Patent ID: 6013092
Filing Date: 2000-01-11
Classification: A61F,A61M

Abstract:
A system for implanting a radially expandable endoluminal device within a luminal anatomical structure, said system comprising:a catheter having a deflated balloon mounted thereon;an endoluminal device mounted on said deflated balloon in a radially compact state, said device being radially expandable to an expanded state upon inflation of said balloon;said balloon being folded by a method which comprises the steps of:a. forming a plurality of longitudinal furrows in the balloon, said longitudinal furrows defining balloon portions therebetween;b. folding each balloon portion a first time, in a first direction, to thereby form singly-over-folded balloon portions; and,c. folding each balloon portion a second time, in a second direction, to thereby form doubly-over-folded balloon portions.