An intravascular flow modifier and vascular reinforcement for treatment of
aneurysms is formed of one or more loops of wire of resilient material
formed into a series of transverse loops and longitudinal connecting
sections to configure an essentially cylindrical reinforcement device
that still allows, if desired, access to the neck of an aneurysm for
insertion of embolic coils and the like. The proximal and distal regions
of the sinusoidal loops may be more tightly coiled than the intermediate
regions of the loops, or may have a larger diameter than the intermediate
regions. The intravascular flow modifier and vascular reinforcement
device can be provided with an outer covering that can be formed as a
fiber, and can be woven, or can be formed as a ribbon wound about the
intravascular flow modifier and vascular reinforcement device. The wire
of resilient material can also be coated with a hydrophilic material. One
or more round or oval intermediate loops extending radially outward may
also be provided. An apparatus for removing clots may also be formed from
one or more loops of wire of resilient material in a hollow conical shape
non-detachably joined to a deployment device, to trap and hold clots
within a vessel.