Database updated: 27 October 2026
Safety Information
Medsafe Online Recall Database
Detail of Recall
| Type of Product: | Device |
| Medsafe Reference: | 18463 |
| Brand Name: | Synthes Connection Screw for Insertion of Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) Blade |
| Model: | Part Number: 03.224.007 |
| Affected: | 32 lots |
| Software version: | |
| Recalling Organisation: | Johnson & Johnson (NZ) Limited 13a Gabador Place Mt Wellington AUCKLAND 1060 |
| Contact Information: | 0800 922 638 |
| Manufacturer: | Synthes GmbH |
| Issue: | Complaints of the insertion screw breaking inside the blade implant during insertion. When the DHS Blade Connecting Screw breaks inside the implant, it blocks the locking mechanism that is important for rotational stability (ensuring the bone fragments maintain anatomical reduction). In the event that the tip of the Connecting Screw breaks intraoperatively, the implant locking mechanism (for rotational stability) cannot be secured. If the fragment cannot be retrieved, rotational stability is compromised and the blade needs to be replaced or additional lag screws implanted. This may lead to prolongation of surgical operating time, bone damage and subsequent interventions such as a total hip arthroplasty. If the fragment cannot be retrieved and remains in the DHS Blade in the patient, this could lead to an adverse tissue reaction since the Connecting Screw is not made of implant grade stainless steel. |
| Recall action type: | Recall |
| Recall action: | Product to be returned to supplier |
| Level of recall: | Sponsor Control |
| Date Commenced: | 9/11/2015 |
