The Recall Desk
ModerateFDA (Devices)·Z-0393-2014·Announced 2013-12-04

Synthes Material Mix Surgical Instruments Recalled Due to Material Error

Synthes USA is recalling approximately 44 surgical instruments because a material batch was mixed with an incorrect material having lower hardness and corrosion resistance.

What this means for you

Minor labeling or packaging issue, or a voluntary precautionary recall. Risk of harm is low but real — follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Our severity reasoning: The recall is classified as FDA Class II, but the source text does not report any hospitalizations, injuries, or illnesses. The hazard is a material defect (lower hardness/corrosion resistance) without reported adverse events, fitting the criteria for a moderate severity score.

Plain-English summary

Synthes USA HQ, Inc. is recalling approximately 44 units of Synthes Material Mix, which includes the Adjustable Cervical Distractor-Right, Matrix Distractor Rack, T-PAL Spacer Remover, and Implant Inserter. These instruments are used in spinal surgery to distract spine segments, distract interbody disc spaces, remove T-PAL spacers, and insert ProDisc implants.

The recall was initiated because one material batch used for the production of these parts was mixed with an incorrect material. This incorrect material has lower hardness and corrosion resistance than specified in the product requirements.

The affected products were distributed nationwide in the United States, including Illinois, Missouri, Texas, and Washington, as well as internationally to Canada and Switzerland. The specific part and lot numbers affected are: part no. 396.396 (lot nos. T989765 and T989780), part no. 03.632.087 (lot T987270), part no. 03.812.005 (lot nos. T987734, T988931, and T987623), and part no. 03.820.129 (lot no. T988206). Healthcare providers should stop using these specific lots and contact Synthes USA for instructions on return or replacement.

The recalled product

Product
Synthes Material Mix (Adjustable Cervical Distractor-Right, Matrix Distractor Rack, T-PAL Spacer Remover, Implant Inserter) Synthes Material Mix: Adjustable Cervical Distractor-Right is used to distract spine segment. Matrix Distractor Rack is used to distract the interbody di
Affected units
44

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Lot numbers (6)

  • part no. 396.396 (lot nos. T989765 and T989780)
  • part no. 03.632.087 (lotT987270)
  • part no. 03.812.005 (lot nos. T987734
  • T988931
  • and T987623)
  • and part no. 03.820.129 (lot no. T988206).

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

The notice also names 4 states specifically: