A stent comprises a lattice of interconnecting elements defining a substantially cylindrical configuration having a first open end and a second open end. The lattice has a locked configuration and an open configuration. The stent also comprises a plurality of bridges connecting the interconnecting elements wherein each bridge interlocks with an adjacent bridge in the locked configuration and each bridge separates from the adjacent bridge in the open configuration. A second embodiment for the stent also comprises a lattice of interconnecting elements including a plurality of struts wherein each strut interlocks with an adjacent strut in the locked configuration and each strut separates from the adjacent strut in the open configuration.