Interventional devices with spiral struts

Abstract

Interventional devices and associated methods and systems are disclosed. In some variations, an interventional device may include an elongate member having a longitudinal axis and a radially expandable interventional element coupled to the elongate member. The interventional element can include a hub portion and a plurality of spiral struts that curl around the longitudinal axis, where each spiral strut includes a first end portion extending from the hub portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. When in the radially expanded configuration, the spiral struts are at least partially unfurled such that the second end portion of at least one spiral strut is positioned at a greater radial distance from the longitudinal axis than the first end portion of the at least one spiral strut.

Description

INTERVENTIONAL DEVICES WITH SPIRAL STRUTSCROSS REFERENCE RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 603,796 filed 29 November 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present technology generally relates to medical devices such as interventional devices for treating obstructions in blood vesselsBACKGROUND

[0003] Obstructions in the vasculature of a patient can occur when blood clots accumulate in a body lumen, vessel, or other organ, resulting in disrupted blood flow and increased ischemic risks. Procedures for removing such obstructions involve introducing endovascular devices through the vasculature, which may require navigating tortuous anatomy and vessels having complex geometries. Engaging obstructive materials with current endovascular devices poses the risk of fragmenting and / or dislodging the obstructive materials and unintentionally sending them downstream. Provided the aforementioned constraints, many current endovascular devices are often better suited for larger, more proximal vessel occlusions rather than those narrower in size and located further downstream.

[0004] An area where these procedures are critically important, yet presently challenging, is in treating blockages in the cerebral vasculature. Obstructions in the narrow vasculature of the brain can impede the flow of oxygen and nutrients to brain tissue, which can result in irreversible cell death. Therefore, removing these vessel occlusions promptly and safely is crucial. Additionally, if not all of the occlusion is removed, deposits traveling downstream through the cerebral vasculature can lead to further complications. However, navigating to certain cerebral vessels using current endovascular devices can be difficult and risky due to their bulky construction.

[0005] What is needed, therefore, are improved devices for treating obstructions in the vasculature.SUMMARY

[0006] The subject technology is illustrated, for example, according to various aspects described below, including with reference to FIGS. 1 A-18. Various examples of aspects of the subject technology are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology.

[0007] Example 1. An interventional device for retrieving a thrombus in a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel, the device comprising: an elongate member having a longitudinal axis; an interventional element coupled to the elongate member, wherein the interventional element has a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration, the interventional element comprising: a hub portion; and a plurality of spiral struts that curl around the longitudinal axis, wherein each spiral strut comprises a first end portion extending from the hub portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion; wherein, when the interventional element is in the expanded configuration, the spiral struts are at least partially unfurled such that the second end portion of at least one spiral strut is positioned at greater radial distance from the hub portion than the first end portion of the at least one spiral strut.

[0008] Example 2. The interventional device of example 1, wherein when the interventional element is in the radially expanded configuration, the spiral struts are substantially within a common plane.

[0009] Example 3. The interventional device of example 1, wherein when the interventional element is in the radially expanded configuration, the second end portions of the spiral struts are positioned at a more distal location along the longitudinal axis than the first end portions of the spiral struts.

[0010] Example 4. The interventional device of example 3, wherein the interventional element comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion, and wherein when the interventional element is in the radially expanded configuration, the distal portion comprises a larger diameter than the proximal portion.

[0011] Example 5. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-4, wherein the interventional element is coupled to the elongate member via the hub portion.

[0012] Example 6. The interventional device of example 5, wherein the hub portion is welded to the elongate member.

[0013] Example 7. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-6, further comprising at least one band, wherein the at least one band is coupled to the elongate member and is arranged to face to a proximal or distal surface of the interventional element.

[0014] Example 8. The interventional device of example 7, wherein the at least one band comprises a first band coupled to the elongate member and arranged to face a proximal surface of the interventional element and a second band coupled to the elongate member and arranged to face a distal surface of the interventional element.

[0015] Example 9. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-8, wherein the interventional element comprises a shape memory alloy.

[0016] Example 10. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-9, wherein the interventional element comprises a pattern cut from a single flat sheet of material.

[0017] Example 11. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-10, wherein the plurality of spiral struts are radially symmetric about the longitudinal axis.

[0018] Example 12. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-11, wherein the interventional element further comprises a peripheral member extending at least partially circumferentially around the interventional element.

[0019] Example 13. The interventional device of example 12, wherein at least a portion of the spiral struts are joined to the peripheral member.

[0020] Example 14. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-13, wherein the interventional element further comprises one or more angled struts arranged around a periphery of the interventional element and angled toward a distal direction away from the spiral struts.

[0021] Example 15. The interventional device of any one of examples 1-14, wherein the interventional element is a first interventional element and wherein the interventional device further comprises a second interventional element coupled to the elongate member, wherein the second interventional element is longitudinally spaced apart from the firstinterventional element, comprises a second plurality of spiral struts, and comprises a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration.

[0022] Example 16. The interventional device of example 15, wherein the first interventional element and the second interventional elements have different outer diameters when in the radially expanded configuration.

[0023] Example 17. A method of removing a thrombus from a cerebral blood vessel in a patient, the method comprising: introducing an interventional device in a radially compressed configuration in a cerebral blood vessel, wherein the interventional device comprises an interventional element comprising a hub portion and a plurality of spiral struts that curl around a longitudinal axis, wherein each spiral strut comprises a first end portion extending from the hub portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion; positioning the interventional device at a treatment site proximate the thrombus in the cerebral blood vessel; allowing the interventional element to transition into a radially expanded configuration and engage the thrombus, wherein in the radially expanded configuration, the spiral struts are at least partially unfurled such that the second end portion of at least one spiral strut is positioned at greater radial distance from the hub portion than the first end portion of the at least one spiral strut; withdrawing the interventional element and the thrombus from the cerebral blood vessel.]O024| Example 18. The method of example 17, wherein the cerebral vessel comprises a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel.

[0025] Example 19. The method of example 18, wherein the medium or distal cerebral blood vessel comprises at least one of: an M2, M3, or M4 segment of a middle cerebral artery (MCA), an Al, A2, or A3 segment of an anterior cerebral artery (AC A), or a Pl, P2 or P3 segment of a posterior cerebral artery (PCA).

[0026] Example 20. The method of any one of examples 17-19, wherein the interventional element is a first interventional element and the interventional device furthercomprises a second interventional element, and wherein positioning the interventional device at the treatment site comprises positioning the first interventional element proximate a first end portion of the thrombus and positioning the second interventional element proximate a second end portion of the thrombus.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed on illustrating clearly the principles of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIGS. 1 A and IB are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device having an interventional element in an expanded configuration, in accordance with the present technology.

