| abstract |
Medical devices for implantation in a body vessel, and methods of using and making the same, are provided. A medical device can include a frame with one or more projections, each of which can be covered with a biocompatible, water-soluble removable material. The projections can be barbs positioned to engage the interior wall of a body vessel or to attach a material, such as a valve leaflet or graft, to the frame. The removable material can be dissolved within a body vessel upon implantation to expose the covered projection. Methods of making an implantable medical device and methods of treating a subject are also disclosed. |