Concentric Medical Closes on $15 Million...( MOUNTAIN VIEW Calif. Jan. 8 /- Concen...)

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Jan. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Concentric Medical, Inc., the global leader in devices for clot removal in ischemic stroke patients, today announced that it has completed a $15 million round of financing. The round was led by leading venture capital firm New Enterprise Associates, Inc. (NEA) and includes other existing investors and new investors.

"The positive developments at Concentric over the last several months made the opportunity to participate in this round of financing very attractive to investors," said Robert Thomas, Chairman of Concentric's Board of Directors. "Concentric ended 2008 very successfully, launching multiple new products and expanding its distribution footprint both in the United States and in Europe. Concentric plans to accelerate market development through diversified technology and additional clinical trials, positioning the company well for 2009 and beyond."

Commenting on this announcement, Maria Sainz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Concentric said, "This show of support, particularly in the current financial environment, is very gratifying and represents a strong vote of confidence for the company's strategic plans going forward."

Business Developments

Significant activities during recent months include:

In July 2008, Concentric launched its third generation of Merci Retrievers(R), the V-Series, which incorporates elements of the Merci(R) X6 Retriever and the Merci(R) L-Series Retrievers into an innovative variable pitch design. The V-Series is available in multiple configurations and sizes to match patient anatomy, and further extends the company's lead in the acute ischemic stroke market.

In September 2008, Concentric expanded its global distribution network by opening Concentric Medical SPRL, a Belgian subsidiary dedicated to providing sales and marketi
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