Spectra WaveWriter™ SC-1160Recalls & reported problems
Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation · Implantable Pulse Generator Kit · Class 3 · Implant
Data updated Oct 13, 2026 from official FDA records · Editorial policy
Quick summary
This Boston Scientific Spectra WaveWriter spinal cord stimulator is implanted for pain relief. Reports mostly describe charging problems, unexpected therapy results, and pain, with some patients needing replacement or removal of the device. There are 7,173 reports, including 26 deaths and 7,138 injuries. No recalls name this device. Reports fell to 554 in the last 12 months from 1,133 in the 12 months before.
AI-generated from the FDA records on this page and checked automatically against the numbers below. Read the details before relying on it.
- Adverse event reports
- 7,221
- Deaths reported
- 31
- Injuries reported
- 7,181
- Recalls naming it
- 0
Summary
The FDA's MAUDE database contains 7,221 adverse event reports that list this exact device (DI 08714729951254), received between Sep 11, 2017 and Sep 30, 2026 — classified as 31 deaths, 7,181 injuries, 9 malfunctions.
The most frequently reported specific device problem is “Charging Problem” (2,324 reports).
17 other recalls cover devices cleared under the same FDA submission (P030017); they may or may not involve this specific model.
Reports come from manufacturers, hospitals and patients and are not verified by the FDA. A report does not prove the device caused the event, and counts can't be used to compare devices or estimate failure rates. How this data works · Data updated Oct 13, 2026.
Reports received per month
Most reported problems
Device problems
- Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem2,847
- Charging Problem2,324
- Unexpected Therapeutic Results1,979
- Migration472
- Defective Device236
- Delayed Charge Time167
- High impedance143
- Inappropriate/Inadequate Shock/Stimulation127
Patient problems
- No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions2,724
- No Code Available1,659
- Pain1,612
- Discomfort617
- Inadequate Pain Relief566
- Unspecified Infection379
- Implant Pain367
- Bacterial Infection329
Recent adverse event reports
The 25 most recent of 7,221 reports, in the reporter's own words as published by the FDA.
InjurySep 30, 2026Charging Problem
It was reported that the patient's Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) was not holding a charge. The patient underwent a procedure wherein the IPG was replaced with an MRI compatible device and that the was doing well postoperatively. The explanted IPG was retained by the medical facility and will not be returned.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50945099 ↗InjurySep 30, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
It was reported that the patients spinal cord stimulator (SCS) was not providing stimulation. All device components were explanted. No further information has been obtained despite good faith efforts.
Patient problems: Pain
MAUDE report 50944565 ↗InjurySep 30, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results; Insufficient Device Problem Information
It was reported that the patient experienced an inadequate stimulation despite multiple program optimization. The patient underwent an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) explant procedure. No further information has been obtained.
Patient problems: Pain
MAUDE report 50943332 ↗InjurySep 30, 2026Charging Problem
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50941569 ↗InjurySep 29, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
It was reported that the spinal cord stimulation (SCS) patient underwent explant of the system due to patient dissatisfaction with therapy and persistent implantable pulse generator (IPG) pocket pain. No patient complications were reported. The onset date of the issue was unavailable. The patient underwent explant of the system and was reported to be doing well postoperatively. The explanted devices were disposed of per facility policy and were not returned for analysis.
Patient problems: Pain
MAUDE report 50934988 ↗InjurySep 29, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
Patient problems: Back pain
MAUDE report 50932968 ↗InjurySep 29, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
It was reported that the patients Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) was experiencing loss of stimulation and pain the Leads had high impedances. The patient underwent an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) replacement procedure and was doing well postoperatively. The explanted device was not returned.
