US Patent 8057528 Balloon-stent combination

The present invention provides apparatus and methods for treating a vascular condition formed within a vessel by providing a balloon having proximal and distal regions and a stent configured to be disposed within the balloon. When the balloon is partially or fully inflated, the stent may be advanced within the confines of the balloon and then expanded to engage an inner surface of the balloon. The stent urges the balloon against the vessel wall, and the proximal and distal regions of the balloon then are cut to leave the balloon and stent within the vessel. The balloon may comprise a collagenous extracellular matrix material to facilitate fusion of the balloon with the vessel wall.