541 20130101; A61F 2002/9155 20130101; A61F
2/915 20130101; A61F 2002/91508 20130101; A61F 2002/91533 20130101;
A61F 2002/91558 20130101; A61F 2/91 20130101; A61F 2002/91525
20130101; A61F 2230/0013 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
623/1.15 ;
623/1.17 |
International
Class: |
A61F 002/06 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A stent comprising: a plurality of cells disposed about the
circumference of the stent, with at least one cell having a
plurality of struts that are connected together to form the cell,
with at least one strut having a compensating portion that
compensates for foreshortening of the struts during expansion of
the stent.
2. The stent of claim 1, further including a connecting member for
coupling two adjacent cells.
3. The stent of claim 1, wherein the compensating portion has at
least one area of inflection.
4. The stent of claim 1, wherein the compensating portion has an
internal area of inflection and an external area of inflection.
5. The stent of claim 1, wherein each of the struts has a
compensating portion.
6. The stent of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of cells has
four struts that define a generally diamond-shaped configuration
having four apices, with a compensating portion provided at one of
the apices.
7. The stent of claim 6, wherein a compensating portion is provided
at two of the apices.
8. The stent of claim 6, wherein a compensating portion is provided
at all the apices.
9. The stent of claim 6, wherein the compensating portion is
C-shaped.
10. The stent of claim 6, wherein the compensating portion is
connects apices between two adjacent cells.
11. The stent of claim 10, wherein the compensating portion is
S-shaped.
12. The stent of claim 10, wherein the compensating portion is
C-shaped.
13. The stent of claim 1, wherein each strut is completely
curved.
14. The stent of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cells is a first
plurality of cells that defines a first plurality of rows and
columns, and wherein the stent further includes a second plurality
of cells that defines a second plurality of rows and columns.
15. The stent of claim 14, wherein the configuration of the first
plurality of cells is a substantial mirror image of the second
plurality of cells.
16. The stent of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cells is a first
plurality of cells that is provided along a first length of the
stent, and wherein the stent further includes a second plurality of
cells that-is provided along a second length of the stent.
17. The stent of claim 1, wherein the compensating portion is
curved.
18. The stent of claim 1, wherein each cell has a plurality of
apices that are defined by the plurality of struts, and each of the
plurality of struts includes a first strut and a second strut to
define a double-strut configuration, with each of the first and
second struts having a first end and a second end, wherein the
first ends of the first and second struts are connected to a first
apex, and the second ends of the first and second struts are
connected to a second apex.
19. The stent of claim 18, wherein the first and second struts of
each of the plurality of struts defines a space therebetween.
20. A stent comprising a plurality of cells disposed about the
circumference of the stent, with at least one cell having a
plurality of double-struts that are connected together to form the
cell.
21. The stent of claim 20, wherein each cell has a plurality of
apices that are defined by the plurality of double-struts, and with
each of double-struts having a first end and a second end, wherein
the first ends of the double-struts are connected to a first apex,
and the second ends of the double-struts are connected to a second
apex.
22. The stent of claim 21, wherein each double-strut defines a
space therebetween.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to intraluminal prostheses for
implantation into a mammalian vessel, and in particular, to
intraluminal stents that do not experience foreshortening in the
longitudinal direction when the stent is deployed to an expanded
state.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] Intraluminal prosthesis, such as stents, are commonly used
in the repair of aneurysms, as liners for vessels, or to provide
mechanical support to prevent the collapse of stenosed or occluded
vessels. These stents are typically delivered in a compressed state
to a specific location inside the lumen of a vessel or other
tubular structures, and then deployed at that location of the lumen
to an expanded state. These stents have a diameter in their
expanded state which is several times larger than the diameter of
the stents in the compressed state. These stents are also
frequently deployed in the treatment of atherosclerotic stenosis in
blood vessels, especially after percutaneous transluminal coronary
angioplasty (PTCA) procedures, to improve the results of the
procedure and to reduce the likelihood of restenosis.
