Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A temporary inflatable filter device, and method of use, particularly suited to filtration of the inferior vena cava is disclosed. The device features a catheter with an inflatable cuff at one end with a mesh filter spanning the cuff's aperture. During insertion into the vena cava, the cuff is deflated and, along with the filter, is wrapped about the catheter. The catheter features a central lumen passing through its longitudinal axis. The central lumen receives a guidewire upon which the catheter may travel. Upon removal of the guidewire, the central lumen may be used as a means for delivering medicated fluids and the like into the vena cava. An inflation lumen runs parallel to the central lumen and is used for the inflation and deflation of the inflatable cuff. A filament runs through a third catheter lumen that is parallel with the other two lumina. One end of the filament is attached to the cuff while the other may be manipulated by the operator so as to allow adjustment of the orientation of the cuff and filter in the vena cava. Tensioning of the filament closes the aperture of the cuff and the opening of the filter so as to trap objects that have become lodged in the filter for removal from the vena cava.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim