Abstract: A medical retrieval device includes a handle and a hollow sheath extending forward from the handle. A slide is attached to the handle for longitudinal movement along a path between a rearward location and a forward location. A rotary actuator having an axis of rotation generally transverse to the path of movement of the slide is mounted to the slide for rotational movement with respect thereto. A basket having at least three legs is located at a forward end of the sheath. Two adjacent basket legs are connected to a first side of the rotary actuator, and the remaining basket legs are connected to the opposite side of the rotary actuator such that rotation of the rotary actuator displaces the two legs in a first direction with respect to the sheath and displaces the remainder of the legs in a direction opposite the first direction.