Patent ID: 6368337
Filing Date: 2002-04-09
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61M

Abstract:
An introducer and sheath assembly comprising:an elongate introducer member, a tubular sheath adapted to surround said introducer member, said tubular sheath having a weakened region which extends along its longitudinal axis from a proximal region to a distal region of said tubular sheath; and a handle on the proximal region of said tubular sheath, said handle being adapted to be pulled proximally, thereby causing said weakened region to separate as said weakened region is drawn against said introducer member, thereby allowing said tubular sheath to be removed from said introducer member, said handle having one-or more inwardly directed latches adapted to releasably secure said sheath to said introducer member, wherein said one or more latches comprise one or more protuburances formed on an inner wall of said handle and wherein said introducer member comprises one or more recesses, said one or more protuberances being adapted to releasably engage said one or more recesses.