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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Medical Device Recalls
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 Medical Device Recallssee related information
Date Initiated by FirmOctober 24, 2008
Create DateDecember 22, 2008
Recall Status1 Terminated 3
Recall NumberZ-0496-2009
Recall Event ID 50091
ProductThoratec Heartmate II Left Ventricular Assist System (LVAS). Model/Catalog Number 1355 and Model/Catalog Number 102139. Product is manufactured and distributed by Thoratec Corporation, Pleasant, CA. The HM II LVAS is intended to provide hemodynamic support in patients with end-stage, refractory left ventricular heart failure; either for temporary support, such as a bridge to cardiac transplantation or myocardial recovery, or as permanent destination therapy. The HeartMate II is intended for use inside or outside the hospital.
Code Information All serial numbers.
Recalling Firm/
Manufacturer		 Thoratec Corp
6035 Stoneridge Drive
Pleasanton CA 94588
For Additional Information ContactDonald A. Middlebrook
925-847-8600 Ext. 1237
Manufacturer Reason
for Recall		The firm has become aware that, over time, wear and fatigue of the percutaneous lead connecting the HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System (HM II LVAS) blood pump with external system controller may result in damage that has the potential to interrupt pump function and may require a reoperation to replace the pump.
ActionAn initial "Urgent: Medical Device Correction" letter dated October 21, 2008 and a follow-up letter dated October 24, 2008 were sent to affected HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System (HM II LVAS) customers. The letters identified the problem, immediate action and preventive action to be taken by customers and recommended that the pump be replaced as soon as possible if damage to the percutaneous lead is confirmed. If customers suspect that a HM II LVAS patient may have a damaged percutaneous lead, please contact Thoratec Technical Services (800-456-1477) for assistance. A return response (Acknowledgement Form) was included with the letter for consignees to complete and fax it to Thoratec Regulatory Affairs at 925-847-8628. Direct questions to the Thoratec Regulatory Affairs Department at 925-730-4135 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PST). Clinicians and patients with questions may contact the firm at 800-528-2577, or if calling outside the USA, 925-847-8600 (7 days a week, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PST). Copies of the press release may be found on the firm's website, www.thoratec.com, under Investor Relations/Press Releases.
Quantity in Commerce2,335 units
DistributionWorldwide Distribution.
1 A record in this database is created when a firm initiates a correction or removal action. The record is updated if the FDA identifies a violation and classifies the action as a recall, and it is updated for a final time when the recall is terminated. Learn more about medical device recalls.
3 For details about termination of a recall see Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21 §7.55.
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