RADIOACTIVE GRAFT OR CUFF

摘要

Radioactive grafts or cuffs are made by incorporating radioactive elements into a pliable material such as ePTFE. The radioactive grafts or cuffs are placed into the body to prevent the proliferation of malignant cells. For example, a graft or cuff may be used in an occluded lumen after it has been opened to prevent subsequent restenosis. While the grafts are used primarily for implantation inside a body lumen, the cuffs can be used in a variety of locations including being wrapped around the outside of an affected vessel. Some embodiments of the present invention incorporate radioactive seeds into ePTFE grafts. The radioisotopes comprising the seeds are chosen according to their radioactive properties and are mixed with the PTFE prior to extrusion. Following extrusion, the PTFE is expanded and sintered to yield a final product.