US20060235431A1 - Lead extraction device - Google Patents

Abstract

An extraction device for removing an implanted structure, such as a cardiac lead, from a body vessel. An elongated sheath having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway extending therethrough is sized such that at least a distal portion of the sheath is receivable in the body vessel. A tip configured for disassociating at least a portion of the implanted structure from the body vessel is engaged at the distal end of the sheath. A handle is configured for engagement with the proximal end of the sheath. The handle includes an actuator and a drive mechanism responsive to the actuator for selectively translating input of the actuator into rotary movement and/or axial advancement of the sheath.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION
• The present patent document claims the benefit of the filing date under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of Provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/671,858, filed Apr. 15, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
• 1. Technical Field
• This invention relates generally to devices for use in the medical arts. More particularly, the invention relates to devices for separating an implanted elongated structure, such as an implanted electrical pacemaker or defibrillator lead, from encapsulating biological tissue.
• 2. Background Information
• A variety of medical treatments and surgical methods entail implanting an elongated structure in the body of a human or veterinary patient. Examples of such elongated structures include catheters, sheaths and cardiac electrical leads (such as pacemaker leads and defibrillator leads), as well as a variety of other devices. Over time, it can become necessary or desirable to remove the implanted elongated structure from the body of the patient. However, if the elongated structure has been implanted for an extended period of time, encapsulating biological tissue can grow around the elongated structure, making it difficult to remove the structure from the encapsulating tissue.
• A heart pacemaker is typically implanted in a subcutaneous tissue pocket in the chest wall of a patient. A pacemaker lead extends from the pacemaker through a vein into a chamber of the patient's heart. The pacemaker lead commonly includes a conductor, such as an electrical wire coil, for conducting electrical signals (such as stimulating and/or sensing signals) between the pacemaker and the heart. Leads for defibrillators are generally similar to pacemaker leads, and are positioned about the heart. Defibrillator leads may be affixed either internally or externally of the heart.
• Some leads include one or more coaxial or lateral helical wire coils having a hollow inner passageway that extends the entire length of the wire coil or coils. Other leads may be made with a cable without a hollow inner passageway. The wire coils are surrounded by an electrically insulating material such as a flexible tube, sheath or coating. The insulating material, generally formed of silicone or polyurethane, serves to simultaneously protect the wire coils from body fluids and insulate the wire coils from one another.
• While cardiac electrical leads typically have a useful life of many years, over time such leads may become encapsulated by fibrotic tissue against the heart itself or the wall of the vein, or against other surrounding tissue. Encapsulation is especially encountered in areas where the velocity of the flow of blood is low. The fibrotic tissue can be very tough, which makes it difficult to remove the lead from the area of the heart without causing trauma to the area. When small diameter veins through which a pacemaker lead passes become occluded with fibrotic tissue, separation of the lead from the vein can cause severe damage to the vein, including the possible dissection or perforation of the vein. In such cases, separation of the lead from the vein is usually not possible without restricting or containing movement of the lead, i.e., fixing the lead in position with respect to the patient, in particular, with respect to the patient's vein.
• To avoid this and other possible complications, some useless pacemaker or other leads are simply left in the patient when the pacemaker or defibrillator is removed or replaced. However, such a practice can incur the risk of an undetected lead thrombosis, which can result in stroke, heart attack, or pulmonary embolism. Such a practice can also impair heart function, as plural leads can restrict the heart valves through which they pass.
• There are many other reasons why removal of a useless lead may be desirable. For example, if there are too many leads positioned in a vein, the vein can be obstructed to the extent that fluid flow through the vein is severely compromised. In addition, multiple leads can be incompatible with one another, thereby interfering with the pacing or defibrillating function. An inoperative lead can migrate during introduction of an adjacent second lead, and mechanically induce ventricular arrhythmia. Other potentially life-threatening complications can require the removal of the lead as well. For example, removal of an infected pacemaker lead may be desirable so as to avoid conditions such as septicemia or endocarditis.
• Surgical removal of a heart lead in such circumstances often involves open heart surgery. However, open heart surgery is accompanied by significant risk and cost to the patient, as well as a potential for unintended complications. A variety of methods and apparatuses have been devised as alternatives to open heart surgery for heart lead removal. Several of these methods and apparatuses are described in related patents, such as U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,936, titled “Device for Removing an Elongated Structure Implanted in Biological Tissue”; U.S. Pat. No. 5,507,751, titled “Locally Flexible Dilator Sheath”; U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,749, titled “Apparatus for Removing an Elongated Structure Implanted in Biological Tissue”; U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,683, titled “Apparatus for Removing an Elongated Structure Implanted in Biological Tissue”; U.S. Pat. No. 4,943,289, titled “Apparatus for Removing an Elongated Structure Implanted in Biological Tissue”; U.S. Pat. No. 5,011,482, titled “Apparatus for Removing an Elongated Structure Implanted in Biological Tissue”; U.S. Pat. No. 5,013,310, titled “Method and Apparatus for Removing an Implanted Pacemaker Lead”; U.S. Pat. No. 4,988,347, titled “Method and Apparatus for Separating a Coiled Structure from Biological Tissue”; U.S. Pat. No. 5,423,806, titled “Laser Extractor for an Implanted Object”; U.S. Pat. No. 6,419,974, titled “Radio Frequency Dilator Sheath”, and U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,687,548 and 6,712,826, each titled “Apparatus for Removing an Elongated Structure Implanted in Biological Tissue”, among others. Each of the aforementioned patents is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.
• Most of the aforementioned patents describe manual, or mechanical, devices that are used for removing an implanted structure, such as a pacemaker lead. Others describe newer non-mechanical techniques, such as laser extraction and radio frequency extraction. These newer techniques have been effective in many cases when the amount and/or placement of fibrous growth that surrounds the implanted lead renders manual extraction difficult or impossible. One example of an effective device that uses radio frequency extraction to enable the physician to cut away the heavy growth is the PERFECTA® electrosurgical dissection sheath, available from Cook Vascular Incorporated, of Leechburg, Pa. The PERFECTA® sheath utilizes an intermittent discrete RF dissecting arc between bipolar electrodes located at the sheath's distal end. This sheath enables the physician to separate, with directed precision, a transvenous lead from its fibrous binding attachments.
