| 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 (14) with an inflatable cuff (12) at one end with a mesh filter (16) spanning the cuff's aperture. During insertion into the vena cava, the cuff (12) is deflated and along with the filter (16), is wrapped about the catheter (14). The catheter (14) features a central lumen (22) passing through its longitudinal axis. The central lumen (22) receives a guide wire (62) upon which the catheter (14) may travel. Upon removal of the guide wire (62) the central lumen (22) 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 (22), and is used for the inflation and deflation of the inflatable cuff (12). 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 (12) while the other may be manipulated by the operator so as to allow adjustment of the orientation of the cuff (12), and filter (16) in the vena cava. Tensioning of the filament closes the aperture of the cuff (12), and the opening of the filter (16) so as to trap objects that have become lodged in the filter (16) for removal from the vena cava. |