A clot retrieval system comprises a clot retrieval device, a catheter 51, and a tubular shield element 61. The clot retrieval device comprises an elongate member 53 having a proximal end and a distal end, and a clot engaging element 54 at the distal end of the elongate member 53 the clot engaging element 54 having a collapsed delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration. The catheter is adapted for placement at a location at which a distal end of the catheter is proximal of the clot engaging element and the tubular shield element 61 extends over the elongate member 53 and is adapted for location between the distal end of the catheter and the proximal end of the clot engaging element 54. The tubular shield element 61 is movable relative to the elongate member 54 when the clot engaging element is in the expanded configuration in that the force that is applied on retraction of the elongate member is spread over the outer surface of the tubular shield element. The force that would usually be exerted on vessels on retrieval of the clot engaging element is spread by the shield element thus reducing the effects of abrasion.
