Intralumenally-implantable frames

摘要

Implantable frames for use in body passages are provided herein. The implantable frames can include a plurality of hoop members joined by a plurality of longitudinal connecting members to form a tubular frame defining a cylindrical lumen. The plurality of longitudinal connecting members may include first and second longitudinal connecting members joining a first hoop member to a second hoop member such that the first and second longitudinal connecting members extend across an entire space separating the first and second hoop members.

主权项

1. An implantable frame defining a lumen extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, the implantable frame moveable between a compressed state and an expanded state and comprising:
a proximal hoop member; a distal hoop member; one or more additional hoop members positioned between the proximal and distal hoop members along said longitudinal axis; each hoop member comprising a plurality of interconnected struts and bends arranged in an undulating shape; wherein each hoop member of the one or more additional hoop members is connected to a longitudinally adjacent hoop member by an array of longitudinal connecting members arranged in pairs of closely-spaced longitudinal connecting members; wherein a first pair of closely-spaced longitudinal connecting members extends from a first bend of a first hoop member toward a first bend of a second hoop member; and wherein a second pair of closely-spaced longitudinal connecting members extends from the first bend of the second hoop member toward a first bend of a third hoop member.