Abstract: A radially expandable stent is useful for holding a passageway open by placing the stent into a lumen. The stent includes a cylindrical frame formed by a plurality of unit structures. Each unit structure is of a closed zig-zag configuration including an endless series of straight sections joined by bends. The plurality of unit structures are arranged end to end to form the frame. A plurality of connecting members connect the unit structures together. The outer surface of the frame is wrapped with mesh, which is preferably coated with silicone rubber.