Patent ID: 6827731
Filing Date: 2004-12-07
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
An endoprosthesis assembly comprising an implantable endoprosthesis capable of being diametrically expanded from a smaller diameter to a larger diameter; and a generally tubular, delicate constraining sheath provided coaxially around the endoprosthesis at the smaller diameter of the endoprosthesis, said constraining sheath being provided with means for disruption initiated by application of a distending force to the constraining sheath, wherein said assembly is contained within a packaging sheath which is not required to be implantable, and wherein the delicate constraining sheath, in the absence of the packaging sheath, either at least partially disrupts or allows an increase in a maximum diameter of the endoprosthesis assembly of at least 0.15 mm, when exposed to a temperature of at least 60Â° C. for a time of at least 21 hours and less than or equal to 60 days.