Abstract: A method and apparatus for aspirating emboli and other particles from a vascular filter within a patient's vasculature. The aspiration catheter comprises an elongate body with an aspiration lumen having an aspiration port at the distal end and a guidewire lumen for receiving a guidewire. The aspiration lumen extends substantially beyond the distal end of the guidewire lumen such that the aspiration port may be,inserted into the interior volume of a filter. Accordingly, embolic particles may be aspirated from the interior volume of the filter. The aspiration port may have an oblique shape for increasing aspiration efficiency. The aspiration catheter may also have a therapy device mounted thereon, such as, for example, an inflatable balloon.