Abstract: An intravascular filter includes a first flexible elongated member configured to assume a generally helical form extending for at least about two turns about a central axis, and at least a second flexible elongated member connected to the first elongated member at at least two spaced apart connection positions chosen such that approximately equal lengths of the first and second flexible elongated members lie between the connection positions. The second elongated member is configured to assume a predefined filter form lying generally within the helical form in such a manner as to form an obstacle to passage through the substantially helical configuration, in a direction parallel to the central axis, of particles having dimensions greater than the predefined value. The first and second flexible elongated members are prepared in a generally straight configuration to facilitate minimally invasive deployment.