|
Correction: h3.Yes h6.Investigation findings: 3252.Investigation conclusions: 4307.Device evaluation: the plate did not return for evaluation as it remains in situ.However, two screws from the impacted inferior-most level and a recovered blocker fragment were returned.Visual inspection of the screws found witness marks on their proximal head surface with one showing significant edge deformation.The blocker fragment exhibited bilateral surface deformation that could indicate postoperative loading from both screws.Based on the confirmed fracture of the blocker and observed damage to both screws and blocker, it is likely that the blocker component was subjected to excessive postoperative loading prior to fusion.Labeling review: warnings/cautions/precautions: without solid bone fusion, this device cannot be expected to support the cervical spine indefinitely and may fail due to bone-metal interface, metal, or bone failure.Based on the fatigue testing results, the physician/surgeon should consider the levels of implantation, patient weight, patient activity level, compliance of the patient, and other patient conditions which may have an impact on the performance and results of this system.No spinal implant can withstand body loads for an indefinite period of time without the support of bone.In the event that successful fusion is not achieved; bending, breakage, loosening, migration and/or disassembly of the device will occur.Potential risks identified with the use of this device, which may require additional surgery, include device component fracture, loss of fixation, non-union, fracture of the vertebrae, and necrosis of bone, neurological injury and vascular or visceral injury.Possible adverse effects: the following complications and adverse reactions have been shown to occur with the use of similar spinal instrumentation.These effects and any other known by the surgeon should be discussed with the patient preoperatively.Initial or delayed loosening, disassembly, bending, dislocation and/or breakage of device components.Postoperative management: the patient should have a complete understanding of and compliance with the purpose and limitations of the implant devices.The surgeon should instruct the patient on how to compensate for any loss in range of spinal motion due to bone fusion.Additional or revision surgery may be necessary to correct an adverse effect.The surgeon should instruct the patient regarding amount and time frame after surgery of any weight bearing activity.The increased risk of bending, dislocation, and /or breakage of the implant devices, as well as an undesired surgical result are consequences of any type of early or excessive weight bearing, vibration motion, fall, jolts or other movements preventing proper healing and/or fusion development.
|