The embolic protection system Boston Scientific Corp. originally designed for coronary saphenous vein graft interventions has received FDA clearance for use in carotid artery stenting procedures. FilterWire EZ was approved in August 2004 for the SVG indication and, the company says, it is the current market-leading embolic protection device for carotid stenting outside the U.S.
The system is designed to efficiently capture plaque and other embolic material that may dislodge during stent implantation and prevent it from traveling into the microvasculature where it could pose an increased risk for stroke or heart attack. With a simplified, one-size filter for vessels 3.5 to 5.5mm in length, FilterWire EZ offers easy preparation, delivery and retrieval.
The FilterWire EZ System was evaluated in the CABERNET Trial in conjunction with the recently approved NexStent Carotid Stent and Monorail Delivery System. The new carotid indication allows U.S. physicians to use the device to treat patients with carotid artery disease who are at high risk for surgery.
For more information, visit www.bostonscientific.com.