Some points of note:- VCR have successfully prevented the same...

Some points of note:

- VCR have successfully prevented the same issue with their LVA4 upgrade last year with a replaceable percutaneous lead (the same part wearing out in Thoratec's device). Thoratec's lead is not replaceable and requires a new pump to be implanted. And if it can't be replaced the patient dies. Already 5 of their patients are dead due to this problem. (or 'expired' as per report)

- this problem has occurred over a 5 year period in Thoratec's device. You would think this type of issue would be fixed almost immediately. Why wait til now after 5 patients have already died? Is there a systemic problem in Thoratec's quality control?