The present invention provides improved prostheses and methods for their endolumenal
placement within body lumens, particularly blood vessels. In one embodiment, the
prosthesis of the present invention comprises a plurality of radially expansible
rings having, a plurality of beams connecting axially remote points on adjacent
rings, and a plurality of expansion joints connecting axially proximate points
on adjacent rings. The beams maintain the remote points at a fixed distance when
the prosthesis is radially expanded and the expansion joints allow for relative
movement of the proximate points during delivery of the prosthesis. The combination
of the beams and expansion joints minimizes the risk of injury to the body lumen
during delivery of the prosthesis to a target site and provides improved tracking capabilities.
