Device for transluminal implantation or extraction

A device for transluminal implantation and extraction of a substantially tubular, radially expandable stent, comprising a central tube surrounded by a concentric exterior tube axially displaceable relative to the central tube, a plurality of axially extending gripping members attached to an outer surface of said central tube at a distal end thereof, said members being substantially evenly distributed around the periphery of said central tube and outwardly expandable when said exterior tube is axially displaced from the distal end of said central tube and toward a proximal end of said device, radial opernings provided in said central tube to receive said gripping members therein, said members forming a nip between said members and said central tube when said exterior tube is moved in an axial direction toward the distal end of said central tube and away from said proximal end.