[0005] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,733,303 (Israel et al.) and 5,827,321
(Roubin et al.) describe the problems associated with the
foreshortening of intraluminal stents when such stents are
expanded. In addition, U.S. Pat. No. 5,733,303 (Israel et al.)
describes stents that have struts whose longitudinal length
decreases when the stent expands, thereby causing the overall
longitudinal length of the stent to foreshorten. These struts are
connected by flexible connecting members, each having an area of
inflection that functions to compensate for the foreshortening
experienced by the struts during expansion of the stent.
[0006] Unfortunately, there are certain drawbacks associated with
providing flexible connecting members that have areas of
inflection. First, to accommodate the areas of inflection, these
connecting members often create segments within the stent where the
aperture or opening defined by these connecting members have a
large size. Such increased aperture size may allow increased
ingrowth of tissue (also known as "in-stent restenosis"). Second,
curved areas of inflection on these connecting members may cause
distortion of the lumen of the stent when the stent is twisted or
experiences angulation in the longitudinal direction. Third, the
connecting members form an area of weakness in the stent structure
which may encourage kink of the stent at the site with flexion or
angulation, or which in extreme circumstances may lead to stent
breakage after experiencing repetitive stress. In other words, the
provision of the connecting members decreases the amount of support
that the stent can enjoy.
[0007] Thus, there still remains a need for an intraluminal
prosthesis that maintains a consistent length in both its fully
compressed and fully expanded states, while avoiding the
disadvantages set forth above. There also remains a need for a
stent which can accommodate body vessels having varying lumen
diameters, different anatomies, and different disease states.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an
intraluminal prosthesis that maintains a consistent length in both
its fully compressed and fully expanded states.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
intraluminal prosthesis that provides increased support throughout
the prosthesis while minimizing the potential for stent kink or
breakage at certain regions along the stent.
[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an intraluminal prosthesis that minimizes the potential for
in-stent restenosis.
[0011] In order to accomplish the objects of the present invention,
there is provided a stent having a plurality of cells disposed
about the circumference of the stent, with at least one cell having
a plurality of struts that are connected together to form the cell.
At least one strut has a portion that compensates for
foreshortening of the struts during expansion of the stent.
[0012] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a
stent having a plurality of cells disposed about the circumference
of the stent, with at least one cell having a plurality of
double-struts that are connected together to form the cell.
[0013] Thus, the stent according to the present invention maintains
a consistent length in both its fully compressed and fully expanded
states, and in all states between its fully compressed and fully
expanded states. As a result, the stent according to the present
invention facilitates accurate sizing and deployment, thereby
simplifying, and possibly reducing the time needed for, the medical
procedure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stent according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2A is a side elevational view of a portion of the stent
of FIG. 1 in its expanded state;
[0016] FIG. 2B is a side elevational view of the portion of FIG. 2A
in its compressed state;
[0017] FIG. 3A is an enlarged side elevational view of a cell of
the portion of FIG. 2A;
[0018] FIG. 3B illustrates the longitudinal component of a strut
and its compensating portion of FIG. 3A when the stent is in its
expanded state;
[0019] FIG. 3C illustrates the longitudinal component of a strut
and its compensating portion of FIG. 3A when the stent is in its
compressed state;
[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates a modification to the cell pattern of the
stent of FIGS. 1 and 2A;
[0021] FIG. 5 is an enlarged side elevational view of a cell of
portion of a stent according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 6A is a side elevational view of a portion of a stent
according to another embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 6B is a side elevational view of the portion of FIG. 6A
in its compressed state;
[0024] FIG. 6C illustrates the longitudinal component of a strut
and its compensating portion of FIG. 6A when the stent is in its
expanded state;
[0025] FIG. 6D illustrates the longitudinal component of a strut
and its compensating portion of FIG. 6A when the stent is in its
compressed state;
[0026] FIGS. 7-9 are side elevational views of portions of stents
according to other embodiments of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 10 is an enlarged side elevational view of a cell of
portion of a stent according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0028] FIGS. 11-14 are side elevational views of portions of stents
according to other embodiments of the present invention; and
[0029] FIG. 15A is a side elevational view of a portions of a stent
according to another embodiments of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 15B is a side elevational view of the portion of FIG.
