Skip to content

Thoratec Heartmate II Left Ventricular Assist System… recallZ-0496-2009 · Thoratec Corp · initiated Oct 24, 2008

Terminated All recalls posted in December 2008

Is my device affected?

  1. Compare the model, catalog and lot or serial numbers on your device or its packaging with the code information below. A recall usually covers only specific models or lots.
  2. If yours is listed, follow the instructions from Thoratec Corp or your healthcare provider. The company's action is summarized under what the company is doing.
  3. Do not stop using a prescribed or implanted device on your own — talk to your healthcare provider first.

Where to find your model and lot numbers · What recall classes and statuses mean

Why it was recalled

The firm has become aware that, over time, wear and fatigue of the percutaneous lead connecting the HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System (HM II LVAS) blood pump with external system controller may result in damage that has the potential to interrupt pump function and may require a reoperation to replace the pump.

FDA root cause category: Device Design

What the company is doing

An initial "Urgent: Medical Device Correction" letter dated October 21, 2008 and a follow-up letter dated October 24, 2008 were sent to affected HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System (HM II LVAS) customers. The letters identified the problem, immediate action and preventive action to be taken by customers and recommended that the pump be replaced as soon as possible if damage to the percutaneous lead is confirmed. If customers suspect that a HM II LVAS patient may have a damaged percutaneous lead, please contact Thoratec Technical Services (800-456-1477) for assistance. A return response (Acknowledgement Form) was included with the letter for consignees to complete and fax it to Thoratec Regulatory Affairs at 925-847-8628. Direct questions to the Thoratec Regulatory Affairs Department at 925-730-4135 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PST). Clinicians and patients with questions may contact the firm at 800-528-2577, or if calling outside the USA, 925-847-8600 (7 days a week, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PST). Copies of the press release may be found on the firm's website, www.thoratec.com, under Investor Relations/Press Releases.

Recall details

Recall number
Z-0496-2009
Recall class
Not yet classified by the FDA
Status
Terminated
Initiated by the company
Oct 24, 2008
Posted by the FDA
Dec 22, 2008
Recalling firm
Thoratec Corp
Quantity
2,335 units
Product code
DSQ
FDA submissions
P060040
Distribution
Worldwide Distribution.

Product description

Thoratec Heartmate II Left Ventricular Assist System (LVAS). Model/Catalog Number 1355 and Model/Catalog Number 102139. Product is manufactured and distributed by Thoratec Corporation, Pleasant, CA. The HM II LVAS is intended to provide hemodynamic support in patients with end-stage, refractory left ventricular heart failure; either for temporary support, such as a bridge to cardiac transplantation or myocardial recovery, or as permanent destination therapy. The HeartMate II is intended for use inside or outside the hospital.

Code information (models, lots, serial numbers)

All serial numbers.

Other devices under the same FDA submission

7 devices cleared under P060040 — the recall does not name any of them by identifier. One submission often covers many models, so they may or may not be affected.

Sources and updates

How recalls are matched to devices · Editorial policy · Report an error on this page