Manufacturer And User Facility Device Experience Research Articles

Intraocular Inflammation with faricimab: insights from Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database.

Intraocular Inflammation with faricimab: insights from Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database.

Adverse events associated with Vibrant Soundbridge: A MAUDE study

ObjectiveTo summarize adverse events and their root causes reported to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB) hearing device (Med-El, Innsbruck, Austria), an active middle ear implant for patients with moderate to severe hearing loss. Materials and methodsThe FDA's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was queried for reports of VSB adverse events from January 1, 2012, to July 27, 2022. ResultsSix hundred sixty-three total medical device reports were identified, from which 913 adverse events were extracted. Of these, 498 (54.5 %) were adverse events to patients (AEPs), while 415 (45.5 %) were device malfunctions (DMs). The most common AEPs were hearing performance issues 428 (85.9 %). The most common DMs were compromised conductive link 125 (30.1 %). Root causes identified for DMs were iatrogenic 85 (58.6 %), patient-related 28 (19.3 %), and trauma and external causes 32 (22.1 %). The most common iatrogenic root cause 12 (14.1 %) involved damage to the conductive link during revision surgery. The most common patient-related causes of DMs were excessive middle ear tissue growth 16 (57 %), and abrupt body movements 5 (28.6 %). The most common external cause of DM was cleaning of the ear canal or mastoid cavity 20 (62.5 %). ConclusionsDespite its well-known limitations, the MAUDE database provides valuable information on possible complications of VSB as it relates to device malfunction or adverse events for patients. Implementation of standardized reports with relevant and well-defined categories could certainly allow for a more meaningful analysis.

Adverse events associated with anastomotic coupling devices in microvascular reconstruction

ObjectiveIn light of the recent US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Class 2 safety recall notice for anastomotic coupling devices, it is important to understand related adverse events. The aim of this study was to characterize adverse events in anastomotic coupling devices for microvascular reconstruction. MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional analysis using the 2011 to 2021 US FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. All reports of adverse events involving anastomotic coupling devices were retrieved from the MAUDE database. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze categorized events. ResultsThere were a total of 293 documented adverse events related to anastomotic coupling devices. These adverse events resulted in 91 (31.1 %) patient injuries and 239 (81.6 %) device malfunctions. The most frequent patient problems were thrombosis/hematoma (n = 38; 41.8 %), unspecified injury (n = 31; 34.1 %), and failure to anastomose (n = 13; 14.3 %). Free flap necrosis was reported in 42 % of thrombosis/hematoma cases (n = 16). The most common malfunctions were devices operating differently than expected (n = 74; 31.0 %), connection problems (n = 41; 17.2 %), and twisted/bent material (n = 19; 7.9 %). There was no significant trend in the number of adverse events over the study period (p > 0.05). ConclusionsAdverse events from anastomotic coupling devices represent an important and modifiable factor in free tissue failure. Adverse events are predominately related to devices operating differently than expected and may result in vascular compromise of the free flap. Reconstructive surgeons should be cognizant of defective anastomotic coupling devices and be prepared to utilize traditional hand-sewn anastomosis.

Machine learning-based analysis of adverse events in mesh implant surgery reports

AbstractMesh implant surgery, commonly used for various medical conditions, has been linked to a range of negative effects, significantly impacting patient experiences and outcomes. Additionally, the growing volume of medical data, especially text-based reports, presents challenges in deriving meaningful insights for informed healthcare decisions. To address these challenges, our study extensively analyzed the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) dataset from 2000 to 2021. We have meticulously identified a range of adverse events associated with mesh implant surgeries, including Dyspareunia, Urinary problems, Chronic Inflammation, Prolapse Recurrence, Mesh Erosion, Urinary Tract Infections, discomfort, and sleep disturbances. Using topic modeling, we explored patient experiences and the interrelationships among these adverse events. This approach uncovered key topics linked to mesh surgery, such as Stress Urinary Incontinence, Incisional Hernia, Inguinal Hernia, and Umbilical Hernia, along with their side effects. While the analysis focused on common symptoms such as pain, infection, and bleeding, it also brought to light specific symptoms like sleeping issues, mental stress, and discomfort. We also examined the interconnectedness of these adverse events with identified topics and their temporal trends, revealing shifts in patient experiences over time. Notably, there was an increase in reports of Stress Urinary Incontinence around 2011–2012 and a surge in Inguinal Hernia concerns in 2017–2018. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of adverse events and associated topics in mesh implant surgeries, contributing valuable insights into patient experiences and aiding in informed healthcare decision-making.

