An expandable stent (12) for use in the implantation of a valve prosthesis (11) using a delivery system (10) is disclosed. The self-expandable stent (12) includes a tubular lattice structure (13) defined by longitudinally aligned rods (16) connected to V- shaped struts (17) for forming a plurality of interconnected chevron-shaped six-sided polygons (24) that define a distal end zone (21) and a middle zone (20) of the tubular lattice structure (13). A flare (27) or bend may be defined along opposite ends of each rod (16) to properly seat and prevent undue torsion of the stent (12) and valve prosthesis (11) during deployment and placement of the stent (12) within the lumen.
