Abbott Recalls Heartmate Due to Multiple Reports

People with heart failure can get either short-term or long-term circulation assistance from the Heartmate pump. The heart’s primary pumping chamber, the left ventricle, is replaced by the medical device.

From January 2012 to April 2024, 299 device monitor issues were obtained by Abbott. The problems involved distorted lettering, uncooperative buttons, frozen screens and zeros or blanks instead of figures.

A company spokesperson commented: “As part of our recent communication, Abbott counseled physicians and clinics on how to overcome this atypical screen behavior and the importance of utilizing the newer HeartMate Touch controller to avoid challenges with the former System Monitor.”

Abbott had to recall the Heartmate 3 device in March due to an implant-related sealing problem that resulted in 70 injuries and 2 fatalities. Heartmate II and Heartmate 3 systems were recalled by the firm in February because of the possibility that biological waste might accumulate and clog the pumps. 14 fatalities and 273 injuries were reported in connection with that recall.