DIMPLE FORMING PROCESS FOR STENT DEPLOYMENT BALLOON

摘要

A method for constructing stent retention features on a pre-formed stent deployment balloon includes folding the pre-formed balloon into a folded configuration for subsequently retaining an undeployed stent. The balloon is then inserted in the folded configuration into at least one sheath defining a pattern of openings. The balloon is then heated and pressurized to force exterior portions of the balloon into the openings and thereby form protruding stent retention features as part of the balloon. A stent may then crimped around the balloon in the folded configuration.