Cordis EMPIRA RX PTCA Dilatation Catheter

The balloon may exhibit resistance to the removal of the balloon cover. Weakening of the affected product in the region of the proximal balloon seal may occur when excessive force is applied to remove the balloon cover. This may lead to balloon burst, shaft separation or deflation difficulties, which could result in procedural delay, vessel trauma or surgery.

Cordis Corp sent Urgent Medical Device Correction Letters dated June 23, 2014, to all affected customers. Those in the Foreign Countries were sent via E-mail dated June 23, 2014. The letter identified the product the problem and the action needed to be taken by the customer. Cordis and Creganna-Tactx are not removing the products, but rather providing additional labeling (customer letter) advising the user not to use the product if unusual resistance is felt during removal of the balloon cover. Cordis and Creganna-Tactx explained in the letter to the consignees that is is known that balloons with hydrophilic coating are susceptible to expansion of the coating at extremely elevated humidity, therefore, it is important for the User to follow the current labeling, to store the product in a cool, dark and dry place. Action requested on your part: "Pass on this letter to anyone who needs to be informed in your facility and in any facility where potentially affected devices may have been transferred. "Maintain awareness of this communication until the information has been incorporated into the Cordis EMPIRA" NC RX and EMPIRA" RX PTCA dilatation catheter labeling. "Retain this letter with affected product. "Report all balloon cover removal difficulties through the standard complaint process. "For questions related to the issue please contact Cordis Endovascular Medical information Line 877-DEVICE5 (877-338-4235), Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 5:00 PM EDT. "For questions related to the Acknowledgment Form and its return, please contact Cordis QA at (786) 313-8730.