Abstract: A device for removing from a patient a previously implanted elongated structure, such as a cardiac lead. The device includes a gripping member having a receiving portion and a capturing portion. The receiving portion defines an eyelet for receiving a length of the elongated structure. The capturing portion is movable relative to at least the eyelet of the receiving portion, and is dimensioned such that upon relative movement, the receiving portion is constrictable around a length of the elongated structure length. The receiving portion may comprise a wire and the capturing portion may comprise a collar, wherein at least a portion of the collar is movable over the eyelet to constrict the wire around the length of the elongated structure length received in the eyelet.

Abstract: A device for removing from a patient a previously implanted elongated structure, such as a pacemaker lead or a defibrillator lead, that may be encapsulated in biological tissue of the patient. In one form, the device comprises a sheath member having an inside dimension greater than the outside dimension of the elongated structure, and a gripping member positioned about the sheath member. The gripping member has a longitudinal passage extending substantially therethrough, which longitudinal passage is dimensioned to encircle at least a portion of the elongated structure. A proximal portion of the gripping member may extend outwardly beyond the proximal end of the elongated structure and outwardly of at least the vascular system of the patient.