TandemHeart pump is assembled into kits: TandemLife Kit Product: 5740-0000 - Product Usage: p...

FDA Device Recall #Z-1955-2020 — Class II — March 6, 2020

Recall Summary

Recall Number Z-1955-2020
Classification Class II — Moderate risk
Date Initiated March 6, 2020
Status Terminated
Voluntary Voluntary: Firm initiated

Recalling Firm

Firm Cardiac Assist, Inc
Location Pittsburgh, PA
Product Type Devices
Quantity 13

Product Description

TandemHeart pump is assembled into kits: TandemLife Kit Product: 5740-0000 - Product Usage: provides temporary extracorporeal circulatory system support with the unique ability to locally deliver an anticoagulant through the infusion system.

Reason for Recall

Failure to prime due to an assembly error

Distribution Pattern

US Nationwide distributions.

Lot / Code Information

Serial Numbers: 00142463 00142464 00142465 00142469 00142470 00142471 00142472 00142478 00142479 00142480 00142481 00142482 00142483

Other Recalls from Cardiac Assist, Inc

Recall # Classification Product Date
Z-2465-2023 Class II LifeSPARC Pump (part number 5800-0000) containe... Jun 30, 2023
Z-0926-2023 Class I SHIP KIT, LIFESPARC, CONTROLLER AND ACCESSORIES... Dec 5, 2022
Z-1763-2022 Class I TANDEM LIFE LivaNova LIFESPARC Controller; Co... Jul 21, 2022
Z-0311-2022 Class III SHIP KIT, PROCEDURE KIT, PROTEKDUO LS - DL31 fo... Oct 14, 2021
Z-1486-2021 Class II Protek Solo Venous Dilator Set: dilator, vessel... Mar 19, 2021

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.