Method and apparatus for proximal support of a guide wire during catheter exchange

摘要

A method and apparatus are provided for withdrawing a catheter proximally from a guide catheter lumen while supporting a guide wire in a longitudinal and lateral direction proximal to the guide catheter lumen. The guide catheter lumen has a guide catheter lumen, a proximal end and a distal end. A catheter extends through the guide catheter lumen and has a guide wire lumen at a distal portion thereof having a proximal end and a distal end. A length of the guide wire lumen is shorter than a length of the catheter. A guide wire extends through the guide wire lumen and the guide catheter lumen. A sleeve is provided over a segment of the guide wire extending proximally from the guide catheter lumen. The sleeve maintains that segment of the guide wire in close lateral proximity to the catheter as the catheter is withdrawn proximally from the guide catheter lumen and the guide wire is restrained from such proximal movement.