15A in its compressed state; and
[0031] FIGS. 16-18 illustrate modifications to the cell pattern of
the stent of FIG. 15.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0032] The following detailed description is of the best presently
contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description
is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the
purpose of illustrating general principles of embodiments of the
invention. The scope of the invention is best defined by the
appended claims.
[0033] The intraluminal prosthesis according to the present
invention is a stent, although the principles of the present
invention are also applicable to other prosthesis such as liners
and filters. The stent is delivered to a desired location in the
lumen of a body vessel in a compressed state, and is then deployed
by expanding it to its expanded state. The stent maintains
substantially the same length in both its fully compressed and
fully expanded states.
[0034] The stent according to the present invention can be a
self-expanding stent, or a stent that is radially expandable by
inflating a balloon or expanded by an expansion member, or a stent
that is expanded by the use of radio frequency which provides heat
to cause the stent to change its size. The stent may also be coated
with coverings of PTFE, dacron, or other biocompatible materials to
form a combined stent-graft or endovascular prosthesis. The vessels
in which the stent of the present invention can be deployed include
but are not limited to natural body vessels such as ducts,
arteries, trachea, veins, ureters and the esophagus, and artificial
vessels such as grafts.
[0035] A stent 20 according to the present invention is illustrated
in FIGS. 1, 2A and 3A in its expanded state. Referring to FIG. 1,
the stent 20 has a tubular configuration and is made up of a
plurality of cells that are comprised of generally V-shaped struts
connected at their apices. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a portion of
the stent 20 in greater detail, and FIG. 3A illustrates one cell
22. Each cell 22 has a first strut 24 having a first end 26 and a
second end 28, a second strut 30 having a first end 32 and a second
end 34, a third strut 36 having a first end 38 and a second end 40,
and a fourth strut 42 having a first end 44 and a second end 46.
The first ends 26 and 32 of the first and second struts 24 and 30,
respectively, are connected at a first apex 48, and the first ends
38 and 44 of the third and fourth struts 36 and 42, respectively,
are connected at a second apex 50. The second ends 28 and 40 of the
first and third struts 24 and 36, respectively, are connected to
form a third apex 52, and the second ends 34 and 46 of the second
and fourth struts 30 and 42, respectively, are connected to form a
fourth apex 54, so that the four struts 24, 30, 36 and 42 together
form an aperture or open space 56.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 2A, the first apex 48 of each cell 22 is
connected to the second apex 50 of a longitudinally adjacent cell
22, and the third apex 52 of each cell 22 is connected to the
fourth apex 54 of a transversely adjacent cell 22. For purposes of
the present invention, cells 22 can be provided in longitudinal
rows and transverse columns. Therefore, the first and second apices
48 and 50 of adjacent cells 22 are connected to form a row R of
cells 22, while the third and fourth apices 52 and 54 of adjacent
cells 22 are connected to form a column C of cells 22.
[0037] The struts 24, 30, 36 and 42 would normally experience
foreshortening when the stent 20 is expanded. Therefore, any of the
struts 24, 30, 36 and 42 can be provided with a compensating
portion 60 that functions to compensate for the foreshortening
experienced by the struts 24, 30, 36 and 42 during expansion of the
stent 20. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 3A, each compensating
portion 60 has at least one point of inflection. In the
non-limiting example shown in FIG. 3A, the compensating portion 60
has three points of inflection 62 and 64 that are inflected in
directions opposite to each other. One point of inflection 62 can
be considered to be an external point of inflection since it
extends outside the confines of the cell 22 as defined by the
struts 24, 30, 36 and 42. Similarly, each of the other two points
of inflection 64 can be considered to be an internal point of
inflection since it extends into the aperture 56. Each compensating
portion 60 can be provided along any portion of the strut 36 and
42, and slopes downwardly from one end of the strut 36 and 42 to an
internal point of inflection 64, at which point it slopes upwardly
to the external point of inflection 62, then slopes downwardly to
the other internal point of inflection 64, before sloping upwardly
again towards the other end of the strut 36 or 42. Thus, each
compensating portion 60 has a plurality of alternating segments
that are defined by the points of inflection 62 and 64.