[0029] FIG. 2A and 2B are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device being positioned and deployed in a blood vessel, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0030] FIGS. 3 A and 3B are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device having an interventional element in an expanded configuration, in accordance with the present technology.[00311 FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device being positioned and deployed in a blood vessel, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an example interventional element of an interventional device, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of an example interventional element of an interventional device, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0034] FIGS. 7A-7D are schematic illustrations of example spiral struts in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0035] FIGS. 8 A and 8B are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device having an interventional element in an expanded configuration, in accordance with variations of the present technology.[0036 FIG. 9A-9C are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device having an interventional element in an expanded configuration, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0037] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of an example interventional device having multiple interventional elements, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an example interventional device having multiple interventional elements, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0039] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an example interventional device having multiple interventional elements, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0040] FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of an example interventional element placed distally to a separate medical instrument, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0041] FIGS. 14A-14D are schematic illustrations of portions of an example method of retrieving a thrombus using an example interventional device, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0042] FIGS. 15A-15C are schematic illustrations of portions of an example method of retrieving a thrombus using an example interventional device, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0043] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an example method of using an interventional device for retrieving a thrombus, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0044] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of an example method of using an interventional device for retrieving a thrombus, in accordance with variations of the present technology.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a flowchart of an example method of using an interventional device for embolic protection, in accordance with variations of the present technology.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The present technology relates to devices for treating vascular obstructions, such as vessel occlusions, and associated systems and methods. Some variations of the present technology, for example, are directed to an interventional device having an elongate member and an interventional element. The interventional element can include one or more spiral struts (e.g., a plurality of spiral struts). When the interventional element is deployed at a treatmentlocation or near a vasculature obstruction, the spiral struts are allowed to self-expand from a radially collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. Specific details of several variations of the technology are described below with reference to FIGS. 1 A-18.|0047| As used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” (and derivatives thereof) are used primarily within a frame of reference of a user placing an endovascular device within a patient, unless otherwise specified. For example, “proximal” primarily refers to a direction closer to the user, while “distal” primarily refers to a direction farther from the user.

[0048] The interventional devices and systems of the present technology can be used to provide endovascular treatments (e.g., thrombectomy) in a variety of procedures and to address a variety of patient conditions. In some variations, the interventional device can be used for retrieving and / or capturing a thrombus (or other occlusion) in a blood vessel, such as a cerebral blood vessel. For example, the interventional device can be used to retrieve and / or capture an occlusion in a small diameter blood vessel, such as a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel (e.g., including the M2, M3, and / or M4 segments of the middle cerebral artery; the Al, A2, and / or A3 segments of the anterior cerebral artery; and / or the Pl, P2, and / or P3 segments of the posterior cerebral artery). In some variations, the interventional device can be used to retrieve and / or capture an occlusion in a blood vessel having a diameter of between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 5 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 2.5 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 2 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 1.5 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 5 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 4 mm, or between about 3 mm and about 4 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 3mm. Removal of such medium or distal vessel occlusions (collectively referred to herein as “MeVO”), can present unique challenges, such as size constraints of the dense architecture of the cerebral vasculature. Further still, the interventional device can be placed in conjunction with a separate medical instrument to capture thrombi and / or other debris that may be dislodged and / or created by the separate medical instrument. In some procedures, the interventional device can include a variety of interventional elements in a variety of shapes and configurations.

[0049] For example, in some variations, for example, the interventional device is a retrieval device for retrieving a thrombus (e.g., thrombectomy device). The interventional device can include at least one interventional element having a plurality of spiral struts extending from a hub portion of the interventional element. The spiral struts can be configured such that, when the interventional device is deployed at a treatment site having a thrombus, thespiral struts self-expand to enable the interventional element to transition from a radially collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the spiral struts can, for example, engage with the thrombus. In some variations, the spiral struts can selfexpand to conform to a geometry of the treatment site (e.g., against a wall of a blood vessel lumen).[0050 As another example, in some variations, the interventional device is part of a system further comprising a separate medical instrument (e.g., thrombectomy device, aspiration catheter). For example, the interventional device can be an embolic protection device placed distal to and / or downstream of the separate medical instrument. The interventional device can be configured to capture, for example, any displaced vascular debris or coagulated blood, such as that caused by an engagement of the medical instrument at a treatment site. In some variations, the spiral struts can expand at the same time at which the medical instrument is operated at the treatment site. In other variations, the spiral struts can self-expand at a different time than at which the medical instrument engages at the treatment site. In some variations, the interventional device may be delivered in conjunction with the medical instrument.

[0051] The interventional devices and systems provided herein may have a number of advantages over current endovascular devices, for example, for treatment of MeVO. In some variations, an interventional element having a plurality of spiral struts has a radially collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. For example, in the radially collapsed configuration, the interventional element has a low profile suitable for delivery, such as when constrained within an outer sheath. When the interventional element is in the radially collapsed configuration, the plurality of spiral struts curl inwardly so as to reduce an overall volume occupied by the interventional element. Upon expansion and when the interventional element is in the expanded configuration, the plurality of spiral struts are allowed to unfurl and expand outwardly. As a result, the spiral struts provided herein allow for organized and efficient radial collapse and expansion. Furthermore, due to the unfurling nature of the spiral struts, the interventional element does not undergo foreshortening effects (e.g., longitudinal contraction during radial expansion), thereby helping to enable more predictable and precise positioning during device deployment in a patient body. Further advantages will be illustrated with respect to various variations of the interventional device, as detailed herein.I. INTERVENTIONAL DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

[0052] As will be illustrated in the following description, with reference to the Figures, the interventional device can broadly comprise an elongate member and at least one interventional element.

