Abstract: Metal composite tubes offer advantages in constructing biomedical device components such as stents. The composite tube comprises a cylindrical wall made of a biocompatible metal matrix with a filament or filaments of other metals that add radiopacity, and/or other advantageous mechanical or physical properties. The filaments are generally oriented along the length of the tube and are surrounded by the wall of the tube.

Abstract: Various vascular filters are provided. In one aspect, a vascular filter is provided that includes a tubular sleeve and a core positioned in the sleeve that is axially deployable therefrom. A shape-memory wire is spiraled around the core and has a first portion unfurled from the core to define a hoop. The hoop is expandable from a retracted shape to a expanded shape when the core is deployed from the sleeve. A filter is provided that has a first end coupled to the core and a rim coupled to the hoop. The integration of the hoop with the shape-memory wire provides for excellent tip flexibility with enhanced resistance to structural failure.