The Recall Desk
HighFDA (Devices)·Z-0535-2019·Announced 2018-12-12

Zimmer Biomet Recalls Guide Wires Due to Sterility Compromise

Zimmer Biomet is recalling ZMS Intramedullary Fixation Smooth Guide Wires because creases in the sealing area may compromise product sterility.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (sterility compromise in a surgical instrument) where injury has not yet been reported, fitting the 'High' severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Zimmer Biomet, Inc. is recalling the Zimmer ZMS Intramedullary Fixation Smooth Guide Wire - Bullet Tip, 3.0 mm Diameter, 100 cm Length (Item Number 47-2237-038-00). The recall involves 3,358 units of this single-use surgical instrument, which is used during orthopaedic surgery for the implantation of a prosthesis.

The recall was initiated because creases were found in the sealing area on the end opposite of the product's chevron opening. These creases may compromise the sterility of the product. The affected units are all lots expiring prior to September 30, 2023.

The product was distributed worldwide, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Singapore, and Taiwan. Healthcare facilities and consumers should stop using the affected guide wires and contact Zimmer Biomet for further instructions.

The recalled product

Product
Zimmer ZMS¿ Intramedullary Fixation Smooth Guide Wire - Bullet Tip, 3.0 mm Diameter, 100 cm Length Item Number: 47-2237-038-00 Product Usage: A single use surgical instrument used during orthopaedic surgery for implantation of a prosthesis.
Affected units
3,358

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 (2)

  • All lots expiring prior to September 30
  • 2023

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Part of a larger recall action

This product is one of 13 recalled by Zimmer Biomet, Inc. under a single FDA (Devices) recall action. The agency files each product separately, so the size of the action is not visible from this page alone.

See all 13 products in this recall →