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

Abstract

Devices and methods for removing an obstruction from a blood vessel are described. The devices are deployed in a collapsed condition and are then expanded within the body. The devices are then manipulated to engage and remove the obstruction.

1 - 80 . (canceled) 
     
     
         81 . A method of removing an obstruction from a blood vessel comprising the steps of:
 providing an obstruction removing device having a loop and a basket coupled to the loop, the loop being movable from a collapsed position to an expanded position, the obstruction removing device having a longitudinal axis, the loop generally lying in a plane which forms an angle of about 0-25 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis when in the collapsed position and about 45-135 degrees when in the expanded position;   advancing the device through an obstruction;   moving the loop to the expanded position; and   engaging the obstruction by moving the obstruction removing device.   
     
     
         82 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop forming an angle of 70-110 degrees when in the expanded position.   
     
     
         83 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop having a substantially constant perimeter size.   
     
     
         84 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop being coupled to a plurality of filaments which form the basket.   
     
     
         85 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop being elongated when collapsed.   
     
     
         86 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop being deformed into an elongated oval when in the collapsed position.   
     
     
         87 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop having first and second ends, the first and second ends being secured to an elongate insertion element.   
     
     
         88 . The method of  claim 87 , wherein:
 the first and second ends of the loop are secured with a wire wrapped around the first and second ends and the insertion element.   
     
     
         89 . The method of  claim 81 , wherein:
 the providing step is carried out with the loop having a size about equal to the size of the vessel.   
     
     
         90 - 121 . (canceled)