Devices for creating vascular grafts by vessel distension using rotatable elements
US6641576B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 27, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 4, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S623/903
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Devices and methods are provided for forming a vascular graft by axially distending a blood vessel to induce growth. The device preferably comprises a stretching mechanism which includes (i) a stabilization rod, (ii) a pair of rotatable elements, wherein each rotatable element is rotatably attached to the elongated body and has a channel substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and (iii) a means for rotating each rotatable element to axially distend a blood vessel positioned in the channels of the rotatable elements. The elements can be rotated intermittently, cyclically, or continuously, over a period to distend or elongate the donor vessel. Preferably, the device is implanted, for example using endoscopic techniques, for use in vivo, although the device also can be used in vitro.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.