Patent attributes
A thromboembolic removal system for treating ischemic stroke includes an aspiration catheter and an elongate member having a separator on a distal portion of the elongate member. During use of the thromboembolic removal system, the aspiration catheter and elongate member are positioned in a blood vessel, with the elongate member extending through the lumen of the aspiration catheter. Vacuum is applied through the aspiration catheter and the separator is deployed distal to the aspiration catheter into contact with thromboembolic material within a blood vessel. Manipulation of the separator during aspiration can facilitate aspiration by loosening, separating, or softening pieces of thromboembolic material, by removing any clogs or flow restrictions within the lumen of the aspiration catheter, and/or by pushing or plunging loosened material towards and/or into the distal end of the aspiration catheter for subsequent aspiration out of the body.
