Abstract: An introducer sheath can be used to safely introduce a delivery apparatus into a patient’s vasculature (e.g., via the femoral artery). It is advantageous to visualize the placement of an introducer sheath within the vasculature using an imaging system. The sheaths disclosed herein include radiopaque features that assist with imaging without sacrificing the low profile, expandability, and other advantageous aspects of the introducer sheath.

Abstract: The expandable sheaths disclosed herein include an expandable outer layer and a generally non-expandable inner layer. The outer layer is movable between a non-expanded configuration and an expanded configuration, where the outer layer/tubular layer is biased to the non-expanded configuration. Receipt of the inner layer within the central lumen of the outer layer causes the outer layer to transition from the non-expanded configuration to the expanded configuration.

Abstract: Expandable sheaths are disclosed herein. In some aspects, the sheath comprises at least one plurality of struts arranged to form an expandable cylindrical frame such that the formed frame is kink resistant. The disclosed frames are configured to expand from a first diameter d1 in an unexpanded position to a second diameter d2 an expanded position upon passage of a medical device, while maintaining the kink resistance. Also disclosed are methods of making the same.