Abstract: A filter device for capturing thrombi in a body vessel and transformable to a stent to maintain the blood vessel open is disclosed. The filter comprises a plurality of longitudinal struts comprising proximal and distal portions. Each proximal portion has a first end. The first ends are attached together along a longitudinal axis. Each distal portion extends from the proximal portion to an anchoring hook. The distal portions of the longitudinal struts are configured to expand in the body vessel. The device comprises a biodegradable member attached to the device for maintaining the first ends attached together in a closed position. The biodegradable member is comprised of bio-absorbable material so that the biodegradable member degrades at a predetermined time period after the filter is deployed in the body vessel allowing the first ends to radially expand to an open position defining the stent.

Abstract: A filter device for capturing thrombi in a body vessel and transformable to a stent to maintain the blood vessel open is disclosed. The filter comprises a plurality of longitudinal struts comprising proximal and distal portions. Each proximal portion has a first end. The first ends are attached together along a longitudinal axis. Each distal portion extends from the proximal portion to an anchoring hook. The distal portions of the longitudinal struts are configured to expand in the body vessel. The device comprises a biodegradable member attached to the device for maintaining the first ends attached together in a closed position. The biodegradable member is comprised of bio-absorbable material so that the biodegradable member degrades at a predetermined time period after the filter is deployed in the body vessel allowing the first ends to radially expand to an open position defining the stent.

Abstract: A medical device that filters thrombi in a body vessel is disclosed. After the need for filtering passes, the device maintains patency in the body vessel without requiring additional steps of percutaneous retrieval or introduction into the patient.

Abstract: An implantable vascular filter and method of implantation where the filter is deployed at or near an implantation site and is then radially expanded from its radially compressed configuration under the action of a force controlled remotely by a surgeon, such as by expansion of a balloon in contact with the filter or by applying a force on the filter with the introducer; the expansion is controlled using a means such as control wire, or fluid injector so that the filter adopts a filtering configuration and securely engages with a vessel wall.