Patient problems: Implant Pain
MAUDE report 50929783 ↗InjurySep 28, 2026Charging Problem
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50915669 ↗InjurySep 28, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
Patient problems: Unspecified Infection
MAUDE report 50915666 ↗InjurySep 28, 2026Charging Problem
It was reported that the patient was having difficulty charging the Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG). The patient underwent an IPG replacement procedure and was doing well postoperatively. The explanted IPG was discarded by the medical facility and will not be returned.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50913814 ↗InjurySep 26, 2026Charging Problem
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50908351 ↗DeathSep 25, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
It was reported that the spinal cord stimulation (SCS) patient passed away. The cause of death is not believed to be related to stimulation; however, it remains unconfirmed. No further information has been obtained.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50902771 ↗InjurySep 25, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
Patient problems: Pain
MAUDE report 50902701 ↗InjurySep 25, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
It was reported that the patient experienced inadequate pain relief. It was also stated that the device was causing more pain. The patient underwent Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) explant procedure.
Patient problems: Pain
MAUDE report 50898596 ↗InjurySep 25, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
It was reported that the patient was experiencing inadequate stimulation and worsening pain. It was also stated that the patient felt numbness and tingling in the legs. The patient underwent a procedure wherein the IPG was replaced with an MRI compatible device. The patient was doing well postoperatively.
Patient problems: Numbness; Pain; Paresthesia
MAUDE report 50897599 ↗InjurySep 23, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50876086 ↗InjurySep 23, 2026Unexpected Therapeutic Results
Patient problems: Fall; Pain
MAUDE report 50875826 ↗InjurySep 23, 2026Charging Problem
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50874510 ↗InjurySep 23, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
It was reported that this Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) device was explanted due to an unknown reason. The location of the replaced device is unknown. Additional information was requested; however, this information regarding this event was Unavailable per customer and account.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50872024 ↗InjurySep 23, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
It was reported that the patient underwent an implantable pulse generator (IPG) explant procedure due to an unknown reason. The patient was doing well postoperatively. No further information could be obtained despite good faith efforts.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50869028 ↗InjurySep 23, 2026Fracture; Nonstandard Device; Unexpected Therapeutic Results
It was reported that the patients Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) was no longer working as intended. It was also reported that after a fall, the leads were fractured preventing patient from Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) access and stimulation therapy coverage. The patient underwent a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) system replacement procedure and was doing well postoperatively. The explanted products will not be returned per hospital policy.
Patient problems: Pain
MAUDE report 50865011 ↗InjurySep 22, 2026Charging Problem; Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50862916 ↗InjurySep 22, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
It was reported that the patient underwent a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) revision procedure due to an unknown reason.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50858715 ↗InjurySep 22, 2026Adverse Event Without Identified Device or Use Problem
It was reported that the spinal cord stimulation (SCS) patient underwent a system revision to obtain MRI compatibility, but the leads presented impedances and then appeared inadequate stimulation issues. No patient complications were reported. The explanted devices were discarded per hospital policy and were not returned for analysis.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50855058 ↗InjurySep 22, 2026Charging Problem
It was reported that the patient was unable to charge the Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG). The patient stated that the recommended cycle charging process was performed however, the stimulator would not charge. The patient underwent IPG replacement procedure and was doing well postoperatively. The explanted device will not be returned per physician's preference.
Patient problems: No Clinical Signs, Symptoms or Conditions
MAUDE report 50852996 ↗
Recalls under the same FDA submission
These recalls involve devices cleared under P030017. One submission often covers many models, so check the product and lot details in each record.
