Abstract: A removable, radially compressible and expandable medical filter for placement in a tubular body passage such as a blood vessel. In radially expanded form, the medical filter has a main structure with a plurality of barbs extending radially outwardly from the main structure. The barbs are spaced circumferentially around the structure and are adapted to stand-off the main structure from the wall of a tubular body passage such as a blood vessel after the filter has been implanted and allowed to expand therein. The barbs also are adapted to anchor the main structure in the tubular passage to prevent migration of the filter in the passage. The barbs are comprised of a bio-absorbable material.

Abstract: A removable, radially compressible and expandable medical filter system for placement in a tubular body passage such as a blood vessel. The medical filter system comprises in radially expanded form, an elongated tubular cage with a hollow interior and an elongated filter disposed within the hollow interior of the cage in an interference fit.