| abstract |
Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, collapsed cross-sectional configuration, subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration, and subsequent removal in a third, collapsed cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vascular system and has utility in the introduction and removal of implant delivery catheters. The access route is through the femoral arteries and the iliac arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, collapsed cross-sectional configuration during advancement to the arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is then expanded using a radial dilatation device, which is removed prior to the introduction of implant delivery catheters. The distal end of the sheath is subsequently reduced to a diametrically small size for removal. |