Abiomed Recalls Impella RP Heart Pumps Over Sensor Malfunction Risks

Source: FDA · Worldwide

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Abiomed, Inc. is recalling 179 Impella RP devices due to a differential pressure sensor defect that can cause inaccurate data readings.

What this FDA recall tells you, and what most readers miss

This notice was issued by FDA on April 2, 2026 and geographically references Worldwide. Its severity classification of "high" signals how the issuing agency weighs the risk of harm if no action is taken — "critical" and "high" tier alerts typically carry direct consumer actions, while "medium" and "low" tend toward informational guidance or monitoring advisories. The category it belongs to — FDA Recalls — determines the regulatory framework behind it, which shapes what remedies (refunds, replacements, recalls, evacuations) are available to affected individuals and who holds statutory responsibility for enforcement.

Most readers skim a notice like this, check whether they are personally affected, and move on. The more useful lens is to read it as a data point about the issuing system: how quickly FDA detected the hazard, how precise the geographic or product-identifier scope is, and whether similar notices have clustered in the same category or region in the last 90 days. Cluster patterns frequently precede a broader regulatory action — a single localized FDA recall is isolated; three of them within a quarter often indicate a supply-chain, infrastructure, or seasonal driver that will keep producing notices until something structural changes.

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What Happened

Abiomed, Inc. has issued a voluntary recall for its Impella RP devices following reports of a malfunction in the differential pressure (dP) sensor. According to the FDA, the sensor may fail, causing the pressure values to drift and potentially providing inaccurate data during clinical use.

Which Products Are Affected

The recall involves 179 units of the Impella RP device distributed worldwide.

  • Product Name: Impella RP
  • Product Code: 0046-0011
  • UDI-DI: 04260113630273
  • Recall Number: Z-1471-2026
  • Distribution: United States (Nationwide) and international locations including Austria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Poland, Serbia, and Switzerland.

What You Should Do

Abiomed initiated the recall process on January 27, 2026, by sending notification letters to affected customers. Healthcare facilities and providers should review their inventory for the specified product code and follow the guidance provided in the firm's notification letter. For further inquiries, customers should contact Abiomed, Inc. at their Danvers, MA headquarters.

Why This Matters

The FDA has classified this as a Class I recall, which is the most serious category. A malfunctioning sensor in a cardiac device like the Impella RP can lead to incorrect clinical decisions or device failure, posing a significant risk to patient safety.

Source

Information provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Original source: FDA Official Notice ↗

All FDA Recalls →

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this FDA recall.

What is this FDA recall about?
Abiomed, Inc. is recalling 179 Impella RP devices due to a differential pressure sensor defect that can cause inaccurate data readings.
Which agency issued this alert?
This alert was issued by FDA. The original notice is available at the source link at the bottom of this article.
How severe is this alert?
This alert is classified as "high" severity. Take precautions and monitor for updates.
What area is affected?
This alert affects Worldwide. Check with FDA for the most current geographic scope.
Where can I find more FDA Recalls updates?
Browse the full FDA Recalls feed on Areazine at areazine.com/recalls/fda/ for the latest updates from FDA and other agencies.