Temporary filter retrieval apparatus and method

Abstract

A temporary vena cava filter retrieval apparatus includes an introducer sheath for establishing access into a vessel via a patient access site and a retrieval sheath having a diameter sufficiently small to pass through the introducer sheath and sufficiently large to accommodate a partially or fully uncollapsed filter.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for retrieving a venous filter disposed on a catheter body, comprising:
 a. threading an introducer sheath over the proximal end of the catheter body.   b. inserting a first end of the introducer sheath into a patient access site and into the patient's vasculature;   c. severing a proximal portion of the catheter body while maintaining hemostasis;   d. threading a retrieval sheath over the proximal end of the catheter body;   e. advancing the retrieval sheath into the patient's vasculature through the introducer sheath and toward a distal end of the catheter body proximate the venous filter;   f. enveloping the venous filter into a distal end of the retrieval sheath thereby capturing the venous filter within the retrieval sheath; and   g. concurrently withdrawing the retrieval sheath, the venous filter and the catheter body from the patient.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , further including the step of removing the introducer sheath. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising expanding the non-split rapid exchange retrieval sheath over the uncollapsed venous filter. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the retrieval sheath further includes a side lumen. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , further including the step of passing a proximal portion of the catheter body through the side lumen of the retrieval sheath. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein step (d) further includes the step of advancing the retrieval sheath along the catheter body toward the venous filter. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the introducer sheath has a generally conical shape. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7 , further comprising disposing the introducer sheath at a depth such that the diameter of the introducer sheath at an access site is sufficiently large to accommodate the retrieval sheath therein. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising breaking apart a frangible section of the introducer sheath during insertion of the retrieval sheath therethrough. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the frangible section of the introducer sheath resides within the patient's vasculature during use thereof. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the uncollapsed venous filter is inhibited from being fully collapsed. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the uncollapsed venous filter is partially collapsed.