A prosthesis for use in preventing restenosis after angioplasty is formed of
plastic
or sheet metal, and is expandable and contractable for placement. The prosthesis
can be inserted while in a collapsed position, then expanded and locked at the
larger diameter. Spring force can be provided by the material itself, or metal
springs can be embedded within the walls of the prosthesis. Preferably, the walls
have holes therethrough to promote tissue growth; and, in one embodiment, the holes
are in the form of slots so that the prosthesis is segmented and can bend longitudinally.