Abstract: A tubular structure having variable support includes a tubular member and a structural support member with a flexible tubular member over the structural support member, such that the flexible tubular member can engage and disengage or squeeze and release the structural support member. The structural support member can be a tubular mesh, stent, framework, skeleton, braid or other flexible framework. A fluid passage can be used to inflate and deflate the flexible tubular member. Methods of assembly and methods of use are also described.

Abstract: A tubular structure having variable support includes a tubular member and a structural support member with a flexible tubular member over the structural support member, such that the flexible tubular member can engage and disengage or squeeze and release the structural support member. The structural support member can be a tubular mesh, stent, framework, skeleton, braid or other flexible framework. A fluid passage can be used to inflate and deflate the flexible tubular member. Methods of assembly and methods of use are also described.

Abstract: A lumenal element configured to transit a body lumen comprising a lumenal member (102) and an outer member (200) disposed over at least part of the lumenal member with a structural support (350), e.g. a mesh or stent, having a facing surface facing a surface of the lumenal member and wherein the facing surface includes at least one non-smooth surface portion, discontinuity, or non-uniformity, wherein the structural support is between the lumenal member and the outer member wherein the outermember is at least partly sealed to adjacent surfaces of the lumenal member sufficient to withstand fluid pressure within a space about the structural support, wherein the lumenal member has a first flexibility in the area of the structural support, and increasing the flexibility of the area of the structural support by moving at least a part of the outer member out of contact with the structural support. The flexibility of a lumenal element can be changed. Also disclosed a method of assembly of the lumenal element.

Abstract: A tubular structure having variable support includes a tubular member and a structural support member with a flexible tubular member over the structural support member, such that the flexible tubular member can engage and disengage or squeeze and release the structural support member. The structural support member can be a tubular mesh, stent, framework, skeleton, braid or other flexible framework. A fluid passage can be used to inflate and deflate the flexible tubular member. Methods of assembly and methods of use are also described.