ALTRUS¿ THERMAL TISSUE FUSION, Tissue Fusion Handpiece, 5 mm O.D., 16 cm Shaft, REF 60-9520-001,...

FDA Device Recall #Z-0331-2014 — Class II — October 23, 2013

Recall Summary

Recall Number Z-0331-2014
Classification Class II — Moderate risk
Date Initiated October 23, 2013
Status Terminated
Voluntary Voluntary: Firm initiated

Recalling Firm

Firm ConMed Corporation
Location Utica, NY
Product Type Devices
Quantity 65 handpieces (Domestic: 41 devices; Foreign: 24 devices)

Product Description

ALTRUS¿ THERMAL TISSUE FUSION, Tissue Fusion Handpiece, 5 mm O.D., 16 cm Shaft, REF 60-9520-001, STERILE -- CONMED CORPORATION 525 FRENCH RD, UTICA, NY 13502 --- The ConMed Altrus¿ Thermal Tissue Fusion System is comprised of a dedicated energy source and disposable handpiece used to ligate (seal) and divide (cut) blood vessels and tissue bundles that fit into the jaws of the handpiece. The Altrus¿ System utilizes a thermal energy platform to achieve the desired clinical effect. The ConMed Altrus¿ Thermal Tissue Fusion handpiece is a single use device which is provided sterile. The device uses scissors to parallel jaw closure mechanism with one flat jaw and one crowned jaw in which the vessels/tissues are grasped and through which pressure and heat are applied. It is a multi-functional device capable of vessel sealing, grasping and dissecting during open general surgical procedures. The two jaw sizes allow for applications in a variety of clinical environments for access in confined areas as well as large open areas.

Reason for Recall

The affected lots were exposed to a higher than acceptable level of particulate matter during manufacture and subsequently distributed. ConMed evaluated the potential risk that this issue could present to the patient and concluded the risk of injury to be negligible; however exposure could cause a minor, local, self correcting infection.

Distribution Pattern

Worldwide distribution: US (Nationwide) and countries of: Canada, Germany and Italy.

Lot / Code Information

Lot 13CHB007

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Frequently Asked Questions

Contact your healthcare provider and the device manufacturer immediately. Check whether your specific model number and lot number are included in the recall scope. For external devices, stop using the affected product and arrange a replacement. For implanted devices, do not panic — removal is typically not required unless the risk assessment clearly indicates it. Your physician will guide you based on your individual clinical situation and the FDA's recommended actions. Report any adverse effects you may have experienced to FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Class I recalls indicate a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death from the defect. Class II recalls involve products that may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where serious consequences are remote. Class III recalls cover products not likely to cause any adverse health consequences, typically involving technical regulatory violations. The classification guides urgency — Class I recalls require immediate action, while Class III may simply involve returning a product or acknowledging a labeling change. Always read the specific recall notice for recommended patient actions.

Report problems with medical devices to the FDA through MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or online at FDA.gov/safety/medwatch. Healthcare facilities are required by law to report device-related serious injuries and deaths. Patients and consumers can also report voluntarily. Include the device name, manufacturer, model number, and a description of the problem and any patient outcome. Reports from patients and clinicians help the FDA identify emerging safety signals and may trigger investigations that lead to recalls of dangerous devices.

What Should You Do?

Stop using this device if you are affected by this recall. Contact your healthcare provider and the manufacturer immediately for guidance. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.