APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONDUITS AND MATERIALS

摘要

The present invention provides apparatus and methods for a conduit, such as an implantable conduit for a vessel. The conduit may comprise a main member and a side-branch member. The conduit may be implanted with the side-branch member initially disposed within the main member. When positioned, the side-branch member may then be extended from within the main member and into a vessel side-branch. The materials for the conduit may include circumferentially distensible and/or low recoil materials. The materials for the conduit may be constructed by various techniques and may include materials with enhanced flexibility and kink resistance.

主权项

1. A method of making a tubular member for use in a prosthetic conduit, the method comprising:
wrapping a piece of polyethylene film around the circumference of a mandrel with at least an overlap to result in a wrapped film having one or more layers; securing the wrapped film to the mandrel such that the one or more layers contact each other; and bonding the one or more layers of the wrapped film together at a temperature and time such that the tubular member is formed.