A catheter in one embodiment includes an expandable implant and a delivery sheath having a lumen in which the expandable implant is disposed when the implant is being delivered. The delivery sheath includes a region having a plurality of openings designed to give a flexibility profile to the delivery sheath while allowing the implant to slide within the lumen, the outer surface of the implant being at least partially in contact with the openings during delivery of the implant.
