Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

An introducer for retaining an implant placed within an implant delivery device having a pusher for displacing the implant includes a tube and a clamp. The interior of the tube defines a passage for guiding the movement of the pusher. The clamp is made of a shape memory material disposed in the passage about the pusher. The clamp is normally operative to grip the pusher to hold it in position relative to the tube and further operative in response to an elevated temperature to release the pusher for movement relative to the tube. The clamp may be formed integrally with the tube and may comprise at least one crimp or an annular ring surrounding the tube. The tube is tapered to be narrower at its distal end and may be formed of a shaped memory polymer material.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim