The invention is directed to an implantable stent prosthesis comprising a sidewall
and at least one channel for containing a biologically active material. A method
for making such stent prosthesis is also disclosed. In the method, at least one
tube or mandrel is placed in contact with a covering material on a stent and surrounded
by the covering material to form a channel. Alternatively, a channel can be formed
by covering the tube or mandrel with a channel material and exposing the covered
tube or mandrel to an appropriate treatment. The channel can be attached to a sidewall
of a stent or attached to a strut material to form a stent wire. A method of treating
an afflicted area of a body lumen by implanting the stent prosthesis is also disclosed.