A stent deployment catheter assembly comprising:a. at least one tubular member for retention and release of a stent selected from the group consisting of a retractable sheath and at least one stent retaining sleeve wherein said tubular member has an inner surface and an outer surface wherein said inner surface comprises a hydrophilic, lubricious, coating andb. a stentwherein said inner surface of said tubular member is at least occasionally subjected to contact with said stent and said hydrophilic coating reduces friction between said inner surface of said tubular member and said stent.
