Abstract: A stent-graft delivery system which includes a catheter, an expandable balloon having non-tapered ends positioned near the distal end of the catheter, a stent circumferentially positioned around a center of the balloon, and a graft circumferentially positioned around the stent. The balloon configuration comprising non-tapered ends may be achieved by 1) preforming the balloon to the desired geometry which comprises substantially non-tapered ends; 2) positioning a non-compliant sheath over each of the ends of an existing balloon having tapered ends, or 3) invertedly attaching the first and second ends of a compliant tubular member to the catheter to form the desired balloon configuration. The desired balloon configuration is a balloon geometry which uniformly conforms to the geometry of the stent-graft assembly. A method for introducing the stent-graft delivery system into a blood vessel are also disclosed.

Abstract: Elastomeric monofilament surgical sutures are characterized by the following combination of mechanical properties:Yield elongation- from about 2 to 9 percentVisco-elastic elongation- from about 10 to 30 percentYoung's modulus- from about 30,000 to 200,000 psiTensile strength- at least about 40,000 psiKnot strength- at least about 30,000 psiThe sutures are soft and flexible with superior knot typing and knot security properties. The sutures may be prepared from selected elastomeric copolyether/ester polymers which may be melt extruded and drawn to obtain the desired fiber properties.

Abstract: Elastomeric monofilament surgical sutures are characterized by the following combination of mechanical properties:______________________________________ Yield elongation from about 2 to 9 percent Visco-elastic from about 10 to 30 percent elongation Young's modulus from about 30,000 to 200,000 psi Tensile strength at least about 40,000 psi Knot strength at least about 30,000 psi ______________________________________The sutures are soft and flexible with superior knot tying and knot security properties. The sutures may be prepared from selected elastomeric copolyether/ester polymers which may be melt extruded and drawn to obtain the desired fiber properties.

Abstract: There is described a surgical fastener comprising a glycolide-rich blend of two or more polymers, one polymer being a high lactide content polymer and another being a high glycolide content polymer. The blend as a whole contains from about 65 to 85 weight percent polymerized glycolide, with the high glycolide content polymer constituting at least 50 weight percent of the blend.

Abstract: An improved surgical fastener system comprising parallel rows of staples and receivers with the receivers connected to adjacent receivers by a plurality of linkages.

Abstract: A surgical fastener is made from a glycolide-rich blend of polymers.