Device and method for removing lumenless leads

A method for removing from a patient a previously implanted elongated structure, the elongated structure having an inner core and an outer layer covering at least a portion of said inner core, the method comprising:

• exposing a segment of said inner core;
• providing a gripping member for gripping said exposed inner core segment, said gripping member comprising a wire and a collar slidable over at least a portion of said wire and in closely spaced relationship therewith, said wire defining an eyelet for receiving said exposed segment, said collar sized and movable relative to said wire such that an outer dimension of said eyelet is constrictable around said segment of said elongated member for capturing said segment therein;
• threading a portion of said exposed segment through said eyelet;
• constricting said eyelet by axially sliding said collar along said wire toward said eyelet, such that said exposed segment of said elongated member is captured therein;
• and
• removing said elongated member from said patient.

A method for removing from a patient a previously implanted elongated structure, the elongated structure having an inner core and an outer layer covering at least a portion of said inner core, the method comprising:

• exposing a segment of said inner core;
• providing a gripping member for gripping said exposed segment, said gripping member comprising a sleeve dimensioned to be slidable over at least a portion of said exposed segment;
• crimping at least a portion of said sleeve onto said exposed core segment;
• and
• removing said elongated member from said patient by withdrawing said sleeve.