Embolic protection device for protecting the cerebral vasculature

Abstract

Single filter and multi-filter endolumenal methods and systems for filtering fluids within the body. In some embodiments a blood filtering system captures and removes particulates dislodged or generated during a surgical procedure and circulating in a patient's vasculature. In some embodiments a filter system protects the cerebral vasculature during a cardiac valve repair or replacement procedure.

1 - 19 . (canceled) 
     
     
         20 . A filter embolic protection device comprising:
 a tubular body comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and a central lumen extending therethrough; and   a filter assembly carried by the tubular body, the filter assembly comprising a plurality of petals arranged in a circular array, each petal comprising a filter element;   wherein adjacent petals overlap to create a seal.   
     
     
         21 . The device of  claim 20 , wherein the plurality of petals comprises a plurality of discrete, individual petals. 
     
     
         22 . The device of  claim 20 , wherein each of the plurality of petals comprises an arch at a distal end of said petal. 
     
     
         23 . The device of  claim 20 , wherein each of the plurality of petals comprises a length between two to six centimeters. 
     
     
         24 . The device of  claim 20  wherein each of the plurality of petals comprises a frame and a filter element covering the frame. 
     
     
         25 . The device of  claim 24 , wherein the frame comprises a shape memory material. 
     
     
         26 . The device of  claim 20 , wherein each of the plurality of petals is configured to inwardly deflect towards a center of the circular away with respect to an adjacent petal. 
     
     
         27 . A filter embolic protection system comprising:
 the filter embolic protection device of  claim 20 ; and   a catheter-based device,   wherein the filter assembly apposes the catheter-based device that passes between the filter assembly and a vessel wall to prevent substantially all debris from flowing past the filter assembly.