Importance

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Abstract

An introducer for introducing an expandable implantable device into a catheter includes an outer tube and an inner core which slides in the outer tube. A first end of the core has a tubular configuration with a slit which allows it to expand radially to grip an end of the device. The first end of the core holding the device is pulled into a first end of the outer tube which further tightens the grip on the device. The second end of the core, which extends beyond the second end of the outer tube, may have a handle attached or be bent to prevent the core from moving and releasing the device. The core preferably has a metal wire inside of it. The device remains in its relaxed condition attached to the introducer at the first end of the outer tube and mostly outside of it until use. The outer tube may have a rigid transparent cup-shaped shield member attached at its first end and extending beyond it to protect the device and allow the device to be viewed on the introducer. To use the introducer and the device, the core is slid relative to the outer tube which pulls the device inside the outer tube and into its stretched condition. As the first end of the inner core exits the second end of the outer tube, the end of the device is released and remains mostly inside of the outer tube in its stretched condition. An end of the outer tube is then inserted into a catheter and a pushrod used to push the device from the introducer into the catheter.

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First Claim