Self-sealing hemostasis valve apparatus and method of forming the same

摘要

A self-sealing valve to accommodate the passage of elongate elements. The valve comprises an elastomeric body having a passage extending therethrough which is held in compression by an elastomeric sleeve disposed around the body. The passage includes an enlarged chamber intermediate its ends and at least a portion of the passage takes the form of a puncture. In use, the passage functions to seal around an elongate element extended therethrough and the chamber reduces friction on the element and provides a void into which the material of the elastomeric body may be displaced without disturbing the seal. A method of forming the valve with a bulbous-ended mandrel is also disclosed.