Abstract: The systems and methods in accordance with the principles of the invention can promote correction of an aesthetic or functional defect in a target tissue. A method can include non-invasively applying a cooling agent to a surface of a target tissue; and cooling one or more tissue layers of said target tissue to a predetermined therapeutic temperature, wherein applying the cooling agent is performed such that cryoablation of said one or more layers of the target tissue does not occur. The system can include: a controller and a probe having a distal end configured for non-invasive contact with a surface of a target tissue to cool the target tissue based on treatment parameters.

Abstract: The systems and methods in accordance with the principles of the invention can promote correction of an aesthetic or functional defect in a target tissue. A method can include non-invasively applying a cooling agent to a surface of a target tissue; and cooling one or more tissue layers of said target tissue to a predetermined therapeutic temperature, wherein applying the cooling agent is performed such that cryoablation of said one or more layers of the target tissue does not occur. The system can include: a controller and a probe having a distal end configured for non-invasive contact with a surface of a target tissue to cool the target tissue based on treatment parameters.

Abstract: The invention provides expandable tubular endoluminal prostheses for the treatment of atherosclerotic lesions, such as vulnerable plaques, and methods for treating such lesions using the prostheses. The endoprostheses may include at least two expandable ring-like elements disposed on the inside or about the outer surface of an at least substantially tubular biodegradable element. The ring-like elements may be radio-opaque and may have a sinuate form. In use, a prosthesis according to the invention is expanded in a blood vessel so that the tubular biodegradable element at least partially covers an atherosclerotic lesion, such as a vulnerable plaque.