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(b)(4).The device history records were reviewed and the manufacturing criteria were met prior to the release of this lot.Additional summary: it was reported performance needle breakage.A failed suture needle was submitted for evaluation.A fracture was observed in the body.The needle was received in two pieces, only one of the mating fracture surfaces was examined for this evaluation.A microscope was used to examine the fracture surfaces and surrounding area of the needle.The fracture surface was examined in multiple locations in order to determine the fracture mode.The evaluation revealed the fracture was composed of microvoid coalescence, which is evidence of a ductile overload failure.Mechanical damage, cup-and-cone shaped fractures and macroscopic plastic deformation observed coincidental to the fracture provide additional evidence that the failure was induced by mechanical deformation leading to ductile overload.This was a ductile fracture.The evidence of this examination indicates that the breakage occurred from mechanical deformation, indents and scratches, due to gripping, bending and overstressing of the needle.There is no evidence of any material flaw that would cause premature failure.It was reported performance breakage suture.A needle in two sections with a suture piece attached was returned for analysis.During the visual inspection of the sample, the swage and attachment area of needle were as expected; however, the needle was broken.The suture piece was examined, and the end was cut appear to be by use of surgical instrument.The other section of the suture was not returned for analysis.As with any device, care should be taken to avoid damage to the strand when handling.Avoid the crushing or crimping action of the surgical instruments, such as needle holders and forceps.Due to the sample condition, the assignable cause of suture breakage attempts are being made to obtain the following information.To date no response has been provided.If further details are received at a later date a supplemental medwatch will be sent.Did the same device had needle breakage and suture breakage issue during use on patient? how was case completed? any adverse patient consequences? if yes, explain in details including information on what medical/surgical treatment was provided.If device is not available, are any pictures of the device showing defects taken?.
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