Patent ID: 7322957
Filing Date: 2008-01-29
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for insertion into a vessel-like structure, the apparatus comprising: a catheter for insertion into the vessel-like structure, the catheter having a catheter wall and a lumen extending longitudinally theretbrough; a moveable member disposed within the lumen; at least one helically twisted flexible strut fixedly connected to the catheter wall and to the moveable member; a membrane operably connected to the at least one flexible strut to form a trap, wherein relative motion between the catheter wall and the moveable member actuates the trap between a helically twisted contracted position and a helically twisted expanded position, wherein the relative motion comprises relative rotational motion; at least one suction aperture situated within the boundary defined by the at least one helically twisted flexible strut; and a suction lumen extending longitudinally through the catheter, the suction lumen being in operable communication with the at least one suction aperture.