Important Notice: Avoid Using BioZorb Marker Implantable Radiographic Marker Devices – FDA Safety Advisory

Important Notice: Avoid Using BioZorb Marker Implantable Radiographic Marker Devices – FDA Safety Advisory

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Date Issued: October 25, 2024

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) alerts consumers, healthcare providers, and health facilities about the potential dangers associated with BioZorb Markers and BioZorb LP Markers manufactured by Hologic Inc.

On October 25, 2024, Hologic announced a voluntary recall of all unused BioZorb Markers following reports of serious adverse events in patients with implanted devices in breast tissue.

This communiqué is intended to inform you about the latest recall notice from the manufacturer and the recommended next steps.

Patient and Caregiver Recommendations

  • Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any adverse effects from the BioZorb Marker.
  • Removal of the device is not necessary unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
  • Discuss possible risks with your provider if you are undergoing radiation therapy. The FDA has not approved BioZorb Marker for radiation treatment.
  • Report any issues regarding your BioZorb Marker to the FDA.

Guidelines for Healthcare Providers and Facilities

  • Do not implant BioZorb Markers.
  • Isolate and return all unused BioZorb Markers to Hologic.
  • Review the recommendations for patients with BioZorb Markers with your patients.
  • Stay informed on reports of serious adverse events related to BioZorb Markers.
  • Monitor patients with implanted BioZorb Markers for any adverse signs.
  • Remember, the FDA has not approved the use of BioZorb Markers for enhancing cosmetic results or for initial marking for radiation treatment.
  • Report any patient complications to the FDA.

Device Overview

BioZorb Markers are implantable devices for use in soft tissue, including breast tissue. They consist of a dissolvable plastic component and a permanent titanium component.

The intended use of BioZorb Markers is for the radiographic marking of soft tissue sites. However, they are not indicated for enhancing cosmetic results, filling tissue space, or serving as a marker during radiation therapy.

Associated Risks with BioZorb Markers

Complications reported with BioZorb Markers include:

  • Pain
  • Infection
  • Rash
  • Device migration
  • Device erosion
  • Seroma
  • Discomfort
  • Other complications related to the presence of the device in the breast

Some patients required additional medical intervention, including device removal.

FDA Oversight

The FDA will continue collaborating with Hologic to monitor ongoing issues related to BioZorb Markers and keep the public updated with any significant developments.

A timeline of the FDA’s earlier communications regarding these devices is as follows:

Date Event
02/27/2024 The FDA issued a safety communication highlighting risks of serious complications associated with BioZorb Marker devices.

Unique Device Identifier (UDI)

The UDI facilitates the identification of medical devices sold in the U.S. from manufacturing to patient use, enabling improved tracking, reporting, and analysis of adverse events for quicker problem resolution.

The UDI for BioZorb and BioZorb LP Markers from Hologic is listed below:

Version or Model Device Brand Name Device Description Device Identifier (DI) Number
F0405 BioZorb Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 4cm x 5cm 15420045514065
F0404 BioZorb Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 4cm x 4cm 15420045514058
F0304 BioZorb Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 3cm x 4cm 15420045514010
F0303 BioZorb Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 3cm x 3cm 15420045514003
F0203 BioZorb Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 2cm x 3cm 15420045513990
F0202 BioZorb Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 2cm x 2cm 15420045513983
F0331 BioZorb LP Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 1cm x 3cm x 3cm 15420045514041
F0231 BioZorb LP Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 1cm x 3cm x 2cm 15420045514034
F0221 BioZorb LP Bioadsorbable Marker BioZorb Marker 1cm x 3cm x 2cm 15420045514027

Device Issue Reporting

If you’re facing issues with your device, the FDA encourages you to report it via the MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form.

Healthcare personnel in regulated facilities should adhere to their own reporting protocols.

Inquiries?

For any questions, reach out to CDRH’s Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE).