Endoprosthesis with predetermined curvature formed by tri-tethers

Abstract

Described are various embodiments of an improved endoprosthesis that includes a generally tubular graft, a plurality of independent stent hoops connected to the graft and at least one suture. The at least one suture connects one apex of one stent hoop to two apices of another stent hoop to reduce a predetermined distance between distinct stent hoops so that in a released configuration in a body vessel, the stent-graft is curved away from the longitudinal axis to conform to the body vessel and reduce formation of a gap between one end of the stent-graft with an inner surface of the body vessel.

Description

Background technique [0001] An aneurysm is an abnormal dilation of one or more layers of the arterial wall, usually caused by hardening of the arterial wall due to high blood pressure or a structural defect resulting from other systemic defects such as aortic dissection. In the aorta that leads to the heart, a thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) can occur when the arterial wall of the thoracic aorta becomes weakened due to the pressure of blood pumped by the heart. On a chest x-ray or ultrasound, a TAA usually appears as a large swelling or bulge. When left untreated, an aneurysm can rupture, often causing a rapidly fatal hemorrhage. [0002] As in the case of abdominal aortic aneurysms, the widely accepted method of treating aneurysms in the thoracic aorta is surgical repair, which involves replacing the aneurysmal segment with a prosthetic device. As mentioned above, this surgery is a major undertaking with associated high risks and a considerable mortality and morbidity. [0...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

A plurality of stent hoops are attached to the graft to define a stent graft

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