Assessing the Reproducibility of Research Based on the Food and Drug Administration Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience Data.

This article aims to assess the reproducibility of Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) data-driven studies by analyzing the data queries used in their research processes. Studies using MAUDE data were sourced from PubMed by searching for "MAUDE" or "Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience" in titles or abstracts. We manually chose articles with executable queries. The reproducibility of each query was assessed by replicating it in the MAUDE Application Programming Interface. The reproducibility of a query is determined by a reproducibility coefficient that ranges from 0.95 to 1.05. This coefficient is calculated by comparing the number of medical device reports (MDRs) returned by the reproduced queries to the number of reported MDRs in the original studies. We also computed the reproducibility ratio, which is the fraction of reproducible queries in subgroups divided by the query complexity, the device category, and the presence of a data processing flow. As of August 8, 2022, we identified 523 articles from which 336 contained queries, and 60 of these were executable. Among these, 14 queries were reproducible. Queries using a single field like product code, product class, or brand name showed higher reproducibility (50%, 33.3%, 31.3%) compared with other fields (8.3%, P = 0.037). Single-category device queries exhibited a higher reproducibility ratio than multicategory ones, but without statistical significance (27.1% versus 8.3%, P = 0.321). Studies including a data processing flow had a higher reproducibility ratio than those without, although this difference was not statistically significant (42.9% versus 17.4%, P = 0.107). Our findings indicate that the reproducibility of queries in MAUDE data-driven studies is limited. Enhancing this requires the development of more effective MAUDE data query strategies and improved application programming interfaces.

Medical device report analyses from MAUDE: Device and patient outcomes, adverse events, and sex-based differential effects

Post-market medical device-associated failures and patient problems are reported in Medical Device Reports (MDRs) to the US Food and Drug Administration. Reports are accessible through Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE), a database including both required and voluntary submissions. We present an overview of >10 million MDRs received from 2011 to 2021. Approximately 92% of reporting issues represent medical device physical or functional failures, categorized from 1704 codes related to medical device integrity or function. ∼8% were coded adverse events (AEs). Patient outcomes are reported via 998 patient codes in 19 medical specialties (cardiovascular, orthopedic, etc.). ∼40% of patient reports indicated “no health consequences”; however, a small number of devices had consistently high AE reports. While overall reports did not exhibit a sex-based dichotomy, ∼9% of the reported AEs occurred more frequently in females, many of which were related to immune effects. The analyses are subject to uncertainties and potential bias based on data available and data selected for analysis. However, such an overview of post-market MDR data, not previously published, fills a gap in understanding medical device issues and patient-based outcomes related to medical device use. Trends identified may be subjects of additional hypotheses, analysis, and research.

