Method for retrieving stents

Abstract

A technique for removing an implanted stent and a device useful therefor. An endoscope is introduced into position at the proximal end of the implanted stent and a cannula is then introduced through the endoscope. A wire guide is then passed through the cannula and into the duct through the lumen of the stent which is to be removed. The cannula is then removed and a stent retrieval cable is advanced over the wire guide and into position at the proximal end of the stent. The stent retrieval cable is torqueable, and has a tapered thread at its distal end and a rotation dial at its proximal end. Once the retrieval cable has been placed into position, the rotation dial is turned to engage the threading into the lumen of the stent. After the stent has been attached to the retrieval cable in this manner, the stent and cable are removed together through the endoscope and out of the body, leaving the endoscope and wire guide in place for use in the implantation of the replacement stent.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.