# Major Recall Alert: Single Use Electrosurgical Knife - Upper Digestive Tract KD-645 Recalled for Safety Concerns
Olympus has issued an urgent recall of their "Single Use Electrosurgical Knife - Upper Digestive Tract KD-645" after identifying a serious safety issue with the product. The company found that deterioration of the cutting knife, caused by overheating and burning, can result in tip breakage during use, which could pose risks to patient safety. In addition to the recall, Olympus is implementing updates to the product's instructions for use (IFU) and labeling procedures.
If you use or work with this product, it’s crucial to act immediately to ensure safety and compliance. Keep reading for essential details about this recall and what steps to take next.
## Why This Recall is Important
Product recalls, especially in the medical industry, can have significant implications for patient safety and healthcare providers. Olympus discovered that under certain conditions, the KD-645 cutting knife is prone to deterioration due to overheating. This deterioration can result in the tip breaking off during medical procedures, potentially leading to complications like:
- Delays in treatment
- Risks of foreign object retention inside the patient
- Potential injury or harm to patients requiring additional interventions
To address these risks proactively, Olympus is recalling the affected products and providing updated guidelines to improve safety practices. Medical professionals should review these updates carefully to prevent potentially hazardous situations during use.
## Details of the Recall
Here’s a quick breakdown of the recall details:
- **Category**: Medical devices – Electrosurgical knives
- **Brand**: Olympus
- **Product Name**: Single Use Electrosurgical Knife - Upper Digestive Tract, KD-645
- **Issue**: Cutting knife deterioration due to overheating and burning, leading to possible tip breakage during procedures.
- **Safety Measures Implemented**: Update to the instructions for use (IFU) and product labeling.
- **Recall Date Announced**: October 26, 2023
- **Affected Area**: Canada
Olympus healthcare professionals are raising awareness to prevent the continued use of compromised devices.
For full details about this recall and official updates, visit the [official recall alert](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/olympus-single-use-electrosurgical-knives).
## What You Should Do
If you or your healthcare facility uses the KD-645 Single Use Electrosurgical Knife, follow these critical steps immediately:
1. **Check Inventory**: Identify whether you have any affected products in your inventory.
2. **Stop Use Immediately**: Cease using the KD-645 Electrosurgical Knife until further notice and ensure no unauthorized procedures are conducted with the device.
3. **Contact Olympus**: Reach out to Olympus directly for guidance on returning the product and obtaining replacements.
4. **Review Updated Guidelines**: Familiarize yourself with Olympus' revised instructions for use and labeling to ensure safe operation moving forward.
5. **Monitor Communications**: Stay in touch with Olympus customer service for updates on recall status and additional instructions.
By taking these corrective actions, healthcare providers can limit risks and maintain the highest standard of safety for patient care.
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Product and equipment recalls can happen unexpectedly, and timely information is essential for safety. Don’t miss important updates about recalls like this one. Stay informed with real-time alerts delivered directly to your smartphone.
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Act now to stay proactive and protect your patients and team. This Olympus recall underscores the importance of being equipped with the latest information about medical device safety.
For more information, visit the [official recall alert](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/olympus-single-use-electrosurgical-knives).