the present invention provides an apparatus for delivery and deployment of an expandable stent within a vessel . the apparatus comprises a catheter having a proximal end , a distal end and a catheter shaft , an expandable stent coaxially mounted on the catheter near the distal end of the catheter and a securement apparatus coaxially mounted on the catheter near its distal end and over the stent . the securement apparatus comprises a securement sleeve having a proximal end , a distal end , an exterior surface and an interior surface . the securement sleeve is constructed and arranged for proximal advancement along the catheter shaft . the present invention also includes a distal cuff having a proximal end , a distal end , an exterior surface and an interior surface . the distal cuff is mounted near the distal end of the catheter and is constructed and arranged to closely surround the exterior surface of the securement sleeve at the distal end of the securement sleeve until proximal advancement thereof and subsequent deployment of the stent .