STENT SEALS AND METHODS FOR SEALING AN EXPANDABLE STENT

摘要

Embodiments of the present disclosure are related to devices and techniques for para-valve sealing of an expandable stent-valve (10) implanted using a catheter. In some embodiments, a stent-valve is provided which comprises a seal cuff (40) containing material that swells when contacted by blood. A piercing tool may be included and used to permit a user to puncture the cuff prior to introduction into a patient's body. In some embodiments, the cuff has an integral tubular structure configured to withstand balloon expansion of the stent-valve during or after implantation. The swellable material may be exposed to liquid prior to introduction into the patient's body.

主权项

1. A stent-valve delivery system comprising:
a delivery catheter loaded with a stent-valve, the stent-valve including a seal comprising swellable material that swells when contacted by liquid, and the delivery catheter comprising a containment sheath encompassing at least a portion of the stent-valve at which the seal is located, wherein
the containment sheath is at least partly filled with liquid,the swellable material is exposed at least partly to the liquid, andthe containment sheath at least partially expansion and/or outward swelling of the seal.