3M has voluntarily recalled two models of its Bair Hugger product, the FDA stated in a release. The Minnesota-based multinational corporation started the recall due to a design flaw on the blankets, commonly used to warm patients during surgery. The flaw can cause a block in airflow, halting full inflation and widespread body warming.
“3M voluntarily recalled a small percentage of its patient warming blankets sold under the Bair Hugger brand,” said a 3M spokesperson. “Because of a change in design, there was a possibility of the blankets not inflating properly under certain conditions. The vast majority of 3M Bair Hugger blankets are not affected by this recall and remain available for use.”
The recall pertains to two models, 635000 and 637000, out of around 30 products, and only those manufactured between October and December 2017 (lot numbers R10359 through R10366). In total, more than 33,000 cases of blankets were recalled.
The company initiated the recall with an international announcement on Jan. 23, as the products are distributed worldwide in countries from Australia to Uruguay as well as the United States.