A stent is provided with a multi-layer structure, combining one or more
mesh layers with one or more film layers. The film layer(s) are
configured to substantially prevent growth of an inner lining of a blood
vessel, where the stent is placed, through the mesh layer(s). The
end-to-end length of the film layer(s) may be greater than the lengths of
the mesh layer(s) by at least about 0.5 mm. The mesh and film layers
include a radiopaque portion adjacent their ends to provide an X-ray
indication of whether the mesh layer(s) have expanded beyond the ends of
the film layer(s). If the stent includes inner and outer film layers and
a middle mesh layer, the film layers may be sealed together adjacent the
ends, encasing and fixing in place the middle layer. The mesh layer may
be constructed to be more compliant adjacent its distal end and to expand
more rapidly in response to expansion of a balloon catheter as compared
to a middle portion of the mesh layer.