US Patent 8444661 Unfolding balloon catheter for proximal embolus protection

Devices, systems and methods for removing foreign bodies within a body lumen are disclosed. An unfolding balloon catheter may include an elongated shaft having an intussuscepting balloon that can be actuated within a body lumen to capture and retrieve an intravascular device. The balloon may be configured to radially and/or axially expand when inflated, enveloping the intravascular device. In certain embodiments, the balloon may be formed by folding the ends of a distensible member inwardly, and then bonding the ends of the distensible member to the elongated shaft to form an expandable sleeve. An adhesive layer located along a portion of the elongated shaft may be used to temporarily secure the balloon to the elongated shaft.