Method and apparatus for recapturing an implant from the left atrial appendage

Abstract

A system and method for retrieving an implantable device includes a delivery catheter, a recapture section, and a sheath. The delivery catheter has a proximal end and a distal end. The recapture section is axially extendable from the distal end of the delivery catheter. The sheath has a proximal end and a distal end and a lumen sized to receive the delivery catheter. A portion of the lumen of the sheath is actuatable from an enlarged inside diameter to a reduced inside diameter to apply an inwardly directed force to the recapture section. The delivery catheter can be actuated with respect to the sheath to extend or retract the recapture section with respect to the delivery catheter.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . A system for retrieving an implantable device, comprising: a delivery catheter having a proximal end and a distal end; a recapture section axially extendable from the distal end of the delivery catheter; and a sheath having a proximal end and a distal end and a lumen sized to receive the delivery catheter, a portion of the lumen of the sheath being actuatable from an enlarged inside diameter to a reduced inside diameter to apply an inwardly directed force to the recapture section.