AtriCure GPM100 Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide System Instruction Manual
- June 11, 2024
- AtriCure
Table of Contents
- AtriCure GPM100 Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide System
- Product Information
- Product Usage Instructions
- INDICATION FOR USE
- SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
- PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
- PACKAGE CONTENTS
- CLAMP FEATURES GUIDE FEATURES
- POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS
- DEVICE USE INSTRUCTIONS
- EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS ON PACKAGE LABELING
- DISCLAIMER STATEMENTS
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
AtriCure GPM100 Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide System
Product Information
Product Name: AtriCure Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide System
Intended Use: The system is intended to ablate cardiac tissue during surgery.
Contraindications: The system is not indicated for contraceptive coagulation of the fallopian tubes.
System Components
- Single-use EnCompass clamp (referred to hereafter as CLAMP)
- Single-use accessory GlidepathTM Magnetic guide (referred to hereafter as GUIDE)
- AtriCure Ablation and Sensing Unit (ASU) connected to an AtriCure Switch Box (ASB) (referred to hereafter as ASU/ASB)
Product Description
- The CLAMP is a single-use electrosurgical instrument offered in two configurations: standard-length jaws (OSH), and long-length jaws (OLH).
- All Isolator devices are configured as vascular clamps and feature clamping jaws of various lengths and curvatures.
- The GUIDE is a single-use surgical accessory designed to facilitate the guidance of surgical instruments through tissue during cardiothoracic surgical procedures.
Package Contents
- One (1) CLAMP (OSH or OLH)
- One (1) GUIDE (GPM100)
Product Usage Instructions
Warning: Read all instructions carefully prior to using the device. Failure to properly follow instructions may lead to injury and/or improper device function. The use of the CLAMP and/or GUIDE should be limited to properly trained and qualified medical personnel. The use of the CLAMP and/or GUIDE from non-trained or unqualified medical personnel could potentially result in death or serious injury. Due to the length of the jaws, the CLAMP should only be used with open surgical access where the CLAMP and adjacent structures.
Step 1: Open the sterile package containing the CLAMP and GUIDE.
Step 2: Verify that the package is unopened and undamaged.
Step 3: Connect the CLAMP to the ASU/ASB.
Step 4: Attach the GUIDE to the metal tip of the CLAMP jaws inside of the jaw magnet cups.
Step 5: Use the foot switch to activate the ASU and deliver radiofrequency (RF) energy to the linear electrodes on the insulated jaws of the EnCompass clamp.
Step 6: Control the application of RF energy by pressing the foot switch.
Step 7: After use, dispose of the CLAMP and GUIDE as they are single-use instruments and should not be re-sterilized or reused.
Note: Please refer to the AtriCure ASU and ASB Instructions for Use for information specific to the ASU and ASB.
INDICATION FOR USE
The AtriCure Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide System is intended to ablate cardiac tissue during surgery.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
The AtriCure Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide System is not
indicated for contraceptive coagulation of the fallopian tubes.
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
The AtriCure Isolator Synergy EnCompass Clamp and Guide system is comprised of the following components:
- Single-use EnCompass clamp (referred to hereafter as CLAMP) and a single-use accessory Glidepath™ Magnetic guide (referred to hereafter as GUIDE).
- AtriCure Ablation and Sensing Unit (ASU) connected to an AtriCure Switch Box (ASB) (referred to hereafter as ASU/ASB).
The CLAMP is designed for use only with the ASU/ASB. When activated, the ASU delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to the linear electrodes on the insulated jaws of the EnCompass clamp. The Operator controls the application of this RF energy by pressing the foot switch.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
- The CLAMP is a single-use electrosurgical instrument offered in two configurations: standard-length jaws (OSH), and long-length jaws (OLH). All Isolator devices are configured as vascular clamps and feature clamping jaws of various lengths and curvatures. The AtriCure Isolator clamps feature an in-line handle with syringe-type actuation and button release mechanisms.
- The GUIDE is a single-use surgical accessory designed to facilitate the guidance of surgical instruments through tissue during cardiothoracic surgical procedures. The GUIDE has magnetic attachment ends that connect to the metal tip of the CLAMP jaws inside of the jaw magnet cups.
