US Patent 7931659 System and method for treating ischemic stroke

A thromboembolic removal system for treating ischemic stroke includes an elongate member and a receiver on a distal portion of the elongate member. The receiver includes structural members arranged to form a sleeve having a central lumen. A plurality of the structural members form engaging elements having apex regions that extend into the central lumen. During use of the thromboembolic removal system, the receiver is advanced over a body of thromboembolic material within a blood vessel, causing the body to be received into the central lumen, and causing the engaging elements to engage the body within the lumen.