Micro Therapeutics Inc has received 510(k) clearance to market the Sapphire line of detachable, embolic coils. Embolic coils are medical devices that are utilized for the minimally invasive, catheter-based treatment of cerebral aneurysms.

Tom Wilder, president and chief executive officer of Micro Therapeutics Inc (MTI), said, "This event represents a significant milestone for MTI and is a key element of our strategy to construct a successful business franchise focused on providing a broad array of interventional products for the neurovascular specialist. We expect to commence our commercial launch of the Sapphire line shortly, with an initial emphasis on market evaluations. The addition of this product family to our existing portfolio in the United States will enable us to compete more effectively in a global market for neurointerventional products that we estimate currently exceeds $360 million."

In the United States, the Sapphire coil line will complement existing MTI products, including the Mirage guide wires, the HyperGlide and HyperForm balloon catheters, and the multiple microcatheters developed and manufactured by MTI. The Sapphire coils will be sold through MTI's direct U.S. sales force.