Abstract: An endovascular graft is provided that includes a stent structure adapted to move between a collapsed and a deployed configuration. An endovascular graft material is mounted with respect to the stent structure. At least one lumen- or chute-forming structure is associated with the stent structure internal to the endovascular graft material. The at least one lumen- or chute-forming structure is adapted to move between a first position and a second position, wherein the at least one lumen- or chute-forming structure is rolled within itself in the first position, and wherein the at least one lumen- or chute-forming structure moves from the first position to the second position by unrolling. When in the second position, the at least one lumen- or chute-forming structure defines a passage having a greater cross-sectional area as compared to the first position. Stent-graft deployment to one or more branch arteries/vessels may be accomplished through the at least one lumen- or chute-forming structure.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering an intraluminal prosthesis within a patient's body includes an inner sheath having longitudinally spaced proximal and distal inner sheath ends. A nose cone is connected to the distal inner sheath end. An intraluminal prosthesis sheath has longitudinally spaced proximal and distal intraluminal prosthesis sheath ends and a hollow intraluminal prosthesis sheath bore at least partially surrounding the inner sheath. The intraluminal prosthesis sheath is adapted for movement relative to the inner sheath. A stopper is connected to the inner sheath at a location longitudinally spaced from the nose cone. The stopper extends radially between the inner sheath and the intraluminal prosthesis sheath. An annular intraluminal prosthesis space is defined radially between the intraluminal prosthesis sheath and the inner sheath and longitudinally between the stopper and the nose cone. The annular intraluminal prosthesis space is adapted to contain a compressed intraluminal prosthesis.

Abstract: A method for compressing an intraluminal prosthesis provides a mesh tube having first and second longitudinally spaced tube ends and a hollow tube bore located therebetween. The intraluminal prosthesis is completely inserted into the hollow tube bore. The tube is stretched in a longitudinal dimension, which reduces the tube in a radial dimension and causes the intraluminal prosthesis to radially compress. An apparatus for compressing an intraluminal prosthesis is also described.

Abstract: An endovascular apparatus is provided for treating the effects of vascular disease including aneurysms and arterial blockages using a percutaneous, minimally invasive technique. In one embodiment the endovascular apparatus includes a tubular sleeve having a cranial end, a first caudal branch, and a second caudal branch such that the tubular sleeve is shaped like an upside down “Y.” The apparatus further includes at least one expandable attachment device attached to the tubular sleeve for securing the endovascular apparatus to an interior wall of a vessel. The at least one expandable attachment device includes a plurality of telescoping segments similar to the telescoping segments of a presentation pointer. Accordingly, during percutaneous insertion of the endovascular apparatus into a patient the attachment device can be collapsed into a small profile.

Abstract: A method of preparing a fixed biological tissue includes, shaping the biological tissue, cross-linking the biological tissue, sterilizing the biological tissue, and inactivating prions in the biological tissue.