Patent ID: 6945989
Filing Date: 2005-09-20
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for delivering a prosthesis into a blood vessel of a patient, comprising: an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends, the distal end having a size for endoluminal insertion into a blood vessel and terminating in a substantially atraumatic distal portion comprising a plurality of flexible leaflets integrally molded thereto, the leaflets being deflectable from a closed position wherein the leaflets engage one another to an open position wherein the leaflets define an opening communicating with the lumen; a tubular prosthesis disposed within the lumen proximate the distal portion; and an elongate bumper member having a proximal end and a distal end, the bumper member being slidably disposed within the lumen of the elongate tubular member, the distal end of the bumper member having a blunt edge that engages the proximal end of the prosthesis for preventing axial displacement of the prosthesis upon retraction of the tubular member with respect to the bumper member; wherein the bumper member comprises a helical coil.