[0053] For example, FIGS. 1A and IB are schematic illustrations of an example interventional device 100. The interventional device 100 includes at least one elongate member 110 and at least one interventional element 120 (shown in FIGS. 1A and IB in the expanded configuration). As described in further detail below, in some variations, the interventional device can include multiple interventional elements 120, wherein each of the interventional elements 120 is coupled to the elongate member 110, such as at different longitudinal locations along the elongate member 110.[0054 In some variations, the elongate member 110 functions to help facilitate positioning of the interventional element 120 at a treatment site in a patient. For example, the elongate member 110 can be introduced into vasculature of a patient using suitable techniques, and navigated (e.g., advanced) toward a treatment site (e.g., location of a thrombus). The elongate member 110 can, for example, be a wire (e.g., metal), tubing, or other suitable elongate member. In some variations, the elongate member 110 includes a guide wire. Furthermore, in some variations the elongate member 110 can include one or more lumens. For example, the elongate member 110 can comprise a continuous lumen coupled to an external device for facilitating fluid flow (e.g., irrigation, aspiration, etc.). In some variations, the elongate member 110 can include a single integrally formed member, or a plurality of segments arranged end-to-end (e.g., coupled via welding, interfacing or mating features, fasteners, etc.). For example, in some variations the interventional device can include multiple discrete segments, at least one of which is coupled to one or more interventional elements 120 (e.g., a first elongate member segment coupled to a first side of an interventional element and a second elongate member segment coupled to a second side of the interventional element, or an elongate member segments interspersed between multiple interventional elements 120).

[0055] In some variations, the interventional element is coupled to the elongate member and functions to engage a thrombus or other occlusion. In some variations, the interventional element 120 can be positioned at or near a distal end portion of the elongate member 110. For example, the interventional element 120 can be positioned at a distal end of the elongate member 110 and / or substantially extend distally beyond the distal end of the elongate member 110.

[0056] As described above, the interventional element 120 can be configured to transition between a radially collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. As shown in FIGS. 1A and IB, in some variations the interventional element 120 can be substantially planar, and radially expand in a direction substantially limited to within the plane of the interventional element 120. The interventional element 120 can have a first diameter in the radially collapsed configuration and a second diameter in the expanded configuration, where the second diameter is larger than the first diameter. In some variations, when in the radially collapsed configuration, the interventional element 120 can have an outer diameter of between about 1.5 mm and about 3 mm (e.g., between about 0.432 mm and about 0.686 mm). In some variations, when in the expanded configuration, the interventional element 120 can have an outer diameter of between about 2 mm and about 5 mm (e.g., between about 0.610 mm and about 5 mm. However, the outer diameter of the interventional element 120 can vary depending on the lumen size of the delivery catheter it is placed through and / or the lumen size of the vessel at a desired treatment site.

[0057] The interventional element 120 can be coupled to the elongate member through one or more suitable manners. For example, the interventional element 120 can be coupled to the elongate member 110 at a hub portion 122 of the interventional element 120. In some variations, the hub portion 122 can be a central portion of the interventional element 120 such as that shown in FIG. IB. In some variations, the elongate member 110 can extend approximately through a center of the interventional element 120 (e.g., the elongate member 110 and the interventional element 120 can be coaxial). In some variations, the hub portion 122 can be radially offset from a center of the interventional element 120.

[0058] In some variations, the interventional element can additionally or alternatively be directly coupled to the elongate member, such as at the hub portion. For example, the interventional element can be directly coupled to the elongate member via a suitable mechanical interference fit (e.g., press fit). Additionally or alternatively, the interventional element (e.g., the hub portion 122) can be welded to the elongate member 110. In some variations, the hub portion 122 can be additionally or alternatively be directly coupled to the elongate member 110 via bonding and / or use of adhesives.

[0059] In some variations, the hub portion 122 can include an aperture to help facilitate coupling the interventional element to the elongate member. The hub portion 122 can, for example, include an aperture 124 that is configured to receive the elongate member 110. In some variations, the aperture 124 can have a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of theelongate member 110. As shown in FIG. IB, the aperture 124 can be defined in the center of the hub portion 122, though in some variations the aperture 124 can be defined in any suitable location of the hub portion 122. The aperture 124 can be defined by a partially or fully continuous circumferential ring. For example, the aperture 124 may be closed (e.g., circular) as shown in FIG. IB, or open (e.g., “C”-shaped).[0060 In some variations, the interventional device can further comprise one or more securing elements to help secure the interventional element to the elongate member. For example, one or more securing elements can function to help fix a longitudinal position and / or rotational position of the interventional element relative to the elongate member. In some variations, for example, the one or more securing elements can include one or more bands crimped around the elongate member and / or a portion of the intervention element. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, an interventional device can include bands 140a and 140b (also collectively referred to herein as bands 140) coupled to elongate member 110. A first band 140a can be coupled to the elongate member 110 and arranged to face (e.g., abut) a proximal surface of the interventional element 120, and a second band 140b can be coupled to the elongate member 110 and arranged to face (e.g., abut) a distal surface of the interventional element 120. Accordingly, in some variations, the first band 140a and second band 140b can be configured to sandwich the interventional element 120 therebetween. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations, the one or more bands 140 can include a keying feature (e.g., prong, radial protrusion, etc.) configured to engage a corresponding keying feature on the interventional element (e.g., the hub portion 122) so as to help fix a rotational position of the interventional element 120 on the elongate member 110. Further, in some variations, one or more of the bands 140 can be radiopaque.[00611 The interventional element can have one or more spiral struts. As shown in FIG. IB, the interventional element 120 can include one or more spiral struts 126 that extend from the hub portion 122. In some variations, when the one or more spiral struts 126 comprises a plurality of spiral struts 126, the plurality of spiral struts 126 can be spaced apart circumferentially. For example, in some variations, neighboring spiral struts 126 can be spaced apart circumferentially by an angle ranging between about 10 degrees and about 120 degrees, between about 45 degrees and about 120 degrees, between about 90 degrees and about 120 degrees, between about 10 degrees and about 90 degrees, between about 10 degrees and about 45 degrees, between about 10 degrees and about 30 degrees, or about 15 degrees, about 30degrees, about 45 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 75 degrees, about 90 degrees, about 105 degrees, or about 120 degrees or more.

[0062] The spiral struts can have any of a variety of suitable curvatures and inflection points. For example, the spiral struts 126 depicted in FIG. IB are shown to have a substantially “S”-shaped curve. Additionally or alternatively, the spiral struts 126 can have a “J”-shape, “C”- shape, or other suitable shape. In some variations, at least one of the spiral struts 126 can have a first portion coupled to the hub portion 122 and a second portion coupled to a peripheral member 128. Peripheral member 128 can be a curved structure arranged around at least a partial perimeter of the interventional element 120 (e.g., some or all of a circumference of the interventional element 120). Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the spiral struts can have a first portion coupled to the hub portion 126 and a free second portion. For example, in some variations, the free second end portion does not contact hub portion 122, any other spiral strut 126, or peripheral member 128.|0O63| In some variations, the spiral struts of a particular interventional element can have similar geometries. For example, the spiral struts 126 are depicted in FIG. IB as being substantially identical to one another. However, in some variations, at least one of the plurality of spiral struts can be different from the rest in a particular interventional element. For example, at least one of the plurality of spiral struts 126 can have a geometry different from the other spiral struts 126.