[0038] As best shown in FIG. 2A, the pattern of cells 22 can define
a second pattern of cells 22x that have about the same
configuration as the cells 22, but reversed about a vertical axis
defined by apices 52 and 54 to form a substantial mirror image of
the cells 22. Each of the second cells 22x is defined by a separate
strut from four separate cells 22. Like the cells 22, these second
cells 22x are also arranged to form rows and columns of cells
22x.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 2B, when the stent 20 is in the compressed
state, the internal points of inflection 64 are adjacent to each
other. However, it is possible to position the compensating
portions 60 along the third and fourth struts 36 and 42 so that the
points of inflection 62, 64 can be nested within each other when
the stent 20 is compressed. In such a case, when the stent 20 is
compressed, an internal point of inflection 64 of the third strut
36 can be nested or fitted inside the space defined by an external
point of inflection 62 of the fourth strut 42, and an internal
point of inflection 64 of the fourth strut 42 can nested or fitted
inside the space defined by an external point of inflection 62 of
the third strut 36.
[0040] As another example, it is possible to also provide the
compensating portions 60 for the first and second struts 24 and 30,
in addition to or in lieu of the compensating portions 60 for the
third and fourth struts 36 and 42. For example, FIG. 10 illustrates
a cell 22 where each strut 24, 30, 36 and 42 has a compensating
portion 60.
[0041] The compensating portions 60 function to compensate for the
longitudinal foreshortening experienced by the struts 24, 30, 36,
42, thereby maintaining the stent 20 at substantially the same
length at all times. This is accomplished by providing the
compensating portions 60 with a natural bias and a springy nature,
which together with its alternating segments, combine to shorten
its length l.sub.1 (see FIG. 3B) when compressed (i.e., 1.sub.2 in
FIG. 3C is less than l.sub.1). When allowed to expand, each
compensating portion 60 is biased to return to its natural or
original position, which increases its length from l.sub.2 to
l.sub.1 to compensate for the foreshortening experienced by the
longitudinal component of each strut 24, 30, 36, 42.
[0042] This effect is illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B and 3C.
When the stent 20 is in its compressed state, the compensating
portion 60 has an actual length which is less than its actual
length when the compensating portion 60 is in its expanded state.
When the compensating portion 60 is in the compressed state, its
alternating segments have a higher amplitude and a smaller
wavelength than when it is in the expanded state (compare FIGS. 3B
and 3C). Thus, this difference between the actual lengths of the
compensating portion 60 in its two compressed and expanded states
compensates for the difference between l.sub.1 and l.sub.2 of the
struts 36 and 42, so that the longitudinal lengths L.sub.1 and
L.sub.2 of the strut (e.g., 36) are the same in both the compressed
and expanded states. The lines 70 and 72 in FIGS. 2A and 2B also
show that the relevant portion of the stent 20 does not experience
any foreshortening.
[0043] FIG. 4 illustrates a modification to the cell pattern for
stent 20 shown in FIG. 2A. In particular, the cell pattern 20a in
FIG. 4 provides a plurality of straight connecting members 80 that
connect the first and second apices 48 and 50, respectively, of
adjacent cells 22 in a longitudinal row R. These straight
connecting members 80 can increase the flexibility of the stent,
primarily in the longitudinal direction, but also to a small degree
in the radial direction. In addition, one or more of these straight
connecting members 80 can be omitted, either randomly or in a
pattern (e.g., in a spiral pattern) to increase the flexibility of
the stent at desired locations.
