To provide a filter device adapted to function as a guidewire, exchange guidewire, and prevent against embolus during a procedure.
The filter device includes a filter assembly that is either integral with or coupled to a guide member (12). The filter assembly includes a plurality of struts (52) that expand outwardly a filter (50) that collects or captures a substance flowing along the blood vessel within which the filter device is deployed. The plurality of struts (52) is 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 (40) that is adapted to release the restraining member or mechanism and enable the filter (50) to be deployed from the guide member (12).
EDMISTON DARYL R
JOHNSON STEVEN W
Kazuo Abe