The Recall Desk
HighFDA (Devices)·Z-2589-2023·Announced 2023-09-27

Flexible Intubation Endoscopes Recalled Due to Unconfirmed Sterility

Karl Storz Endoscopy is recalling 218 units of Five S 5 3x65 flexible intubation endoscopes because sterility assurance cannot be confirmed. The affected devices were distributed worldwide including throughout the United States and Canada.

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 with an unconfirmed sterility defect affecting a high-risk surgical application (intubation). The potential hazard—infection from non-sterile surgical instruments—is serious. No illnesses or injuries have been reported, but the defect represents a significant patient safety risk, qualifying as a risk-of-harm product where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Karl Storz Endoscopy is recalling Five S 5 3x65 flexible intubation endoscopes (REF: 0915612-06, sterile for single use, Rx only). A total of 218 units are affected by this recall.

The manufacturer cannot confirm that the sterility of these devices has been assured. Unsterile surgical instruments can pose a risk of infection to patients undergoing intubation procedures.

The recalled devices were distributed worldwide, including throughout the United States and Canada. The specific lots imported to the U.S. are 500472 and 500461. All lots with remaining shelf life globally are included in this recall.

Healthcare facilities and providers who have received these devices should contact Karl Storz Endoscopy for instructions regarding this recall.

The recalled product

Product
Five S 5 3x65, REF: 0915612-06, sterile for single use, Sterile EO, Rx Only
Manufacturer
Karl Storz Endoscopy
Hazard
  • sterility-assurance
  • infection-risk

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.