Importance

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Abstract

An array of relief cuts is formed in at least some of the interconnected struts of an expandable stent. The relief cuts are sufficiently small to not significantly reduce the strength of each of the struts between flexion points, so that each strut between flexion points retains sufficient resistance against bending, twisting and buckling to perform its intended function. Relief cuts are provided which extend through the struts and either carry plugs of material such as medicine or other materials or, alternatively, one or both exterior surfaces of the stent may be covered with a medicinal or other coating. In one embodiment, a coating covers both the inner and outer surface of the stent and extends between the relief cuts, thereby connecting the layers of the coating and increasing its adhesion to the stent, itself. Multiple coatings may be applied to the stent. The relief cuts may be applied only at flexion points of the stent or only between flexion points of the stent or both. Coatings may be applied to some regions of the stent and not other regions of the stent. The preferred form of the invention uses relief cuts at flexion points to increase the width and reduce the thickness of individual struts and lattice support relief cuts are provided between the flexion points to increase the adhesion of a medicinal or other coating to the stent.

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First Claim