Consumers and health professionals are advised that Ausmedic Australia is undertaking a recall for product correction for certain models of Viper and Viper Plus powered wheelchairs.
It has been identified that, in rare cases, the aluminium tubing that supports the rear drive motors of affected wheelchairs can break. An early sign of this problem is tilting or camber of one of the rear wheels.
The risk of injury as a result of this problem is very low. If the aluminium tubing breaks, the chair is unlikely to tip and cause the user to fall. However, a greatly reduced level of function would be experienced.
To address the problem, Ausmedic Australia is providing free upgraded replacement frames for all powered wheelchairs manufactured between July 2006 and July 2007 for the below models:
- VP10010BKUK
- VP10010BLUK
- VPP10010BKUK
- VP10010BKOR
The model number and date of manufacture can be found on the serial number label situated on the frame of the wheelchair.
Information for consumers
Ausmedic Australia has written to all affected Viper and Viper Plus powered wheelchair users for whom it has contact details and has published print media advertisements about this issue.
If you or someone you care for has an affected Viper or Viper Plus powered wheelchair, you may have already been contacted by Ausmedic Australia and received an upgraded replacement frame.
If you have not been contacted or have any questions or concerns about this issue, contact the retailer from which you purchased your wheelchair or phone Ausmedic Australia on 1300 473 422.
This issue is rare and the risk of injury as a result of this problem is very low. If the aluminium tubing breaks, the chair is unlikely to tip and cause the user to fall.
Information for health professionals
Ausmedic Australia has written to all affected Viper and Viper Plus powered wheelchair users for whom it has contact details and has published print media advertisements about this issue.
If you are treating a patient who uses an affected Viper or Viper Plus powered wheelchair, make sure they are aware of this issue.
Reassure patients that this issue is rare and the risk of injury as a result of this problem is very low.
If the aluminium tubing breaks, the chair is unlikely to tip and the user fall.
If they have not been contacted by Ausmedic Australia, advise them to contact the retailer from which they purchased their wheelchair or phone Ausmedic Australia on 1300 473 422.
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.