Abstract:
Methods of stabilizing the molecular weight of polymer stents scaffolds after E-beam sterilization are disclosed. The molecular weight of the polymer of the irradiated scaffolds is stabilized through exposure to gas containing oxygen.
Abstract:
Methods of controlling the degradation profile of a biodegradable stent scaffolding are disclosed. Disclosed methods include controlling features of the degradation profile including the time to loss of radial strength and the degradation time of the stent.
Abstract:
Implants for treating insufficient blood flow to a heart muscle with transmyocardial revascularization are disclosed. Methods of treating insufficient blood flow to a heart muscle with the implant are also disclosed. The implant can have a body with an inner lumen that supports a channel in the heart muscle to allow for increased blood flow through the lumen upon implantation. The implant can include active agents to prevent or inhibit thrombotic closure of the channel, to promote vascularization, or both.
Abstract:
A medical device implantable within a peripheral vessel of the body composed of a bioresorbable polymer is disclosed. The device has a high resistance to fracture, is very flexible, and has a high crush recovery when subjected to crushing, axial, or torsional forces.
Abstract:
A balloon is inflated from a collapsed configuration, then deflated. A polymeric stem is then disposed over the deflated balloon and the stent crimped to the balloon.
Abstract:
A stent scaffolding including a polymer formulation comprising PLLA and polymandelide is disclosed. The polymandelide reduces the molecular weight drop during processing, particularly during sterilization. The stent scaffolding can further include one or more additional stabilizing agents that additionally reduce the molecular weight drop during processing.
Abstract:
Methods of fabricating an implantable medical devices such as stents made from biodegradable polymers are disclosed that reduce or minimize chain scission and monomer generation during processing steps. The method includes processing a poly(L-lactide) resin having an number average molecular weight between 150 to 200 kD in an extruder in a molten state. A poly(L-lactide) tube is formed from the processed resin and a stent is fabricated from the tube. The number average molecular weight of the poly(L-lactide) of the stent after sterilization is 70 to 100 kD.
Abstract:
Methods of treating with a biodegradable polymeric stent made from poly(L-lactide) and a low concentration of L-lactide monomer is disclosed. The concentration of L-lactide is adjusted to provide a degradation behavior that is suitable for different treatment applications including coronary, peripheral, and nasal.
Abstract:
A medical device-includes a polymer stent crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The stent is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes heating the stent to a temperature below the polymer's glass transition temperature to improve stent retention without adversely affecting the mechanical characteristics of the stent when later deployed to support a body lumen.