Major Complications and Adverse Events Related to Use of SpaceOAR Hydrogel for Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and severity of SpaceOARTM-related adverse events using the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. MethodsWe analyzed SpaceOAR-related adverse event reports in the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database from January 2015 to May 2023. For each report, the event type, associated device and patient problems, event description, event timing, and event severity stratified by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0 (CTCAE) grading system were recorded. ResultsFrom 2015 to 2022, 206,619 SpaceOAR devices were sold. From January 2015 to May 2023, we identified 981 reports describing 990 SpaceOAR-related adverse events. Malfunctions were the most common event type (N=626), followed by patient injuries (N=350) with few reported deaths (N=5). Device positioning problems were the most frequent device issue (N=686). Pain was the most reported patient problem (N=216). Abscesses and fistulas related to the device were each reported in 91 events. A noteworthy portion of relevant adverse events occurred before the initiation of radiation (N=35, 22.4%), suggesting the device, rather than the radiation, was responsible. In total, 470 (50.2%) and 344 (36.7%) of the adverse events were CTCAE grade 1 and 2, respectively. There were 123 (13.1%) events that were CTCAE grade ≥ 3. ConclusionWe identified multiple reports of SpaceOAR-related adverse events, many of which are more serious than have been reported in clinical trials. While SpaceOAR use is common, suggesting these events are rare, these data highlight the need for continued postmarket surveillance.

Considerations for Use of the MAUDE Database in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Research.

The use of the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) to analyze adverse events linked to medical devices has grown in recent years. MAUDE facilitates post-market surveillance, contributing to the assessment of device performance and the identification of potential safety concerns. The database is instrumental not only for mandatory reporters such as manufacturers and healthcare facilities but also offers a platform for voluntary submissions from clinicians and patients, thus widening the scope of data collection. While the database offers valuable data, there are important limitations that must be understood in order to encourage appropriate interpretation of findings. This commentary highlights the major advantages and disadvantages of the MAUDE database, as well as describes possible areas for improvement in adverse event reporting.

(215) Penuma® Penile Implant Adverse Events in the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) Database

Abstract Introduction Penuma® is an FDA-approved penile implant intended to increase flaccid penile length and girth for improved cosmesis. It is the only FDA-approved product of its kind, with reportedly thousands of implants since 2004. There is a paucity of data on the adverse events related to this procedure. Objective To describe and characterize adverse events related to Penuma® using a national database. Methods The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database, a voluntary-reported database of medical device complications with data since 1991, was queried. The MAUDE adverse event classification system, a validated classification system, was used as a standardized tool to classify adverse events based on severity. All adverse events related to Penuma® were identified and quantified. Results 42 reports of adverse events related to Penuma® were identified (Figure 1). Of these, 35 patients were reported to undergo device removal most commonly due to infection (n=8) or protrusion (n=8). (Table 1). The most commonly reported adverse event was deformity/disfigurement (n=27), of which 18 cases reported loss of penile length. Other adverse events included: pain (n=16), infection (n=12), decreased sensitivity (n=10), scar tissue (n=9), erectile dysfunction (n=8), seroma (n=7), and erosion (n=6). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically characterize publicly reported adverse events occurring with Penuma® implantation, using the MAUDE database. Further research is warranted to delineate the incidence of adverse events related to Penuma®. Disclosure No.

Adverse events of the single-operator cholangioscopy system: a Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database analysis

SpyGlass single operator cholangioscopy (SOC) system is generally considered safe but adds additional risks to those associated with standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. We evaluated adverse events (AEs) with the SpyGlass System reported in the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database between January 2016 & August 2023. A total of 2331 device problems (SpyGlass DS:1301, SpyGlass DS II:1010) were reported. An optical problem was the most reported issue with 83 for the SpyGlass DS and 457 for the SpyGlass DS II. Patient related events were found in 62 (3.5%) of 1743 reports: 33 with SpyGlass DS, and 29 with SpyGlass DSII. The most common AEs were bleeding/hemorrhage followed by perforation, infection, fever, or sepsis and pancreatitis. Our findings add to the existing literature and provides a fuller picture of potential problems associated with SpyGlass™ SOC.

Modes of failure of guide catheter extensions: Insights from the MAUDE database.

