| abstract |
Endovascular filter ( 10 ) including a plurality of struts ( 14 ) with distal ends ( 18 ) adapted to anchor the filter to the vessel wall after deployment, such as by having barbs ( 20 ), the filter being adapted to be retrieved if desired. Strut distal ends ( 18 ) are coated with an antiproliferative agent ( 40 ) that inhibits the ingrowth of tissue around the filter, thereby permitting the filter to be retrieved and removed atraumatically after a prolonged period of time, thus extending the useful life of the retrievable filter. Optionally, the proximal end ( 22 ) of the filter may also be so coated, or the entire filter. |