Patent ID: 7359756

Claim:
A method of removing an implanted lead from a vessel in the body of a patient, comprising: providing a lead removal apparatus comprising an elongated proximal portion capable of having first and second configurations, the first configuration having a compacted, pre-formed shape being constrainable into the second configuration, the second configuration being sufficiently straight in shape to permit passage thereover by a sheath sized for insertion in said vessel and having a passageway extending therethrough, the first configuration having a diameter that exceeds a diameter of said sheath passageway and exceeds a diameter of said configuration; a distal portion including an expandable portion adapted to engage said implanted lead; and an actuator portion adapted to expand the expandable portion to effect engaging of said implanted lead; introducing the distal portion of said lead removal apparatus into the vessel; inserting the distal portion of said lead removal apparatus into said implanted lead; activating the actuator portion such that expandable portion expands and engages said implanted lead; grasping the elongated proximal portion; and applying traction to the proximal portion and retracting said implanted lead from said body.