Abstract: An endovascular sheath apparatus 2 is provided. The endovascular sheath apparatus 2 includes an inner tube 12 that includes a lumen 26 for introducing medical fluids or devices and an outer surface. The apparatus 2 further includes an outer tube 22 with an interior surface. The outer and inner surfaces define a cavity 28 therebetween. The apparatus 2 still further includes a stiffening component 20 which in one embodiment includes a braided material that is at least partially received in at least part of the cavity 28. An actuating mechanism 18 cooperates with the stiffening component 20. A method of providing intravascular delivery of a sheath includes the steps of providing an inner tube 12; positioning a stiffening component 20 around the inner tube 12; and deploying an actuating mechanism 18 that cooperates with the stiffening component 20, a stiffness characteristic of which being adjustable extra-corporeally by movement of the actuating mechanism in combination with the stiffening component.

Abstract: A plaque-modifying balloon and method for use in an endovascular procedure includes an elongated balloon that defines a longitudinal axis and is inflatable from a first deflated configuration to a second radially expanded configuration. One or more plaque-modifying elements are mounted on the outside of the inflatable balloon. Optionally, a compressible sheath made of a relatively low durometer, flexible material is mounted on the balloon to cover the elements during transit of the plaque-modifying balloon to and from the treatment site.

Abstract: A plaque-modifying balloon and method for use in an endovascular procedure includes an elongated balloon that defines a longitudinal axis and is inflatable from a first deflated configuration to a second radially expanded configuration. One or more plaque-modifying elements are mounted on the outside of the inflatable balloon. Optionally, a compressible sheath made of a relatively low durometer, flexible material is mounted on the balloon to cover the elements during transit of the plaque-modifying balloon to and from the treatment site.

Abstract: A endovascular sheath system 10 and method are provided that has an inner tube 12 which includes an outer surface 16 and an uninterrupted inner lumen 14 for introducing medical fluids or devices. A stiffening assembly 26 including a plurality of inflatable bladders 18 is disposed outside the inner tube 12 that extend axially in relation to the inner tube 12 along at least a portion of its length. At least some of the bladders 18 are inflated or deflated through a channel 20 that lies in an annular wall 24 disposed between the outer 16 and inner wall surfaces 15 of the tube 12 and when a bladder is pressurized by hydraulic pressure. When pressure is relieved, at least partial relaxation and therefore a softening of the apparatus 10 results. An actuating mechanism 32 cooperates with a proximal end 42 of the stiffening assembly 26 for controlling fluid pressure that is communicated to the plurality of bladders 18.