Avanos Recalls Ballard Closed Suction Systems

Due to sterilization failure

May result in non-sterile devices

Avanos Medical, Inc. is recalling its Ballard Closed Suction Systems after identifying a failure in the sterilization process, which may result in non-sterile devices. Use of these products could lead to serious health risks, including infection, airway injury, inflammation, sepsis, or death.

No injuries or deaths have been reported to date.

About the Device

The Ballard Closed Suction System is used for removing airway secretions in ventilated patients, helping to maintain ventilation without disconnecting the circuit — a critical function in respiratory care.

Recommended Actions (as of March 19, 2025)

  • Immediately stop using any affected products and quarantine them.
  • Check your inventory for affected items listed in the recall notice.
  • Notify any customers or departments you may have shared the product with.
  • Complete and return the Response Form to: productquality@myairlife.com.
  • Arrange for return or confirm destruction of affected units to receive replacements.
  • Communicate the recall to all relevant staff within your organization.
  • For urgent replacement needs, contact AirLife at 1-800-433-2797.

Need Help?

For questions or support related to the recall, contact Avanos Medical, Inc. at 1-800-433-2797.

Healthcare providers are urged to act promptly to prevent potential harm to patients relying on these critical airway management systems.

Affected Products

Affected Product

Product Names:

  • Ballard Closed Suction System for Neonates/Pediatrics, 8 F, Y-Adapter
  • Ballard Closed Suction System for Neonates/Pediatrics, 10 F, Elbow 
  • Ballard Closed Suction System for Neonates/Pediatrics, 8 F, Elbow
  • Ballard Closed Suction System for Adults, 14 F, T-Piece 
  • Ballard Closed Suction System for Adults, 14 F, DSE
  • Ballard Turbo-Cleaning Closed Suction System for Adults, 14 F, DSE, MDI 
  • Ballard Turbo-Cleaning Closed Suction System for Adults, 14 F, DSE

Click here to see a full list of affected devices.

QMSR Frequently Asked Questions

Although the FDA has done an excellent job of laying out QMSR requirements and explaining differences between the QSR and the QMSR, there are questions related to the implementation of the new Quality Management System Regulation (QMSR) that need an answer. This page...

EU MDR Compliance Consulting Services

Medical Devices and Pharma offers comprehensive services to help your business meet the stringent requirements of the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR). Our expertise ensures that your products are compliant, safe, and ready for the European market.At Medical Devices...

Extensions for EU MDR and IVDR Implementation

Initial EU MDR and IVDR transition periods extended  In 2023, the European Union granted an extension for the implementation of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Device Regulation (IVDR) due to various challenges faced by...