Importance

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Abstract

Radially expandable endoprostheses or stents are provided, as well as their method of manufacture. These stents include a plurality of adjacent generally circumferential sections that are substantially axially positioned with respect to each other. Included are generally circumferentially disposed expandable segments that impart circumferential and radial expandability to the stents. The terminal portions of the end circumferential sections are welded directly to a portion of a generally adjacent circumferential section, and the welding preferably is carried out within an inert gas environment in a manner that minimizes crack formation at the weld locations.

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First Claim