An introducer apparatus includes an outer sleeve (12) and an inner cannula(20) received within the lumen (15) of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve hasa profile such that at least a portion of the distal end of the outer sleevetapers in the distal direction at an angle not exceeding about 2.5~ relativeto a longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The distal open end of the outersleeve has a wall thickness not exceeding about 0.003 inch, and is sized suchthat a first wire guide is receivable therethrough. The inner cannula includesa tapered distal end portion. The inner cannula distal open end is sized suchthat a second wire guide is receivable therethrough, and the first wire guideis not receivable therethrough. The tapered distal portion of the innercannula extends distal to the distal open end of the outer sleeve, such that agenerally smooth diametrical transition is provided between the outer sleevetapered portion and the open distal end of the inner cannula.
