Merlin PCS 3650 Software Upgrade Kit, REF 3330 St. Jude Medical The MerlinTM Patient Care Syst...

FDA Device Recall #Z-1700-2020 — Class II — February 28, 2020

Recall Summary

Recall Number Z-1700-2020
Classification Class II — Moderate risk
Date Initiated February 28, 2020
Status Terminated
Voluntary Voluntary: Firm initiated

Recalling Firm

Firm Abbott
Location Sylmar, CA
Product Type Devices
Quantity Software Version 24.6.1 installed into 4733 programmers

Product Description

Merlin PCS 3650 Software Upgrade Kit, REF 3330 St. Jude Medical The MerlinTM Patient Care System (MerlinTM PCS) Model 3650 is a portable, dedicated programming system designed to interrogate, program, display data, and test St. Jude MedicalTM implantable devices and leads.

Reason for Recall

Internal testing of software identified software anomaly scenarios where if non-applicable shock energy value is selected, the device will continue to use the previously programmed energy level and the user will not be alerted that the selected value was not retained.

Distribution Pattern

U.S. AK, Al, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, and WV. OUS: None - the firm stated that there are no OUS consignees associated to ICDs that were interrogated from January 22, 2020 to February 6, 2020.

Lot / Code Information

Software Version: 24.6.1 Model: 3650, GTIN: 05414734500661 Model: 3330, GTIN: 05414734509725 For affected serial number of programmers see Attachment B.1 Programmers For models of ICDs interrogated by affected programmers see Attachment B.2 Devices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A software recall means the device's embedded software or firmware has a defect that could affect its performance or safety. Many software recalls are corrected through firmware updates that can be applied without physically replacing the device. For implantable devices, the update may be delivered wirelessly during a routine clinic visit. For external devices, the manufacturer may provide updated software files or replacement units. Contact your healthcare provider to determine whether your specific device and software version are affected and what action is recommended.

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.