# Major Recall Alert: Bard® Blakemore Esophageal-Nasogastric Tube, Bard® Minnesota Four Lumen Esophagogastric Tamponade Tube, and Bard® Single Intragastric Linton Balloon Tube Recalled Due to Issues with Plastic Plugs
On April 17, 2025, BD (C. R. Bard, Inc.) issued an important recall for three of its medical devices: the Bard® Blakemore Esophageal-Nasogastric Tube, Bard® Minnesota Four Lumen Esophagogastric Tamponade Tube, and Bard® Single Intragastric Linton Balloon Tube. The issue arises from difficulties users are experiencing with the removal of plastic plugs needed to inflate gastric and esophageal balloons. In some cases, devices have been damaged during the process, posing a serious concern for healthcare providers and patient safety.
This recall affects healthcare professionals and organizations across Canada. If you or your facility uses these devices, it's critical to be aware of the risks and take action immediately.
## Why This Recall is Important
Medical devices like the Bard® tubes play a crucial role in managing life-threatening conditions, such as gastrointestinal bleeding. However, flaws in the design or functionality of these devices can lead to delays in treatment, physical damage to the product, or even patient harm.
### Key Reasons Behind the Recall:
- **Difficulties Removing Plastic Plugs**: Users have reported challenges removing the plastic plugs required to inflate the gastric or esophageal balloons.
- **Potential for Device Damage**: Attempts to remove these plugs may lead to device damage, making it unsafe or unusable during critical procedures.
Healthcare providers rely on the efficient operation of these devices in crisis situations. Any obstruction or delay caused by faulty components can have severe consequences, highlighting the importance of this product recall.
## Details of the Recall
Here is a breakdown of the affected products and recall information:
- **Brand**: Bard®
- **Recalled Products**:
- Bard® Blakemore Esophageal-Nasogastric Tube
- Bard® Minnesota Four Lumen Esophagogastric Tamponade Tube
- Bard® Single Intragastric Linton Balloon Tube
- **Recall Start Date**: April 17, 2025
- **Issue Identified**: Users are unable to or find it difficult to remove the plastic plugs for inflating balloons; devices may be damaged during the process.
For additional details, visit the official Government of Canada recall page: [Bard® Gastric and Esophageal Balloons Safety Recall](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/bardr-gastric-and-esophageal-balloons).
## What You Should Do
If your facility or you use these devices, take the following precautions:
- **Immediately cease usage** of the affected Bard® devices.
- **Contact BD (C. R. Bard, Inc.)** for guidance on returning the impacted products or receiving replacements.
- **Report any adverse incidents** to the Health Products Surveillance Program in Canada.
Your healthcare distributor or BD (C. R. Bard, Inc.) can provide additional support for ensuring patient safety while managing this transition.
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
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BD (C. R. Bard, Inc.) is actively working to resolve this manufacturing issue, but in the meantime, your quick response can make a critical difference to patient safety. Be proactive and prioritize health by staying informed through timely updates and using alternative solutions where necessary.
For more up-to-date information on product recalls, visit the official recall notice here: [Bard® Gastric and Esophageal Balloons Recall](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/bardr-gastric-and-esophageal-balloons). Stay vigilant and protect those you care for today.