• Although the prior art devices have been found to be reasonably effective in many situations, physicians continue to encounter particularly difficult situations in which existing extraction devices provide unsatisfactory or inconsistent results. Due to the multiplicity of factors that may contribute to the difficulty in extracting an implanted lead, a technique that may be effective in one instance, may not provide similarly successful results in another instance. For example, manual devices normally are provided with single or telescoping flexible sheaths. Such sheaths, generally formed from a polymer, have the flexibility to enable the sheath to traverse tortuous pathways in the vessel. However, such sheaths may lack sufficient strength to cut through particularly tough tissue growth and calcification around the implanted lead. Laser and radio frequency devices normally utilize metallic sheaths. Such sheaths provide a good deal of strength to enable the sheath to cut through fibrous growths. However, some growths are resistant to metallic sheaths, and these sheaths may also lack the flexibility desired to maneuver tortuous pathways.
• It would be desirable to provide a lead extraction device that is effective for removing implanted leads from a vessel, that is easy to operate, and that is versatile enough to overcome many of the obstacles that may be encountered in such operations with existing devices.
BRIEF SUMMARY
• The problems of the prior art are addressed by the inventive lead extraction device. In one form thereof, the invention comprises a device for removing an implanted structure from a body vessel. The device comprises an elongated sheath having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway extending therethrough. The sheath is sized such that at least a distal portion of the sheath is receivable in the body vessel, and the passageway is sized such that the implanted structure is receivable therein. A handle is configured for engagement with the sheath proximal end. The handle includes an actuator and a drive mechanism responsive to the actuator. The drive mechanism is operable for selectively translating input of the actuator into rotary movement and/or axial advancement of the sheath.
• In another form thereof, the invention comprises a device for removing an implanted structure from an obstruction in a body vessel, which device comprises a handle and an elongated sheath assembly engaged with the handle. The handle and the elongated sheath assembly are aligned to define a passageway therethrough for receiving the implanted structure. The sheath assembly comprises a radially inner first sheath, a second sheath overlying the first sheath and having a cutting tip affixed at its distal end, and a flexible member engaged with the first sheath for providing spring action to the first sheath. The first sheath is axially movable relative to the second sheath. The respective first and second sheaths are sized such that the distal end of the first sheath extends distally beyond the distal end of the second sheath when no obstruction is encountered, and the distal ends of the respective first and second sheaths extend substantially the same length in the distal direction when an obstruction is encountered.
• In yet another form thereof, the invention comprises a device for removing an implanted structure from a body vessel. The device comprises a striker mechanism comprising an axially movable elongated body having a leading edge at a distal end thereof, a bias member carried by the elongated body, which bias member is capable of compression upon axial movement of the elongated body in a proximal direction and of generating an axial spring force in a distal direction upon release of the compression, and a stop member for limiting axial movement of said elongated body in the distal direction. A flange is positioned for engagement with the elongated body leading edge upon generation of the axial spring force, and for transmitting the axial spring force in the distal direction. An elongated member is positioned for receiving the transmitted axial spring force from the flange member, such that incremental axial movement of the elongated member in the distal direction is generated thereby. The elongated member has a tip at a distal end thereof configured for separating the implanted structure from the vessel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a lead extraction device of the present invention;
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the handle of the lead extraction device ofFIG. 1, with a portion of the outer wall removed to illustrate the inner components of the handle;
• FIG. 3 is a view of the translation device removed from the handle of the lead extraction device;
• FIG. 4 is a view showing the handle and sheath of the lead extraction device prior to assembly;
• FIG. 5 is a view of the reverse side of an embodiment of a lead extraction device including a power supply;
• FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a lead extraction device according to the present invention;
• FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lead extraction device ofFIG. 6;
• FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the device as shown inFIG. 7, illustrating the joinder of the sheath assembly and the handle;
• FIG. 9 is an enlarged sectional view of the sheath assembly, taken along lines9-9 ofFIG. 10;
• FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the sheath assembly portion of the lead extraction device ofFIG. 6;
• FIG. 11 is a side view of the sheath assembly, partially broken away to illustrate the cutting tip;
• FIG. 12 is a view, partially in section, taken along line12-12 ofFIG. 11 showing the cutting tip, and also illustrating the handle nose portion;
• FIG. 13 is a side view of another embodiment of a lead extraction device according to the present invention;
• FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along lines14-14 ofFIG. 13;
• FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the lead extraction device ofFIG. 13, with the striker shown in a retracted position;
• FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the lead extraction device ofFIG. 13, with portions cut away to illustrate internal operating features of the device;
• FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the lead extraction device ofFIG. 13;
• FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a distal tip for a lead extraction device; and
• FIGS. 19-26 are perspective views of additional embodiments of a distal tip for a lead extraction device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS AND THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
• For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It should nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
• The present invention relates to an extraction device for extracting an elongated structure that has previously been implanted into a patient. The present invention also relates to novel tips that may be utilized with an extraction device. In the following discussion, the terms “proximal” and “distal” will be used to describe the opposing axial ends of the device, as well as the axial ends of various component features of the device. The term “proximal” is used in its conventional sense to refer to the end of the device (or component thereof) that is closest to the operator during use of the device. The term “distal” is used in its conventional sense to refer to the end of the device (or component) that is at the greatest distance from the operator, or that is initially inserted into the patient.
• The implanted elongated structure targeted for removal may comprise a cardiac lead. A cardiac lead, as the term is used herein, refers to a lead that is used in connection with a heart-related device. Non-limiting examples of cardiac leads that may be removed by the inventive device include pacemaker leads, defibrillator leads, coronary sinus leads, and left ventricular pacing leads. When the device is used to remove a cardiac pacemaker lead, the distal end of the cardiac lead will normally be located within the vascular system of the patient, and in particular, within a chamber of the patient's heart (such as in an atrium or ventricle of the heart). When the implanted elongated structure is a defibrillator lead, the distal end of the structure may be located either in or about the heart of the patient. The distal ends of other types of implanted elongated structures targeted for removal may not necessarily be near the heart.
