Ivc filter retrieval systems with interposed support members

Abstract

Funnel-trap type delivery and/or retrieval devices for Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters or other medical implants are described in which the devices comprise two layers of braid with an axially support member. The support member may be interposed between braid layers or set inside the braid layers but interposed between heatset features. Delivery and/or retrieval devices, kits in which they are included, methods of use and methods of manufacture are all contemplated herein.

1 . An apparatus for delivery or retrieval of a vascular medical device, the apparatus comprising:
 an elongate shaft having an axis having a flexible distal extension comprising braid, the extension folded-back inwardly at a distal opening and forming a more proximal opening, and   a support member comprising a plurality of elongate support elements secured to or within the extension for supporting the extension along the axis,   wherein the proximal opening is sized to receive and pass a proximal end of the medical device therethrough for capture.   
     
     
         2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising an elongate sleeve receiving the elongate shaft and distal extension to secure the proximal end of the medical device. 
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising the medical device. 
     
     
         4 . The apparatus of  claim 3 , where the medical device is an inferior vena cava filter. 
     
     
         5 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the support member is secured by being interposed between layers of the extension. 
     
     
         6 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the support member is secured without being interposed between layers of the extension. 
     
     
         7 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein walls of the extension comprise two layers of braid. 
     
     
         8 . The apparatus of  claim 7 , wherein the walls consist of four layers of braid. 
     
     
         9 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of elongate support member elements comprise a zig-zag distal interface. 
     
     
         10 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the support member comprises two concentric bodies. 
     
     
         11 . The apparatus of  claim 10 , wherein the two concentric bodies are offset from one another in angular relation. 
     
     
         12 . The apparatus of  claim 10 , wherein one of the two concentric bodies is formed as an extension of the shaft. 
     
     
         13 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the support member is formed in the shaft. 
     
     
         14 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of elongate support member elements are headset flat. 
     
     
         15 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the support member is not connected to the shaft. 
     
     
         16 . The apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein the plurality of elongate support members are J shaped and folded inwardly with the extension. 
     
     
         17 . A method of manufacturing a medical device, the method comprising:
 forming a section of tubular braid with a first fold;   forming the braid with a second fold adjacent to the first fold to provide an interior flap between the first and second fold; and   inserting an axial support member within the braid layers.   
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the support member is inserted between the braid layer. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the support member is inserted inside the braid layer and not in-between the braid layer. 
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 17 , further comprising bonding the support member and braid to the shaft with thermoplastic flow through a base of the support member.