Bioabsorbable self-expanding endolumenal devices

Abstract

Bioabsorbable self-expanding medical devices formed of an integral framework with a multiplicity of fenestrations are provided. The framework is continuous, non-filamentous, non-braided, and non-interlaced. The devices includes a non-blended hydrolysable co-polymeric material comprising an amorphous component with a glass transition temperature that is below ambient body temperature and a crystallizable component that possesses a crystalline melting point in excess of ambient body temperature. The devices radially expand from a compressed first diameter to an uncompressed second diameter equal to or greater than 1.5 times the first diameter within two minutes in an aqueous medium at 37° C. following release of a compressive force placed on the devices. Additionally, the medical device does not change axial length significantly as the radial dimensions of the devices are changed. Further, the medical devices may be constructed of different bioabsorbable polymers, polymer ratios, and/or different geometries and portions may bioabsorb at different rates.