FDA on Pneumatic Tourniquet Cuff Shortage
FDA has sent a “Dear Doctor” letter about “supply constraints” involving non-sterile, single-use pneumatic tourniquet cuffs in the U.S. The devices are mainly used in elective limb surgeries and in emergency and trauma settings. During the supply issue, the agency is recommending that health care providers use alternative devices and “reusing existing devices after appropriate sterilization/disinfection procedures have been appropriately followed.” The letter provides recommendations on reusing single-use pneumatic tourniquet cuffs and maintaining patient safety.