• In addition to cardiac leads, the invention may also be used in the removal of other devices or leads, such as neurological pacing and stimulation leads. A non-limiting list of still other structures that can be removed by the inventive device includes implanted catheters, sheaths, cannulae and the like. For convenience, the following discussion will refer to the removal of a cardiac lead, such as a pacemaker or a defibrillator lead. However it should be understood that this is no way intended to be a limitation on the scope of the invention, and that the device may be suitable for removal of at least the other elongated structures referred to above.
• Typically, a cardiac lead comprises an inner core, comprising a cable or a coil, surrounded by a layer of insulating material. As explained previously, some cardiac leads have a lumen extending therethrough, while others (i.e., “lumenless” leads) do not. The extraction devices of the present invention are useful for extracting implanted leads having a lumen, as well as lumenless leads. When an inventive device is to be used for removal of a cardiac lead, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lead should initially be severed from the control device, such as the pacemaker or defibrillator, prior to any attempts to remove the lead. The control device will normally have a much larger diameter than the remainder of the lead, and thus only an unreasonably large dilator sheath could fit over the control device.
• FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of alead extraction device10 for use in separating an encapsulated elongated structure, such as a cardiac electrical lead, from biological tissue. When a cardiac lead is implanted in a vessel, all or a portion of the elongated structure of the lead may become encapsulated over time by fibrotic biological tissue that grows against the wall of the vessel or surrounding tissue. The inventivelead extraction device10 is particularly useful for removing the encapsulated cardiac lead from the vein of a patient. In the embodiment shown,lead extraction device10 comprises ahandle12, asheath14 extending distally fromhandle12, and a cuttingtip16 at a distal end of the sheath. As shown in the figure, anoptional strain relief15 may be provided at the proximal end ofsheath14 to inhibit kinking of the sheath.
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view ofhandle12.Outer handle wall22 has been removed from this figure to allow visualization of the internal features of the handle.Handle12 comprises opposing wall members22 (FIG. 1) and24.Wall members22,24 are connected via a snap fit or other conventional mechanism. In the embodiment shown,wall member24 includes a plurality oftransverse pegs26 that are received in corresponding receptacles (not shown) inwall member22 when the walls are snapped or otherwise fitted together in well-known fashion. Preferably, handle12 has an ergonomicallyshaped grip28, as shown in the figures. If desiredergonomic grip28 may also include a plurality ofribs29 spaced along a hand-engaging surface ofgrip28.
• In the embodiment of the handle shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, handle12 includes atranslation mechanism34. For ease of viewing,translation mechanism34 is removed from the wall members ofhandle12 inFIG. 3.Translation mechanism34 utilizes a rack and gear structure to translate linear motion generated upon pull of an actuator, such astrigger36, into rotational motion on the part ofshaft14.Translation mechanism34 includes arack38 having a plurality ofteeth39 as shown.Rack38 is engaged withtrigger36, such that upon theoperator pulling trigger36 in the proximal direction (as indicated by the arrow),rack38 likewise is urged linearly in the proximal direction.
• Anexternal spur gear40, having a plurality ofteeth41, is aligned withrack38 such thatspur gear teeth41 mesh withrack teeth39. Linear movement ofrack teeth29 therefore causesspur gear40, and thusteeth41, to rotate in the direction shown. Apawl37 may be provided to inhibit undesired (counter-clockwise) rotation of the gear.Pawl37 may also be configured to create ratcheting action upon movement ofrack38 andspur gear40, and to provide an audible confirmation of the rotation of the spur gear. A stabilizingarm42 extending in a proximal direction fromrack38 may be provided to maintain proper orientation ofrack38 inhandle12, and to ensure smooth movement of the trigger without bending or flexing when pulled under a load. Preferably, aspring44 is affixed at one end to rack38 and at the other end to housing wall peg26 (distal of rack38), for urgingtrigger36 back to the position shown inFIG. 2 upon relaxation of the tension resulting from the trigger pull by the operator.Spring44 may be retained inhandle12 by any conventional means, such as hooks45.
• Spur gear40 is affixed tolarge bevel gear46, in a manner such that rotation ofspur gear40 causes a corresponding rotation oflarge bevel gear46.Large bevel gear46 includes a plurality ofteeth47 on a side oflarge bevel gear46opposite spur gear40.Small bevel gear48 is rotationally aligned withlarge bevel gear46 in conventional fashion, such that largebevel gear teeth47 mesh with smallbevel gear teeth49 as illustrated.Teeth47 and49 are aligned in conventional fashion for such bevel gears, in this case at an angle of about 90 degrees. As a result, the direction of rotation is translated via said gears along the 90 degree angle.Hub50 is affixed to the side ofsmall bevel gear48opposite teeth49 for rotation in accordance with the rotation ofsmall bevel gear48.Hub50 is sized and shaped to securely receive a proximal end ofsheath14, by conventional means such as adhesion, friction and/or threading.
• Preferably,sheath14 is removably affixed inlead extraction device10 in a manner such that it may be selectively affixed to, or removed from,device10.FIG. 4 illustrates one preferred manner in whichsheath14 may be removably affixed inlead extraction device10.Hub50 is not visible in the orientation ofFIG. 4. In this embodiment,wall member24 includes apivotable wall portion51 that may be pivoted to the open position as shown, andsheath14 is provided with aflange17 at the proximal end of thesheath14 to seat the sheath in the hub. When the sheath is affixed inhub50,flange17 is snugly received against asurface52 ofpivotable portion51. Whenportion51 is pivoted into the closed position, a conventional latching mechanism, such as ascrew53 is provided to maintainpivotable portion51 in the closed position (FIG. 5), thereby retainingsheath14 inhandle12. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other ways in which the sheath may be held in the handle, and that the particular removable affixation mechanism described herein is not crucial to the invention.
• Thus, as has been shown,sheath14 may be selectively attached to, and detached from, handle12. In this manner,sheath14 andtip16 may be simply removed fromhandle12 following a lead extraction procedure, and replaced with another sheath and tip for use in a subsequent operation. Similarly, by utilizing detachable components,sheath14 andtip16 may be removed and replaced with a sheath and tip of a larger, or smaller, size as may be appropriate for removal of the particular lead involved in the procedure. Typically,lead extraction device10 may also include a conventional free floating outer sheath (not shown) that telescopes oversheath14 in well known fashion. Those skilled in the art are well aware of the use of telescoping outer sheaths for such purposes, and further discussion of this free floating outer sheath is not necessary for an understanding of the features of the present invention.
• During manual operation ofdevice10 shown inFIGS. 1-4, the operator pullstrigger36 in the linear direction shown. As discussed, this action drives, or translates, the linear motion of the trigger pull to rotary movement ofhub50, thereby causing rotation ofsheath14. Rack and gear structures are well known in the art. The remaining features of the translation mechanism not described herein are conventional, and need not be further explained or illustrated to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the mechanism for the purposes described. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other ways in which a manual device can be structured such that an action generated by an operator, such as the trigger pull described herein, may be translated to rotary motion. Although the rack and gear structure described and shown herein is preferred, it is not intended to represent the only way that such translation can be accomplished. All such techniques within the knowledge of one skilled in the art are considered within the scope of the invention.
• FIG. 5 illustrates another feature of the invention. In this embodiment, the rack and gear structure, as well as the trigger ofFIGS. 1-4, have been eliminated. These features have been replaced with a power source, such asdrive motor54. The power source may comprise any conventional source suitable for driving the rotation of the hub, such as a source for generating electrical, battery or pneumatic power. A suitable actuator, such asbutton55, may be provided to selectively activate, and deactivate, drivemotor54. Upon actuation, the drive motor operates in well known fashion to causesheath14 to rotate. Although the translational mechanism and trigger have been removed from the embodiment shown inFIG. 5, this need not be the case. Rather,device10 can be provided with both a manual operation (such as viatrigger36 and translation mechanism34) and a powered operation (such as via drive motor54). In this case an operator can selectively utilize either, or both, of these features during a particular lead extraction procedure.
• As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 4-5, atip16 is provided at the distal end ofsheath14.Sheath14 may be constructed in a manner such thatdistal tip16 is an integral part with the sheath; however, it is preferred thattip16 comprises a discrete element joined to the distal end ofsheath14. Typically, the sheath is formed of a flexible composition to enable the sheath to be threaded through a vessel to free the lead from an obstruction. However, it is generally desired to provide a tip formed of a composition having greater strength than the sheath, so that it is better able to cut or otherwise disrupt the obstruction. Non-limiting examples of suitable tips are illustrated in FIGS.18 to26.
• Another feature of the invention comprises adevice80 for removing or otherwise extracting an elongated implanted structure, such as a lead, from a body vessel.Device80 is illustrated inFIG. 6. In the embodiment shown,device80 comprises ahandle82 and asheath assembly84.Device80 is structured such thatsheath assembly84 may be manually urged forwardly in the distal direction (as indicated by the linear arrow inFIG. 6) and/or twisted in a rotary direction (as indicated by the curved arrow inFIG. 6) when used to extract an elongated structure, such as a lead, from a vessel. Aninner passageway94 extends throughextraction device80 in conventional fashion to receive the lead to be extracted.
• One preferred manner of retainingsheath assembly84 inhandle82 is shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. Further details of the sheath assembly are visible in enlargedFIGS. 9-12. As illustrated,sheath assembly84 has aproximal end85 and adistal end86. In the embodiment shown,sheath assembly84 comprises aninner sheath88 positioned within anintermediate sheath90. Preferably,sheath assembly84 further comprises anouter sheath92 for housinginner sheath88 andintermediate sheath90.
• Sheath assembly84 also includes an element for providing spring action forinner sheath88, such asflexible boot96. As best shown inFIG. 9, the proximal end of theintermediate sheath90 is bonded or otherwise affixed at the inner surface of thedistal portion106 ofboot96. The outer surface of bootdistal portion106 is preferably fixedly engaged with handle nose piece97 (FIGS. 8, 12). Thus, the intermediate sheath, distal boot portion and nose piece are fixed in the device, and are immovable relative to each other. The proximal end ofinner sheath88 is bonded or otherwise affixed toproximal portion107 ofboot96 in a manner such that the inner sheath and proximal boot and are not capable of independent movement relative to one another, and are free floating in the device. In this context, “free floating” means thatinner sheath88 and bootproximal portion107 are rotatable and/or axially movable in the device. In particular,inner sheath88 is rotatable and/or axially movable relative to fixedintermediate sheath90, and bootproximal end107 is rotatable and/or free floating relative to the handle.
• Boot96 should, of course, be flexible enough to permit relatively free and easy axial and/or rotational “free floating” movement of theinner sheath88 and bootproximal end107 when the lead extraction device encounters an obstruction during a lead extraction procedure. The boot should also have sufficient memory to enable it to return to its original, or neutral, position shown in the figures when no obstruction is present, or when the obstruction has been successfully cut. Preferably, the boot is formed from, e.g., a silicone or a polymeric composition having the requisite capabilities for spring action as described. Alternatively, the boot may comprise other known elastic or spring means, such as a stainless steel extension spring that is sized to fit the respective proximal ends of both the inner and outer sheaths. Those skilled in the art can readily select an appropriate composition and/or arrangement to provide the flexible feature of the boot.
• In the preferred embodiment shown, theouter sheath92 is not affixed to the device, but rather, works in a telescopic manner as it rides on the inner andintermediate sheaths88,90.Outer sheath92 can be advanced beyond the distal end of cuttingtip98 in a distal direction if desired. The length ofouter sheath92, and the point at which it seats on the device when in its most proximal position, controls the degree of exposure of the inner sheath beyond the distal end of cuttingtip98.
• A cuttingtip98 is affixed at the distal end ofintermediate sheath90. Preferably, cuttingtip98 is affixed to the inner surface of the distal end ofintermediate sheath90, as best shown inFIGS. 11 and 12. In a preferred embodiment, cuttingtip98 is provided with a plurality ofslots101, and the tip is bonded onto the inner surface ofintermediate sheath90, e.g., by thermal bonding in a heat shrink envelope. During the heat bonding operation, assheath90 begins to melt, a portion of the sheath flows throughslots101 of cuttingtip98. Aftersheath90 cools and hardens following removal of the heat, cuttingtip98 becomes tightly bonded tosheath90 throughslots101. Thermal bonding is a well known technique in the medical arts, and further discussion of this technique is not necessary to an understanding of the invention.
• Although thermal bonding is a preferred manner for affixing cuttingtip98 tosheath90, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other known ways of bonding or otherwise affixing a tip to a substrate may be substituted. For example, the cutting tip can be provided with attachment members, such as barbs, along the proximal length of the cutting tip. As another alternative, the cutting tip can be provided with a roughened outer surface for facilitating attachment with the inner surface of the sheath. Those skilled in the art can readily determine other appropriate attachment mechanisms for a particular case.
• Cuttingtip98 is preferably formed of a metal or a metal alloy. Non-limiting examples of tip compositions include stainless steel (preferably SAE No. 303-304), titanium and nitinol. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the metal cutting tip does not exceed about 0.375 inch (9.5 mm), however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that cutting tips of other sizes may be substituted in a particular case. In the preferred embodiment ofFIGS. 9-12, cuttingtip98 is provided with a plurality of cuttingteeth99. Cuttingteeth99 preferably extend in the distal direction from the main body of cuttingtip98. In the preferred embodiment shown,tip98 includes two distally-extending cutting teeth99 (only one of which is visible in the figures), each provided at a radially opposite side of the distal end of the device. Although the tip composition and arrangement described herein is preferred, those skilled in the art can readily determine other tip compositions appropriate for a particular use.
• During use of the device, axial movement of the inner sheath in the proximal direction is limited bystop member104. Preferably,stop member104 is made from plastic, and is molded, machined, bonded, snapped, etc. into the handle of the lead extraction device.Stop member104 is best shown inFIG. 8, and is shown schematically inFIGS. 9 and 12. As illustrated, there is aslight gap103 between the proximal end ofboot96 and stopmember104, to allow for movement ofinner sheath88 in the proximal direction when the device encounters an obstruction. The length ofgap103 is sized so as to limit proximal movement of the distal tip of the inner sheath, such that cuttingteeth99 extend only incrementally in the distal direction beyonddistal end89 ofinner sheath88 when the inner sheath has retracted to its furthest proximal point. Distal extension of the cutting teeth is thus limited either by the inner sheath stop, as described, and/or by the length of the outer sheath.
