Importance

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Abstract

A vascular filter system with encapsulated filter comprising a guidewire, a tip attached near the distal end of the guidewire, a filter attached near the proximal end of the tip, and actuating means for causing the filter to move between a smaller first diameter for insertion into the lumen of a vessel, and a second larger diameter for expanding to substantially equal the diameter of the lumen and to be placed in generally sealing relationship with the lumen. The actuating means comprises a catheter and a capsule attached near the distal end of the catheter. The capsule/tip combination protects the filter during insertion, and facilitates pushing and tracking the system through the vasculature. The design of the capsule and catheter increases column strength and reduces profile, thereby enhancing flexibility of the system in tortuous anatomy, and minimizing deployment forces.

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First Claim