German medical technology company, Protembis, has secured a €20 million venture-debt financing from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to further develop its ProtEmbo cerebral embolic protection system. This device is designed to safeguard the brains of patients undergoing specific heart procedures.
Back in June, we also reported about how German medtech startup CUREosity raised €3.8M for VR therapy system. It’s an interesting read too.
What problem is the startup solving?
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a damaged aortic valve. While it has revolutionised cardiac care, it carries a significant risk: dislodged debris from the aortic arch can travel to the brain, potentially causing strokes or cognitive decline.
“This debris can travel to the brain via three major arteries that originate in the roof of the aortic arch. It can block the smaller vessels in the brain and create lesions, which may cause stroke or contribute to acceleration of cognitive decline,” explains the company.
Protembis’ ProtEmbo device aims to mitigate this risk. Inserted during the TAVR procedure, it creates a protective barrier in the aortic arch, shielding the brain from harmful debris.
“We are pleased to announce the signature of this agreement with the EIB,” said Protembis Co-Chief Executive Officers Karl von Mangoldt and Conrad Rasmus. “We would like to recognise the hard work, skill and professionalism of the EIB team while thanking our existing investors and our board for their unwavering belief in the benefits of this additional financing facility.”
EIB’s support for innovation
The EIB’s investment in Protembis aligns with its broader goal of supporting innovative healthcare solutions.
“This agreement demonstrates our commitment to supporting companies such as Protembis that aim to improve the health and well-being of European citizens,” said EIB Vice-President Nicola Beer. “Their innovative technology, developed in Europe, will save patients who have to undergo heart surgery, from suffering grave side effects like cerebral embolic events.”
The funding will be used to support clinical trials, research, development, and market access for the ProtEmbo system. Protembis has already secured €30 million in Series B financing to advance a pivotal FDA-approved study to assess the device’s efficacy compared to existing protection methods.
What we think about the startup
The potential of ProtEmbo to reduce the risk of stroke and cognitive decline in TAVR patients is significant. However, the device is still under clinical investigation. The results of the ongoing trial will be crucial in determining its effectiveness and safety.
If successful, ProtEmbo could represent a substantial advancement in cardiac care, offering improved outcomes for patients undergoing TAVR procedures.
The collaboration between Protembis and the EIB highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving medical innovation. As the company moves forward with its clinical trials and commercialization efforts, the healthcare industry will be watching closely.