[0064] The interventional element and components thereof can have any variety of shapes, configurations, and materials. For example, the interventional elements 120 can comprise a metal alloy (e.g., a shape memory alloy such as nitinol). In some variations, interventional element 120 can be cut from a single sheet of material using a laser-cutting process and / or a photoetching process. In some variations, the interventional element 120 can be thereafter modified using a thermal process (e.g., shaped and heat set). In some variations, the hub portion and spiral struts can be integrally formed as a single unitary component. In some variations, the hub portion can be formed separately from spiral struts.|0065| In some variations, the interventional device is part of a system further comprising a sheath. For example, the sheath can be configured to at least partially cover the interventional device. In some variations, the sheath is a tube, an additional elongate member having a lumen, a sleeve, or any other suitable hollow structure. For example, the sheath can include a polymer tube configured to advance distally and / or retract proximally.[0066 The interventional device can be used in a lumen of a patient. For example, referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, interventional device 100 can be deployed at a treatment site in a blood vessel 20 of a patient 10. The interventional element 120 is depicted in FIG. 2A as housed within a sheath 40 and in a radially collapsed configuration in which the interventional element 120 is compressed about a longitudinal axis 112 of the interventional device 100. As further described below, the interventional device 100 with its interventional element 120 in the radially compressed configuration can be advanced and positioned at a desired treatment site (e.g., at or near a thrombus). FIG. 2B shows the interventional device 100 having the interventional element 120 in an expanded configuration. As shown in FIG. 2B, the sheath 40 can be proximally retracted to expose the interventional element 120, thereby enabling the interventional element 120 to self-expand from the radially collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration. In some variations, the interventional device 100 can additionally or alternatively be distally advanced relative to the sheath 40 to expose the interventional element 120, thereby enabling the interventional element 120 to self-expand. For example, the plurality of spiral struts 126 may unfurl from hub portion 122 (not depicted) such that they increase from a first diameter associated with the radially collapsed configuration to a larger second diameter associated with the expanded configuration. As depicted in FIG. 2B, interventional element 120 can self-expand to contact a wall of the blood vessel 20 while in the expanded configuration. Alternatively, in some variations, interventional element 120 in the expanded configuration does not contact the wall. For example, interventional element 120 in the expanded configuration can have a diameter that is less than about 95%, less than about 90%, or less than about 85% of the diameter of the blood vessel 20.

[0067] As described above, in some variations the interventional element (e.g., interventional element 120) can be substantially planar in both the radially compressed and the expanded configurations (and / or have spiral struts that curl and unfurl substantially within a plane of the interventional element 120 that is transverse to the elongate member 110). However, in some variations, an overall profile of the interventional element can be substantially non-planar, at least when in the expanded configuration. Accordingly, in some variations the interventional element can include spiral struts that unfurl in both a radial direction and a longitudinal direction when the interventional element transitions from the radially collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration. For example, FIG. 3A depicts a side-view of an interventional device 300 that is similar to interventional device 100 except as described below. Interventional device 300 has an elongate member 310 and aninterventional element 320. Interventional element 320 has a proximal portion 320a and a distal portion 320b. In some variations, when the interventional element 320 is in the expanded configuration, the proximal portion 320a has a first diameter different than a second diameter of the distal portion 320b, such that the interventional element 320 can have a tapered or conical profile when the interventional element is in an expanded configuration. For example, in some variations, when in the expanded configuration, the interventional element can include angled walls defined by the tapering profile of the spiral struts. In some variations, the profile of the interventional element 320 can be wider at the distal portion 320b relative to the proximal portion 320a (e.g., the angled walls of the interventional element 320 can open distally) as shown in FIG. 3 A. However, in some variations, the profile of the interventional element 320 can be narrower at the distal portion 320b relative to the proximal portion 320a (e.g., the angled walls of the interventional element 320 can open proximally). As illustrated in FIG. 3A, interventional element 320 can be radially symmetric about a longitudinal axis 312 of the elongate member 310, and expand substantially equally radially from a proximal portion of the elongate member 310 to a distal portion of the elongate member 310 (e.g., a right circular cone). In some variations, interventional element 320 can be radially asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 312. In some variations, interventional element 320 can have an oblique conical profile.

[0068] The interventional element can taper from a proximal portion of the interventional element to a distal portion of the interventional element at any suitable angle. For example, in some variations, the interventional element can have angled walls that open (distally or proximally) at an angle 0 of between about 10 degrees and about 50 degrees, or between about 15 degrees and about 45 degrees (e.g., about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 25 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 40 degrees, or about 45 degrees).

[0069] In some variations, the interventional element can be biased to have a tapered or conical profile in the expanded configuration through a suitable thermal process. For example, interventional element 320 can initially have a planar construction similar to interventional element 120 described above (e.g., laser cut from a sheet of material to form one or more spiral struts and / or a peripheral member), and then can be heat-set to a tapered or conical shape. Any other suitable material process for tuning the shape of the interventional element can additionally or alternatively be applied to the interventional devices provided herein.[0070 FIG. 3B shows a distal view of the interventional device 300. While the distal view profile is similar to the distal view profile of interventional device 100, shown in FIG. IB, it should be understood that a plurality of spiral struts 326 can be different from the plurality of spiral struts 126. In some variations, spiral struts 326 are configured to self-expand radially and occupy a larger longitudinal distance than spiral struts 126. For example, the hub portion 322 and / or the proximal portions 326a of the spiral struts can be on a longitudinal axis 312 at a location proximal relative to distal portions 326b of the spiral struts. In some variations, peripheral member 328 can be located distal to hub portion 322.[00711 Like interventional device 100, the interventional device 300 can be deployed in a lumen of a patient, such as at a treatment site in a blood vessel 20 of patient 10. The interventional element 320 is depicted in FIG. 4A as housed within a sheath 40 and in a radially collapsed configuration in which the interventional element 320 is compressed about a longitudinal axis 312 of the interventional device 300. As further described below, the interventional device 300 with its interventional element 320 in the radially compressed configuration can be advanced and positioned at a desired treatment site (e.g., at or near a thrombus).

