H3, h6: given the nature of the alleged incident, the device could not be returned for evaluation; therefore, a device analysis could not be performed.The clinical/medical investigation stated that, based on the limited information provided, a user technique/human error likely contributed to the event.Responses to the information requests were not provided, but it was reported that the foreign body (bone spike) fell into the bone cavity (tibial) as seen in the provided x-ray image.Reportedly, the surgery was completed successfully with the same device, without surgical delay.The patient impact is determined to be the retained non-implantable pin (distally) in the tibial canal.Although the current patient status is unknown, the patient was reportedly not harmed due to this event.Since the instrument appears to be retained in the tibial canal, risks for migration, corrosion and/or local irritation are low; however, cannot be concluded with certainty.A review of the production order did not reveal a manufacturing abnormality that could have caused or contributed to the reported incident.A review of complaint history for the part number over the past 12 months and for the batch number based on historical data of the device did not reveal similar events for the listed device.A review of instructions for use for care, maintenance, cleaning and sterilization of smith & nephew orthopedics devices revealed that visually inspecting for damage or wear, including components in their disassembled state prior to re-assembly as well as ensuring components are re-assembled securely is indicated.A review of the risk management file revealed this failure mode was previously identified.The anticipated risk level is still adequate.A historical review concluded that there are no prior actions related to this product and event.At this time, we have no evidence to conclude that the product failed to meet any specifications at the time of manufacture.Factors that could contribute to the reported event include surgical technique used or user/procedural variance.Based on this investigation, the need for corrective action is not indicated.Should additional information be received, the complaint will be reopened.No further investigation is warranted for this complaint; however, we will continue to monitor for future complaints and investigate as necessary.We consider this investigation closed.
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