Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for modifying an intravascular stent with endothelial cells and/or engineered endothelial cells which may have genetically altered DNA to minimize failure rates includes an external conductor sleeve, an insulating tube held therein, and a pair of insulated end caps, each detachably securable over each end of said insulating tube. Each insulated cap has a substantially centered aperture therethrough and a stent holder extending transversely therefrom to hold opposite ends of the stent therebetween. The insulated end caps and the insulating tube hold a solution containing the endothelial cells inside the insulating tube to surround exposed surfaces of the stent. An insulated internal conductor is received through the apertures. A power source for generating an electrical field between the stent and the external conductor and between the stent and the internal conductor is employed to temporarily alter the electrical charge of the stent to attract and adhere the desired endothelial cells and genetically altered DNA thereto.

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First Claim