Maplewood, Minn.-based 3M Co. recalled some models of its Bair Hugger Normothermia System, according to an FDA notice. Here are six insights:
1. A design change makes the blankets prone to problematic airflow blockage and partial inflation.
2. The recall applies to models 63500 and 63700, and the affected lot numbers are R10359, R10360, R10361, R10362, R10363, R10364, R10365 and R10366.
3. More than 165,000 recalled blankets were distributed worldwide.
4. The blankets are meant to prevent and treat hypothermia and regulate patients' temperatures. They were intended for both adults and children.
5. The FDA urges anyone with affected products to dispose of them and notify 3M.
6. 3M faced over 1,500 lawsuits last year regarding its warming blankets. Some patients developed deep joint infections after the product was used during their implant surgeries.
For more information on the recall, click here.