Medtronic has received the CE mark approval for its Defender embolic protection filter for use during minimally invasive procedures in carotid arteries and saphenous vein grafts.

The first uses of the new Defender filters were recently completed by interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons in Germany and Spain, according to the company.

Medtronic said it will immediately begin its European market launch for Defender.

The company said its Defender embolic protection filter has a low profile and a peel-away delivery sheath that enables physicians to maneuver the device easily across lesions to the desired location. When opened, the filter acts as a basket, allowing sufficient blood flow while trapping dangerous embolic debris that may become dislodged during the stenting procedure.