The Recall Desk
HighFDA (Devices)·Z-0878-2025·Announced 2025-01-22

Fenestrated Bipolar Forceps Recalled Due to Frayed or Broken Grip Cables

Intuitive Surgical is recalling 147,006 units of 8MM Fenestrated Bipolar Forceps due to increased complaints of frayed or broken grip cables, which could impair surgical control.

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: FDA Class II medical device recall for a surgical instrument where grip cable failure presents a risk of harm during surgical use. No hospitalizations or injuries have been reported, but the potential for patient impact during surgery warrants high severity classification.

Plain-English summary

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. is recalling approximately 147,006 units of 8MM Fenestrated Bipolar Forceps (Model 471205, Part Number 471205-17) nationwide and internationally.

The forceps are subject to increased complaints of frayed or broken grip cables on the reusable instruments. Grip cable failure could impair a surgeon's ability to control the instrument during surgery, potentially affecting patient safety and surgical outcomes.

These devices have been distributed throughout the United States and to 60+ countries worldwide. The affected units are identified by multiple batch numbers provided by the manufacturer.

Healthcare facilities and practitioners who use these forceps should immediately cease use of affected units and inspect their instruments for visible cable fraying or breakage. Affected customers should contact Intuitive Surgical, Inc. for instructions on how to return or replace the affected devices.

The recalled product

Product
8MM,FENESTRATED BIPOLAR FORCEPS,IS4000 REF 471205
Manufacturer
Intuitive Surgical, Inc.
Hazard
  • grip-cable-fraying
  • grip-cable-breakage

Distribution

Distribution scope not specified by the agency.