• The length ofgap103 also represents the distance that the tip of the inner sheath extends distally beyond the cutting tip when the inner sheath is in a neutral position (no obstruction encountered). Thus, as shown in the figures,distal end89 ofinner sheath88 normally extends in the distal direction beyond the respective distal ends ofintermediate sheath90 andouter sheath92, as well as beyond the distal end of the respective cutting teeth87. As stated, the respective sheaths, and the stop, are dimensioned and arranged such that thedistal tip89 ofinner sheath88 cannot retract beyond the distal end of theintermediate sheath90 when an obstruction is encountered. When this occurs, the inner sheathdistal tip89 slides in the proximal direction until it is flush with the distal end ofintermediate sheath90.
• The lengths of the respective sheaths insheath assembly84 are thus arranged such that when the assembly is in the neutral position, the distal end ofouter sheath92 preferably shieldsinner sheath88 and the cuttingtip98 ofintermediate sheath90. When the device is used to remove an implanted elongated structure, such as a cardiac lead, the device initially rails along the lead until an obstruction is encountered by the distal, or leading, end89 of the inner sheath. At this time, the flexibility ofboot96 allows theinner sheath88 to slide in the proximal direction in response to the obstruction. At the same time,lead extraction device80 may be manually urged by the operator in the forward (distal) direction through the obstruction by pushing and/or twisting the device. Thestop member104 limits movement of theinner sheath88 in the proximal direction, such that the distal tips of the cutting teeth are substantially flush with, or extend incrementally distal to,distal end89 ofinner sheath88. During the retreat ofinner sheath88 in the proximal direction,intermediate sheath90 andouter sheath92 remain in a generally fixed position. Since the boot communicates with the respective proximal ends of both the intermediate and inner sheaths when the inner sheath is pushed in the proximal direction, the elastic or spring property of the boot causes a spring action at the proximal end of the inner sheath, thereby urginginner sheath88 back to its extended position shown in the figures once the obstruction has been overcome.
• FIGS. 13-17 illustrate another embodiment of alead extraction device110. As shown inFIG. 13,device110 comprises a generallycylindrical housing112, anose mechanism114, anose cap115, asheath117, arestrictor sleeve119 and adistal cutting tip118.Nose mechanism114 is joined at its proximal end tohousing112 by any conventional means, such as a snap connection, a screw connection, or a friction fit, and may be maintained in the position shown in the figures bynose cap115.Nose cap115 also receives the proximal end ofsheath117, and provides a transition betweennose mechanism114 andsheath117. The distal end ofsheath117 receives the proximal end ofrestrictor sleeve119.Restrictor sleeve119 provides a transition betweensheath117 and the proximal end ofdistal tip118, whereupon the proximal end ofdistal cutting tip118 is received inrestrictor sleeve119. A passageway133 (FIG. 14) extends longitudinally throughdevice110, for receiving the elongated structure to be extracted, such as a cardiac lead.
• In the embodiment shown,tip118 is provided with a plurality offingers137 that project in the distal direction. If desired,tip118 can be structured such that the respective distal ends offingers137 are slightly movable in conjunction with movement ofknob122 from an open position having a diameter that slightly exceeds the diameter of the lead to be extracted, to a closed position wherein the fingers wrap around and grip the lead. In addition to the configuration shown,tip118 may have any of the tip configurations illustrated inFIGS. 18-26 described below, or any other conventional tip configuration used for cutting or disrupting a lead from encapsulating tissue.
• Further details ofdevice110, as well as its preferred mode of operation, may be readily observed inFIGS. 15-17.FIG. 15 is a sectional view similar to that ofFIG. 14, with thestriker121 andstriker knob122 shown in a retracted position.FIG. 16 is a view ofdevice110 similar to that ofFIG. 15, but cut-away in a manner to illustrate internal operating features of the device.FIG. 17 is an exploded view ofdevice110.
• Striker121 is provided for manual operation ofdevice110.Striker121 comprises astriker knob122 at its proximal end, a bias means such asstriker spring124 distal ofknob122, astop collar126 distal ofspring124, and astriker leading edge125. Leadingedge125 is sized such that it extends through anopening131 at the distal end ofhousing112. Distal movement of leadingedge125 is limited bystop collar126. Astriker flange128 is positioned for selective contact withstriker leading edge125. Preferably,striker flange128 includes a larger diameterproximal portion134 and a smaller diameterdistal portion136, as best shown inFIG. 17. In this embodiment, larger diameterproximal portion134 is received within a lumen ofdrive gear129. Preferably,larger diameter portion134 includes a splined outer surface, which surface is sized and configured to engagereciprocal splines135 along the drive gear lumen.Smaller diameter portion136 is received in the lumen offlange retainer127.Flange retainer127 is formed of a generally flexible material such as silicone, and is positioned interiorly ofnose mechanism114, as best shown inFIG. 14. In the embodiment shown, the proximal end of an elongated member, such asdrive coil116, is received within small diameterdistal end136 offlange128. The distal end ofdrive coil116 extends throughouter sheath117 andrestrictor sleeve119, such that it is securely received within an interior space ofdistal tip118.
• To operatedevice110 manually,striker knob122 is initially withdrawn in the proximal direction, as illustrated inFIGS. 15 and 16. As a result,striker spring124 and stopcollar126 are withdrawn proximally in a manner such that a spring tension is created instriker spring124. Upon release ofstriker knob122, the tension indrive spring124 is released, thereby drivingstriker leading edge125 in the distal direction such that it strikes the proximal end ofstriker flange128. This impact drives the striker flange and the flange retainer in the distal direction, which in turn, urgesdrive coil116 andtip118 distally. Thus, the force derived from the release of the striker knob is translated in linear fashion through the device todistal cutting tip118.Tip118 is urged forwardly incrementally a fixed distance of, e.g., about 0.125 inch (3.2 mm). The device can be structured to allow distal movement of the tip distances other than 0.125 inch (3.2 mm), however, this is a preferred incremental distance for a sequential cut when cutting the lead away from a vessel. The distance at which the tip is structured to move in the distal direction responsive to a single pull and release ofknob122 is largely controlled and limited by the position ofstop collar126 onstriker121. Thus, in the embodiment shown, stopcollar126 limits the advance ofstriker leading edge125, such thatleading edge125 can advance only the controlled distance of 0.125 inch (3.2 mm), which in turn advances striker flange128 a like distance. This is best shown inFIG. 14, wherein further distal movement of the stop collar is prevented by the distal end ofhousing112. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatstop collar126 can be positioned at different axial locations alongstriker121 if incremental cuts of other than 0.125 inch (3.2 mm) are desired for a particular cutting operation.