- Note: Please refer to the AtriCure ASU and ASB Instructions for Use for information specific to the ASU and ASB.
PACKAGE CONTENTS
- One (1) CLAMP (OSH or OLH)
- One (1) GUIDE (GPM100)
The CLAMP and GUIDE are supplied STERILE and NON-PYROGENIC in the unopened, undamaged package.
WARNING
Do not re-sterilize or reuse the CLAMP and GUIDE as this could damage the
device or result in infection.
NOMENCLATURE
This instruction refers to features of the CLAMP (Figure 1) and GUIDE (Figure
2) as follows:
CLAMP FEATURES GUIDE FEATURES
- Moving Jaw
- Fixed Jaw
- Jaw Magnet Cups
- Electrodes
- Jaw Cover
- Indicator Line
- Handle
- Closure Lever
- Release Button
- Connector
- Connector Alignment Arrow
- Red Elastic
- Magnetic ends
FIGURE 1 – CLAMP (OLH) WITH FEATURE CALLOUTS. OSH END EFFECTOR IS ALSO SHOWN.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS
FOR DEVICE
Possible complications related to the creation of linear lesions in cardiac
tissue using a clamp-type device may be included but not limited to:
- Tissue Cutting
- Perioperative heart rhythm disturbance (atrial and/or ventricular)
- Postoperative embolic complications
- Pericardial effusion or tamponade
- Damage to adjacent nerve and/or blood vessels
- Valve leaflet damage
- Conduction disturbances (SA/AV node)
- Acute ischemic myocardial event
- Injury to unintended surrounding tissue structures, including tears and punctures
- Bleeding requiring intervention to repair
- Extension of cardiopulmonary bypass
FOR PROCEDURE
Serious adverse events that may be associated with surgical ablation
procedures on the heart (stand-alone or concomitant to other cardiac surgery),
include:
- Death,
- Excessive bleeding related to the procedure (defined as bleeding which requires >3 units of blood products and/or surgical intervention),
- Cardiac tamponade (if either open or catheter drainage is required),
- Pulmonary vein stenosis,
- Restrictive (constrictive) pericarditis,
- Endocarditis,
- Myocardial infarction (MI) per ACC guidelines,
- Stroke (resulting in permanent neurological deficit),
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA),
- Thromboembolism,
- Diaphragmatic paralysis,
- Esophageal-LA fistula or esophageal rupture,
- Atrial perforation or rupture,
- Ventricular perforation or rupture,
- Atelectasis,
- Pneumonia,
- Congestive Heart Failure,
- Cardiac Valve Injury,
- Persistent Pneumothorax (requiring intervention),
- Excessive Pain and Discomfort,
- Deep Sternal Wound Infection,
- Ventricular Arrhythmia (V. Tachycardia or V. Fibrillation)
- New Sinus Node Dysfunction, and
- Drug Reaction
WARNING
- Read all instructions carefully prior to using the device. Failure to properly follow instructions may lead to injury and/or improper device function.
- The use of the CLAMP and/or GUIDE should be limited to properly trained and qualified medical personnel. The use of the CLAMP and/or GUIDE from non-trained or unqualified medical personnel could potentially result in death or serious injury.
- Due to the length of the jaws, the CLAMP should only be used with open surgical access where the CLAMP and adjacent structures can be easily visualized, to prevent collateral injury. Refer to the Potential Complications list.
- Use of the CLAMP and GUIDE on patients who have undergone previous cardiac surgeries may increase the risk of damage during dissection and routing due to the presence of adhesions in the tissue plans.
DEVICE USE INSTRUCTIONS
SETTING UP THE SYSTEM
CAUTION: The CLAMP is only compatible with the ASU/ASB. Do not use the CLAMP with any other system, to prevent injury and/or equipment damage.
CAUTION: Monitoring systems that incorporate high-frequency RF filtering devices are recommended for use with the ASU/ASB and CLAMP.
