Patent ID: 8361138
Filing Date: 2013-01-29
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of making a medical device comprising: a) braiding a plurality of metal strands exhibiting a shape memory property into a tubular metal fabric to form a braided configuration; b) securing at least one end of the fabric to inhibit unraveling thereof; c) inserting the fabric in or on a molding structure of a first predetermined shape comprising a plurality of expanded volume segments joined together in a string by intermediate articulation members, the first predetermined shape being different from the braided configuration; d) heating the molding structure to an elevated temperature for a time sufficient to heat set the fabric in the first predetermined shape to retain the first predetermined shape when the medical device is in a relaxed state; and e) imparting a second predetermined shape to the metal fabric, comprising the first predetermined shape wound about itself, to retain the second predetermined shape when the medical device is in the relaxed state.