Medical Device recall: USFDA classifies recall of these catheters as ‘most serious’

Medical Device recall: USFDA classifies recall of these catheters as 'most serious'

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Medical Device recall
Medical Device recall

Last Updated on December 26, 2024 by The Health Master

Medical Device recall

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has issued a serious medical device recall for Boston Scientific’s POLARx Cryoablation Balloon Catheters.

These devices are used in minimally invasive procedures to treat atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that causes irregular heartbeats.

The Problem

The USFDA has classified this medical device recall as the most serious type because of a higher-than-expected number of reported injuries and deaths linked to the use of these catheters.

Specifically, the devices have been associated with:

  • Esophageal injury: This can lead to a serious complication known as atrio-esophageal fistula, which can cause air bubbles to block blood vessels in the brain.
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding: This can result in significant blood loss and other health problems.
  • Systemic infection: This can spread throughout the body and lead to severe illness.

What’s Being Done

Boston Scientific is taking steps to address the issue by:

  • Updating Instructions for Use: The company is revising the instructions to provide healthcare providers with important information about potential risks and how to minimize them.
  • Medical Device Advisory: Boston Scientific has issued an urgent medical device advisory to all affected customers, outlining the specific steps they should take.

What Patients Should Know

If you have had a procedure using a POLARx Cryoablation Balloon Catheter, it’s important to:

  • Monitor for Symptoms: Be aware of the potential symptoms of complications, such as chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or severe abdominal pain.
  • Contact Your Healthcare Provider: If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on any new information or related to medical device recall.
  1. What is atrial fibrillation?

    Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition that causes irregular, rapid heartbeats.

  2. What is a minimally invasive procedure?

    A minimally invasive procedure is a surgical technique that involves smaller incisions, resulting in less pain and quicker recovery times.

  3. What should I do if I have concerns about a medical device?

    If you have concerns about a medical device, you should contact your healthcare provider or report the issue to the USFDA.

Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from the source mentioned below. Our team utilized an AI language model to rewrite and present the news or article in a unique format.

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