Thrombus filter with break-away anchor members

Abstract

A thrombus filter which can be securely fixed at a selected location in the vascular system of a patient and removed when no longer required. The thrombus filter includes a body portion and a plurality of struts, each strut having a joined end and a free end. The joined end of each strut is fixably attached to the body portion. The struts radiate outwardly from the body member such that the thrombus filter is generally conical in shape. The free end of each strut includes an anchor member. A weakened portion is disposed proximate the free end of each strut. When removal of the thrombus filter is desired, forces are applied to the thrombus filter causing the struts to break at the weakened portions proximate the free ends.

1 . A thrombus filter configured for placement within a blood vessel lumen defined by a blood vessel wall, comprising: a body portion; a plurality of struts, each strut having a joined end and a free end; the joined end of each strut being fixedly attached to the body portion; and each strut including a weakened portion proximate the free end of the strut.