Weck Hem-o-lok XL Polymer Ligating Clips; Rx, sterile, extra large size, non-absorbable polymer ligation clips; 6 clips per cartridge, 14 cartridges per sales unit, 12 sales units per case; Mfg. by Weck Closure Systems, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709; REF 544250

The Hem-o-lok ligating clips may become dislodged following ligation of the renal artery after laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Hem-o-lok ligating clips are now contraindicated for use in ligating the renal artery during laparascopic nephrectomies in living donor patients.

Teleflex Medical sent Important Product Safety Information letters dated 4/18/06 to all of their customers who have purchased Hem-o-lok Ligating Clips from Teleflex. The letters informed the healthcare providers that Teleflex has been made aware of incidents in which the ligating clips (sizes L and XL) were reported to have become dislodged following ligation of the renal artery after laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Although none of the incidents appear to have involved any defect in or malfunction of the ligating clips, misapplication of the Hem-o-lok clips during such laparascopic procedures may not immediately be apparent and can have serious, even life-threatening consequences post-operatively. Therefore, Teleflex has added the following contraindication to the Instructions for Use accompanying the Hem-o-lok Polymer Ligating Clips: 'Contraindications': Hem-o-lok ligating clips are contraindicated for use in ligating the renal artery during laparoscopic nephrectomies in living donor patients. 'Caution': The clip must be latched to ensure proper ligation of the vessel or tissue. Inspect the ligation site after application to ensure proper closure of the clip. Security of the closure should be confirmed after ligation. The Hem-o-lok Polymer Ligating Clip is not designed for use as a tissue marker. Weck recommends that more than one clip be used to ligate the renal artery in procedures other than laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (see Contraindication, above). Application of more than one clip to all other vessels should be left to the surgeon's judgment.' Any questions concerning the letter were directed to Teleflex Medical at 800-334-9751, option #7, then option #5. Teleflex sent follow-up Important Product Correction Notice letters dated 8/2/06 to all of their Hem-o-lok Ligating Clips customers via registered mail on 8/7/06. The letters provide clarification of the 4/18/06 letter, reinforcing that the clips are contraindicated for use in ligating t