Tritanium TL Steerable Inserter, Cat. No. 48930000, UDI 07613327381900 Product Usage: The TL ...

FDA Device Recall #Z-0207-2019 — Class II — September 12, 2018

Recall Summary

Recall Number Z-0207-2019
Classification Class II — Moderate risk
Date Initiated September 12, 2018
Status Terminated
Voluntary Voluntary: Firm initiated

Recalling Firm

Firm Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
Location Allendale, NJ
Product Type Devices
Quantity 58

Product Description

Tritanium TL Steerable Inserter, Cat. No. 48930000, UDI 07613327381900 Product Usage: The TL Steerable Inserter is a Class 1 instrument which is provided in a non-sterile condition. The inserter is designed to enter the disc space, with a fixed engagement between the inserter and the cage and then rotate for desired placement. The three components of the TL Steerable Inserter System include: 1. TL Steerable Inserter 2. TL Steerable Inserter Inner Shaft 3. TL Steerable Inserter Driver

Reason for Recall

The firm received complaints related to the locking mechanism on the steerable inserter not functioning as intended. The firm confirmed that the issue is related to lack of lubrication of the instrument. There are two potential hazards associated with the implant pivoting unexpectedly during implant insertion into the disc space. First, if the implant is initially inserted into the disc space via the impaction method and the implant pivots unexpectedly, the implant potentially may unintentionally contact sensitive anatomy. Additionally, the user may potentially experience difficulty positioning the implant within the disc space due to the lack of rigidity. A third potential hazard is associated with the inserter not unlocking at the articulating pivot head during implant positioning within the disc space. Once the implant is in the prepared disc space and contacts the ventral annulus, the surgeon unlocks the articulating pivot head and positions the implant perpendicular to the spinous process. The surgeon may then elect to lock/unlock the articulating pivot head for desired final positioning of the implant. If the inserter does not unlock during these final implant positioning steps, the user may potentially implant the cage in a suboptimal trajectory/placement.

Distribution Pattern

US Nationwide Distribution.

Lot / Code Information

All lots

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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.