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Product complaint # (b)(4).Investigation summary: the product received for analysis was identified as product code j494g.Visual inspection and metallurgical analysis were performed on the returned product.A fracture was observed near the tip of the needle.One side of the needle was received, the mating fracture surface was not provided for this evaluation.The needle was noted with marks that appears to be by surgical instrument.A scanning electron microscope (sem) was used to examine the fracture surfaces and surrounding area of the needle.The fracture surfaces were examined in multiple locations to determine the fracture mode.The evaluation of the sample revealed the fracture was composed of microvoid coalescence, which is evidence of a ductile fracture mode.This was a ductile fracture.The evidence of this examination indicates that the breakage occurred at the tip of the needle during use due to tensile overload.There is no evidence of any material flaw or defect that would cause premature failure.In order to avoid this kind of damage grasp the needle in an area one-third (1/3) to one-half (1/2) of the distance from the attachment end to the point.A manufacturing record evaluation was performed for the finished device lot, and no non-conformances were identified.This report is being submitted pursuant to the provisions of 21 cfr, part 803.This report may be based on information which has not been investigated or verified prior to the required reporting date.This report does not reflect a conclusion by ethicon, or its employees that the report constitutes an admission that the product, ethicon, or its employees caused or contributed to the potential event described in this report.If information is obtained that was not available for the initial report, a follow-up report will be filed as appropriate.
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