US Patent 9895245 Introducer sheath having a non-uniform inner surface

An introducer sheath includes an elongated tubular member having a passageway extending generally longitudinally therethrough. The passageway is defined by an inner surface of the tubular member and configured to receive a medical device movably disposed therein. The introducer sheath further includes a reinforcing member engaged with the inner surface of the tubular member and extending into the passageway such that a non-uniform surface for receiving the medical device is defined thereby. The reinforcing member also has a surface therein suitable for facilitating movement of the medical device through the passageway.