| abstract |
A catheter assembly includes a coiled endoluminal prosthesis ( 122, 190, 198 ) and a catheter ( 136 ) having at least first and second telescoping shafts ( 138, 140, 142 ). The prosthesis is releasably engaged to the distal ends ( 144, 146, 148 ) of the telescoping shafts. The prosthesis is capable of assuming a second, expanded diameter state from a first, reduced diameter state. The length and number of turns ( 128 ) of the coiled prosthesis can be changed by the relative translation and rotation of the shafts. The catheter assembly is especially useful for placing a coiled stent graft ( 122 ), in which one turn ( 132, 134 ) of the prosthesis has a greater pitch than the adjacent turns, at the intersection ( 184 ) of a bifurcation within a blood vessel ( 182 ). Remotely viewable marker elements ( 188, 190, 191, 192, 193, 195, 197 ) may be used and include a marker element ( 193, 190 A, 197 ) configured to indicate orientation as well as axial position of the prosthesis. The ends of the prosthesis may be substantially less stiff than the remainder of the prosthesis and/or shaped to help prevent tissue trauma. |