—#167441

Product

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

FDA product code: LXH — Orthopedic Manual Surgical Instrument
Device class: Class 1
Medical specialty: Orthopedic
Affected lot / code info: All lots

Why it was recalled

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.

Root cause (FDA determination)

Under Investigation by firm

Action the firm took

On September 12, 2018, the firm notified its sales personnel of the recall via a Product Correction letter. The letter identified the affected product, problem and actions to be taken. Applicable Stryker personnel that are involved in the maintenance or preparation of the Tritanium TL Inserter have been identified to receive notification of this correction to assure that the instrument is lubricated adequately.

Recalling firm

Firm: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
Address: 2 Pearl Ct, Allendale, New Jersey 07401-1611

Distribution

Distribution pattern: US Nationwide Distribution.

Timeline

Recall initiated: 2018-09-12
Terminated: 2020-07-16
Status: —

Source: openFDA Device Recall endpoint. Recall record ID #167441. The FDA issues recall classifications as health-hazard assessments, not legal findings; for legal claims consult a licensed attorney.