[0072] FIG. 4B shows the interventional device 300 having the interventional element 320 in an expanded configuration in the blood vessel 20 of the patient 10. As shown in FIG. 4B, the sheath 40 can be proximally retracted to expose the interventional element 320, thereby enabling the interventional element 32 to self-expand from the radially compressed configuration to the expanded configuration. In some variations, the interventional device 300 can additionally or alternatively be distally advanced relative to the sheath 40 to expose the interventional element 320, thereby enabling the interventional element 120 to self-expand. For example, the plurality of spiral struts 326 may unfurl from hub portion 322 (not depicted) such that they increase from a first diameter associated with the radially collapsed configuration to a second diameter associated with the expanded configuration. At the same time, spiral struts 326 can be configured to expand to form a tapered or conical profile of the interventional element 320. As depicted in FIG. 4B, interventional element 320 can self-expand to contact a wall of the blood vessel 20. Alternatively, in some variations, interventional element 320 does not contact the wall. For example, interventional element 320 in the expanded configuration can have a diameter that is less than about 95%, less than about 90%, or less than about 85% of the diameter of the blood vessel 20.[0073 The interventional device can include an interventional element having various kinds of spiral strut arrangements. For example, the interventional element can include any suitable number of spiral struts. A more dense arrangement of spiral struts can include more spiral struts, while a sparse arrangement of spiral struts can include fewer spiral struts. For example, FIG. 7A shows an interventional element 720a having six spiral struts 726a located concentrically about central hub portion 722. As another example, FIG. 7B shows an interventional element 720b having three spiral struts located concentrically about central hub portion 722. In some variations, having a dense arrangement of spiral struts can provide for larger coverage of obstructions. In some variations, having a sparse arrangement of spiral struts can reduce the risk of perforating surrounding tissue. While FIGS. 7A and 7B depict the interventional device 700 as having six and three spiral struts 726 respectively, the interventional device can include any number of spiral struts (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, or more).

[0074] As another example, the interventional element can include spiral struts of any suitable shape(s). For example, FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate example interventional elements 720a and 720b, respectively, that include ‘S’-shaped spiral struts. As another example, FIG. 7C illustrates an example interventional element 720c including one or more spiral struts having a substantially ‘J’-shape. Spiral struts 726c also have a lower degree of curvature than spiral struts 726b. While only the ‘ S’-shape and ‘J’-shape are depicted in FIGS. 7A-C, it should be understood that the plurality of spiral struts can have any variety of geometries. For example, the spiral struts can have a different length, width, thickness, and / or curvature than the spiral struts 726a-c.

[0075] In some variations, the interventional element can include spiral struts that are not radially symmetric. For example, as shown in FIG. 7D, an interventional element 720d can include four spiral struts 726d extending from the hub portion 722. The spiral struts 726d can be primarily arranged around only a portion of the perimeter of the hub portion 722 such that only a circular segment of the interventional element 720d includes spiral struts. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 7D, interventional element 720d does not exhibit radial symmetry.

[0076] As another example, the interventional element can include spiral struts that are equally or unequally circumferentially spaced apart around the hub portion. For example, spiral struts 726a and 726b in FIGS. 7A and 7B, respectively, are equally spaced apart circumferentially, whereas as shown in FIG. 7D, some of spiral struts 726d can have a firstintermediate spacing 727a while other spiral struts 726d can have a second intermediate spacing 727b that is smaller than the first intermediate spacing 727a.

[0077] In some variations, the interventional element can further include one or more secondary spiral struts that branch or further extend from one or more spiral struts. In some variations, for example, a spiral strut that has at least one end coupled to a hub portion of the interventional element may be referred to herein as a “primary spiral strut” and a spiral strut that has at least one end coupled to a primary spiral strut may be referred to herein as a “secondary spiral strut.” Terminology for further extensions of spiral struts may follow (e.g., a tertiary spiral strut may have at least one end coupled to a secondary spiral strut, and so on). Accordingly, in some variations “higher order” spiral struts may be closer to the periphery of the interventional element, while “lower order” spiral struts may be closer to the center of the interventional element.

[0078] A spiral strut can join two or more adjacent spiral struts, or may extend from at least one other spiral strut and terminate in a free end. For example, a secondary spiral strut can join to primary spiral struts, or a secondary spiral strut can have a first end extending from a primary strut and terminating in a free end. In some variations, a secondary spiral strut can extend generally circumferentially around the interventional element. For example, FIG. 5 illustrates an example interventional element 520 of an interventional device that is similar to interventional device 100 (e.g., can be coupled to an elongate member not shown in FIG. 5), except as described below. The interventional element 520 including a number of secondary spiral struts 530 extending from primary spiral struts 526. For example, the interventional element can have one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more secondary spiral struts 530. In some variations, spiral struts of any order (e.g., primary spiral struts, secondary spiral struts, tertiary spiral struts, quaternary spiral struts, etc.) can additionally or alternatively be connected to each other via a connecting strut or other suitable protrusion.

[0079] In some variations, the interventional element can further include a peripheral member coupled to one or more spiral struts. The peripheral member can be integrally formed with the spiral struts and / or the hub portion (e.g., laser cut in the same manner as the spiral struts and / or the hub portion). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, each of the secondary spiral struts 530 may have a first end coupled to one of the primary spiral struts 526 and a second end coupled to the peripheral member 528. Further, in some variations, the secondary spiral struts 530 may be configured to branch from one another, for example, as in bifurcation.[0080 FIG. 6 illustrates an example interventional element 620 that is similar to interventional element 520 except that the interventional element 620 includes only primary spiral struts 626 (e.g., no secondary spiral struts or other struts branching from the primary spiral struts 626). In particular, interventional element 620 includes a plurality of spiral struts 626 arranged circumferentially around a hub portion 622, where each spiral strut 626 has a first end portion that is coupled at various circumferential locations around the hub portion 622, and a second end portion that is coupled at various circumferential locations around the peripheral member 628.[00811 FIGS. 8A and 8B depict an interventional device 800 with an interventional element 820 in an expanded configuration, where the interventional element 820 include multiple orders of spiral struts. The interventional device 800 can be similar to the interventional device 500 described above with respect to FIG. 6, except as described below. Interventional device 800 can include an elongate member 810 having a proximal portion 810a and a distal portion 810b. In some variations, the interventional element 820 is located at the distal portion 810b of the elongate member 810. The interventional element 820 can be coupled to the elongate member 810 at a central hub portion 822 of the interventional element 820. In some variations, interventional element 820 includes a plurality of spiral struts 826 extending circumferentially from central hub portion 822. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the interventional element 820 can include multiple levels of spiral struts including primary spiral struts 826, secondary spiral struts 830a, tertiary spiral struts 820b, and quaternary spiral struts 820c. The primary spiral struts 826 loop back upon themselves, with first and second ends extending from the hub portion 822. Each secondary spiral strut 830a extends from an intermediate region of a primary spiral strut 826, and extends in a generally circumferential direction around the interventional element 820. Each tertiary spiral strut 830b extends from a secondary spiral strut 830a, and extends in a generally circumferential direction around the interventional element 820. Each quaternary spiral strut 830c joins a tertiary spiral strut 830b to the peripheral member 828. As shown in FIG. 8B, the arrangement of spiral struts 826 creates a plurality of openings 834 within interventional element 820. In some variations, the openings 834 are radially symmetric. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations, the openings 834 increase in surface area with increasing radial distance from central hub portion 822.

