Medical introducer apparatus

Abstract

An introducer apparatus ( ) comprising a pair of co-extending splittable introducer sheaths ( ), ( ) is disclosed. The unique properties (pushability, torqueability, length, shape, etc.) of the individual introducer sheaths yields an introducer apparatus with the additional navigational flexibility to reach a remote target that whose access would be more difficult or impossible with a single introducer sheath. One embodiment include a coaxial pair of introducer sheaths made of made of molecularly oriented (non-isotropic) polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE which are used for placement of a pacemaker or defibrillator lead into the coronary sinus. In this embodiment, the first introducer sheath ( ) is introduced over a wire guide into ostium of the coronary sinus, which represents the first target site. The outer introducer sheath includes preformed bends ( ) to facilitate passage through the vasculature. A second introducer sheath ( ), which includes a curved distal portion ( ), is introduced through the first introducer where it extends from the distal end of the outer introducer sheath to access the second, ultimate target site, such as a coronary artery branching from the coronary sinus. After the pacemaker lead has been placed, both sheaths are split and removed from the patient.