The Recall Desk
HighFDA (Devices)·Z-0594-2013·Announced 2013-01-02

Zimmer Spine Ardis Inserter Recalled for Potential Spacer Fragmentation

Zimmer, Inc. is recalling the Spine Ardis Inserter because excessive force can break the PEEK spacer, causing sharp fragments that may damage adjacent structures.

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 where injury (damage to adjacent structures) is a potential consequence, but no specific injuries or illnesses are reported in the source text, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products without reported injury.

Plain-English summary

Zimmer, Inc. is recalling the Zimmer Spine Ardis Inserter, a prescription, non-sterile medical device. The recall involves 315 units, with 172 distributed in the United States and the remainder distributed worldwide in Australia, El Salvador, France, and Singapore.

The recall was initiated after Zimmer Spine received reports that the PEEK Ardis Interbody Spacer can break into fragments if too much lateral force is applied to the Ardis Inserter. If the spacer breaks during implantation, it can cause surgical delays of up to 60 minutes. Additionally, the sharp edges of the broken implant may contact and damage adjacent structures, potentially requiring further surgical intervention.

Healthcare providers and patients should contact Zimmer, Inc. for instructions on how to handle the recalled devices. The source text does not specify a specific action for consumers, but the device is a prescription item used in surgical settings.

The recalled product

Product
Zimmer Spine Ardis Inserter, Rx, non-sterile
Manufacturer
Zimmer, Inc.

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 (20)

  • Ardis Inserter
  • Part number: 3256-01
  • Lot: 52ZW
  • 50CL
  • 53BB
  • 55AB
  • 58GS
  • 58GT
  • 60JY
  • 60JZ
  • 62KP
  • 63HJ
  • 64EY
  • 68AX
  • 71JE
  • 75LE Part
  • 07.00780.701
  • lot 76CN
  • part 07.00780.702
  • lot 76CP

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

The notice also names 24 states specifically: