📊 Evidence-Based Reference

Gore Dryseal Sheath

W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

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Summary: The Gore DrySeal Sheath is a vascular access device used primarily in complex endovascular procedures. Key evidence highlights its utility in facilitating transcatheter valve implantation and managing vascular tortuosity.

FDA Clearance Information

Pathway ? 510(k)
Number ? K120428 ↗
Decision Date ? April 20, 2012
Product Code ? DYB
Device Class ? Class 2
Evidence ? 0 studies

The Gore DrySeal Sheath was cleared by the FDA via the 510(k) pathway on April 20, 2012. It is manufactured by W.L. Gore & Associates and is classified as a Class 2 medical device.

What It Is

The Gore DrySeal Sheath is a vascular access device designed to provide a stable and secure conduit for the delivery of endovascular devices. It is intended for use in procedures requiring large-bore access, such as transcatheter valve implantation.

FDA-Cleared Indications

  • Provides vascular access for the introduction of endovascular devices.
  • Supports procedures requiring large-bore access and repeated device exchanges.
  • Used to facilitate delivery of endovascular devices through tortuous or challenging vascular anatomy.

Clinical Applications

  • Access for transcatheter valve implantation procedures.
  • Vascular access for transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation.
  • Large-bore access during complex percutaneous cardiovascular interventions.
  • Maintaining a stable conduit during procedures involving severe iliofemoral tortuosity.

Reported off-label uses

  • Large-bore access for selected structural-heart, aortic, and peripheral endovascular procedures when the sheath size and anatomy are appropriate.
  • Access for selected embolization or endovascular interventions requiring device exchanges through a larger sheath.

Off-label use: these uses are reported in practice or the literature but are not part of the FDA-cleared indications. Physicians may use a cleared device off-label based on their medical judgment; the manufacturer may not promote off-label uses.

Evidence Summary

The available literature includes six studies, comprising various study types such as case series and retrospective analyses, published between 2020 and 2025. These studies explore the sheath's application in complex endovascular procedures.

Reported Outcomes

Published studies report that the Gore DrySeal Sheath facilitates the delivery of transcatheter valves, such as the Edwards SAPIEN, in challenging anatomical conditions. It has been shown to aid in the protection of cardiac structures during valve deployment and improve procedural success rates in high-risk interventions.

Safety Profile

Reported complications include potential vascular injury due to large sheath size and challenges associated with severe vascular tortuosity. However, the sheath's design aims to minimize these risks by providing a stable conduit for device delivery.

Evidence Limitations

The evidence is limited by the small number of studies and the retrospective nature of some analyses. Further research is needed to establish long-term outcomes and compare the sheath's performance with alternative devices in diverse patient populations.

Practical Considerations

  • Available sizes, working lengths, and inner diameters vary by model; the selected sheath must match the delivery system and the patient's vessel size.
  • Usually inserted over a guidewire through a percutaneous femoral or other suitable arterial access site under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance.
  • The sheath is compatible only with devices that fit its inner diameter and length; valve and other delivery-system requirements should be checked before the procedure.
  • Potential complications include bleeding, hematoma, vessel injury, thrombosis, dissection, perforation, infection, and limb ischemia.
  • MRI safety depends on the exact model and whether the sheath is still present; the current product labeling should be checked before MRI. The device is generally intended for temporary procedural use, not permanent implantation.

Procedures that use this device

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the clinical indications for Gore DrySeal Sheath?

The Gore DrySeal Sheath is indicated for use in endovascular procedures requiring large-bore access, such as transcatheter valve implantation and managing complex vascular anatomy.

What outcomes have been reported in clinical studies?

Clinical studies have reported successful facilitation of transcatheter valve delivery and improved procedural success in challenging anatomical conditions.

What complications have been reported?

Safety data indicate potential complications such as vascular injury and challenges with severe vascular tortuosity, though the sheath's design aims to mitigate these risks.

Disclaimer: This page compiles publicly available regulatory and published clinical evidence for educational reference. It does not constitute medical advice, product endorsement, or a recommendation for clinical use. Always consult manufacturer documentation and clinical judgment for patient care decisions.

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