Summary
Two UK hospitals used a heart pump despite knowing it had a higher death rate compared to another available option. The pump, made by Medtronic, was eventually withdrawn due to safety concerns after it was found to cause more deaths and complications. Hospitals questioned the data and leading cardiologists had financial ties to the pump's manufacturer.
Key Facts
- Two UK hospitals continued using a Medtronic heart pump despite knowing it had a higher mortality rate.
- NHS raised concerns in 2018 about the pump's safety, showing higher deaths and complications.
- Medtronic withdrew the device in June 2021 for patient safety reasons.
- The device, an LVAD, helps weakened hearts pump blood and is crucial before transplants.
- NHS data showed 45% mortality with the Medtronic pump versus 15% with a competing device.
- The regulator, MHRA, approved the pump's use without knowing about the concerning data.
- Some cardiologists at the hospitals were paid consultants for Medtronic.
- Harefield Hospital stopped using the device in 2021; Freeman Hospital continued until Medtronic's withdrawal.
