Self-expanding pseudo-braided intravascular device

Abstract

A self-expanding, pseudo-braided device embodying a high expansion ratio and flexibility as well as comformability and improved radial force. The pseudo-braided device is particularly suited for advancement through and deployment within highly tortuous and very distal vasculature. Various forms of the pseudo-braided device are adapted for the repair of aneurysms and stenoses as well as for use in thrombectomies and embolic protection therapy.

1 - 42 . (canceled) 
     
     
         43 . A method involving employing a device for use in embolic therapy within vasculature having an opening to an aneurysm sac, comprising:
 gaining access to vasculature;   placing thrombus producing materials within the aneurysm sac; and   placing a device including an elongate filament configured into a pseudo-braided pattern and formed to define a generally tubular body with a first end and a second end into the vasculature to cover the opening to the aneurysm sac.   
     
     
         44 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein each of the first and second ends are defined by a plurality of endless reversals of direction. 
     
     
         45 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein at least one of said plurality of reversals embody loops having a variable radius of curvature. 
     
     
         46 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein said pseudo-braided pattern is uniform along a length of said tubular body. 
     
     
         47 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein the thrombus producing material includes embolic coils. 
     
     
         48 . The method of  claim 43 , further including:
 placing the device into a microcatheter;   advancing the microcatheter into the vasculature; and   ejecting the device into the vasculature.   
     
     
         49 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein the device can be reduced to less than 10 percent of its expanded diameter. 
     
     
         50 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein said device can be delivered into a patient's vasculature by a microcatheter. 
     
     
         51 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein the device is self-expanding. 
     
     
         52 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein at least some of the thrombus producing materials are self-expanding. 
     
     
         53 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein the device is implanted into the vasculature before the thrombus producing materials are placed into the aneurysm sac.