Systems, devices and methods are presented for embolic protection. In some embodiments, a device for implantation in a patient's vessel containing a fluid flow is provided which comprises proximal and distal ends, an undeployed, substantially linear state, and a deployed, spring-like (helical) state comprising windings. When the device is deployed, the line segment connecting the proximal and distal ends is approximately perpendicular to the majority of the windings and to the fluid flow. In some embodiments, a delivery device for the monofilament device is provided. The delivery device comprises a needle having a lumen, a sharp distal end, and a pusher slidable within the needle. A method for deploying the monofilament device using the delivery device is provided.