[0082] In some variations, the interventional device can further include one or more angled struts that extend longitudinally and / or out-of-plane relative to the spiral struts. Such angled struts can, for example, be arranged around the periphery of the interventional element.In some variations, the angled struts can be configured to increase engagement of the interventional device with a thrombus and / or apposition of the interventional device against walls of blood vessel. In some variations, one or more of the angled struts can be integrally formed with the spiral struts. For example, FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an example interventional device 900 having an interventional element 920 in an expanded configuration. Interventional device 900 can include an elongate member 910 and interventional element 920. In some variations, interventional element 920 comprises a plurality of spiral struts 926 and 930 (including 930a, 930b, and 930c) extending from hub portion 922. The spiral struts 926 can extend radially outward and generally in a circumferential direction, as shown in FIG. 9B, with a spiral strut arrangement similar to the spiral strut arrangement described above with respect to interventional element 820 and shown in FIGS. 8 A and 8B.

[0083] A plurality of angled struts 932 can be arranged around a perimeter of the interventional element 920 and directed at an angle relative to a plane of the spiral struts (or hub portion of the interventional element). For example, a proximal end portion of each angled strut 932 can extend from a distal end portion of a respective spiral strut (e.g., spiral strut 930c) at a bend angle. In some variations, as shown in FIG. 9A angled struts 932 extend distally out of a plane of the spiral struts and approximately orthogonally from a plane of the spiral struts. However, in other variations the angled struts 932 can extend proximally out of the plane of the spiral struts and / or at any suitable angle relative to the plane of the spiral struts (e.g., between about 10 degrees and about 170 degrees, or between about 45 degrees and about 135 degrees, or between about 60 degrees and about 115 degrees, or between about 75 degrees and about 100 degrees).

[0084] In some variations, the angled struts 932 are in a collapsed configuration (e.g., arranged around a smaller diameter of the interventional element) when the plurality of spiral struts are in a radially collapsed configuration and in an expanded configuration (e.g., arranged around a larger diameter of the interventional element) when the plurality of spiral struts are in an expanded configuration. In some variations, angled struts 932 can have a collapsed configuration, one or more intermediate configurations, and an expanded configuration, wherein the one or more intermediate configurations include a different angle between the angled struts 932 and the spiral struts than when the angled struts 932 are in the collapsed or expanded configurations. Furthermore, in some variations, the angled struts 932 can additionally or alternatively include one or more crossbars interconnected with and spanningbetween different angled struts 932. In such variations, the crossbars can, for example, provide support to the angled struts 932 when the angled struts 932 are in the expanded configuration.

[0085] Referring now to FIG. 9C, the angled struts 932 can extend distally from a plane of the spiral struts or from a hub portion of the interventional element when the interventional element is in the expanded configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the angled struts 932 can extend distally beyond elongate member 910 when the angled struts 932 are in the expanded configuration. In other variations, elongate member 910 can remain distal to angled struts 932.

[0086] In some variations the angled struts can be integrally formed with the spiral struts. For example, the angled struts can be formed (e.g., laser cut) from the same sheet of material as the spiral struts (FIG. 9B), then bent at the desired angle out-of-plane from the spiral struts and heat-set at the desired angle. In some variations, the angled struts can be formed in a manner similar to a peripheral member (e.g., peripheral member 828) as described herein, except that the angled struts can be manipulated and set out-of-plane. With reference to FIG. 9B, the pattern of the angled structure in the sheet of material can include struts having at any suitable angle or radius of curvature (e.g., angle P). However, in some variations, the angled struts can be separately formed and coupled to the spiral struts. For example, the angled struts may be coupled to the spiral struts via welding, bonding, use of adhesives, or other suitable attachment techniques. Furthermore, while the angled struts 932 as discussed can extend from spiral struts of the interventional element, in some variations, the angled struts 932 can extend from a peripheral member (not shown).|0087] In some variations, the interventional device can include multiple interventional elements. Each of the multiple interventional elements can be similar to any of the interventional elements provided herein. When the interventional device includes multiple interventional elements, the interventional device can, for example, span a longer length of a treatment area in a vessel without requiring a single continuous interventional device having the same length as the treatment area. Additionally or alternatively, as the multiple interventional elements can have radially collapsed and expanded configurations, the interventional device can have a low profile for delivery when the interventional elements are each in the radially collapsed configuration, yet have a large effective length for treatment when the interventional elements are each in the expanded configuration. Accordingly, an interventional device with multiple interventional elements can reduce the amount of material that is delivered to a treatment area (compared to an interventional device with a continuousbody for treating effectively the same length of a treatment area in the vessel), which can further facilitate easier access to smaller blood vessels.

[0088] For example, FIGS. 10-12 are partial schematic diagrams of various example interventional devices each having multiple interventional elements. Referring now to FIG. 10, interventional device 1000 can have three interventional elements 1020a, 1020b, 1020c. The interventional devices 1020a, 1020b, and 1020c can have the same diameter. In some variations, interventional elements 1020a, 1020b, and 1020c can be rotationally offset from one another. For example, interventional elements 1020a, 1020b, and 1020c can be rotationally offset at an angle between 0 and 10 degrees, 10 and 20 degrees, 20 and 30 degrees, 30 and 40 degrees, 40 and 50 degrees, 60 and 70 degrees, 80 and 90 degrees, 90 and 100 degrees, 100 and 110 degrees, or 110 and 120 degrees from one another.