[0044] Although the compensating portions 60 have been described in
FIGS. 1-3 as assuming a particular configuration, it will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that the compensating
portions 60 can assume other configurations without departing from
the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the
compensating portion 60 can be modified so that each has two points
of inflection. This is illustrated in FIG. 5, where the third strut
36 has a compensating portion 60a that has one external point of
inflection 62a and one internal point of inflection 64a, and the
fourth strut 42 has a compensating portion 60a that has one
external point of inflection 62a and one internal point of
inflection 64a.
[0045] FIGS. 6-9 illustrate another type of compensating portion 90
according to the present invention which is configured to be a
generally incomplete or C-shaped circle provided at one or more
apices of the cells. For example, referring to FIG. 6A, each cell
22b is essentially the same as cell 22 in FIG. 3A, except that the
compensating portions 60 have been replaced by compensating
portions 90b that are provided at the location of the first and
second apices 48 and 50 in such a manner that the first and second
apices 48 and 50 are replaced by these compensating portions 90b.
Each compensating portion 90b has a generally incomplete circular
or C-shaped configuration, extending from the first end 26b, 32b,
38b or 44b of one of the struts 24b, 32b, 36b or 42b, respectively,
then curling around in a circular fashion to the first end 26b,
32b, 38b or 44b of the adjacent strut 24b, 32b, 36b or 42b,
respectively. The elements of the cell 22b that are the same as the
elements of the cell 22 in FIG. 3A are provided with the same
numeral designations except that a "b" has been added to the
numeral designations in FIG. 6A.
[0046] Each compensating portion 90b of each cell 22b is
longitudinally (i.e., along a row) connected to a compensating
portion 90b of an adjacent cell 22b by a straight connecting member
80b. The compensating portions 90b function in the same manner as
the compensating portions 60 to compensate for the longitudinal
foreshortening experienced by the struts 24b, 30b, 36b, 42b. In
this regard, the generally circular curved configuration of the
compensating portions 90b has one area of inflection 95 so that
each compensating portion 90b has a shortened longitudinal length
L2 when compressed, but has an increased longitudinal length L1
when allowed to expand so as to compensate for the foreshortening
experienced by the longitudinal component of each strut 24b, 30b,
36b, 42b. This effect is illustrated in FIGS. 6B, 6C and 6D.
[0047] FIG. 7 illustrates a stent pattern in which each cell 22c is
essentially the same as cell 22b in FIG. 6A, except that the
compensating portions 90c are now provided at the third and fourth
apices 52 and 54, respectively, in such a manner that the third and
fourth apices 52 and 54 are replaced by these compensating portions
90c. Each compensating portion 90c has the same configuration as
compensating portion 90b. The elements of the cell 22c that are the
same as the elements of the cell 22b in FIG. 6A are provided with
the same numeral designations except that a "c" has been added to
the numeral designations in FIG. 7. Each compensating portion 90c
of each cell 22c can be transversely (i.e., along a column)
connected to a compensating portion 90c of an adjacent cell 22c by
a straight connecting member 80c.
[0048] The principles illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 7 can be
combined. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates a stent pattern in which
each cell 22d has compensating portions 90d provided at all four
apieces 48, 50, 52 and 54, in such a manner that each of the four
apieces 48, 50, 52 and 54 is replaced by a compensating portion
90d. Each compensating portion 90d of each cell 22d can be either
longitudinally or transversely connected to a compensating portion
90d of an adjacent cell 22d by a straight connecting member 80d.
The elements of the cell 22d that are the same as the elements of
the cells 22b and 22c are provided with the same numeral
designations except that a "d" has been added to the numeral
designations in FIG. 8.
[0049] In addition, FIG. 9 illustrates a stent pattern which is the
same as the stent pattern in FIG. 8, except that the connecting
members 80d are omitted. Thus, each compensating portion 90e of
each cell 22e in FIG. 9 is directly connected, either
longitudinally or transversely, to a compensating portion 90e of an
adjacent cell 22e. The elements of the cell 22e that are the same
as the elements of the cell 22d are provided with the same numeral
designations except that an "e" has been added to the numeral
designations in FIG. 9.