- Install and power on the ASU/ASB and required accessories. The instructions for installing and operating the ASU, as well as a technical description of the system, are detailed in the ASU User’s Manual. Ensure the switch on the ASB is set to the black ISOLATOR DUAL receptacle on the front of the ASB (Figure 3).
FIGURE 3 – ASB WITH SWITCH SET TO ISOLATOR DUAL RECEPTACLE. CONNECTOR ALIGNMENT ARROW IN 12 O’CLOCK POSITION.
WARNING
Inspect the product packaging prior to opening to ensure the sterility barrier
is not breached. If the sterility barrier is breached, do not use the CLAMP or
GUIDE to avoid the risk of patient infection.
CAUTION: Do not drop the CLAMP as this may damage the device. If the CLAMP is dropped, do not use. Replace with a new CLAMP.
- Inspect the product packaging prior to opening to ensure the sterility barrier is not breached. Ensure the sterile expiration date has not been exceeded. Remove the CLAMP and GUIDE from the package per standard sterile technique. Do not use if CLAMP or GUIDE is dropped.
CAUTION: Do not connect the CLAMP to the ASB if the Connector pins are bent.
- Inspect the Cable and Connector pins and do not use the CLAMP if the Cable is frayed or if the insulation is damaged or if the Connector pins are bent. With the Connecter Alignment Arrow symbol in the 12 o’clock position, push the Connector into the black ISOLATOR DUAL receptacle on the front of the ASB (Figure 3). Avoid twisting the Connector during insertion into the ISOLATOR DUAL receptacle, which could cause bent pins in the Connector.
- If the CLAMP is to be used with the supplied GUIDE, go to the section “Routing the GUIDE”. If the CLAMP is not to be used with the GUIDE, go to the section “Positioning the CLAMP”.
ROUTING THE GUIDE
The GUIDE may be used with commercially available general dissection or surgical clamping tools (auxiliary tools) to create and maintain a dissection plane that facilitates the placement of the CLAMP around tissue structures per standard surgical technique. The magnetic GUIDE ends will attract to ferrous metal instruments and devices.
WARNING
Dissection of epicardial fat where the CLAMP may interact with the Epicardium
during placement may increase the potential for tissue damage.
- Ensure adequate dissection is performed to facilitate GUIDE and CLAMP routing and placement. Avoid dissection of epicardial fatty areas prior to placement of the CLAMP. Epicardial fat may be dissected after placement to support lesion creation.
WARNING
Do not use the CLAMP if there is any sign of damage as it may adversely affect
ablation performance.
- Inspect the GUIDE for any cracks or defects prior to routing. Do not use and replace with another GUIDE if any cracks or defects are present.
WARNING
If using auxiliary tools to retrieve the GUIDE, use caution to avoid tissue
perforation.
- Introduce the Ends of the GUIDE into the desired dissection planes. Use blunt auxiliary tools or fingers to route and retrieve the GUIDE Ends with visualization.
- If desired, connect the magnetic GUIDE Ends together and rotate the connected GUIDE Ends around tissue structures to provide alternative access for the CLAMP (Figure 4).
FIGURE 4 – MAGNETIC GUIDE ENDS CONNECTED TOGETHER
- Verify the intended position of the GUIDE around tissue structures by feel and/or visualization.
CONNECTING THE GUIDE TO THE CLAMP
- The GUIDE Ends are non-specific and can connect to either CLAMP jaw.
- Inspect the CLAMP prior to routing. Do not use if any defects are present.
- Connect the GUIDE to the CLAMP by inserting each GUIDE End into the Magnet cup on each CLAMP Jaw. The GUIDE End will attract to the metal tip of each
- CLAMP Jaw. Ensure the GUIDE is magnetically attached to the CLAMP prior to routing. Ensure the Red Elastic portion of the GUIDE is not crossed by feel and/or visualization (Figure 5).
FIGURE 5 – GUIDE ATTACHED TO CLAMP
- Grab the Red Elastic portion of the GUIDE that is routed around the desired tissue structures.
POSITIONING THE CLAMP
WARNING
Use of the CLAMP and GUIDE while off cardiopulmonary bypass could cause an
increased risk of tissue perforation and/or circulatory interruption.
