Appeal No. 2006-0526 Παγε 4
Application No. 10/206,620
Lunn discloses a bi-directional crimped graft comprising a thin walled hollow
cylinder having a first open end 12 and a second open end 14 having end portions 16,
18 each provided with a series of longitudinally extending pleats or crimps and having a
central portion 20 between the end portions 16, 18 provided with a series of
circumferential crimps. The longitudinal crimps permit radial expansion of the end
portions of the graft wall while the circumferential crimps permit longitudinal extension of
the central portion. Lunn also teaches that "[t]he circumferential crimps serve also to
render the central portion of the graft more flexible and capable of conforming to curves
in the vascular system without undesirable kinking" (column 2, lines 33-36).
Additionally, Lunn teaches:
It should be understood that while the exemplified
embodiment has been illustrated with specific geometry, a
wide variation is possible within the broad teachings of this
invention. For example, while the crimps in the central
portions and in the end portions have been illustrated as
having uniform amplitude and frequency, in certain instances
it may be preferable to vary these parameters within a given
portion or even to omit crimping in certain sections of a given
portion [column 4, lines 7-15].
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Last modified: November 3, 2007