Abstract: A device for retrieving clot material and distal protection within a blood vessel having a wall defining a lumen in the body. The device comprises an elongated tubular member having proximal and distal extremities and having a longitudinal axis. An expansile member having proximal and distal extremities is carried by the distal extremity of the elongated tubular member and is movable between radially contracted and expanded configurations. A deformable membrane at least partially covers the expansile member in the radially expanded configuration. A guide member is coupled to the distal extremity of the expansile member and has proximal and distal ends. A handle assembly is carried by the proximal extremity of the elongated tubular member for moving said expansile member between radially contracted and expanded configurations. The handle assembly is detachable from the proximal extremity of the elongated tubular member.