| abstract |
An inserter sheath is provided having an expandable sheath and for inserting a medical device into a blood vessel. The sheath has a length, a thickness, and proximal and distal ends. The expandable sheath includes a frame extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end, and has an inner surface and an outer surface defining an inner lumen along the length of the frame. The frame is configured to implement an expanded state and a contracted state, the expanded state forming an expanded cross section within the lumen for passing the medical device. The frame has a smooth coating on the outer surface and protrusions extending into the lumen along the inner surface. The implanter sheath can be inserted into the patient in a retracted state, and the distal end of the implanter sheath is prevented from being moved in a proximal direction by contact with the dilator end surface. |