[0089] In some variations, the interventional device can have a plurality of interventional elements of varying diameters. For example, in some variations, the interventional device can have a plurality of interventional elements that increase in diameter toward the distal end of the elongate member. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, an example interventional device 1100 can have interventional elements 1120a, 1120b, and 1120b that increase in diameter toward the distal end of the elongate member 1110. For example, a diameter of interventional element 1120c is greater than a diameter of interventional element 1120b, which is greater than a diameter of interventional element 1120a. In other variations, the interventional device can have a plurality of interventional elements that decrease in diameter toward the distal end of the elongate member. For example, shown in FIG. 12, interventional device 1200 includes interventional elements 1220a, 1220b, and 1220c. The diameter of interventional element 1220c can be smaller than a diameter of interventional element 1220b, which is smaller than a diameter of interventional element 1220a.

[0090] In some variations, the plurality of interventional elements can be equally longitudinally spaced apart. For example, the plurality of interventional elements can be separated longitudinally by a spacing of between about 2 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 7 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 5 mm, or at least about 2 mm, at least about 3 mm, at least about 4 mm, or at least about 5 mm. In some variations, the plurality of interventional elements can have variable spacings therebetween. For example, a first longitudinal spacing between first and second interventional elements can be different than a second longitudinal spacing between second and third interventional elements. An interventional device can have any suitable number of interventional elements. For example,an interventional device can have two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten or more interventional elements.

[0091] In some variations, the interventional devices can additionally or alternatively be deployed at a treatment site distal to a separate medical instrument, such as for embolic capture. For example, the interventional device can be deployed distal to a mechanical thrombectomy device or aspiration catheter for capturing obstructive material(s). Referring now to FIG. 13, an example interventional device 1300 can be placed distal to medical instrument 80. Interventional device 1300 can comprise an interventional element 1320 having a plurality of spiral struts (not depicted) and protrusions (not depicted). Interventional element 1320 can be coupled to elongate member 1310. In some variations, interventional element 1300 comprises proximal and distal bands 1340 that help position interventional element 1320 distal to the medical instrument 80. By placing interventional device 1300 distal to medical instrument 80, any vascular debris or obstructions produced by the medical instrument 80 can be captured using interventional element 1320. In some variations, interventional element 1320 prevents vascular debris or obstructions from travelling downstream.

[0092] The interventional element and the medical instrument can be deployed sequentially or simultaneously. For example, interventional element 1320 can be deployed at the same time as medical instrument 80. In some variations, interventional element 1320 is deployed before or after medical instrument 80. Furthermore, one or more sheaths 40 can be retracted proximally to allow at least one of the interventional element 1320 or the medical instrument 80 to self-expand.II, INTERVENTIONAL METHODS

[0093] The interventional devices and systems provided herein can be used in treating a variety of vessel occlusions. Although the methods are described herein primarily with reference to an interventional device with Figure-specific reference numbers for clarity, it should be understood that the methods described herein may additionally or alternatively be performed with any suitable variation of interventional devices in accordance with the present technology (e.g., interventional device 100, 300, etc.), such as those described above with respect to FIGS 1A-12. Some methods will now be illustrated with respect to FIGS. 14A-15D.

[0094] FIGS. 14A-14D depict the delivery and deployment of interventional device 1400 adjacent to or near a thrombus. Interventional device 1400 can include elongate member1410 and interventional element 1420. In some variations, interventional device 1400 further includes bands 1440.

[0095] Referring now to FIG. 14 A, elongate member 1410, to which interventional element 1420 is coupled, is advanced distally in a blood vessel 20 until it is positioned at or near a thrombus 50. In some variations, the elongate member 1410 is distally advanced within a sheath 40. During delivery, interventional device 1400 is in a radially collapsed configuration such that the interventional element 1420 is compressed along the longitudinal axis.

[0096] After the interventional device 1400 is placed adjacent to or near the thrombus 50, sheath 40 is retracted proximally, allowing interventional element 1420 to at least partially expand from the radially collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration, as depicted in FIG. 14B. When the interventional element 1420 is in the expanded configuration, interventional element 1420 engages the thrombus 50. In some variations, engaging the thrombus comprises, for example, one or more of penetrating, piercing, or carrying the thrombus 50. Additionally or alternatively, engaging the thrombus can include proximally pulling the interventional element 1420 into contact with the thrombus.

[0097] In some variations, sheath 50 can be completely removed from the blood vessel 20. Next, interventional device 1400 can be retracted proximally while interventional device 1400 engages the thrombus 50, as depicted in FIG. 14D. In some variations, interventional device 1400 is completely removed from the blood vessel 20.100981 When the interventional device comprises a plurality of interventional elements, the interventional elements can be configured to engage a thrombus together. For example, referring now to FIGS. 15A-C, an example interventional device 1500 can have an elongate member 1510 and interventional elements 1520a, 1520b, and 1520c coupled to the elongate member 1510. Interventional elements 1520a-c can be identical or different, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 10-12. In some variations, interventional elements are equally spaced apart. In other variations, interventional elements can have unequal spacings. For example, a spacing between interventional element 1520a and 1520b can be greater than a spacing between interventional element 1520b and 1520c.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 15 A, interventional device 1500 can be delivered to a treatment site while housed within sheath 40. Interventional device 1500 can be advanced toward a treatment site, such as within a thrombus. In some variations, sheath 40 at least partially penetrates thrombus at the treatment site. FIG. 15B depicts interventional device 1500having interventional elements 1520a-c in radially collapsed configurations. In some variations, the interventional element 1520a is configured to engage a proximal portion of the thrombus, the interventional element 1520b is configured to engage an intermediate portion of the thrombus, and the interventional element 1520c is configured to engage a distal portion of the thrombus. Retraction of sheath 40, shown in FIG. 15C, can allow the interventional elements to at least partially expand from radially collapsed configurations to expanded configurations. In the expanded configurations, interventional elements 1520a-c can engage the thrombus such that proximal or distal movement of the interventional device 1500 causes proximal or distal movement of the thrombus. After engaging the thrombus, interventional device 1500 can be retracted proximally, thus removing the thrombus from the treatment site.

[0100] The methods of the present technology can be performed under fluoroscopy such that at least some portions of the interventional device can be visualized by a physician to ensure proper placement of the interventional device. For example, the interventional device can include one or more radiopaque portions. The one or more radiopaque portions can be visualized using fluoroscopy and / or other suitable imaging techniques to assist in positioning the interventional device.

