INTRODUCER AND HEMOSTATIC VALVE COMBINATION AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME

摘要

An introducer (12) and hemostatic valve (14) for improved torsional guidance and kink resistance includes an entirely circumferentially reinforced introducer (12) connected directly to a valve body formed of a plurality of separable portions (38, 40) and housing a valve element (91, 93) in a centra l chamber thereof. The plurality of portions may be attached to the introducer during formation of the introducer, the valve body, or both. Alternatively, the plurality of portions (38, 40) may be attached to the introducer by assembly of the portions together in a surrounding relation to the introduce r. In use, the plurality of portions are separated from each other and the introducer is cut along its length in order to withdraw the introducer and hemostatic valve over an enlarged proximal end of an access device as the introducer is pulled from the patient~s body.