Methods, systems, and devices for deploying an embolic protection filter

Abstract

A filter device is adapted to function as a guidewire, an exchange guidewire, and provide embolic protection during a procedure. The filter device includes a filter assembly that is either integral with or coupled to a guide member. The filter assembly includes a plurality of struts that expand outwardly to deploy a filter that collects or captures material flowing along the blood vessel within which the filter device is deployed. The plurality of struts are constrained by a restraining member or mechanism that prevents the plurality of struts from expanding or extending outwardly to deploy the filter. Cooperating with the restraining member or mechanism is an actuating assembly that is adapted to release the restraining member or mechanism and enable the filter to be deployed from the guide member. A capture catheter is cooperates with the filter device and substantially surrounds the filter during removal of the filter device.

1 . A restraining mechanism configured to prevent a plurality of struts of a filter device from extending outwardly prior to deploying a filter of the filter device, the restraining mechanism comprising: (a) a sleeve adapted to be disposed substantially at a distal end of the filter device, said sleeve being adapted to apply a restraining force to the plurality of struts of the filter device to prevent the plurality of struts from extending outwardly; and (b) at least one actuating member coupled to said sleeve, said at least one actuating member being adapted to release said restraining force of said sleeve and enable the plurality of struts of the filter device to extend outwardly.