Abstract: An apparatus for deflecting a catheter or lead, for example a deflectable stylet or guidewire. The device includes an outer tubular member, a tension member mounted within the outer tubular member and coupled to the outer member and a handle mounted at the proximal end of the tubular member. The handle includes a major handle portion which has a rotatable knob located at its distal end, surrounding a proximal portion of the outer tubular member and provided with inwardly directed threading and an inner slider member provided with outwardly directed threading engaging the inwardly directed threading of the knob. The slider is advanced or retracted longitudinally within the handle by rotation of the knob but is rotationally fixed with regard to the major handle portion.

Abstract: A transvenous lead introducer having a mechanical valve assembly disposed thereon. In a preferred embodiment, a longitudinally splittable introducer sheath is provided with a sliding valve at or near one end. The sliding valve may be spring-biased to a normally closed position. A semicircular notch may be provided in the forward end of the sliding valve, so that the sheath may be effectively sealed even when a guide wire runs through the sheath. In an alternative embodiment, the sliding valve is adapted to have its forward end inserted into a notch in the cylindrical sheath body. The mechanical valve assembly is further configured to permit use with a splittable lead introducer sheath.