RIBBON-TYPE VASCULAR PROSTHESIS HAVING STRESS-RELIEVING ARTICULATION AND METHODS OF USE

摘要

A vascular prosthesis is provided having a self-expanding radial distal section joined to a ribbon-type helical section by a stress-relieving articulation. The stress-relieving articulation preferably comprises first and second connection members, each having a hinge and interconnected between the distal and helical sections, proximal ends of the first and second connection members also interconnected by a hinge, so that the articulation permits relatively independent rotation and compression of the distal and helical sections.