Technique for precise, graded arterial stenosis and occlusion.

A variable mechanical occluder has been designed which, by means of a micrometer, permits graded stenosis of an artery in precise, reproducible increments. The design also allows transient, complete occlusion of the artery to establish zero flow without alteration of the level of stenosis established prior to the zeroing procedure. The device has been used to partially block the reactive hyperemic response following coronary and femoral artery occlusion, but is readily adaptable to vessels of other size by means of an interchangeable occluder subassembly.