Guide catheter extensions (GCEs) are commonly used to facilitate percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs). We investigated the incidence and modes of failure of GCEs.. Data from the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database between 2012 and 2022 were used to investigate the most common modes of failure and related adverse events with the use of GCEs. We performed analysis of 4 commonly used catheters: GuideLiner (Teleflex), Guidezilla (Boston Scientific), TrapLiner (Teleflex), and Telescope (Medtronic). The first event reported for GuideLiner was in 2012, Guidezilla in 2018, TrapLiner in 2017, and Telescope in 2019. During the study period, a total of 651 events were reported to the database. A total of 429 true GCE device failures were identified: 59 (14%) for GuideLiner, 297 (69%) for Guidezilla, 47 (11%) TrapLiner, and 26 (6%) for Telescope. Catheter detachment or fracture was the most frequently reported device failure for all 4 GCEs; these failures included shaft fractures, tip deformations, and collar detachments. We identified 222 reported events as unspecified adverse events; these events included device-to-device incompatibility, difficulty to advance, and device fractures outside the patient body. Only 58 (8.9%) events resulted in patient complication. Of these, coronary artery dissection was the most frequently reported complication. Device detachment/fracture is the most common mode of device failure in all 4 GCEs, and coronary dissection is the most common patient complication.

Deoxycholic Acid for Submental Convexity: A MAUDE Database Analysis

Study Design The study was a retrospective cross-sectional database analysis. Objective Deoxycholic acid (DOC) injections are a novel, in-office procedural alternative to submental liposuction or submentoplasty to address excess submental fat. Post-market safety data regarding this treatment is currently limited. The objective of this study is to analyze adverse events reported in the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. Methods The MAUDE database was queried for all reports related to adverse events involving deoxycholic acid using the search terms “KYBELLA” and “deoxycholic acid.” Reports were individually reviewed by 2 reviewers and categorized with special attention to adverse events. Results A total of 34 medical device reports were identified from the database query. Thirteen of these reports (21 total events) were included in the analysis after excluding duplicates, unrelated adverse events, or events associated with the off-label use of DOC. Reported adverse events include excessive swelling (n = 5, 24%), marginal mandibular nerve weakness (n = 4, 19%), unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome (n = 4, 19%), numbness (n = 3, 14%), dysphagia (n = 1, 5%), infection (n = 1, 5%), and skin necrosis (n = 3, 14%). Two patients required hospitalization for skin necrosis management; both had underlying systemic diseases. Conclusions Adverse events following DOC injections included excessive swelling, dysphagia, numbness, infection, unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome, facial nerve weakness, and skin necrosis requiring hospitalization and/or surgery. Patient counseling regarding these adverse events should be discussed when offering DOC injections for submental convexity.

Cleaning of dental handpieces: Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database analysis and evaluation of in-use testing of manual and automated cleaning processes

BackgroundThis work aimed to provide evidence for the importance of regular cleaning and care of dental handpieces. In addition, this study aimed to show that automated cleaning of dental tools may deliver superior results compared with manual cleaning. MethodsPublicly available data from the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database on incidents in the use of dental handpieces from the past 10 years were evaluated. The cleaning results of more than 4,830 instruments were also investigated and evaluated. ResultsBy evaluating the manufacturer’s information on the incidents reported in the FDA’s MAUDE database, the connection between inadequate or no maintenance and care and the incidents was clearly shown. The evaluation of the results of manual cleaning compared with automated cleaning clearly shows that better results can be achieved through automated cleaning. ConclusionsThe evaluation of the FDA’s MAUDE database confirmed and emphasized the importance of cleaning and care for the safe and long-term use of dental tools. Comparing the data from manual cleaning and the usage of a device for automated cleaning of dental handpieces, it was shown that the establishment of a quality-controlled system for in-use testing of cleaning performance could provide valuable data for assessing the efficacy of different cleaning processes. Valuable feedback for the user can be derived this way. In addition, it was shown that automated cleaning of dental handpieces is a reasonable alternative and leads to clearly better results.

Adverse Events in Total Artificial Heart for End-Stage Heart Failure: Insight From the Food and Drug Administration Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE).

