Importance

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Abstract

The invention provides a prosthetic device for introduction into a duct and for lining an interior wall portion of the duct. The device comprises a generally toroidal, hollow, inflatable sleeve and means for introducing a pressurized fluid into the sleeve. The sleeve is made of a material that is impermeable to the pressurized fluid. At least the outer portion of the sleeve is made of a flexible material capable of deforming to conform to the shape of said interior wall portion of the duct. The device can be introduced into the duct and correctly positioned when it is in a deflated state. Subsequently, it is inflated by introducing the pressurized fluid. This causes the outer portion of the sleeve to expand and grip said interior wall portion of the duct, while leaving a central channel for the passage of the liquid in the duct. The device may also comprise a plurality of such sleeves connected together in a side-by-side relationship.

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First Claim