Coated VICRYL (Polyglactin 910) Suture, 18" (45cm) Product Code J497H. The device is a synthetic ...

FDA Device Recall #Z-0989-2020 — Class II — January 3, 2020

Recall Summary

Recall Number Z-0989-2020
Classification Class II — Moderate risk
Date Initiated January 3, 2020
Status Terminated
Voluntary Voluntary: Firm initiated

Recalling Firm

Firm Ethicon, Inc.
Location Somerville, NJ
Product Type Devices
Quantity 23688 units

Product Description

Coated VICRYL (Polyglactin 910) Suture, 18" (45cm) Product Code J497H. The device is a synthetic absorbable sterile surgical suture.

Reason for Recall

Some sutures in the lot may exhibit a small section of braid fraying, which can lead to reduced tensile strength at that point.

Distribution Pattern

Domestic distribution nationwide. US and Puerto Rico only.

Lot / Code Information

lot PGZ908

Other Recalls from Ethicon, Inc.

Recall # Classification Product Date
Z-0487-2025 Class II MONOCRYL" (poliglecaprone 25) Suture REF Y936H ... Oct 8, 2024
Z-0319-2025 Class II Coated VICRYL Polyglactin 910 Suture VIO 36IN(9... Sep 25, 2024
Z-2148-2024 Class II MONOCRYL (poliglecaprone 25) Suture - Intended ... May 10, 2024
Z-2144-2024 Class II VICRYL (polyglactin 910) Suture - Indicated for... May 10, 2024
Z-2147-2024 Class II PDS Plus Antibacterial (polydioxanone) Suture -... May 10, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact your healthcare provider and the device manufacturer immediately. Check whether your specific model number and lot number are included in the recall scope. For external devices, stop using the affected product and arrange a replacement. For implanted devices, do not panic — removal is typically not required unless the risk assessment clearly indicates it. Your physician will guide you based on your individual clinical situation and the FDA's recommended actions. Report any adverse effects you may have experienced to FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Class I recalls indicate a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death from the defect. Class II recalls involve products that may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where serious consequences are remote. Class III recalls cover products not likely to cause any adverse health consequences, typically involving technical regulatory violations. The classification guides urgency — Class I recalls require immediate action, while Class III may simply involve returning a product or acknowledging a labeling change. Always read the specific recall notice for recommended patient actions.

Report problems with medical devices to the FDA through MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or online at FDA.gov/safety/medwatch. Healthcare facilities are required by law to report device-related serious injuries and deaths. Patients and consumers can also report voluntarily. Include the device name, manufacturer, model number, and a description of the problem and any patient outcome. Reports from patients and clinicians help the FDA identify emerging safety signals and may trigger investigations that lead to recalls of dangerous devices.

What Should You Do?

Stop using this device if you are affected by this recall. Contact your healthcare provider and the manufacturer immediately for guidance. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.