Abstract: A device for treatment of mitral annulus dilation is disclosed, wherein the device comprises two states. In a first of these states the device is insertable into the coronary sinus and has a shape of the coronary sinus. When positioned in the coronary sinus, the device is transferable to the second state assuming a reduced radius of curvature, whereby the radius of curvature of the coronary sinus and the radius of curvature as well as the circumference of the mitral annulus is reduced.

Abstract: A stent holder is configured for holding a self-expandable stent for insertion into a body vessel. In order to prevent the stent from migrating on a holder body of the stent holder, said holder body comprises two fixing or fixation elements for temporarily fastening opposite stent ends of stent.

Abstract: A method of making a stent delivery system is provided in which a delivery catheter has a balloon that extends non-uniformly into interstices of a stent. In accordance with the method a balloon/stent/crimping tube assembly is placed in a crimping tool, the balloon is inflated, and the crimping tool is actuated to compress the stent on the outside of the balloon without application of heat or chemicals, thereby causing creases of the balloon to extend non-uniformly into the interstices of the stent. Optionally, pillows may be formed in the balloon to prevent longitudinal movement of the stent with respect to the balloon during intravascular delivery. One or more secondary crimpings also may be performed to achieve a smoother delivery profile.

Abstract: The present invention provides a stent comprising a tubular flexible body having a wall with a web structure that is expandable from a contracted delivery configuration to deployed configuration. The web structure comprises a plurality of neighboring, interconnected, web patterns, each web pattern composed of adjoining webs. Each adjoining web comprises a central section interposed between two lateral sections, forming concave or convex configurations. Embodiments of the present invention comprising curvature for tracking tortuous anatomy and reducing localized restoring forces are provided. Methods of using stents in accordance with the present invention are also provided.