Patent ID: 8052737
Filing Date: 2011-11-08
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A system for gradually restoring blood flow through vessel, the system comprising: a substantially tubular endoluminal prosthesis of a metallic material defining a blood flow lumen therethrough; and a biodegradable tubular plug concentrically disposed within the prosthesis lumen, the plug having an inner surface that defines a blood flow lumen therethrough that is in fluid communication with the prosthesis lumen, wherein the plug lumen has a restrictive diameter that is at least 10% less than an expanded diameter of the prosthesis lumen to reduce blood flow exiting the prosthesis when the plug is in an initially deployed, fully restrictive configuration and wherein the inner surface of the plug is adapted to erode in vivo to gradually transform the plug lumen into a final, unrestrictive configuration in which blood flow through the prosthesis lumen is unimpeded by the plug.