Systems, methods and devices for removing obstructions from a blood vessel

Abstract

A system for removing an obstruction from a blood vessel includes an obstruction engaging element and an expandable capture element. The capture element preferably has a flexible cover and an expandable support structure. The engaging element engages the obstruction and moves the obstruction into the capture element. The capture element protects the obstruction when the obstruction is moved into the catheter.

1 - 38 . (canceled)  
   
   
       39 . A medical device, comprising: 
 an outer member;    a plurality of fingers extending distally from the outer member, the plurality of fingers forming an end, the end being movable between an open position to a closed position, the plurality of fingers being bent when moving from the open position to the closed position.    
   
   
       40 . The medical device of  claim 39 , further comprising: 
 an inner member positioned in the outer member;    the plurality of fingers being moved between the open and closed positions by relative movement of the inner and outer members.    
   
   
       41 . The medical device of  claim 39 , wherein: 
 each of the plurality of fingers has a flexible actuator attached thereto, wherein the actuator is manipulated to move the fingers between the open and closed positions.    
   
   
       42 . The medical device of  claim 39 , further comprising: 
 a sheath positioned to cover at least one of an inner and outer surface of the frame.    
   
   
       43 . The medical device of  claim 39 , further comprising: 
 an obstruction engaging element extending through the outer member.    
   
   
       44 . The medical device of  claim 39 , wherein: 
 the fingers are independent from one another and extend independently from the outer member    
   
   
       45 - 51 . (canceled)  
   
   
       52 . A medical device, comprising: 
 an outer member;    a frame extending distally from the outer member, the frame having an end which is movable from an open position to a closed position;    wherein the frame moves between the open and closed positions by applying electrical energy to the frame.    
   
   
       53 . The medical device of claim  50 , further comprising: 
 a cover positioned to cover at least one of an inner and outer surface of the frame.    
   
   
       54 . The medical device of claim  50 , further comprising: 
 an obstruction engaging element extending through the inner member.    
   
   
       55 . The medical device of claim  50 , wherein: 
 the frame is integrally formed.    
   
   
       56 . The medical device of claim  50 , wherein: 
 the frame comprises a shape-memory material, wherein application of the electrical energy causes the shape-memory material to change shape.    
   
   
       57 . The medical device of  claim 54 , wherein: 
 the frame moves to the closed position upon application of the electrical energy.    
   
   
       58 - 65 . (canceled)