# Major Recall Alert: Merlin Patient Care System - Programmer, Merlin PCS 3330 Software Upgrade Kit Recalled Due to Critical Software Update
Abbott, a global leader in healthcare technology, has issued an urgent recall regarding its **Merlin™ PCS 3650 programmer software update**. The update addresses a serious potential issue that arises during the Pacing Capture Threshold (PCT) test of the **AVEIR™ Leadless Pacemaker (LP)**. According to Abbott, intermittent loss of telemetry during a PCT test may result in the programmer’s failure to terminate the test, potentially leaving the pacemaker in a state of sub-threshold pacing. This issue has been identified during implant or clinic follow-ups, with **four global complaints** confirming the problem.
Patients, clinicians, and healthcare facilities should act promptly to address this recall and ensure the safety of pacemaker users. Here's everything you need to know.
---
## Why This Recall is Important
This recall impacts the **Merlin Patient Care System - Programmer, Merlin PCS 3330 Software Upgrade Kit**, a critical tool used in the operation and management of the AVEIR™ Leadless Pacemaker. Leadless pacemakers are highly advanced devices designed to manage irregular heart rhythms without traditional leads. Such devices require precise communication with external systems to ensure patient safety and device functionality.
The issue occurs during the PCT test phase, which is a routine part of pacemaker implantation or clinical evaluation. If telemetry communication is interrupted during this phase, the programmer may fail to transmit commands to stop the PCT test. Consequently, this could leave the pacemaker in sub-threshold pacing, posing risks to patients.
Though rare, with only **four known complaints globally**, the potential implications are critical, and Abbott emphasizes the importance of addressing this via the latest software update.
---
### Details of the Recall
Here are the key points about this recall:
- **Product Name**: Merlin Patient Care System - Programmer
- **Software Involved**: Merlin PCS 3330 Software Upgrade Kit (impacting Merlin™ PCS 3650 programmer)
- **Issue**: Telemetry loss during PCT test could leave pacemaker in sub-threshold pacing.
- **When Issue Occurs**: During pacemaker implantation or follow-up in a clinical setting.
- **Global Complaints Received**: Four (4) complaints globally confirmed by Abbott.
- **Reason for Action**: Issuing a mandatory software update to address the telemetry interruption issue.
For precise information, visit the official recall notice provided [here](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/merlintm-3650-patient-care-system-pcs).
---
### What You Should Do
If you or your clinic uses the **Merlin Patient Care System with the AVEIR™ Leadless Pacemaker**, take these steps immediately:
- Ensure your programmer software is updated to the latest version provided by Abbott.
- Contact Abbott’s customer support team for assistance in upgrading the **Merlin PCS 3650 programmer software**.
- Pause PCT tests until the software update has been implemented to avoid errors during testing.
- If in doubt, consult your healthcare provider or Abbott representative for guidance.
The software update is designed to resolve the telemetry issue in full, restoring safe and reliable pacemaker communication.
---
### Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Product recalls are issued to prioritize public safety, and staying informed is essential. Don’t let critical updates like this go unnoticed. Download our app today to receive **real-time recall alerts** for medical devices, consumer goods, and more. With our app, you’ll ensure you never miss recall news that could affect your life or your community.
**[Download the App Now]** for free and take control of your safety.
---
For full details about this recall, visit the official source at: [https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/merlintm-3650-patient-care-system-pcs](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/merlintm-3650-patient-care-system-pcs)
Stay informed. Stay safe.