Abstract: A method and device for implantation into a curved vessel is described. The device may be a stent with a generally curved configuration in its radially expanded state. The stent may have a first series of linkages located along a first side of the stent and a second series of linkages located along a second side of the stent. Both series of linkages interconnect structural elements of the stent. During deployment of the stent into a vessel, the second series of linkages undergo longitudinal expansion sufficient to produce a stent having a longer second side than a first side. This difference in longitudinal length between the second side and first side of the stent creates a curved configuration which conforms to the curvature of the vessel which it is implanted into.

Abstract: A delivery system for an intraluminal medical device is disclosed. The delivery system comprises an elongate tubular sheath and an elongate tubular pusher. The pusher is slidably disposed within a lumen of the sheath and comprises at least one generally helical score in an exterior surface thereof for providing enhanced flexibility to the pusher.