The goals of the Penn Medicine Blueprint for Quality and Safety are to improve the health of our patients and to assure safe care. As part of this commitment, we feel that it is important to share information with our patients about a device-related issue that is impacting many hospitals throughout the United States and Europe. Please see resources and publications below for further information.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have notified hospitals about a risk of infection that has been linked to certain heater-cooler devices that are used with cardiopulmonary bypass machines during cardiac surgeries. The bacteria linked to these heater cooler devices is known as Nontuberculous Mycobacterium (NTM). These bacteria grow slowly and are commonly found in water and soil.
These infections are very rare. The CDC estimates that the risk is less than 1%. However, we feel that it is important to notify individuals who may be at risk for developing one of these infections. We want to explain what occurred and assure you that we are committed to answering any questions you may have and to addressing your concerns. This web page is intended to provide information regarding this issue.
If you received a letter from Penn Presbyterian Medical Center about a possible exposure to NTM, please call 800-890-6963. We will answer your questions and, if needed, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. You will not be charged for the appointment.
For Patients
For Providers
Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Publications