Chris McCollam

Title: Chris McCollam: Innovator in Vascular Graft Technology

Introduction

Chris McCollam is a prominent inventor based in Irvine, California, known for his significant contributions to the field of vascular graft technology. With a total of eight patents to his name, McCollam has developed innovative solutions that enhance the performance and reliability of vascular grafts.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents are the radially-expandable PTFE tape-reinforced vascular grafts. This invention features a tape-reinforced tubular vascular graft made from sintered fluoropolymers, such as expanded, sintered PTFE. The graft consists of a base graft and a reinforcing tape that can be spirally wrapped around it. The unique design allows for radial shrinkage, enabling the graft to be radially enlargeable by more than 5% without damaging the reinforcement tape layer. These grafts can be combined with various stents or anchoring systems, making them suitable for endovascular graft devices that can be inserted and implanted within the lumen of a host blood vessel. Additionally, they can be implanted using traditional surgical techniques, benefiting from improved strength and suture-holding properties.

Career Highlights

Chris McCollam has worked with notable companies in the medical field, including Baxter International Inc. and Edwards Lifesciences Corporation. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing advanced medical devices.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, McCollam has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Donald T. Shannon and Chris Kuo. These partnerships have fostered innovation and the advancement of vascular graft technologies.

Conclusion

Chris McCollam's work in the field of vascular graft technology exemplifies his commitment to innovation and improvement in medical devices. His patents reflect a deep understanding of material science and engineering, contributing to better healthcare solutions.