Polymer-coated stent structure

摘要

The thickness of a polymer coating applied to the interior surface of a stent (12) precisely is controlled by fitting a mandrel (14 and 15, 26) within its interior. Fitment of an exterior mold (20) serves to additionally control the thickness of polymer on the exterior surface of the stent. Alternatively, a pre-formed sheath of polymer is fitted to the interior of the stent, whereby the subsequent application of polymer not only causes the exterior to become coated but also causes the sheath to become adhered to the stent.