Embolic filter frame having looped support strut elements

摘要

An improved embolic filter frame is provided. The filter frame provides enhanced longitudinal compliance, improved sealing, low profile delivery, and short deployed length. The looped support struts have high “radial” stiffness with low “longitudinal” stiffness. When deployed, the frame exerts a relatively high stress onto a vessel wall to maintain an effective seal, yet remains longitudinally compliant. Minor displacements of the support wire or catheter are therefore not translated to the filter. The looped support struts elongate when tensioned and assume a compressed and essentially linear form. When the delivery catheter constraint is removed, the struts “snap open” and assume a looped configuration, exerting a high degree of force onto the vessel wall, creating an enhanced filter to vessel wall seal.

主权项

1. A method of making an embolic filter device, comprising:
providing a cylindrical tube; providing a filter element; cutting the cylindrical tube to form a filter frame that includes:
a collar that is adapted to be coupled to a support wire;a filter support portion; andmultiple support struts, each of which extends from the filter support portion to the collar; and attaching the filter element to the filter support portion, wherein at least one support strut of the multiple support struts has at least one portion with a bend equal to or greater than 90 degrees in a deployed state, and wherein the at least one portion with the bend equal to or greater than 90 degrees is unattached to the filter element.