Abstract: A stent graft is provided which has two stent sections having different functions on, for example, a tubular graft. One stent section preferably comprises a plurality of circumferential reinforcing hoops and the other a Z-stent. The two sections are preferably separated by a spacer section and the tubular graft preferably increases in diameter from the Z-stent section to the hooped section. This enables the stent graft to be compressed radially so that it can be inserted in a catheter for later delivery to a body lumen.

Abstract: A control mechanism comprises an elongate handle 10 having an external thread 12 and a barrel 20 with internally projecting pins 21 threaded over handle 10. Rotation of barrel 20 causes handle 10 to move back and forth along its longitudinal axis to retract and advance a catheter sheath to which handle 10 is coupled, thereby enabling an implant to be deployed by the catheter. Rotation movement of barrel 20 and longitudinal movement of handle 10 can be disassociated to enable speedy retraction or advancement of the catheter sheath.

Abstract: A tubular graft/stent includes a tubular sheath (10) having at intervals along its length a plurality of ring-like rigid members (11), which are attached to the sheath around their respective circumferences and are made of a shape memory material, so that when the members (11) change shape the sheath (10) adopts a new cross section in conformity with them along its whole length. The members may be discontinuous to allow the adoption of a contracted shape in the martensitic phase and an expanded shape in the austenitic phase. A graft may also have a side tube (14) which can be inverted so as to be housed within the sheath.

Abstract: A tubular graft/stent includes a tubular sheath (10) having at intervals along its length a plurality of ring-like rigid members (11), which are attached to the sheath around their respective circumferences and are made of a shape memory material, so that when the members (11) change shape the sheath (10) adopts a new cross section in conformity with them along its whole length. The members may be discontinuous to allow the adoption of a contracted shape in the martensitic phase and an expanded shape in the austenitic phase. A graft may also have a side tube (14) which can be inverted so as to be housed within the sheath.