Vortex Surgical Recalls 25GA Subretinal Injection Cannula Due to Potential Sterility Breach

Source: FDA · Worldwide

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Vortex Surgical Inc. is recalling over 14,000 subretinal injection cannulas because compromised pouch seals may lead to bioburden contamination and patient infection.

What this FDA recall tells you, and what most readers miss

This notice was issued by FDA on February 18, 2026 and geographically references Worldwide. Its severity classification of "high" signals how the issuing agency weighs the risk of harm if no action is taken — "critical" and "high" tier alerts typically carry direct consumer actions, while "medium" and "low" tend toward informational guidance or monitoring advisories. The category it belongs to — FDA Recalls — determines the regulatory framework behind it, which shapes what remedies (refunds, replacements, recalls, evacuations) are available to affected individuals and who holds statutory responsibility for enforcement.

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What Happened

Vortex Surgical Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of its 25GA Subretinal Injection Cannula. The recall was prompted by the discovery of voids in the seals of the Tyvek pouches used to package the devices. A compromised sterile barrier presents a risk of bioburden contamination, which could lead to serious infections in patients undergoing subretinal procedures.

Which Products Are Affected

The recall affects the following specific medical device:

  • Product Name: 25GA Subretinal Injection Cannula
  • Model Number: VS0220.25
  • Lot Number: 2410043
  • Pouch UDI: 810123480418
  • Box UDI: 810123480692

A total of 14,789 units are involved in this recall (8,651 in the U.S. and 6,138 internationally). The product was distributed nationwide across 31 U.S. states and internationally to countries including Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

What You Should Do

Vortex Surgical Inc. notified affected customers via a formal letter. Healthcare providers and facilities are advised to immediately inspect their inventory for the affected lot number (2410043). Any identified units should be quarantined and not used in clinical settings. For information regarding returns or further instructions, contact Vortex Surgical Inc. at 4 Research Park Dr Ste 124, Saint Charles, MO 63304.

Why This Matters

Maintaining a sterile barrier is critical for surgical instruments used in subretinal injections. A breach in this barrier can introduce contaminants directly into the eye, posing a high risk of severe infection and potential vision-threatening complications.

Source

This information is provided by the FDA under recall number Z-1248-2026.

Original source: FDA Official Notice ↗

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this FDA recall.

What is this FDA recall about?
Vortex Surgical Inc. is recalling over 14,000 subretinal injection cannulas because compromised pouch seals may lead to bioburden contamination and patient infection.
Which agency issued this alert?
This alert was issued by FDA. The original notice is available at the source link at the bottom of this article.
How severe is this alert?
This alert is classified as "high" severity. Take precautions and monitor for updates.
What area is affected?
This alert affects Worldwide. Check with FDA for the most current geographic scope.
Where can I find more FDA Recalls updates?
Browse the full FDA Recalls feed on Areazine at areazine.com/recalls/fda/ for the latest updates from FDA and other agencies.