Low profile, durable, reinforced ePTFE composite graft

A composite implantable graft comprising:

• a first seamless tubular layer consisting essentially of a biocompatible polymeric material selected from the group consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene and combinations thereof and having a luminal surface and an exterior surface;
• a biocompatible reinforcing layer comprising a thin, elongate member arranged in a noncontiguous pattern to define a non-continuous second tubular layer, said elongate member consisting essentially of said biocompatible polymeric material, said second tubular layer being disposed over said exterior surface of said first tubular layer;
• and
• a third seamless tubular layer consisting essentially of said biocompatible polymeric material and having a luminal surface and an exterior surface, said luminal surface of said third tubular layer being securably disposed over said second tubular layer and over said first tubular layer;
• wherein said layers are laminated together without the presence of an adhesive.

A method of forming a composite graft comprising:

• providing an elongate tubular mandrel;
• placing a first seamless tubular layer over said mandrel, said first layer comprising biocompatible first polymeric material and having a luminal surface and an exterior surface;
• providing reinforcing members over said exterior surface, said yams arranged in a pattern to define a second tubular layer;
• providing a third seamless tubular layer over said yarns, said third layer comprising biocompatible second polymeric material and having a luminal surface and an exterior surface, said luminal surface being securably disposed over said reinforcing members and over said first tubular layer;
• heat laminating said layers together to form a graft wall having a wall thickness of less than 0.1 mm.