Abstract: The present invention provides improved medical introducer devices which incorporate a single or multi-layer PTFE peelable sheath. Devices of the present invention are suitable for use in inserting an ancilliary medical device, e.g., a catheter, guide wire and the like, into a patient. Methods of the present invention also are disclosed which employ a precision sintering process in order to produce sheaths having excellent tear properties and optimal peelability.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved catheter device having a multi-lumen, reinforced catheter shaft construction. Each lumen is defined by a lubricious liner which promotes the passage of devices or solutions through the lumens with a minimum amount of resistance. A variably flexible outer jacket minimizes trauma to the vascular system of the patient, and offers the attendant medical personnel a high degree of torsional control with respect to the catheter. Methods for the manufacture of such devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved medical introducer devices which incorporate a single or multi-layer PTFE peelable sheath. Devices of the present invention are suitable for use in inserting an ancilliary medical device, e.g., a catheter, guide wire and the like, into a patient. Methods of the present invention also are disclosed which employ a precision sintering process in order to produce sheaths having excellent tear properties and optimal peelability.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for producing multi-layer peelable sheaths having formed tips, for use as medical introducer devices, e.g., sheaths for inserting a catheter or the like into a patient. The methods include the steps of preparing a first composition blend for forming an inner layer of the multi-layer sheath, preparing a second composition blend for forming an outermost layer of the multi-layer sheath, combining the first and the second composition blends into a multi-layer pre-form, processing the multi-layer pre-form for producing tubing, and forming a tip at one end of the tubing using a thermal process, thereby producing the multi-layer sheath having the inner layer, the outermost layer, and the formed tip. The methods of the present invention include adding a detectable material to the blend used for making the inner layer for facilitating external visualization of the multi-layer sheath, thereby achieving a sheath with a formed tip having no visible discoloration.

Abstract: Grasping devices and articles exhibit enhanced gripping or holding power to a variety of surfaces, including surfaces that are slippery or otherwise difficult to hold. The invention involves in some aspects the discovery and use of gripping materials that have the unexpected enhanced capability to provide enhanced holding power to a variety of surfaces, including surfaces that are wet, slippery or otherwise potentially difficult to manipulate effectively, or surfaces on which it may be difficult to maintain an effective grip or traction. The gripping material is smooth and has a relative surface area roughness of between about 1.03 and about 10.5.

Abstract: A releasably locking dilator/sheath medical introducer device is provided having a dilator with a non-circular cross-sectional shape to enable insertion of a catheter, guide wire and the like into a patient. More particularly, the invention provides an introducer device that has dilator with a non-circular cross-sectional shape, particularly a substantially oval cross-sectional shape, and that comprises a releasable lock for the dilator and the circumscribing sheath components of the device. In preferred embodiments, the introducer device also includes a visual indicator and/or a tactile indicator to conveniently inform a user of the device whether the dilator/sheath assembly is in a locked or unlocked position.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an improved medical introducer device that comprises a releasably locking dilator and circumscribing sheath as well as a tactile indicator to conveniently inform a user of the device whether the dilator/sheath assembly is in a locked or unlocked position. In preferred aspects, the introducer device also includes a visual indicator to provide visual indication to a device user that the dilator and sheath are either in a locked or unlocked position, and a lead-in section at the sheath proximal end to facilitate insertion of a dilator, guide wire, catheter, etc. through the device.

Abstract: An improved percutaneous introducer device is provided that inhibits or prevents undesired shearing of the splittable sheath component of the device. The device includes an interference tab that extends between two wing portions which axially shear the splittable sheath component of the device upon application of an effective force thereto. The interference tab effectively blocks undesired shearing forces that may occur during manipulation of the device by medical personnel or the patient prior to and during placement of a catheter, guide wire or other device.

Abstract: A self-expanding stent is proposed for hollow organs for the bracing and/or for the holding open of a hollow organ. The stent comprises two bands 11 which span a tubular and self-expanding network. The network is stretched in an axial direction in a collapsed state of the lumen and, in an expanded state of the lumen, is foreshortened in an axial direction and the network comprises at least two bands 11. In accordance with the invention, each individual band 11 is fashioned from at least two filaments 13 which run parallel to each other, which are connected to each other in a point-like fashion, and which interlock at crossing regions 12.