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Reported event: an event regarding crack/fracture involving a ceramic head was reported.The event was confirmed via evaluation of the returned device and clinician review of the provided medical records.Method & results: product evaluation and results: visual inspection was performed as part of the material analysis report (mar).On visual examination, the fracture was observed through the neck of the stem with the femoral head remaining locked on the stem trunnion.Discolouration of the stem trunnion was also observed.Fracture of the femoral head was observed with two detached sections of the head returned.A material analysis has been performed.The report concluded: review of exeter v40 stem 44 mm, catalogue # 0580-1-441 confirmed a fracture through the neck of the stem with fracture of the delta v40 ceramic head, catalogue # 6570-0-228, lot code 1078993 also observed.Characterisation using stereo microscopy and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the stem fracture propagated due to fatigue with the final fracture in overload.Characterisation of the v40 ceramic head using stereo microscopy confirmed brittle fracture, associated with post-surgery mechanical damage.No manufacturing or material related defects were observed on the device surfaces examined.Clinician review: a review of the provided medical records by a clinical consultant stated the following comment: i have had the opportunity to review documentation related to pi including the product inquiry summary and an ap x-ray of a right total hip.The event description from the product inquiries summary states: distributor reported that stem broke at trunnion.Patient didn't fall.Patient has requested an independent analysis of the stem to the surgeon.The ap x-ray demonstrates a right tha with a trunnion that has fractured at its midpoint.The proximal portion of the trunnion remained within the femoral head and the proximal trunnion and femoral head were completely dissociated from the stem.Fracture of the trunnion of a right tha with dissociation of the proximal trunnion and femoral head is confirmed.The root cause for this complication cannot be determined from this limited documentation.Should additional information become available i would be happy to further this assessment product history review: review of the device history records indicates devices were manufactured and accepted into final stock with no reported discrepancies.Complaint history review: there have been no other similar events for the lot referenced.Conclusion: no further investigation for this event is possible at this time.If devices and/or additional information become available to indicate further evaluation is warranted, this record will be reopened.
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