PINNACLE^® DESTINATION^® Guiding Sheath

What is a sheath in medical terms?

 In medical terms, a sheath is a tubular structure used to encase or protect instruments, tissues, or anatomical parts. It can refer to a vascular access device that facilitates the insertion of catheters during procedures like angiography or cardiac interventions, or to biological coverings such as the myelin sheath around nerves or tendon sheaths that reduce friction during movement.

Explain the difference between guiding sheaths and introducer sheaths.

The main difference between a guiding sheath and an introducer sheath lies in their design and function during interventional procedures:

Introducer Sheath: Primarily used to gain vascular access, it serves as a conduit for inserting and exchanging catheters, wires, and other devices. It typically includes a dilator for insertion and a hemostatic valve to prevent blood loss. Introducer sheaths are designed for short-term access and are often placed at the entry site of the vessel.

Guiding Sheath: Combines the functions of an introducer sheath and a guiding catheter. It is reinforced (often with a metallic braid) for enhanced kink resistance and torque control, allowing it to be advanced deeper into the vasculature—closer to the target lesion. This provides better support and control for device delivery, especially in complex or tortuous anatomy.