Intravascular blood filters and methods of use

Abstract

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

1 - 74 . (canceled) 
     
     
         75 . An intravascular blood filter system, comprising:
 an expandable filter assembly adapted to be collapsed within a delivery catheter, the expandable filter assembly comprising:   a frame adapted to engage a vessel wall when expanded;   a filter element adapted to filter fluid, the filter element supported by the frame; and   a reinforcement fabric provided to the filter element and configured to provide localized strength.   
     
     
         76 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the reinforcement fabric is mounted to the filter element. 
     
     
         77 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the reinforcement fabric is embedded in the filter element. 
     
     
         78 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the reinforcement fabric reduces stretching that would otherwise occur without the reinforcement fabric. 
     
     
         79 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the reinforcement fabric is a polymeric weave. 
     
     
         80 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the reinforcement fabric is a metallic weave. 
     
     
         81 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the frame comprises a hoop surrounding an opening of the expandable filter assembly. 
     
     
         82 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the frame comprises a longitudinal frame element. 
     
     
         83 . The filter system of  claim 82 , wherein the reinforcement fabric is positioned near the longitudinal frame element where tensile forces act on the frame. 
     
     
         84 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the frame comprises a radiopaque marking. 
     
     
         85 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the filter assembly is an oblique truncated cone. 
     
     
         86 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the filter assembly has a non-uniform length around the filter assembly. 
     
     
         87 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the filter element comprises polyurethane film. 
     
     
         88 . The filter system of  claim 75 , wherein the frame comprises a shape memory material.