Otto Bock A200, Skippi and Skippi Plus power wheelchairs

Consumers and health professionals are advised that Otto Bock Australia, in consultation with the TGA, is issuing a recall for product correction for Otto Bock A200, Skippi and Skippi Plus power wheelchairs sold between 20 June 2011 and 8 March 2013.

It has been identified that there is potential for part of the front wheels, the caster fork, to break if these wheelchairs are repeatedly driven over or against street curbs.

To address this problem, Otto Bock Australia is replacing the caster forks on affected Otto Bock A200, Skippi and Skippi Plus power wheelchairs.

Information for consumers

Otto Bock Australia has written to all affected users, providing further information about this issue, including instructions to contact the dealer who supplied the wheelchair to arrange replacement of the caster forks.

If you think you or someone you care for has an affected wheelchair and you have not been contacted, contact the dealer who supplied your wheelchair. If you have any difficulties contacting the dealer, call Otto Bock Australia on 02 8818 2817.

You can continue using your Otto Bock A200, Skippi or Skippi Plus power wheelchair until the caster forks are replaced. In the meantime, you are reminded to follow the Instructions for Use when negotiating street curbs with Skippi or Skippi Plus power wheelchairs. The A200 model is not intended for outdoor use.

If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact the dealer who supplied your wheelchair or call 02 8818 2817.

Information for health professionals

Otto Bock Australia has written to all affected users, providing further information about this issue.

If you are treating a patient who uses an affected Otto Bock A200, Skippi or Skippi Plus power wheelchair, please make sure they are aware of this issue.

If they have not been contacted by Otto Bock Australia, advise them to contact the dealer who supplied their wheelchair. If they have any difficulties contacting the dealer, they should call Otto Bock Australia on 02 8818 2817.

Reassure affected patients that they can continue using their Otto Bock A200, Skippi or Skippi Plus power wheelchair until the caster forks are replaced.

Reporting problems

Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to report problems with medical devices. Your report will contribute to the TGA's monitoring of these products. For more information see the TGA Incident Reporting and Investigation Scheme (IRIS).

The TGA cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medical device.