Abstract: A valved connector apparatus is described having an integral opening and closing system operated by axial movement of the valve. The body of the valved connector apparatus is in a Y-shaped configuration with a main channel and a lateral channel branching off of the main channel. A normally dosed, passive hemostasis valve is housed in a valve body that is slidably connected to the proximal end of the main channel. The hemostasis valve is opened by sliding the valve body distally with respect to the Y-shaped connector body so that a cylindrical extension extending from the proximal end of the Y-shaped connector body penetrates a central opening in the hemostasis valve, creating an open passage for insertion of guidewires, catheters or other instruments. The valved connector apparatus allows safe introduction of extremely flexible or fragile guidewires, catheters or other instruments.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for treating cardiovascular diseases with an embolization coil placement system utilizing an embolization coil and a pusher device. The embolization coil includes a releasable attachment assembly with a deformable ring-shaped member for connecting the embolization coil to a hydraulic pressure actuated coil release assembly on the pusher device. The coil release assembly includes a coil mounting wire with a bulbous distal portion that extends distally from a proximal tubular portion of the pusher device. A small inflatable balloon is mounted on the pusher device surrounding the coil mounting wire and fluidly connected to the proximal tubular portion. The embolization coil delivery system is prepared for use by crimping the deformable ring-shaped member around the deflated balloon member and the mounting wire. The bulbous distal portion of the mounting wire retains the crimped ring-shaped member on the pusher device.