• In a preferred embodiment,device110 is also provided with apower supply130 to enable powered operation of the device.Power supply130 may comprise any conventional source of power suitable for such use, such as electrical, battery or pneumatic power. For powered operation, anactivation switch132 may be provided for activating the power supply, and/or for selectively convertingdevice110 between manual and power operation. Activation of the power supply causes rotation ofdrive gear129. Due to the splined or like interconnection ofdrive gear129 andstriker flange128, rotation of the drive gear causes rotation of the striker flange, which in turn, causes rotation ofdrive coil116 andtip118. Thus, those skilled in the art will appreciate that cuttingtip118,drive coil116,flange retainer127,flange128 and drivegear129 are rotationally engaged to one another in a manner such that they are axially and rotationally movable as a unit, which unit is freely movable withinhousing112,outer sheath117 andrestrictor sleeve119. As a result, whenpower supply130 is activated, this inner assembly will rotate from the drive gear to the tip.
• Thus, as described,device110 is capable of selectively utilizing either manual or powered operation. Manual operation provides a hammer-like action wherein the tip is incrementally urged forwardly, and then withdrawn, in linear fashion. This action may be repeated as many times as desired. Powered operation provides rotary action to the tip. Depending upon the nature of the encapsulation of the lead encountered, some obstructions may respond better to the hammer-like action of the tip provided by manual operation, while others may respond better to the rotary tip action provided by the powered operation. In still other instances, the encapsulation may respond better to a sequential operation of, e.g., manual, and then power, operation, or vice versa. As a result,device110 provides sufficient versatility to address numerous different encapsulation situations that may be encountered.
• Although the embodiment oflead extraction device110 described hereinabove includes the option of utilizing either manual or powered operation, or both, the device need not include both options. Thus, the device can be structured to provide only manual hammer-like operation, or only powered operation. When only manual operation is desired,power supply130 may be eliminated, along withdrive gear129. In this event, only minimal structural modifications will be required to compensate for the lack of a drive gear. On the other hand, when only power operation is desired, thestriker mechanism121 may be eliminated.
• A device for removing an implanted elongated structure, such as a cardiac lead, according to the present invention should have a length and flexibility such that it is capable of extending through enough of the body vessel to at least partially free the cardiac lead from the surrounding endothelial growth. For best results, the device will be structured such that torque can be transmitted by the operator from the proximal end to the “tipped” distal end of the device. In this manner, the operator need merely insert the sheath into the vessel, and thereafter direct, or torque, the sheath to the desired site to enable the teeth or other structure on the tip to cut or otherwise disrupt the growth surrounding the lead.
• Distal tips for lead extraction devices are known in the art, and those skilled in the art can readily select a tip for use with the extraction devices described herein. Although many such tips are effective in some instances, such prior art tips often do not have the versatility to be used with a wide variety of devices, and often provide less effective cutting and/or disrupting action than desired. Accordingly, another feature of the present invention comprises novel tip structures that are intended for use in the inventive extraction devices described, as well as with other extraction and/or cutting devices in which such tips may be employed.
• FIG. 18 illustrates one embodiment of adistal tip60 that may be joined to the distal end of a device, such as a lead extraction devices described herein. Typically, the distal tips described herein may be affixed to the inner surface at the distal end of a sheath, such assheath14 in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5. In the tip embodiment shown inFIG. 18,tip60 includes a plurality ofoptional rings56 that may be fitted at a smaller diameterproximal portion57 oftip60, and a series of radially outwardly directed projections, such ashelices59, on the outer surface of larger diameter tipdistal portion61.
• When present, rings56 are preferably aligned in order of increasing width of said ring body in the direction of the distal tip portion. Providing rings having a smaller width in the proximal direction minimizes the stresses in the sheath at the area of joinder of the sheath and the tip. At the area of joinder, stresses resulting from tension, torsion, and bending tend to be the highest.Rings56 may be provided with one or more cut-outs58. Cut-outs58 serve to hinder rotation of the tip when the proximal tip portion is positioned inside the distal portion of the sheath.
• Although the preferred embodiment illustrated above comprisesrings56 for engagement with the inner surface ofsheath14, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other conventional attachment mechanisms may be substituted in a particular case. For example, rather than rings, the proximal end oftip60 can be provided with one or more barbs along the proximal length of the tip, which barbs are configured to attach to the inner surface of the sheath. As another alternative, the proximal end oftip60 can be provided with a roughened outer surface for facilitating attachment with the inner surface of the sheath by well-known means, such as adhesion. In this case, the outer surface of the cutting tip may be roughened by any conventional process, such as bead blasting and etching. As is well known, the use of a roughened outer surface enables an improved connection to be formed between the cutting tip and the sheath.
• The radially outer projections, such ashelices59, on the distal portion oftip60 function as disrupters of the body tissue encountered during insertion and rotation of the lead extraction device. Although the disruptors are shown in the figure as helices, this is only one example of a type of disruptor element that may be present on the tip portion. As an alternative, the disrupter may comprise linear, or non-linear segments, which segments may or may not be continuous. Similarly, the disruptor elements may point in any direction, or in no direction, as in the case in which the disrupter element is a dot or a circle.
• FIG. 19 illustrates an alternative embodiment of atip64 that may be affixed to the distal end of a sheath.Tip64 may be engaged at the distal end of a sheath in the same manner astip60.Tip64 includes aproximal end65 and adistal end66, and may include a plurality ofrings67 having cut-outs68 as described. In the embodiment ofFIG. 19, the disrupter elements comprise twohelices69. Eachhelix69 traverses the outer diameter ofdistal tip66, across the end of the tip, and also extends along the inner diameter oftip66. Similarly, if other types of disrupter elements are utilized, they may also traverse the inner diameter oftip66.
• FIG. 20 illustrates another embodiment of atip72 that may be affixed to the distal end of a sheath. In this embodiment, a disruptor element comprises a wire formed to comprise a disrupting configuration, such ashelices74. Thewire comprising helices74 is oriented to snake throughperforations73 in the distal portion oftip72. Preferably, the ends of the wire are joined to each other, for example by welding, to form a continuous shape, such as a continuous toroidal helix. As shown inFIG. 20, this structure may be compressed in a manner to maximize the inner dimension available for passage of the pacing lead, and at the same time, to minimize the outer dimension which may otherwise encroach upon the blood vessel. If desired, parts of the helix may also be joined (as by soldering, for example) to the body of the tip.
• While disrupting the tissue, the disrupter elements urge the tissue to move in a direction which may be different from the direction of motion of the disrupter element. For example, a clockwise rotation of the tip, as viewed from the proximal end, would urge the tissue inside the tip to move in a distal direction, and the tissue at the tip to move outward (radially), for the embodiments shown inFIGS. 19 and 20. Additionally, the tissue on the outside of the tip would be urged to move in the proximal direction for the embodiments shown inFIGS. 18, 19 and20.
• FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of adistal tip140 according to the present invention.Tip140 is capable of providing a broader, cleaner pathway through the vessel than many existing tips.Tip140 includes a threadeddistal end142 and asleeve portion144. Smaller diameterproximal portion146 is sized to be affixed to the inside surface of a sheath, such as the inner sheath of a set of telescoping sheaths, in the same manner as the tips ofFIGS. 18-20.Small diameter portion146 may be provided withrings147, barbs, or other structure as described previously. Preferably,threads142 only extend incrementally beyondserrated sleeve142, and have a low profile to enable only limited threaded engagement with the obstruction. Extending the threads only a limited distance distal tosleeve144 as shown reduces the possibility that the tip may inadvertently cut into the vessel.
• Preferablysleeve144 includes a serrated outer surface as shown in the figure.Sleeve144 is preferably sized such that it has a slightly larger outer diameter than that of the (inner) sheath that receivesproximal portion146. This better accommodates a telescoping outer sheath, when present, and eases the advancement of the telescoping outer sheath through the area that has been opened by the tip. Advancement of the sleeve also obliterates the threaded pathway formed by the threads, thereby facilitating advancement of the device in the vessel. In addition, this tip also facilitates removal of the device, since it is not necessary to reverse the threaded pathway upon removal.
• FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate further embodiments oftips150,160 suitable for use with a lead extraction device. These tips are generally referred to as disruptor tips, since the action of these tips primarily “disrupts”, rather than cores of cuts, the obstruction. The tips are provided with generally non-aggressive leading ends154,164, respectively, so that they disrupt (alter or move aside) enough of the obstruction in the vicinity of the lead to allow the sheath to pass through. By gently disrupting the obstruction, rather than cutting or coring it, the tips have a reduced propensity to cut a lead or breach a vessel wall. Such tips are generally used for rotary action.
• Tip150 inFIG. 22 is provided with a generally horn-shapedbody152, having a plurality oflongitudinal slots153 formed therein. Horn-shapedbody152 tapers in the distal direction, wherein the terminal portion ofbody152 comprises a flutedterminal portion154. In a preferred embodiment, the fluted terminal portion includes gentle alternating axially-extending extensions and grooves. Proximal portion156 has a smaller diameter than that of the distal horn-shaped portion so that it may be affixed to the inside surface of a sheath.
• Tip160 inFIG. 23 has a split tulip-shaped configuration.Petals162 extend radially outwardly fromtapered body161. Axially-extendingslots166 are provided to assist in dilation and the movement of obstructing material. A thin-walledinner sleeve167 is provided to ensure that the lead or lead coil cannot enter theopen slot portions166 of the tip. Once again,proximal portion168 is sized to be affixed to the inside surface of a sheath.
• FIGS. 24-26 illustrate other alternative embodiments oftips170,180,190 suitable for use with a lead extraction device.Tips170,180,190 include respective smaller diameterproximal portions172,182,192, and larger diameterdistal portions174,184,194. As described previously, the smaller diameter proximal portions are sized for affixation within the inside surface of a sheath, such as the inner sheath of a conventional set of telescoping sheaths. Tip170 is provided with a plurality of axially extendingnubs176.Tip180 is provided with a plurality ofgrooves185 disposed along a terminal portion of said distal end. In the embodiment shown,grooves185 are disposed between alternatingprojections186. The distal end oftip190 is shaped similar to a hole saw, with alternating tippedprojections196 andgrooves195 between adjacent projections.Tips180,190 are intended primarily for cutting or coring through an obstruction.
• The tips illustrated inFIGS. 18-26 may be fabricated from a material having sufficient strength and rigidity to cut through or otherwise disrupt obstructions encountered during a lead removal. Metals and metal alloys, such as stainless steel, nitinol and titanium, are particularly preferred tip materials. Such tips may be formed from known techniques, such as machining and metal injection molding. When a tip is formed by joining together two separate pieces, such as the split tulip design ofFIG. 23, the inner sleeve may be joined to the tulip body by conventional means, such as by soldering.
• Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other compatible materials may be used in place of metal or metal alloys. For example, a fiber-reinforced polymer, such as fiber-reinforced polypropylene, may be used. Non-limiting examples of suitable fiber reinforcements include glass and carbon fibers. In an embodiment wherein the tip is formed as an integral portion of the sheath, the tip may conveniently be formed of a polymer, such as polypropylene, and may be molded onto the end of a sheath formed from a polymer that is compatible to the polymer of the tip material.
• The inventive device may also include, or be used in combination with, other known features of medical devices. One non-limiting example is the use of the lead extraction device in combination with a tip-deflecting mechanism. As well known by those of skill in the art, a tip-deflecting mechanism is normally operated by activating a control at the proximal portion of the mechanism. Activation of the control causes the distal portion of the mechanism to deflect in a desired manner, thereby allowing the operator to preferentially curve certain areas of the device, or to change the orientation of the tip, or a portion of the tip, of the device. Thus, one possible use of the inventive device is to position the sheath and tip portion of the device inside a tip-deflecting mechanism. The sheath portion of the cutting tip rails the lead, and is deflected in accordance with the deflection of the tip-deflecting mechanism. As a variation of this embodiment, the tip-deflecting capability can simply be built into the cutting tip device, thereby eliminating the necessity to use a separate tip-deflecting mechanism.
• The various sheaths described herein may be formed from conventional biocompatible materials well known for such purposes in the medical arts. Polymeric materials such polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, nylon, PTFE, and the like, are believed to be particularly appropriate. Typically, such sheaths comprise an inner sheath and a telescoping outer sheath, and the inventive devices are readily adapted for use with such sheaths. If desired, a sheath can be reinforced with a coil or with a braided material. Such reinforcements are well known in the medical arts, and are typically formed from a metal or metal alloy. Preferably the striker flange and the sheath assembly flanges described hereinabove are formed from a biocompatible metal or metal alloy, such as titanium or stainless steel, or alternatively, a high impact plastic composite material. The outer housing is preferably formed from an acetal compound, or a polycarbonate material. The compositions described hereinabove are exemplary, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that other compositions may be substituted, such substitutions being within the scope of the invention.
• If desired, selected portions of the lead extraction devices described herein, such as the tip portion, can be provided with means for x-ray or fluoroscopic vision. Such means are well known in the art, and may include, for example, the incorporation of a radiopaque band, or the inclusion of radiopaque particles in the selected portion. As still another alternative, the tip can be formed (in whole or in part) of a metal or metallic alloy to provide such visibility. In general, increased visibility of the tip is beneficial because it allows the operator to determine the location of the tip at a particular point in time, and also provides the operator with the ability to track the position and orientation of the tip with reference to the lead body.
• Those skilled in that art will appreciate that the foregoing detailed description should be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that it should be understood that it is the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the spirit and scope of this invention.

