#$%^&*AU2012200419A120120816.pdf#####ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE An apparatus for deployment and retrieval of a self-expanding intravascular stent includes an intravascular delivery wire and one or more rings of compliant material fixedly mounted over at least a portion of the intravascular delivery wire. The distal portion of the intravascular delivery wire can be stepped, having a smaller diameter than the proximal portion, and forming a hard stop. Distal and proximal bands can also be provided on the intravascular delivery wire to form hard stops. A self-expanding intravascular stent can releasably retained on the compliant material.REPLACEMENT SHEET 12 14 r- 0 160 FIG. 1 (10 FIG. 2 12 20 16 1 FIG. 3 2622 16FIG. 4