One catheter with attached monoject 1.5 cc limited volume syringe and two three-way stopcocks was returned for evaluation.A non-edwards contamination shield was located on the catheter body between 1.5 cm and 37 cm proximal from the catheter tip.Clotted blood was observed from the catheter.The balloon was found to be ruptured.The ruptured edges of balloon latex appeared to be different shapes and were not able to match up.All through lumens were patent without any leakage or occlusion.No other visible damage or abnormality was observed from the catheter body or returned syringe.Visual examination was performed under microscope at 20x magnification and with the unaided eyes.A device history record review was completed and documented that device met all specifications upon distribution.Customer report of balloon issue was confirmed during the analysis.An investigation has been initiated to consider any potential manufacturing factors that may have contributed to this complaint and implement any necessary corrective actions.Invasive procedures involve some patient risks.Although serious complications are relatively uncommon, the physician is advised, before deciding to insert or use the catheter, to consider the potential benefits in relation to the possible complications.The techniques for insertion, methods of using the catheter to obtain patient data information, and the occurrence of complications is well described in the literature.It is common clinical practice to check balloon integrity by inflating it to the recommended volume in order to detect any asymmetry or leakage condition before use of the catheter.It is unknown if user factors may have contributed to the event.Complaint histories for all reported events are reviewed against trending control limits on a monthly basis, and any excursions above the control limits are assessed and documented as part of this monthly review.
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