MedWatch - The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting ProgramSpF PLUS-Mini and SpF XL IIB Implantable Spinal Fusion Stimulators by Zimmer Biomet: Class I Recall - Potential for Harmful ChemicalsAUDIENCE: Risk Manager, Orthopedics, Patient, Surgery ISSUE: Zimmer Biomet is recalling the SpF PLUS-Mini and SpF XL IIb Implantable Spinal Fusion Stimulators due to higher than allowed levels of potential harmful chemicals, which may be toxic to tissues and organs (cytotoxicity) and that were found during the company's routine monitoring procedure. A cytotoxicity test is a part of the biological evaluation of medical devices to ensure compatibility with the device and the human body. A positive cytotoxicity test (failed result) can indicate that a device contains potential harmful chemicals at amounts or levels that could be dangerous to the patient. The use of affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including but not limited to chronic infections, long-term hospitalization due to additional surgical procedures, paralysis, and death.
BACKGROUND: The Zimmer Biomet SpF PLUS-Mini and SpF XL IIb Implantable Spinal Fusion Stimulators are used during spinal fusion surgery to increase the possibility of permanently connecting two or more bones of the spine (backbone) together. The device is implanted into the patient's back and provides constant electrical stimulation to the surgical site. RECOMMENDATION: On April 20, 2017 Zimmer Biomet sent an Urgent Medical Device Removal notification to all affected customers. The notice instructed customers to:
Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
Read the MedWatch safety alert, including a link to the FDA recall notice, at: |