[0050] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate different types of compensating
portions according to the present invention that embody the
underlying principles described in connection with FIGS. 6-9. In
FIG. 11, each cell 22g shares a compensating portion 90g with each
longitudinally adjacent cell 22g. In particular, each compensating
portion 90g is shaped like a sideway "S", with the top of the "S"
coupled to a first cell 22g at the location of (and replacing) the
first apex 48, and with the bottom of the "S" coupled to a
longitudinally adjacent second cell 22g at the location of (and
replacing) the second apex 50 of the second cell 22g. Thus, the
sideway "S" shape of each compensating portion 90g defines two
areas of inflection 100 and 102 that function to provide the
compensation needed to avoid foreshortening according to the
principles set forth in FIGS. 2-9 above. Otherwise, the elements of
the cell 22g in FIG. 11 that are the same as the elements of the
cell 22 in FIG. 3A are provided with the same numeral designations
except that a "g" has been added to the numeral designations in
FIG. 11.
[0051] Similarly, in FIG. 12, each cell 22h shares a compensating
portion 90h with each longitudinally adjacent cell 22h. In
particular, each compensating portion 90h is configured like the
compensating portion 90b in FIG. 6, except that a first end 106 of
the compensating portion 90h is connected to the first end 44h of
the fourth strut 42h of a first cell 22h, with the compensating
portion 90h curling around in a circular fashion to its second end
108, which is connected to the first end 32h of the second strut
30h of a longitudinally adjacent second cell 22h. The first end 38h
of the third strut 36h of the first cell 22h is connected to the
compensating portion 90h between the first and second ends 106 and
108 thereof, and the first end 26h of the first strut 24h of the
second cell 22h is connected to the compensating portion 90h
between the second end 108 and the first end 38h of the third strut
36h of the first cell 22h. Thus, the compensating portion 90h
defines one area of inflection 110 between two longitudinally
adjacent cells 22h that functions to provide the compensation
needed to avoid foreshortening according to the principles set
forth in FIGS. 2-9 above. Otherwise, the elements of the cell 22h
in FIG. 12 that are the same as the elements of the cell 22 in FIG.
3A are provided with the same numeral designations except that an
"h" has been added to the numeral designations in FIG. 12.
[0052] It is not necessary that the struts 24, 30, 36, 42 be
straight. In this regard, the present invention provides cells
having curved struts that provide at least one area of inflection
to provide the compensation needed to avoid foreshortening
according to the principles set forth in FIGS. 2-10 above. As a
non-limiting example, FIG. 13 illustrates a stent pattern in which
the cells 22i are essentially the same as the cell 22 in FIG. 3A,
except that each strut 24i, 30i, 36i and 42i is now completely
curved. Otherwise, the elements of the cell 22i in FIG. 13 that are
the same as the elements of the cell 22 in FIG. 3A are provided
with the same numeral designations except that an "i" has been
added to the numeral designations in FIG. 13.
[0053] The cells 22j in the stent pattern in FIG. 14 borrow from
the principles illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 13. Each strut in the
cells 22j are made up of two strut pieces that have their
respective ends connected at the apices 48j, 50j, 52j and 54j. In
particular, the first strut 24j has an accompanying inner strut
piece 24k whose ends are also connected to the apices 48j and 52j,
the second strut 30j has an accompanying inner strut piece 30k
whose ends are also connected to the apices 48j and 54j, the third
strut 36j has an accompanying inner strut piece 36k whose ends are
also connected to the apices 50j and 52j, and the fourth strut 42j
has an accompanying inner strut piece 42k whose ends are also
connected to the apices 50j and 54j. Each strut 24j, 30j, 36j, 42j
and its accompanying inner strut piece 24k, 30k, 36k, 42k defines a
smaller cell 120, 122, 124, 126, respectively. In this embodiment,
the inner strut pieces 24k, 30k, 36k, 42k are shorter than each
corresponding strut 24j, 30j, 36j, 42j.
[0054] Providing double struts to make up the desired cells 22j can
provide certain benefits. First, the double-strut structure may
increase the strength of the stent by providing radial and
longitudinal resistance to compression and other changes in shape.
