Abstract: Apparatus and methods for delivering stents and other prostheses to body lumens include a prosthesis forming and deploying mechanism carried at the distal end of a catheter shaft. The mechanism is adapted to form and deploy prostheses of a variable length, and to form and deploy multiple prostheses during a single interventional procedure.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for operating and controlling an interventional element on an interventional catheter. The interventional element may be a stent or series of stents, a balloon, or any other interventional element for which length control is necessary or desirable. A handle member includes an elongated body and an actuator knob that rotates around the longitudinal axis of the body. Rotational movement of the actuator knob is translated to rotational movement of one or more lead screws by a system of gears, rollers, or combinations of gears and rollers. Each of one or more axially moveable members is positioned on a lead screw and attached to a portion of the catheter shaft in order to provide the ability to advance or retract the portion of the catheter shaft.

Abstract: A method and device for transmyocardial revascularization using RF energy. A signal probe having a signal electrode is inserted into a myocardium. A return probe having a return electrode is placed on or within the myocardium. RF energy is supplied to the signal electrode, and forms a conductive path to the return electrode. At least one fissure within the myocardium is formed along the conductive path, allowing blood to perfuse within the fissure and revascularize the myocardium. A number of probe and electrode configurations are provided, including the use of multiple probes and electrodes, hollow probes to provide a coring effect, and pressurized fluid-supplying probes.