- If cardiopulmonary bypass is to be initiated, it is recommended to do so before positioning the CLAMP.
WARNING
Failure to pull the TEE probe back away from the CLAMP site prior to routing
may cause damage to surrounding structures.
- Pull the TEE probe back away from the CLAMP site prior to routing CLAMP or GUIDE
WARNING
When placing the CLAMP, caution should be taken to pull the CLAMP into
position with the GUIDE when possible. Pushing the CLAMP into position may
cause damage to surrounding structures.
- Place clamp within the sternotomy. If additional space is needed, partially close the jaws and/or loosen pericardial stay sutures. Position the CLAMP while keeping the Jaw Cover away from cannulas, catheters, sutures, and non-target tissue structures.
- Ensure CLAMP tips are aligned with the target tissue plane.
- Once CLAMP tips are properly aligned to access target tissue, pull the GUIDE while allowing the CLAMP Jaws to passively follow into position. If resistance to passing the CLAMP is encountered, do not push the CLAMP; inspect to ensure tips are aligned to tissue planes and consider additional dissection and/or passing from an alternate approach.
- Ensure that both sides of the GUIDE remain in tension throughout CLAMP positioning and monitor for GUIDE kinking/bending near the GUIDE ends. If kinking/bending is noticed, pull the GUIDE taut prior to continuing to route the CLAMP and GUIDE.
WARNING
Unnecessary removal of the GUIDE while the CLAMP is in position may cause
damage to the surrounding structures. There is no need to remove the GUIDE at
this step as the GUIDE does not interfere with clamping or ablation.
- Once the CLAMP is in position, keep the GUIDE attached.
CAUTION: Do not insert excessive tissue into the Jaw Cover as it may result in poor ablation at the Jaw Cover.
CAUTION: Do not ablate tissue greater than 15 mm thick with the CLAMP. Tissues greater than 15 mm thick may not be fully ablated.
Center the target tissue along the middle of the Fixed and Moving CLAMP Jaws.
WARNING
Any tissue within the RF energy field may experience heating and/or tissue
damage. Ensure non-target tissue is adequate.
EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS ON PACKAGE LABELING
REFER TO THE OUTER PACKAGE LABEL TO SEE WHICH SYMBOLS APPLY TO THIS PRODUCT.
- separated from the RF field. Ensure non-target tissue is protected from the RF field by carefully placing and orienting the Electrodes. Refer to the Potential Complications List.
- Do not ablate with the Closure Lever unlatched. Ablating with the Closure Lever unlatched could result in tissue perforation.
- Squeeze the Closure Lever until it latches to close the CLAMP Jaws. Ensure only target tissue is clamped within the Jaws by feel and visualization. Ensure that no target tissue extends beyond the Indicator Line on either the Fixed or Moving Jaw or into the Jaw Cover.
ABLATION OF TARGET TISSUE
WARNING
Electrosurgery should be used with caution in the presence of internal or
external pacemakers and/or internal cardiac defibrillators (ICD). Interference
produced with the use of electrosurgical devices can cause devices such as a
pacemaker and/or ICD to enter an asynchronous mode, block pacemaker
conduction, or deliver inappropriate shock therapy. Consult the pacemaker
manufacturer or hospital Cardiology department for further information when
use of electrosurgical appliances is planned in patients with cardiac
pacemakers and/or ICD.
- The ASU measures tissue impedance throughout the ablation cycle and uses this information to control the application of energy to the tissue. The ASU determines the minimum energy delivery required to create a transmural (full thickness) lesion based on tissue impedance and delivers only that amount of energy to the tissue. The time necessary to create a transmural lesion depends on tissue thickness, composition, and the length of tissue captured between the electrodes.
- See ASU Instructions for Use for a complete list of Error Codes. Recoverable E errors will remain on the display until the footswitch is pressed again.
CAUTION: Do not ablate in a pool of blood or other fluids as this may extend the ablation time. Users should suction excess fluids away from the Jaws prior to ablation. Immersion of any part of the CLAMP in fluids may also damage the device. Ensure the CLAMP Jaws are not submerged in fluid. Remove any fluid from the field prior to ablation.
