Expandable sheath with elastomeric cross sectional portions
US10327896B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 9, 2015 |
| Grant date | Jun 25, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 29, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/0681
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An expandable introducer sheath for passage of implant delivery catheters, such as catheters for delivery of prosthetic heart valves. The expandable sheath balances the amounts, shapes and positions of various stiff and elastic structures in the sheath to selectively program the expandability and buckling stiffness of the sheath. The expandable sheath can include, for example, an expandable tubular layer that includes alternating stiff and elastic wall portions of a single radial thickness. The combination of stiff and elastic wall portions allow for torque and push strength to advance the expandable sheath while at the same time accommodating temporary expansion. The expandable sheath can also be reinforced with a tubular layer of braided fibers or a stent structure for additional strength. Other embodiments include selective use of slots or gaps at the distal end of a stiff wall portion to enhance expandability and distribute strain.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.