Appeal 2007-2413
Application 10/041,117
(Answer 3). The graft, or sleeve, includes a plurality of longitudinally
extending pleats (Answer 3, citing Rhodes, col. 8, ll. 6-15).
The upper open end of each of the bifurcation sleeves is arranged to
be located at a joint within the open bottom end (i.e., the distal end) of the
common sleeve (the first prosthesis, (20A), and sealing means) (which reads
on the gasket of claim 1) is provided between the common sleeve and the
two bifurcation sleeves (the two bypass prostheses, (20B, 20C)) to prevent
blood from leaking from the joint (Rhodes, col. 4, ll. 38-47; see also Answer
3). The Examiner cites Figure 6 of Rhodes, which shows a cross-section of
the prosthesis at the joint. Figure 6 is reproduced below:
As set forth by the Examiner, the system of Rhodes includes a
compressible gasket (90S) positioned within the distal end of the first
prosthesis, the gasket having at least two apertures therein (P), and at least
two bypass prostheses (20B, 20C) in fluid communication with the distal
end of the first prosthesis (20A) through the apertures (Answer 3-4). The
gasket or sealing means is thus configured to provide a seal between the first
prosthesis and the two bifurcation prostheses (Answer 4).
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Last modified: September 9, 2013