Abstract: A stent deployment device over which a stent is securable for the purpose of delivery into an operative position in a human body is provided. The device comprises a plurality of elongate wings, each of which has a length consistent with the length of a stent to be deployed using the deployment device, the wings being arranged circumferentially about a central body which extends from, and is operable through, a catheter. The wings are movable between a radially withdrawn delivery position and expanded positions in which they are displaced radially outwards of the body. A flow path is defined internally of the wings in the expanded positions thereof and a temporary valve is provided in such flow path to permit the flow of blood though the flow path predominantly in one direction. An inflatable annular balloon is preferably provided over the wings to cause final expansion of the stent. Locator arms are deployable from the body to assist in locating the body within a natural heart valve.

Abstract: A stent deployment device (1) over which a stent (2) is securable for the purpose of delivery into an operative position in a human body is provided. The device comprises a plurality of elongate wings (16), each of which has a length consistent with the length of a stent to be deployed using the deployment device, the wings being arranged circumferentially about a central body (10) which extends from, and is operable through, a catheter (14). The wings are movable between a radially withdrawn delivery position and expanded positions in which they are displaced radially outwards of the body. A flow path (105) is defined internally of the wings in the expanded positions thereof and a temporary valve (68) is provided in such flow path to permit the flow of blood though the flow path predominantly in one direction. An inflatable annular balloon (80) is preferably provided over the wings to cause final expansion of the stent.