Implantable medical device having protruding surface structures for drug delivery and cover attachment

Abstract

A method for forming an implantable medical device, such as a stent, covered stent, or synthetic stent graft, is provided. Protruding structures are formed on a surface of the device. The protruding structures have a central depression region surrounded by a lip. The protruding structures can have a variety of shapes, including circular and ovular shapes, or the protruding structure can form a groove. The protruding structures can be used to engage a cover. Glue can be added to the protruding structures to help secure the cover. The protruding structures can also contain a therapeutic substance or substances for release in situ. The protruding structures can be formed using a laser discharge to create a hole in the stent surface followed by directing a pressurized stream of grit at the surface.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.