| abstract |
A stent comprising a plurality of annular elements (12) aligned in the direction of extension (z) of the stent and selectively expandable between a radially--contracted condition and a radially-expanded condition as well as a series of connecting elements (18) that extend in the direction of extension of the stent (z) to connect said annular elements (12) Said annular elements (12) and said longitudinal connecting elements (18) are made, respectively, of non-biodegradable material and of biodegradable material. The structure of the stent (12, 14, 18) thus comprises a part (12, 14) of non-biodegradable material, destined to remain long-term at the site of implantation, and a part (18) of biodegradable material, destined to disappear within a longer or shorter period after implantation. |