| abstract |
An expandable transluminal sheath is disclosed that is introduced into the body during a first small cross-sectional configuration, after which at least a portion of the distal end of the sheath is expanded to a second enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vasculature. The approach route is a route through the inferior vena cava to the right atrium, where transseptal puncture is performed in the right atrium, and then the advancement of the catheter is completed. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in a first small cross-sectional area configuration during advancement through the atrial septum into the left atrium. The distal end of the sheath is expanded using a radial dilator. In one application, the sheath is used for access related to diagnostic or therapeutic procedures such as electrophysiological mapping of the heart, radio frequency ablation of left atrial tissue, placement of an atrial implant, valve repair. |