Patent ID: 6576008
Filing Date: 2003-06-10
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
A method of placing a prosthesis into an anatomical tract that passes through an anatomical constricting structure, the prosthesis comprising a first segment, a second segment and a connection structure that flexibly connects the first and second segments, the prosthesis mounted on an insertion assembly, the method comprising:inserting the prosthesis and the insertion assembly into an opening in the anatomical tract; advancing the prosthesis through the anatomical tract using the insertion assembly until at least the first segment is at least partially located on a far side of the anatomical constricting structure from the opening in the anatomical tract; at least partially withdrawing at least a first portion of the insertion assembly from the anatomical tract relative to the prosthesis; and manipulating at least one of (a) a second portion of the insertion assembly and (b) a portion of the prosthesis to extend the connection structure through the anatomical constricting structure, the first segment being located entirely on the far side of the anatomical constricting structure, and the second segment being located entirely on a near side of the anatomical constricting structure relative to the opening in the anatomical tract.