| abstract |
A vascular filter system and method of removing the same is disclosed. In one embodiment, the filter system comprises a filter housing having a plurality of hollow support struts connected to a support ring, and a filter element having a plurality of primary filter limbs. Securing barbs extend from the distal ends of the primary filter limbs. The primary filter limbs are slidably held within the hollow support struts of the filter housing to form the filter system. The hollow support struts hold the filter element away from a vascular wall to allow only the securing barbs to contact the wall. The filter system may be removed by advancing a snaring catheter and wire to the filter system and drawing the system into the catheter thereby causing the securing barbs to retract into the hollow support struts releasing the system from the vein. |