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.

Abstract: An introducer for use in the implantation and retrieval of a device in a patient includes a catheter (43) within which a stylet (14) is slidably carried, the stylet (14) being biased to a retracted position by a spring (35) and deployable by depression of an actuator (50). A locking device (40) locks the stylet (14) relative to the catheter (43) such that the locking device (40) must be disengaged prior to operation of the actuator (50). In the preferred embodiment, both the locking device (40) and the actuator (50) must be actuated by movement thereof in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of motion of the stylet (14). In an alternative embodiment, it is the catheter (43) which moves relative to the stylet (14).

Abstract: A vascular filter retrieval device comprising a catheter and a loop for engaging a filter is described. The loop is extendable from a proximal end of the catheter and comprises a resilient wire. The wire may be a metal alloy such as an ELGILOY® alloy. The loop is typically radiopaque and may have a platinum or palladium wire coiled around at least a part thereof. Also described is a method of retrieving a vascular filter from a patient using the device. The catheter is introduced into the vena cava of a patient adjacent the filter. The loop is advanced so that it extends from the proximal end of the catheter and surrounds the filter. The loop is then engaged with a hook on the filter and the device and filter removed from the patient.

Abstract: An assembly comprising: a protective sheath and a loading device for loading a self-expandable prosthesis into said sheath, the loading device having a conical distal section, which radially compresses the prosthesis and an annular lip that engages with the interior of the distal end of said sheath to guide the prosthesis into the sheath whilst protecting the sheath from damage.