Introducer assembly extension and method of use

Abstract

An introducer set includes an introducer and dilator along with an extension in a sealed sterile peal open package. The extension is available for use during procedures where the puncture access site to the patient is close enough to the site to be treated in the patient that the physician's hands and/or head may be positioned in the fluroscopic area while the physician is attempting to maneuver a wire guide to a desired location. When the extension is attached to the introducer, the physician may perform a procedure, such as an antigrade stick in the lower leg of a patient, while maintaining their hands and head outside of the fluroscopic area while direct radiation is being supplied and the wire guide is being maneuvered to a desired treatment location. After the wire guide has been properly positioned and the radiation has been terminated, the extension may be disconnected from the introducer and the remaining portions of the procedure (guide catheter insertion, balloon catheter insertion and dilation, etc.) may proceed in a known manner. The extension need only be in the range of ten to thirty centimeters to allow the physician to work a safe distance from the fluroscopic area undergoing direct radiation.