The Recall Desk
ModerateFDA (Devices)·Z-2505-2020·Announced 2020-07-15

Medtronic Recalls CareLink SmartSync Device Manager Due to Feature Suspension

Medtronic is recalling 2,773 CareLink SmartSync Device Manager units worldwide because a rare communication error may temporarily suspend certain device features.

What this means for you

Minor labeling or packaging issue, or a voluntary precautionary recall. Risk of harm is low but real — follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Our severity reasoning: The recall is classified as FDA Class II, but the source explicitly states the issue is unlikely to result in clinical impact and features are restored, fitting the criteria for a moderate, precautionary recall without reported injury.

Plain-English summary

Medtronic Inc. is recalling 2,773 units of the CareLink SmartSync Device Manager, Model Number 24970A. The devices were distributed worldwide. The recall is due to a rare communication sequence that can occur during the first device interrogation.

This rare interaction may result in the temporary suspension of specific device features, including battery measurements, Capture Management, Atrial Lead Position Check, EffectivCRT algorithms, and AdaptivCRT. It also temporarily suspends automatic threshold testing, output adjustments, and auto-optimization of CRT therapy. The source states that this issue is unlikely to result in clinical impact to the patient.

The suspended features are restored upon the next programmer device interrogation or the presence of a magnet. Consumers and healthcare providers should check their device serial numbers against the list provided in the official recall notice to determine if their unit is affected.

The recalled product

Product
CareLink SmartSync Device Manager, Model Number 24970A
Affected units
2,773

Distribution

Distribution scope not specified by the agency.

Part of a larger recall action

This product is one of 9 recalled by Medtronic Inc., Cardiac Rhythm and Heart Failure (CRHF) under a single FDA (Devices) recall action. The agency files each product separately, so the size of the action is not visible from this page alone.

See all 9 products in this recall →