ENDOPROSTHESIS STENT/GRAFT DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM

摘要

A deployment system (10) for transcutaneous insertion of an implantable tubular prosthesis (30) is provided. The deployment system includes a flexible, elongated, tubular, delivery catheter (20) with at least one inner lumen (26a), and an opening (24) extending through the catheter to the inner lumen (26a). Positioned over the catheter (20) is an implantable endoprosthesis (30) capable of radial expansion and having a proximal (35) and a distal end extent (33). A support assembly (44, 48) removably maintains the endoprosthesis (30) in a compressed state, and is located at a position adjacent the catheter opening (24). The support assembly (44, 48) includes an arm (46) which extends through the catheter opening (24) into the inner lumen (26a). A release mechanism (16) is insertable through the inner lumen (26a) and includes a distal tip (13) engageable with the arm (46) of the support assembly (44, 48). The release mechanism (16) is manipulatable within the inner lumen (26a) so as to remove the support assembly (44, 48) from the endoprosthesis (30), permitting radial expansion of the endoprosthesis (30) for implantation.