Claims (29)

1. A device for removing an implanted structure from a body vessel, the device comprising:

an elongated sheath having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway extending therethrough, said sheath having a length such that at least a distal portion of said sheath is receivable in said body vessel, said passageway sized such that said implanted structure is receivable therein; and

a handle configured for engagement with said sheath proximal end, said handle including an actuator and a drive mechanism responsive to said actuator, said drive mechanism operable for selectively translating input of said actuator into at least one of rotation and axial advancement of said sheath.

2. The device ofclaim 1, further comprising a tip engaged with said sheath distal end for disassociating at least a portion of said implanted structure from said body vessel.

3. The device ofclaim 1, wherein said actuator comprises a trigger, and said drive mechanism comprises a rack and gear assembly responsive to said trigger for causing rotation of said sheath.

4. The device ofclaim 3, wherein said handle further comprises a hub for receiving said sheath proximal end.

5. The device ofclaim 4, further comprising a first bevel gear operationally engaged with said rack and gear assembly for rotation responsive to movement of said rack and gear assembly, and a second bevel gear operationally engaged with said first bevel gear for rotation responsive to rotation of said first bevel gear, said second bevel gear operationally engaged with said hub such that rotation of second bevel gear drives a rotation of said hub.

6. The device ofclaim 1, wherein said handle includes a wall, said wall having a portion pivotable to an open position for receiving the proximal end of said sheath, and pivotable to a closed position for retaining said sheath in engagement with said handle.

7. The device ofclaim 1, wherein said drive mechanism comprises a power source, said power source operationally engaged with said proximal end of said sheath for translating said input of said actuator into rotation of said sheath.

8. The device ofclaim 7, wherein said power source is capable of supplying at least one of electrical, battery and pneumatic power.

9. The device ofclaim 2, wherein said tip comprises a proximal end and a distal end, said tip proximal end configured for engagement with an inner surface of said sheath distal end.

10. The device ofclaim 9, wherein said tip proximal end has an outer surface, said outer surface including at least one ring extending therealong for engaging said inner surface.

11. The device ofclaim 2, wherein said tip comprises at least one disruptor mechanism disposed along an outer surface of said tip.

12. The device ofclaim 2, wherein said tip comprises at least one disruptor element disposed along an outer surface and an inner surface of said tip.

13. The device ofclaim 2, wherein said tip comprises a proximal end and a distal end, said distal end including a plurality of perforations therethrough, said tip further comprising at least one disruptor element at least partially winding through said perforations.

14. The device ofclaim 1, wherein said actuator comprises a first actuator for providing input to enable rotation of said sheath, said device further comprising a second actuator for providing input to enable axial advancement of said sheath.

15. A device for removing an implanted structure from an obstruction in a body vessel, the device comprising:

a handle;

an elongated sheath assembly engaged with said handle, said handle and said elongated sheath assembly defining a passageway therethrough for receiving said implanted structure, said sheath assembly comprising a radially inner first sheath having a proximal end and a distal end, a second sheath overlying said first sheath and having a proximal end and a distal end, said second sheath having a cutting tip affixed at said distal end, and a flexible member engaged with said first sheath for providing spring action to said first sheath, said first sheath being axially movable relative to said second sheath, said respective first and second sheaths being sized such that the distal end of said first sheath extends distally beyond the distal end of said second sheath when no obstruction is encountered, and said distal ends of said first and second sheaths extend substantially the same length in the distal direction when an obstruction is encountered.

16. The device ofclaim 15, wherein said spring member comprises an elongated boot having a proximal portion and a distal portion, said boot proximal portion engaged with said proximal end of said first sheath and axially movable therewith, and said boot distal portion engaged with said proximal end of said second sheath.

17. The device ofclaim 16, further comprising a third sheath overlying said second sheath, said third sheath engaged at a distal end of said handle.

18. The device ofclaim 15, wherein said cutting tip is bonded to an inner surface of said second sheath.

19. The device ofclaim 18, wherein said cutting tip comprises a plurality of cutting members, said cutting members sized and positioned such that a distal end of at least one of said cutting members extends distally beyond the distal end of said second sheath, and extends distally beyond the distal end of said first sheath when said first and second sheath distal ends extend substantially the same length in the distal direction.

20. The device ofclaim 19, wherein said cutting tip comprises a plurality of slots, and wherein said cutting tip is thermally bonded to said second sheath such that a melted portion of said second sheath extends through said slots.

21. A device for removing an implanted structure from a body vessel, comprising:

a striker mechanism, said striker mechanism comprising an axially movable elongated body having a leading edge at a distal end thereof, a bias member carried by said elongated body, said bias member capable of compression upon axial movement of said elongated body in a proximal direction, and of generating an axial spring force in a distal direction upon release of said compression, and a stop member for limiting axial movement of said elongated body in said distal direction;

a flange positioned for engagement with said elongated body leading edge upon generation of said axial spring force, and for transmitting said axial spring force in said distal direction; and

an elongated member positioned for receiving said transmitted axial spring force from said flange member such that incremental axial movement of said elongated member in said distal direction is generated thereby, said elongated member having a tip at a distal end thereof configured for separating said implanted structure from said vessel; wherein said device comprises a longitudinal passageway therethrough for receiving said implanted structure.

22. The device ofclaim 21, further comprising a power source operationally engaged with said elongated member for enabling selective rotation of said elongated member.

23. The device ofclaim 21, further comprising a power source in communication with said flange member, said device being structured such that said flange member is capable of rotational movement upon activation of said power source, and for transmission of said rotational movement to said elongated member and said tip.

24. The device ofclaim 23, further comprising a drive gear engaged with said power source and adapted for rotation upon activation of said power source, said flange member being engaged with said drive gear such that said flange member is rotatable upon rotation of said drive gear.

25. The device ofclaim 21, further comprising a housing for said striker mechanism.

26. The device ofclaim 25, wherein said striker mechanism comprises a knob member positioned proximal of said housing and engaged with a proximal end of said elongated body, said knob member being selectively movable in said proximal direction for compressing said bias member.

27. The device ofclaim 26, wherein said stop member comprises a collar positioned along a length of said elongated body, said collar positioned for limiting distal movement of said leading edge upon release of said compression.

28. The device ofclaim 21, wherein said elongated member comprises an elongated coil, a proximal end of said coil being received in an opening of said flange member, and a distal end of said coil being operationally engaged with said tip.

29. The device ofclaim 28, wherein said tip comprises a plurality of axially outwardly extending fingers capable of gripping said implanted structure.

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