Devices For Creating Vascular Grafts By Vessel Distension Using Fixed Post And Moveable Driver Elements

Devices and methods are provided for forming a vascular graft by axially distending a blood vessel to induce growth. The device preferably comprises a stretching mechanism which includes (i) a rigid body; (ii) a pair of posts comprising a first post and a second post which are connected to the body; (iii) a driver element slidably secured to the body and disposed between the pair of posts; and (iv) a device for sliding the driver element away from the pair of posts to axially distend a blood vessel positioned between the pair of posts and the driver element. Preferably, the device is implanted, for example using endoscopic techniques, for use in vivo, although the device also can be used in vitro.Georgia Tech Research Corporatio