Second, the resulting stent may have an increased expansion ratio.
Third, the double-strut structure may reduce the tendency of the
stent to recoil. Fourth, the resulting stent may have increased
stent coverage and cells that have smaller sizes, thereby
minimizing tissue in-growth. The double-strut embodiment of FIG. 14
can be especially useful in applications where the prosthesis
requires increased support throughout the prosthesis while
minimizing the potential for stent kink or breakage at certain
regions along the stent.
[0055] FIG. 15A illustrates a stent 20m in which the cells 22m are
essentially the same as the cell 22i in FIG. 13, except that each
strut 24m, 30m, 36m and 42m has less curvature. In fact, each strut
24m, 30m, 36m and 42m has one internal point of inflection 64m and
one external point of inflection 62m. Otherwise, the elements of
the cell 22m in FIG. 15 that are the same as the elements of the
cell 22i in FIG. 13 are provided with the same numeral designations
except that an "m" has been added to the numeral designations in
FIG. 15. Similar to FIG. 2A, the pattern of cells 22m can define a
second pattern of cells 22y that have about the same configuration
as the cells 22m, but reversed about a horizontal axis defined by
the apices 48m and 50m. Like the cells 22m, these second cells 22y
are also arranged to form rows and columns of cells 22y. Each of
the second cells 22y is defined by a separate strut from four
separate cells 22m. FIG. 15B illustrates the stent 20m in the
compressed state. One difference between the cell 22m and the other
cells 22 herein is that the apex 54m in each cell 22m is inverted
internally into the cell 22m, as opposed to extending externally
from the cell 22m.
[0056] While the embodiments illustrated hereinabove illustrate
stent patterns that are made up entirely of cells 22 that have
compensating portions 60, it is also possible to intersperse cells
that do not have any compensating portions 60. These principles
will be illustrated in FIGS. 16-18 using the cell pattern 22m of
FIG. 15. Referring first to FIG. 16, a stent 20m is illustrated as
having a central portion 150 made up of a plurality of conventional
zig-zag struts that do not have any compensating portions, and
which form diamond-shaped cells 152. The two ends of the stent 20m
is made up of the cell pattern 22m illustrated in FIG. 15. This
configuration provides more rigidity in the central portion 150,
and is better suited for use, for example, in the carotid arteries
where more calcified lesions can be found at about the central
portion 150, and where there is more potential for embolization in
the central portion 150. This is because the diamond-shaped cells
152 are better suited to minimize embolization and prevent tissue
in-growth.
[0057] FIG. 17 illustrates a stent 20n having a first portion 154
made up of a plurality of conventional zig-zag struts that do not
have any compensating portions, and which form diamond-shaped cells
152, and a second portion 156 that is made up of the cell pattern
22m illustrated in FIG. 15. The first portion 154 can be used to
support a body vessel at a location that requires more rigidity,
and the second portion 156 can be used to support a body vessel at
a location that requires more flexibility. This configuration is
better suited for use, for example, in the iliac arteries where the
origin of the iliac arteries might have more calcified lesions
where the first portion 154 would be intended to support.
[0058] FIG. 18 illustrates a stent 20p having rows 158 of cells 22m
separated by one or more rows of the diamond-shaped cells 152. The
rows 158 can be individual rows of cells 22m, or a plurality of
rows of cells 22m. This configuration is useful in distributing the
radial strength of the stent 20p while allowing for
nonforeshortening and increased flexion at the desired locations
(i.e., supported by the cells 22m). This configuration is best
suited for use, for example, with curved vessels such as external
iliac arteries.
[0059] A number of materials can be used to fabricate the stent 20
(including its struts 24, 30, 36, 42 and connecting members 80),
depending on its method of deployment. These materials include, but
are not limited to, Nitinol (which is a shape memory superelastic
metal alloy whose use in stents is well-documented in the
literature), stainless steel, tantalum, titanium, elgiloy, gold,
platinum, or any other metal or alloy, or polymers or composites,
having sufficient biocompatibility, rigidity, flexibility, radial
strength, radiopacity and antithrombogenicity.
