Abstract: The present invention is a visualization system including a small gauge vision catheter that is designed to be stand-alone or received within an instrument channel of a larger endoscope. The vision catheter has imaging means disposable within an imaging channel, a working channel, and an electromagnetic sensor element insertable into the working channel of the catheter to provide position tracking. The working channel of the catheter also provides access for therapeutic and diagnostic tools.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a biodegradable implant including a biodegradable polymer previously exposed to conditions of biodegradation such as chemical, thermal or radiation degradation. The present invention further includes the possibility of attaching axial runners to the implant. The present invention is further directed to a method of forming a biodegradable implant, such as a stent, by irradiation of the individual filaments or fibers, or irradiation of the formed implant.

Abstract: A composite stent structure includes separate and distinct stent elements or members: an outer stent element and an inner stent element removably attached to the outer stent element. The outer element may be, for example, a bioabsorbable stent typically constructed of a relatively non-resilient material such that the outer bioabsorbable stent element may not be self-expanding and subject to migration within the lumen over time. In contrast, the inner element may be, for example, a removable SEMS used to urge and maintain the outer element in position in the body lumen. The temporary inner SEMS may retain the composite structure (including the underlying inner element) in position until such time as the outer element is appropriately incorporated into the surrounding tissue or some other criteria occurs such that the removal of the SEMS is indicated. The SEMS may then be detached from the outer element and removed from the body lumen.

Abstract: An endoprosthesis comprising a stent, a cover fully covering the stent wherein the cover has variable porosity in the radial direction; and an adhesion layer connecting the stent to the cover. Another aspect of the invention is a method of implanting an endoprosthesis which includes a stent, providing a cover with variable porosity in the radial direction, connecting the stent to the cover with an adhesion layer to form a covered stent, and implanting the covered stent within a body lumen of a patient.