|
Returned for evaluation was a starburst talon probe.The needle array was deployed and a visual examination of the probe noted that tines #1 and 3 are damaged and tines #2 and 4 are fractured.When viewed under a microscope, there was no evidence of the fractured piece of tine trapped within the deployment windows.During functional testng, the tines were able to be deployed and retracted repeatedly without resistance.The customer's reported complaint description of a tine breaking off is confirmed.Although the complaint description states only one tine was broken, the sample confirms two tines are broken and the other 2 tines are damaged.It was stated that this event occurred outside the body and there were no complications caused to the patient as a result.Although it cannot be definitively determined, the most likely root cause to this event is due to handling during preparation or while removing the device from the packaging.Additionally, if a tine becomes bent/damaged while deployed, it's possible for the damaged tine to become trapped in the window during subsequent deployment and causing it to break under force.A review of the device history records was performed for the reported packaging and component lots for any deviations related to the reported defect of the complaint.The review confirms that the lots met all material, assembly, and performance specifications.This device is fully deployed in the device tray when shipped from the manufacturing facility.The instruction for use, which is supplied to the user with this catalog number, contains the following statements: inspect the device for any damage.Do not use a device that has been damaged.Do not twist or exert high forces on the device while it is deployed in the tissue.This may cause the needles to break and remain in the tissue.Do not remove the device without ensuring that the needles are fully retracted within the trocar.This may cause the needles to break and remain in the tissue.If retraction of the device becomes difficult, do not exert additional force.Infuse a small amount of saline solution and gently work the needles loose by alternating between a slightly retracted and a deployed position (while holding the main body with one hand and the trocar (at the point of insertion) with the other hand).The saline solution will generally soften the ablated tissue surrounding the electrodes.Once the ablated tissue softens, the arrays can be worked loose from the tissue and fully retracted." a review of the angiodynamics complaint system noted no adverse trends for this complaint type and product family.This type of complaint will continue to be monitored for trends.(b)(4).
|