- Z-2879-2026 · Jun 17, 2026 · Open, ClassifiedINFINION CX LEAD KIT, 50CM, Model: SC-2317-50, Material: M365SC2317500; INFINION CX LEAD KIT, 70CM, Model: SC-2317-70, Material: M365SC2317700. part of the Boston Scientific Spin
- Z-2404-2026 · Apr 29, 2026 · Open, ClassifiedBoston Scientific Model SC-4318, Clik X Anchor REF: M365SC43180
- Z-2617-2024 · Jul 17, 2024 · Open, ClassifiedWAVEWRITER ALPHA: Model: SC-1216, 16 IPG KIT, REF: M365SC12160; Model: SC-1232, 32 IPG KIT, REF: M365SC12320
- Z-2123-2020 · Apr 24, 2019 · TerminatedPrecision TM M8 Adapter, 15 cm, part number M365SC9218150 - Product Usage: The adapter is part of a spinal cord stimulation system for prescription use only indicated as an aid in
- Z-2121-2020 · Apr 24, 2019 · TerminatedLinearTM 3-4 50 cm 8 Contact Lead Kit, part number M365SC2352500. Leads function as a component of Boston Scientific's Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) systems by delivering electric
- Z-2120-2020 · Apr 24, 2019 · TerminatedThirty-five (35) cm 8 Contact Extension Kit, part number M365SC3138350. Package Contents: Lead Extension Kit (1) Lead Extension (1) Hex Wrench (1) Tunneling Tool Assembly (1) Devic
- Z-2124-2020 · Apr 24, 2019 · TerminatedFifty-five (55) cm 8 Contact Extension Kit, part number M365SC3138550 - Product Usage: Lead Extensions are designed to connect the percutaneous leads to the Implantable Pulse Gene
- Z-2122-2020 · Apr 24, 2019 · TerminatedThe LinearTM 3-4 70 cm 8 Contact Lead Kit, part number M365SC2352700 is part of a spinal cord stimulation system for prescription use only as an aid in the management of chronic i
- Z-2119-2020 · Apr 24, 2019 · TerminatedArtisanTM 70 cm 2 x 8 Surgical Lead Kit, part number M365SC8216700. 2 x 8 Surgical Paddle Lead Kit: (1) One Paddle Lead (4); Four Suture Sleeves; (2) Lead Position Labels, left
- Z-1409-2010 · Mar 19, 2010 · TerminatedBionic NAVIGATOR Clinician Programmer Model Number SC-7150-4
- Z-0271-2009 · Sep 22, 2008 · TerminatedPrecision Charger 1.0 (Model Number SC-5300) for the Precision Spinal Cord Stimulator System labeled as BIONICS SCS-CHARGING KIT CONTENTS Charger (1) Base Station (1) Belt Po
- Z-1441-2012 · Apr 22, 2008 · TerminatedOMG (Observational Mechanical Gateway) Connector - A Model Number SC-9305 The Precision Spinal Cord Stimulator System is indicated as an aid in the management of chronic intractabl
- Z-0960-2008 · Oct 5, 2007 · TerminatedAdvanced Bionics Precision Implantable Pulse Generator Kit, Model Number: SC-1110 with firmware version prior to Revision 3.02, Advanced Bionics Corportation, Sylmar, CA 91342
- Z-0055-2008 · Aug 3, 2007 · TerminatedPrecision Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG), Model Number SC-110
- Z-0700-2007 · Jan 30, 2007 · TerminatedThe Precision Implantable Pulse Generator, Model Number SC-1110
…and 2 more.
Other STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF devices
- Octrode™ 3186St. Jude Medical, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF30 deaths32,096 reports
- Intellis™ AdaptiveStim® 97715Medtronic, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF2 deaths23,976 reports
- RestoreSensor™SureScan® 97714Medtronic, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF6 deaths17,903 reports
- Proclaim™ 3660St. Jude Medical, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF2 recalls25 deaths13,336 reports
- Intellis™ AdaptiveStim® 97715Medtronic, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF11,487 reports
- Precision Spectra ™ SC-1132Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF53 deaths11,269 reports
- Proclaim™ 5 EliteSt. Jude Medical, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF1 recall10 deaths9,661 reports
- Proclaim™ 7 EliteSt. Jude Medical, Inc. · STIMULATOR, SPINAL-CORD, TOTALLY IMPLANTED FOR PAIN RELIEF1 recall12 deaths7,299 reports
Sources and updates
- Device record: FDA GUDID, file dated Oct 13, 2026 · View this device in AccessGUDID ↗
- Adverse event reports: FDA MAUDE, file dated Oct 13, 2026 · each report above links to its original FDA record
- Recalls: FDA Medical Device Recalls, file dated Oct 13, 2026
- Page last rebuilt: Oct 13, 2026. Data downloaded through openFDA, which notes it is not validated for clinical or regulatory use.
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