Real-world clinical data, outside of clinical trials and expert centers, on adverse events related to the use of SyncCardia total artificial heart (TAH) remain limited. We aim to analyze adverse events related to the use of SynCardia TAH reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s Manufacturers and User Defined Experience (MAUDE) database. We reviewed the FDA's MAUDE database for any adverse events involving the use of SynCardia TAH from 1/01/2012 to 9/30/2020. All the events were independently reviewed by three physicians. A total of 1,512 adverse events were identified in 453 "injury and death" reports in the MAUDE database. The most common adverse events reported were infection (20.2%) and device malfunction (20.1%). These were followed by bleeding events (16.5%), respiratory failure (10.1%), cerebrovascular accident (CVA)/other neurological dysfunction (8.7%), renal dysfunction (7.5%), hepatic dysfunction (2.2%), thromboembolic events (1.8%), pericardial effusion (1.8%), and hemolysis (1%). Death was reported in 49.4% of all the reported cases (n=224/453). The most common cause of death was multiorgan failure (n=73, 32.6%), followed by CVA/other non-specific neurological dysfunction (n=44, 19.7%), sepsis (n=24, 10.7%), withdrawal of support (n=20, 8.9%), device malfunction (n=11, 4.9%), bleeding (n=7, 3.1%), respiratory failure (n=7, 3.1%), gastrointestinal disorder (n=6, 2.7%), and cardiomyopathy (n=3, 1.3%). Infection was the most common adverse event following the implantation of TAH. Most of the deaths reported were due to multiorgan failure. Early recognition and management of any possible adverse events after the TAH implantation are essential to improve the procedural outcome and patient survival.

Real-World Experience With the Angio-Seal Closure Device: Insights From Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience Database.

Angio-Seal (Terumo Medical Corporations, Somerset, New Jersey) device is indicated for femoral arteriotomy closure. Real-world published data on complications are limited. We present 1 year of safety events involving Angio-Seal from the US Food and Drug Administration's post-market surveillance database of Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE). Steps for managing frequent device-related problems are discussed. Angio-Seal MAUDE data from November 2019 to December 2020 was classified according to (1) mode of device failure, (2) complication, (3) treatment, and (4) Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) adverse event classification system. There were 715 safety events, involving Angio-Seal VIP (93.1%), Evolution (5.7%), STS Plus (1.1%), and sizes 6F (62.5%) and 8F (37.5%). Failure mode involved unrecognized use of a damaged device (43.4%), failed deployment (20.1%), failed arterial advancement (6.3%), detachment of device component (4.9%), failed retraction (3.6%), operator error (1.1%), and indeterminate (20.6%). Of total, 44.8% of events were associated with patient harm. Complications involved minor blood loss (34.1%), hematoma (5.6%), significant blood loss (1.4%), and pseudoaneurysm (1.4%). Of total, 43.3% of cases required manual compression (MC), whereas 8.8% required more advanced intervention. Interventions included surgical repair (49.2%), thrombin injection (9.5%), balloon tamponade (6.3%), covered stent (4.8%), and unspecified (30.2%). Majority of safety events were CIRSE grade 1 (92.0%), followed by grades 2 (3.1%), 3 (4.6%), and 6 (deaths, 0.3%). Minority of devices were returned for manufacturer analysis (27.8%). The majority of safety events were associated with minor blood loss or local hematoma and could be addressed with MC alone. Most events were attributed to damaged device; however, very few devices were returned to manufacturer for analysis. This should be encouraged to allow for root cause analysis in order to improve safety profile of devices. System-level strategies for addressing barriers to under-reporting of safety events may also be considered. Our study highlights important safety events encountered in real-world practice with Angio-Seal closure device. The MAUDE database captures real-world device malfunctions not typically appreciated in conventional clinical trials. Our study provides valuable insight for clinician-users on anticipating and managing the most common device malfunctions. Additionally, our data provide feedback for manufactures to optimize product design and direct manufacturer user training to improve safety. Finally, we hope that the study promotes system-level strategies that foster reporting of safety events and undertaking of root cause analysis.

