FDA MedWATCH

Beckman Coulter, Inc., Synchron LX Clinical Systems Ion Selective Electrolyte (ISE) Flow Cell: Class I Recall - Incorrect Electrolyte Results


AUDIENCE: Laboratory, Risk Manager

ISSUE: Healthcare professionals were notified that there may be ratio pump wear, silver iodide build-up on the chloride electrode, microbial contamination, general non-ISE hardware, and maintenance in the instruments (ion selective electrolyte flow cell) which may cause incorrect electrolyte results. This may cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

BACKGROUND: These systems are computer-controlled clinical chemistry analyzers used to determine different types of blood chemistries and other chemistries from blood samples collected from an individual. Analyses are performed on a variety of fluids including blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid.

RECOMMENDATION: On April 5, 2011, the company sent its customers a Product Corrective Action letter including a customer response form. The company requested customers to follow the new maintenance instructions included in the letter.

Based on the available information at this time, it appears that the root cause may be a maintenance-related issue. However, the root cause has not been definitively determined and it is recommended that the laboratories maintain a level of vigilance to assess whether the change in maintenance routine resolves the issue.

Healthcare professionals are encouraged to report adverse events, side effects, or product quality problems related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178