Apparatus and method for fluid flow through body passages

Abstract

A device includes a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion between the first end portion and the second end portion, and a graft material coupled to at least the intermediate portion. The first end portion has a first end diameter. The second end portion has a second end diameter larger than the first end diameter. The intermediate portion tapers between the first end portion and the second end portion. A method of diverting fluid flow from a first passage to a second passage comprising deploying the device in a third passage between the first passage and the second passage, expanding the first end portion against sidewalls of the first passage, and expanding the second end portion against sidewalls of the second passage.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A device for maintaining fluid flow through at least one passage in a human or animal body, the device comprising two end portions for anchoring the device in position, and an intermediate portion which allows movement of the end portions relative to each another, the end portions and intermediate portion together defining a pathway for fluid flow through the device.