A method of deploying a stent includes receiving a delivery system loaded with a stent and securing the stent in a compressed arrangement by a stent holding assembly including first and second holders having a first protective cover disposed at one end for enclosing a first fastening assembly and a second protective cover disposed at one end of the second holder for enclosing a second fastening assembly, respectively, the stent coupled to the first and second holders members by the first and second fastening assemblies, respectively. The method further includes delivering the stent in an axially expanded and a radially compressed arrangement to an implantation site, retracting the first and second protective covers to expose the first and second fastening assemblies, and actuating the first and second fastening assemblies such that the stent radially expands to engage an inner wall of a lumen.
