FLEX. GRASP. FORCEPS 5FR WL 550MM, Product Number 8735.685
FDA Device Recall #Z-1424-2023 — Class II — March 24, 2023
Recall Summary
| Recall Number | Z-1424-2023 |
| Classification | Class II — Moderate risk |
| Date Initiated | March 24, 2023 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Voluntary | Voluntary: Firm initiated |
Recalling Firm
| Firm | Richard Wolf GmbH |
| Location | Knittlingen, N/A |
| Product Type | Devices |
| Quantity | 319 units |
Product Description
FLEX. GRASP. FORCEPS 5FR WL 550MM, Product Number 8735.685
Reason for Recall
Potentially unable to open forceps jaws when the endoscope shaft is bent by about 90 degrees. If, in addition, the proximal forceps shaft is bent, the forceps can no longer be opened or restrictions begin even with a slight bending of the endoscope.
Distribution Pattern
Worldwide distribution - US Nationwide and the countries of United Arab Emirates (AE), Argentina (AR), Austria (AT), Belgium (BE), BO, Brazil (BR), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Czech Republic (CZ), Germany (DE), Denmark (DK), Ecuador (EC), Spain (ES), Finland (FI), France (FR), Greece (GR), Hong Kong (HK), Croatia (HR), Ireland (IE), India (IN), Italy (IT), Jordan (JO), Japan (JP), South Korea (KR), Kuwait (KW), Kazakhstan (KZ), LB, Lithuania (LT), Marzocco (MA), Mexico (MX), Netherlands (NL), Norway (NO), New Zealand (NZ), Oman (OM), Pakistan (PK), Poland (PL), Palestine (PS), Portugal (PT), Qatar (QA), Romania (RO), Serbia (RS), Russian Federation (RU), Saudi Arabia (SA), Slovenia (SI), Slovakia (SK), Thailand (TH), Turkey (TR).
Lot / Code Information
UDI/DI: 04055207020265; Lot Numbers: 4500377618, 4500377296, 4500374239, 4500371819, 4500367415, 4500363102, 4500367414, 4500363666, 4500363102, 4500359744, 4500357831, 4500354319, 4500352415, 4500349678, 4500344619, 4500347121, 4500349678, 4500348605, 4500344619, 4500347121, 4500344619, 4500341300, 4500338554, 4500337773, 4500335110
Other Recalls from Richard Wolf GmbH
| Recall # | Classification | Product | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z-1753-2025 | Class II | PiezoWave 2 Control Unit, Product Number 100506... | Apr 9, 2025 |
| Z-1423-2023 | Class II | FLEX. BIOPSY FORCEPS 5FR WL 550MM, Product Numb... | Mar 24, 2023 |
| Z-1422-2023 | Class II | FLEX. GRASP. FORCEPS 5FR WL 550MM, Product Numb... | Mar 24, 2023 |
| Z-1425-2023 | Class II | FLEX. GRASP. FORCEPS 6.6FR WL 550MM, Product Nu... | Mar 24, 2023 |
| Z-2246-2021 | Class II | CUTTING ELECTRODE BIPO 24.5FR, REF 4653.1323 | Jun 25, 2021 |
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.