The Department of Health has issued an alert over a software problem in two programming devices manufactured by St Jude Medical. The devices are used by doctors for checking the battery level of pacemakers.

The programming devices are APS III Model 3500/3510 programming devices (software versions 6.1.1 and earlier) and Merlin PCS Model 3650 programming devices (software versions 4.1.1 and earlier). They measure the battery level of three pacemaker models manufactured by the same company. They are:

* Identity SR Model 5172;

* Identity DR Model 5370; and,

* Identity XL DR Model 5376.

The problem may lead to incorrect reporting of battery voltage, expected battery lifespan of the pacemakers and early replacement indicator in the devices. For details click here.

The department has alerted the Hospital Authority, private hospitals and medical organisations. No patient injury or death has been reported so far.

Patients can call 2996 7688 from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday for enquiries. They can call 9666 4545 or 9777 0097 outside office hours.

Patients with these implanted pacemakers should attend scheduled regular check-ups arranged with their doctors. If they have any symptoms of heart disease, they should seek medical attention immediately.