Purpose: The authors describe a modified technique for delivering Palmaz 30-mm stents.
Materials and methods: The modification is based on the use of an 8-mm Olbert balloon mounted on a 5.8-F shaft. The Palmaz stent is crimped onto the balloon by using finger pressure only. An 8-F introducer sheath can be used instead of a 10-F sheath. The surface material of the balloon prevents the stent from moving as it is introduced through the sheath and lesion. The balloon has a very small profile after deflation, which means it can be easily removed without dislodging the stent. The balloon can be used for placement of more than one stent.
Results: Nineteen Palmaz 30-mm stents have been placed with this method, and there have been no complications or difficulties related to this method. In one case, four stents were delivered by using the same balloon.
Conclusion: This modification should reduce the complications of stent delivery, especially in small iliofemoral systems.