CAUTION: : Do not touch the Electrodes of the CLAMP while activating the ASU Touching the CLAMP Electrodes during ASU activation could result in burn to the operator.
CAUTION: Do not touch the Electrodes of the CLAMP to metal staples or clips, or to sutures while activating the ASU.
CAUTION: When the ASU is activated in conjunction with the CLAMP, the conducted and radiated electrical fields may interfere with other electrical medical equipment. Refer to the ASU IFU for more information regarding potential electromagnetic or other interference, and advice regarding avoidance of such interference.
CAUTION: When the ASU and Handpiece are used on a patient simultaneously with physiological monitoring equipment, ensure that the monitoring electrodes are placed as far as possible from the surgical electrodes. Be sure to position the Handpiece cables so that they do not come in contact with the patient or the other leads.
CAUTION: Do not use this device in the presence of flammable anesthetics; other flammable gases; near flammable fluids such as skin-prepping agents and tinctures; flammable objects; or with oxidizing agents. Observe appropriate fire precautions at all times.
- Activate the ASU/ASB by depressing the foot switch. When the ASU is activated, the ASU will emit an audible tone indicating that energy is being delivered between the Jaws of the CLAMP. When the continuous tone switches to intermittent and the transmural light is flashing on the ASU, release the foot switch. Some ablations may take multiple activations with the foot switch to reach the intermittent tone and flashing transmurality light.
- Open the Jaws prior to removing the CLAMP. To open the Jaws, press the Release Button and slowly release the Closure Lever. Do not allow the Jaws to spring back. Be aware of any surrounding tissues that could be damaged as the Jaws open. If the Jaws do not open after pressing the Release Button, pull on the closure lever.
- Inspect the surgical area to ensure adequate ablation.
WARNING
Do not use abrasive cleaners or electrosurgical tip cleaners to clean debris
from the Jaws. The use of abrasive cleaners or electrosurgical tip cleaners
can damage the electrodes and result in device failure. Use saline-soaked
gauze to clean debris off the electrodes.
- For optimal performance, keep the CLAMP electrodes clear of coagulum by wiping them with a saline-soaked gauze after ablation.
- Repeat the ablation process as necessary.
REMOVING AND DISPOSING OF THE CLAMP AND GUIDE
- After removing the CLAMP from the tissue structures, disconnect the GUIDE by gripping the GUIDE close to the CLAMP connection and pulling straight out of the CLAMP jaw Magnet Cups.
- CAUTION: Do not attempt to use a CLAMP that has reached its time limit expiration. The CLAMP has an 8-hour useful life that is tracked by the ASU. The CLAMP will no longer function after 8 hours of use and the ASU will display a message indicating that the CLAMP must be replaced.
- After use this CLAMP should be treated as medical waste and disposed of following hospital protocol.
- Ensure the GUIDE is removed from the surgical field prior to the completion of the surgical procedure. After use this GUIDE should be treated as medical waste and disposed of following hospital protocol.
RETURN OF USED PRODUCT
If for any reason this product must be returned to AtriCure, Inc., a return goods authorization (RGA) number is required from AtriCure, Inc., prior to shipping. If the product has been in contact with blood or body fluids, it must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before packing. It should be shipped in either the original carton or an equivalent carton, to prevent damage during shipment; and it should be properly labeled with an RGA number and an indication of the biohazardous nature of the contents of the shipment. Instructions for cleaning and materials, including appropriate shipping containers, proper labeling, and an RGA number may be obtained from AtriCure, Inc.
DISCLAIMER STATEMENTS
- Users assume responsibility for approving the acceptable condition of this product before it is used, and for ensuring that the product is only used in the manner described in these instructions for use, including, but not limited to, ensuring that the product is not re-used.
- Under no circumstances will AtriCure, Inc. be responsible for any incidental, special or consequential loss, damage, or expense, which is the result of the deliberate misuse or re-use of this product, including any loss, damage, or expense which is related to personal injury or damage to property.
AtriCure Inc.
- 7555 Innovation Way
- Mason, Ohio 45040 USA
- +1 866 349 2342
- +1 513 755 4100