The burning truth about light therapy: a retrospective analysis of the MAUDE database on UV phototherapy and photodynamic therapy complications 2013-2023.

Phototherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are ultraviolet light (UV) based therapies for patients with skin diseases, and are sometimes associated with potential adverse events (AE)s, including erythema, pain, pruritus, burns, and photoaging. We investigated UV phototherapy and PDT safety using the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration's (FDA)'s Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. The MAUDE database, including medical device reports (MDR)s informed by voluntary and obligatory reporters since 1991, was searched for AEs associated with UV phototherapy and PDT 1/1/91-3/1/23. There were 59 UV phototherapy and 33 PDT related MDRs. Burns were the most common AE type for both phototherapy and PDT. The majority of phototherapy AEs occurred during 2021 (52.3%), and were significantly more likely to occur at home than in the clinic. Overall, 76.1% of MDRs associated with home light boxes were prescribed by online retailers, most of the MDRs (59.3%) mentioned that it is prohibited to sell phototherapy devices not prescribed by physicians, and only 8.5% noted poorly written home light box instructions. The COVID-19 pandemic prohibited in-person light treatments, and social distancing requirements may have resulted in increased frequency of home-based light treatments. Hence, while at home treatment may be easier and more accessible, in-office physician supervised UV treatments are associated with less frequent AEs. Moreover, some phototherapy MDRs reported poorly written instructions accompanying the home light box, and some PDT MDRs documented patients receiving inadequate education regarding the procedure. With the rise of at-home treatment options and the ease of obtaining devices on the internet, it is physicians' duty to advise patients against self-treating with home light boxes without prescribed treatment regimens and educate patients that are considering home phototherapy to ensure safer patient experiences.

Analysis of Adverse Event Reports in FDA’s MAUDE Database

Background and Objective: Medical devices (MDs) play a pivotal role in the modern healthcare environment. Adverse events are an expected part of an MD’s lifecycle. To prevent the recurrence of such events, various vigilance systems have been established worldwide. The Manufacturer and User facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a publicly accessible database that contains data of medical device reports (MDRs) submitted to FDA since 1991. The aim of this study is to examine the evolution of MD adverse event reports and analyze several characteristic parameters, as they evolved during the last three decades.
 Material and Methods: An analysis of MAUDE data was performed to examine the outcomes and device characteristics of adverse event reports from 1991 up to 11/2022. These outcomes included the event type, remedial action, report source, reporter occupation and device evaluation by manufacturer. Specific MD groups were analyzed separately to examine their effect on the event outcomes. Segregated files of the database that contain different types of information on adverse event reports were combined to investigate the various aspects of these reports.
 Results: Event outcomes are presented as annual histograms. An overall of about 15 million reports have been submitted to MAUDE during the 30 years period examined with more than 2.5 million of them during the first 10 months of the year 2022. This number is growing at an increasing rate. Most of the events (63.5%) have resulted in simple device malfunction, without serious implications to the patient. Depending on the device type however, the health risks may be higher (98.4% injuries from specific dental implants and 3.2% deaths from implantable defibrillators). About 20% of the reports have led to recalls or other corrective actions. Most of the reports (96%) are submitted by manufacturers and over 70% of the devices returned to them are evaluated, following the requirements of FDA 21 CFR, 803. The reporter’s occupation was found to be related to the types of devices associated with the event. Finally, the average device age was found to be 4 years, with an increasing tendency observed over the years, while still most of the events occur during the first year of operation.
 Conclusion: A medical device adverse event reporting system is a critical component of safety in the use of medical technology in modern healthcare. The information available in MAUDE and its use continues to grow at an accelerated rate and allows critical improvements of MDs, especially in terms of risk prevention, as it gives perception about their safety issues. FDA has taken various steps to encourage and facilitate adverse event reporting and make the data available to the public.

