Patent ID: 7993305
Filing Date: 2011-08-09
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A valve introducer assembly for inserting a medical device into a patient, the introducer assembly comprising: a) a sheath comprising a sheath sidewall defining a sheath lumen having a length extending from a proximal end of a proximal sheath portion to a sheath distal end; b) a valve assembly comprising a valve housing secured to the proximal sheath portion, wherein the valve housing supports a valve membrane that provides for passage of a medical device through the valve assembly and sheath lumen while preventing body fluids or ambient air from leaking into or out of the valve assembly; and c) at least one stress confining structure comprising at least two diametrically opposed perforations extending completely through a thickness of the sheath sidewall at the proximal sheath portion housed inside the valve housing, wherein the stress confining perforations are spaced from the proximal sheath end by a web of sheath material and unoccupied by a valve material comprising the valve housing.