The disclosure relates to medical devices for implantation in a body
vessel, and methods of using and making the same. A medical device can
include a frame with one or more projections each having at least one
edge extending from the surface of the frame, and a biocompatible,
water-soluble removable material coated over at least a portion of the at
least one edge. The projections can be barbs positioned to engage the
interior wall of a body vessel or to attach a material, such as a valve
leaflet or graft, to the frame. The removable material can be dissolved
within a body vessel upon implantation, thereby exposing the at least one
edge. Methods of making an implantable medical device and methods of
treating a subject are also disclosed.