<p>A rapid exchange assembly (10) comprises an introducer sheath (12) , and a dilator (16) receivable within a lumen of the introducer sheath. The dilator has an open distal end (17) and a lumen (23) extending therein. A distal portion (18) of the dilator extends distally beyond the distal end of the introducer sheath when the dilator is received in the lumen (13) of the introducer sheath. The dilator has an opening (22) through a wall in the distal portion which communicates with the open distal end of the dilator. A wire guide (20) is receivable through the open distal end of the dilator and extends through the opening in the distal portion of the dilator outwardly of the assembly along the length of the introducer sheath.</p>
