Verathon has voluntarily recalled the reusable blades used on its GlideScope Video Laryngoscope (GVL) and GlideScope Advanced Video Laryngoscope (AVL) after determining that these blades could break or fail prematurely, resulting in broken pieces in patients' mouths being swallowed or blocking the airway.

Verathon sent an urgent recall letter to all affected customers in May, asking them to regularly inspect reusable blade sizes 3, 4 and 5 of the GVL and 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the AVL before and after every use to identify any damage or wear — rough surfaces, protrusion, sharp edges, surface delamination, cracks, shell separation — that may lead to breakage. The letter also warned customers to stop using defective devices and requested they return them to the company for replacement.

The FDA is asking caregivers to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of the blades by completing an online form, downloading a pre-addressed form for mailing or calling 800-332-1088 to request a form for faxing to 800-FDA-0178.

Verathon customers may also e-mail or call the company (800-331-2313) to report device-related issues.

Daniel Cook