[0101] FIG. 16 is a flow chart of an example method 1600 for performing a thrombectomy in a patient. In some variations, the method 1600 can include introducing an interventional element into a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel of the patient 1610. In some variations, introducing the interventional element into the blood vessel includes distally advancing an elongate member that is coupled to the interventional element. The method 1600 can further include positioning the interventional element at or near a thrombus 1620. In some variations, positioning the interventional element includes visualizing the interventional element under fluoroscopy. At a suitable treatment site, the method 1600 can further include allowing the interventional element to transition from a radially collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration and engage the thrombus 1630. In some variations, allowing the interventional element to transition from the radially collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration includes releasing the interventional element from an outer cover, such as a sheath. For example, the outer cover can be retracted proximally and / or the interventional element can be advanced distally, to expose the interventional element and thereby allow it to self-expand in the absence of constraint by the outer cover. Furthermore, in some variations, the interventional element can be allowed to transition from the expanded configuration into the radially collapsed configuration. The method 1600 can further include withdrawing theinterventional element and the thrombus from the blood vessel 1640. In some variations, withdrawing the interventional element and the thrombus includes proximally retracting an elongate member coupled to the interventional element.|O102| FIG. 17 is a flow chart of an example method 1700 for treating obstructions in the vasculature with an interventional device having an interventional element. The method 1700 can include introducing an interventional element into a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel, wherein the interventional element comprises a plurality of spiral struts in a radially collapsed configuration 1710. In some variations, introducing the interventional element includes distally advancing an elongate member that is coupled to the interventional element. The method 1700 can further include positioning the interventional element at or near a thrombus 1720. In some variations, positioning the interventional element includes visualizing the interventional element under fluoroscopy. The method 1700 can further include releasing the spiral struts from the radially collapsed configuration, allowing the spiral struts to unfurl 1730. In some variations, releasing the spiral struts from the radially collapsed configuration includes allowing the spiral struts to transition from the radially collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. In some variations, allowing the interventional element to transition from the radially collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration includes releasing the interventional element from an outer cover, such as a sheath. For example, the outer cover can be retracted proximally and / or the interventional element can be advanced distally, to expose the interventional element and thereby allow it to self-expand in the absence of constraint by the outer cover. The method 1700 can further include engaging the thrombus with the spiral struts 1740. In some variations, engaging the thrombus includes one or more penetrating the thrombus, grappling the thrombus, entrapping the thrombus, or displacing the thrombus. The method 1700 can further include withdrawing the interventional element and the thrombus from the blood vessel 1750.

[0103] FIG. 18 is a flow chart of an example method 1800 utilizing the interventional device for embolic protection. The method 1800 can include introducing an interventional element into a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel 1810. In some variations, introducing the interventional element into the blood vessel includes distally advancing an elongate member that is coupled to the interventional element. The method 1800 can further include positioning the interventional element at or near a treatment site 1820. In some variations, positioning the interventional element includes positioning the interventional element under fluoroscopy. In some variations, the interventional element is part of a system including a separate medicalinstrument, and the interventional element is positioned distally to the separate medical instrument. The method 1800 can further include allowing the interventional element to transition into an expanded configuration 1830. In some variations, allowing the interventional element to transition includes allowing the interventional element to transition from a radially collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. The method 1800 can further include preventing the passage of embolic materials 1840. For example, in some variations, a separate medical instrument may cause fragmentation of obstructions in the vasculature and the interventional element prevents fragmented debris from passing further downstream.Conclusion

[0104] Although many of the variations are described above with respect to systems, devices, and methods for treating vessel occlusions in the brain, the technology is applicable to other applications and / or other approaches, such as vessel occlusions elsewhere in the body. Moreover, other variations in addition to those described herein are within the scope of the technology. Additionally, several other variations of the technology can have different configurations, components, or procedures than those described herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art, therefore, will accordingly understand that the technology can have other variations with additional elements, or the technology can have other variations without several of the features shown and described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-18.

[0105] The descriptions of variations of the technology are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise form disclosed above. Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also include the plural or singular term, respectively. Although specific variations of, and examples for, the technology are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technology, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while steps are presented in a given order, alternative variations may perform steps in a different order. The various variations described herein may also be combined to provide further variations.[0106 As used herein, the terms “generally,” “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0107] Moreover, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive from the other items in reference to a list of two or more items, then the use of “or”in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in the list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list. Additionally, the term "comprising" is used throughout to mean including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same feature and / or additional types of other features are not precluded. It will also be appreciated that specific variations have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the technology. Further, while advantages associated with certain variations of the technology have been described in the context of those variations, other variations may also exhibit such advantages, and not all variations need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompass other variations not expressly shown or described herein.

Claims

CLAIMSI / We claim:

1. An interventional device for retrieving a thrombus in a medium or distal cerebral blood vessel, the device comprising: an elongate member having a longitudinal axis; an interventional element coupled to the elongate member, wherein the interventional element has a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration, the interventional element comprising: a hub portion; and a plurality of spiral struts that curl around the longitudinal axis, wherein each spiral strut comprises a first end portion extending from the hub portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion; wherein, when the interventional element is in the expanded configuration, the spiral struts are at least partially unfurled such that the second end portion of at least one spiral strut is positioned at greater radial distance from the hub portion than the first end portion of the at least one spiral strut.

2. The interventional device of claim 1, wherein when the interventional element is in the radially expanded configuration, the spiral struts are substantially within a common plane.

3. The interventional device of claim 1, wherein when the interventional element is in the radially expanded configuration, the second end portions of the spiral struts are positioned at a more distal location along the longitudinal axis than the first end portions of the spiral struts.

4. The interventional device of claim 3, wherein the interventional element comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion, and wherein when the interventional element is in the radially expanded configuration, the distal portion comprises a larger diameter than the proximal portion.

5. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the interventional element is coupled to the elongate member via the hub portion.

6. The interventional device of claim 5, wherein the hub portion is welded to the elongate member.

7. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising at least one band, wherein the at least one band is coupled to the elongate member and is arranged to face to a proximal or distal surface of the interventional element.

8. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the interventional element comprises a shape memory alloy.

9. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the interventional element comprises a pattern cut from a single flat sheet of material.

10. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the plurality of spiral struts are radially symmetric about the longitudinal axis.

11. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the interventional element further comprises a peripheral member extending at least partially circumferentially around the interventional element.

12. The interventional device of claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the spiral struts are joined to the peripheral member.

13. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the interventional element further comprises one or more angled struts arranged around a periphery of the interventional element and angled toward a distal direction away from the spiral struts.

14. The interventional device of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the interventional element is a first interventional element and wherein the interventional device further comprises a second interventional element coupled to the elongate member, wherein the secondinterventional element is longitudinally spaced apart from the first interventional element, comprises a second plurality of spiral struts, and comprises a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration.

15. The interventional device of claim 14, wherein the first interventional element and the second interventional elements have different outer diameters when in the radially expanded configuration.

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