RAPID EXCHANGE CATHETER SHEATH FOR DEPLOYMENT OF MEDICAL DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE

摘要

A rapid exchange sheath comprising an elongate tubular member (10), a guidewire (21), and support wire (32). The guidewire passes through a first opening (21) at a distal end of the tubular member and a second opening (16) a short distance proximal from the distal end. The support wire is received in a lumen (11) of the tubular member, or, in certain embodiments, extends proximally through a third opening a short distance proximal from the distal end. The support wire (32) is adapted to receive an endoluminal medical devi ce such as an expandable filter at a distal end. Methods of using the sheaths f or deploying and/or exchanging medical device(s) in a patient's vessel are also disclosed.