Delivery system for deploying a self-expanding tube, and method of deploying a self-expanding tube

摘要

Delivery systems for deploying a self-expanding tube into a blood vessel are disclosed. In one arrangement, a tubular member is provided that is configured for insertion into the blood vessel. An elongate body extends within a lumen of the tubular member. A self-expanding tube is positioned radially between the tubular member and the elongate body. Over at least 50% of the length of the self-expanding tube, at least a portion of the self-expanding tube engages outwardly with the tubular member and inwardly with the elongate body. A longitudinal engagement force acting between the self-expanding tube and the tubular member and a longitudinal engagement force acting between the self-expanding tube and the elongate body are such that, during all stages of deployment of the self-expanding tube in use by longitudinal retraction of the tubular member relative to the elongate body, there is substantially no relative movement longitudinally between the elongate body and any portion of the self-expanding tube that remains in engagement with the elongate body.