| abstract |
Embolic protection filters formed from composite materials exhibiting certain radiopaque and elasticity characteristics are disclosed. An embolic protection filter in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a support structure formed of a composite member having a first layer of relatively elastic material such as superelastic nickel-titanium alloy, and a second layer formed from a relatively dense, radiopaque material. The support structure may comprise a composite wire loop that is connected to a filter membrane that collects embolic debris contained in the blood. The composite wire loop may be formed at least in part of a shape-memory material configured to self-expand to a circular shape when deployed in the body. Methods of forming the support structure are also disclosed. |