The product was received and the complaint was confirmed.The patient post operative activity is unknown.The provided radiographs and device were evaluated and a bending fracture and screw pull out was confirmed.The root cause is considered to be a malplacement as it appears that the c2 translaminar screw was inserted and contacted the previously placed c2 pedicle screw, which augured the bone allowing the subsequent pull out of bone.The backed out screw became overloaded and fractured.No additional investigation required.Labeling review: ".Contraindications: contraindications include, but are not limited to: 4.Patients who are unwilling to restrict activities or follow medical advice.5.Patients with inadequate bone stock or quality.6.Patients with physical or medical conditions that would prohibit beneficial surgical outcome." ".Potential adverse events and complications: potential risks identified with the use of this system, which may require additional surgery, include: bending, fracture or loosening of implant component." ".The implantation of spinal systems should be performed only by experienced spinal surgeons with specific training in the use of this spinal system because this is a technically demanding procedure presenting a risk of serious injury to the patient." ".Correct selection of the implant is extremely important.The potential for success is increased by the selection of the proper size of the implant.While proper selection can minimize risks, the size and shape of human bones present limitations on the size and strength of implants." ".These devices can break when subjected to the increased load associated with delayed union or nonunion.Internal fixation appliances are load-sharing devices that hold bony structures in alignment until healing occurs.If healing is delayed, or does not occur, the implant may eventually loosen, bend, or break.Loads on the device produced by load bearing and by the patient¿s activity level will dictate the longevity of the implant." ".Patient education: preoperative instructions to the patient are essential.The patient should be made aware of the limitations of the implant and potential risks of the surgery.The patient should be instructed to limit postoperative activity, as this will reduce the risk of bent, broken or loose implant components.The patient must be made aware that implant components may bend, break or loosen even though restrictions in activity are followed." ".Post-operative warnings: during the postoperative phase it is of particular importance that the physician keeps the patient well informed of all procedures and treatments.Damage to the weight-bearing structures can give rise to loosening of the components, dislocation and migration, as well as to other complications.To ensure the earliest possible detection of such catalysts of device dysfunction, the devices must be checked periodically postoperatively, using appropriate radiographic techniques.".
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