Radially expandable stent

A radially expandable stent ( 10 ) made from a cannula or sheet of biocompatible material that includes at least one longitudinal segment ( 14 ) comprised of a series of laterally interconnected closed cells ( 13 ). Each closed cell of a longitudinal segment is defined laterally by a pair of longitudinal struts ( 15, 16 ) that are interconnected at each end by a circumferentially adjustable member ( 19, 20 ). When the stent is expanded using a balloon ( 47 ), the opposing circumferentially adjustable members deform to allow circumferential expansion of the longitudinal segment, while the length of the segment, as defined by the longitudinal struts, is maintained. Self-expanding versions of the stent utilize a nickel-titanium alloy. Adjacent longitudinal segments are joined by flexible interconnection segments ( 21 ) that permit the stent to bend laterally. The flexible interconnection segment is comprised of curvilinear struts ( 22, 23 ) that form a series of serpentine bends ( 81 ) that distribute lateral bending forces. In a preferred embodiment, a short strut interconnects a longitudinal segments and adjacent interconnection segment. Each interconnection strut attaches to the longitudinal segment within a region ( 27 ) at the end ( 17 ) of a longitudinal strut ( 15 ) dividing two adjacent closed cells.