A hybrid lateral vein introducer which includes a conventional splittable hemostatic valve, which comprises two symmetrical wing extending from a splittable hub. A conventional splittable proximal sheath portion is coupled to and extends from the hub. The sheath portion is a conventional soft pliable sheath, which has limited torqueability, but adequate flexibility to be maneuvered in the cardiac vascular system. At a predetermined distance from the valve, the sheath is coupled to a reinforced sheath portion. Reinforced sheath portion is reinforced sufficiently to allow for good integrity and crush resistance while maintaining flexibility of the sheath portion. A proximal segment of the sheath portion is reinforced, but still splittable. Alternatively, the entire length of the sheath portion including the proximal segment and distal portions are rendered splittable.