Comparing adverse events associated with LigaSure and Harmonic devices in head and neck surgery.

To characterize adverse events, provide a safety profile, and understand patient outcomes after complications arising from LigaSure and Harmonic use in the head and neck region. Retrospective analysis of adverse events from the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) between January 2013 and 2023. A total of 158 LigaSure and 159 Harmonic events were extracted. There were significantly more reports of Harmonic device overheating (6.9% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.003) and spontaneous self-activation (4.4% vs. 0%, p = 0.032). Although intra-operative and post-operative complications were similar among both groups, there were significantly more intra-operative bleeding events for LigaSure as compared to Harmonic (8.2% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.001). Understanding technical complications and adverse events attributable to LigaSure and Harmonic devices enables the development of clinically relevant risk mitigation strategies. Surgeons should avoid improper use by remaining vigilant of device functionality and temperature changes.

Leadless pacemaker tine damage and fracture: novel complications of a novel device fixation mechanism

BackgroundLeadless pacemakers represent a paradigm-changing advancement. However, they required innovative and novel device design, including the use of nitinol tines for fixation. ObjectiveWe aimed to understand the potential for fracture in the novel tine-based fixation mechanism. MethodsA retrospective approach was used to search the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database for events related to Micra pacemaker tine fracture and damage. Review of each report was performed to ascertain frequency of tine fracture and damage. ResultsOf 4241 MAUDE reports (2104 Micra VR, 2167 Micra AV), 230 included the terms “fracture” or “tine”, which yielded 7 tine fractures and 19 reports of tine damage. Overall, 2/7(29%) tine fractures were noted during implant, whereas 2/7(29%) were discovered ≥1 week after implant; 5/7(71%) tine fracture reports described no associated patient signs or symptoms, and 4/7 (57%) described no change in pacing parameters. Tine damage occurred during implant in 16/19 (84%), compared with 2/19 (11%) noted ≥1 week after implant;15/19 (79%) tine damage cases reported no associated signs or symptoms, and 7/19 (37%) described no changes in pacing parameters. Among all cases, there was 1 case of device embolization. ConclusionsThe novel tine-based fixation mechanism appears susceptible to a novel failure mechanism – tine fracture and/or damage. Our analysis suggests these events may not always be associated with adverse signs or symptoms. Diligent attention at implant, and future bench or clinical studies are needed to understand the rate, clinical impact, and mechanism of such failures, and role of surveillance.

LARIAT or AtriClip: Complications Profile and Comparison in Patients with Atrial Fibrillations Based on Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience Database.

Background and Objectives: Left atrial appendage closure is an alternative treatment to reduce thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation in whom oral anticoagulation (OAC) is contraindicated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the complications profiles of the LARIAT and AtriClip devices and perform a comparison between them based on the MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database. Materials and Methods: The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database was searched on 15 January 2023. For AtriClip, only reports regarding isolated procedures or procedures associated with minimally invasive ablation were included. Adverse effects and causes of death were defined based on the literature on the topic and the causes described in the reports. In total, 63 patients were included in the LARIAT group and 53 patients were included in the AtriClip group. Results: With the LARIAT device, the most common complication without device problems was pericardial effusion (n = 18, 52.9%), whereas this complication was not observed with AtriClip (p < 0.001). Postoperative bleeding was a second complication that occurred significantly more often in the LARIAT group-in 15 (44.1%) cases versus 1 (2.7%) case with AtriClip (p < 0.001). In addition, significant differences were found in the prevalence of stroke (LARIAT n = 0 vs. AtriClip n = 7, 18.9%, p = 0.012) and thrombus (LARIAT n = 2, 5.9% vs. n = 11, 29.7%, p = 0.013). Conclusions: Each type of left atrial appendage closure procedure is associated with device-specific requirements and complications that, if known, can be avoided.