|
Combination product: yes.The returned product was subjected to a detailed technical analysis and the corresponding production documentation was reviewed to establish whether a deviation from the manufacturing process could be the cause for this event.The technical investigation revealed that the stent is severely deformed at its distal end, i.E.Several struts are strongly bent.Microscopic inspection showed stent imprints on the exposed balloon surface, indicating that the bent struts were initially crimped on the balloon.In addition, the hypotube has fractured about 206 mm distal to the kink protector.The cross-section of the hypotube at the fracture sites is no longer circular but compressed into an ellipse.The polymer coating is plastically deformed.The hypotube is further strongly kinked in close vicinity to fracture sites.The findings indicate that the hypotube most probably fractured as a result of significant bending outside of the patients body.Review of the production documentation confirmed that the device was manufactured according to specifications and passed all in-process and final inspections.Based on the conducted investigations of the device being subject to this complaint, no material or manufacturing related root cause could be determined.It should be noted that the ifu advises the user to exercise care during handling to reduce the possibility of accidental breakage, bending, and kinking of the stent system shaft.
|