Consumer Alert: Guidant Ventak Prizm 2 Defibrillator

According to news reports, the Guidant Ventak Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator may have a flaw that could cause it to short-circuit and malfunction and cause injury or death. Approximately 24,000 of these devices have been implanted in persons worldwide. The device is manufactured by Guidant Corporation, which is headquartered in St. Paul Minnesota.

The Guidant Ventak Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) is an implanted device that detects abnormal heart rhythms (ventricular arrhythmias) and shocks the heart back to a normal rate. The device consists of a pulse generator (a battery and electronic circuitry) connected to one or two insulated wires (leads). The pulse generator is usually implanted under the collarbone, just beneath the skin. The main lead is inserted into the lower right heart chamber (the right ventricle). A second lead may be placed in the upper right heart chamber (the right atrium).

If you or your loved one is implanted with the Guidant Ventak Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator that has experienced a short circuit, and you wish to consult with us, please call Tara Sutton at 612-349-8577 (or call 1-800-553-9910).  You can also send an e-mail by clicking on this link: contact us.