[0060] The stent 20 can be made from one of a number of methods,
depending on the material of the stent 20 and the desired nature of
deployment.
[0061] In a non-limiting first preferred method, the stent 20 is
fabricated from a solid Nitinol tube with dimensions that are
identical to the stent 20 when it is in the fully compressed state.
The pattern of the stent 20 (i.e., its cells 22) is programmed into
a computer-guided laser cutter which cuts out the segments between
the struts and the connecting members (if any) in a manner which
closely maintains the outside diameter and wall thickness of the
stent 20.
[0062] After the cutting step, the stent 20 is progressively
expanded until it reaches its fully expanded state. The expansion
can be performed by an internal expansion fixture, although other
expansion apparatus and methods can be used without departing from
the spirit and scope of the present invention. The overall length
of the stent 20 must be consistently maintained throughout the
expansion of the stent 20 from its fully compressed to its fully
expanded states.
[0063] Once the stent 20 has been expanded to its fully expanded
state, it is heat-treated to "set" the shape memory of the Nitinol
material so that it will fully return to its expanded dimensions at
a temperature that is near body temperature. The stent 20 is then
cleaned and electro-polished.
[0064] The next step is to compress the stent 20 again into a
dimension which allows for delivery into a vessel, either through
percutaneous delivery or through minimally invasive surgical
procedures. Specifically, the stent 20 must be compressed into a
smaller state so that it can be delivered by a delivery device to
the desired location of the vessel. Any conventional delivery
device could be used, such as but not limited to a tube, catheter,
or sheath. This compression is accomplished by cooling the stent 20
to a low temperature, for example, zero degrees Celcius, and while
maintaining this temperature, compressing the stent 20 to allow the
stent 20 to be inserted inside the delivery device. Once inserted
inside the delivery device, the stent 20 is held by the delivery
device in the compressed state until it is released within the
lumen of a vessel, at which time the stent will fully re-expand to
its "set" dimensions as it equilibrates with body temperature.
[0065] In a non-limiting second preferred method, a
balloon-expandable stent 20 can be fabricated by connecting a
plurality of wires that have been bent or formed into the desired
shapes for the struts 24, 30, 36, 42 and connecting members 80. The
connection can be accomplished by welding, tying, bonding, or any
other conventional method. Alternatively, wire electro-discharge
machining or a computer guided laser cutter can be used. The wires
are capable of experiencing plastic deformation when the stent 20
is compressed, and when the stent 20 is expanded. Upon plastic
deformation of the stent 20 to either the compressed or the
expanded state, the stent 20 remains in this state until another
force is applied to plastically deform the stent 20 again.
[0066] While certain methods of manufacture have been described
above, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
other methods of manufacture can be utilized without departing from
the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0067] The stent 20 can be deployed by a number of delivery systems
and delivery methods. These delivery systems and methods will vary
depending on whether the stent 20 is expanded by self-expansion,
radial expansion forces, or radio frequency. These delivery methods
are well-known in the art, and shall not be described in greater
detail herein.
[0068] Thus, the present invention provides a stent having struts
that include portions that compensate for the foreshortening
effect. As a result, connecting members can be omitted from the
stent designs according to the present invention, leading to at
least the following benefits. First, cell sizes can be decreased so
as to minimize "in-stent restenosis", and to provide better support
to the vessel. Second, the stent can be provided with a more
uniform structure that distributes any angulation or flexion of the
stent more evenly along the full length of the stent, so that the
stent can experience a more gradual curvature at bends rather than
experiencing undesirable kinking at such regions. This further
minimizes breakage or other damage to the stent. Of course,
connecting members can be optionally added to increase the
flexibility of the stent at certain desired areas.
[0069] While the description above refers to particular embodiments
of the present invention, it will be understood that many
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit
thereof. The accompanying claims are intended to cover such
modifications as would fall within the true scope and spirit of the
present invention.
* * * * *