Abstract: A multi-step method of forming a coating on a substrate, such as a stent or graft, is disclosed. The steps of the method include treating the surface with a plasma formed at or near atmospheric pressure to form one or more active species on the surface until a desired surface density of the active species is formed, and exposing the treated surface to a selected gas or liquid under conditions effective to convert the active species to a stable functional group. The exposed surface may be contacted with a surface-modifying group under conditions effective to covalently attach the surface-modifying group to the functional group. Also disclosed is a substrate having a bioactive/biocompatible coating and/or a drug-releasable coating prepared by the method.

Abstract: A composite expandable stent for delivery into a vessel carrying blood comprising an expandable support frame having first and second end portions. A porous imprevious polymer sleeve having inner and outer surfaces extending over the support frame. A coating is disposed on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the polymer sleeve for enhancing endothelial cell growth on the device and polymer sleeve. The stent can be cylindrical or tapered.

Abstract: A composite expandable device for delivery into a vessel carrying blood comprising an expandable support frame having first and second end portions. An impervious polymer sleeve having inner and outer surfaces extending over the support frame. A coating is disposed on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the polymer sleeve for enhancing endothelial cell growth on the device and polymer sleeve.

Abstract: A composite expandable stent for delivery into a vessel carrying blood comprising an expandable support frame having first and second end portions. A porous imprevious polymer sleeve having inner and outer surfaces extending over the support frame. A coating is disposed on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the polymer sleeve for enhancing endothelial cell growth on the device and polymer sleeve. The stent can be cylindrical or tapered.

Abstract: A multi-step method of forming a coating on a substrate, such as a stent or graft, is disclosed. The steps of the method include treating the surface with a plasma formed at or near atmospheric pressure to form one or more active species on the surface until a desired surface density of the active species is formed, and exposing the treated surface to a selected gas or liquid under conditions effective to convert the active species to a stable functional group. The exposed surface surface may be contacted with a surface-modifying group under conditions effective to covalently attach the surface-modifying group to the functional group. Also disclosed is a substrate having a to bioactive/biocompatible coating and/or a drug-releasable coating prepared by the method.

Abstract: A multi-step method for surface modification of a medical device having at least one surface exposed to tissue and/or blood. The steps comprise a low temperature plasma treatment of the said surface to provide a plasma deposited layer having functional groups. A chemical treatment of the plasma deposited layer using multifunctional linkers establishes covalent bonds with the plasma deposited layer. A bioactive/biocompatible agent react with the multifunctional linkers so that molecules thereof are covalently bound to said surface.