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MDA/2006/055 - Handpieces used with oral / maxillofacial surgery drills

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Document details:

Type: Medical Device Alert
Series No: MDA/2006/055
Audience: Healthcare professionals
Published:
Format: Electronic and paper
Size: A4
Pages: 3
Price: free
ISBN/ISSN:
Author:
Copyright: Crown
   

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Page 1

Issued: 21 September 2006 at 14:00
Ref: MDA/2006/055
 
Immediate action
Tick mark
Action
 
Update
 
Information request


Device:
Handpieces used with oral / maxillofacial surgery drills.		  
Problem:
Lack of appropriate maintenance leading to overheating and oral burns.

>Page 2

Action by:
Maxillo-facial surgeons, cosmetic surgeons, dental surgeons, theatre managers.		  

Action:
By users of surgical dental drills:

  • Always use an ISO standard bur, with diameter and length as specified in the user instructions.
  • Before using the handpiece, run it to check that it is running true (i.e. no noise, not loose, no damage, etc.) and to check for any abnormalities, including heating.

By dental laboratory/operating theatre managers:

  • Check the bearings at least annually.
  • Consider a service contract with the appropriate manufacturer, supplier or agent.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions on cleaning, lubrication and maintenance.
  • Provide appropriate instructions and training to sterile services departments or third parties who carry out decontamination procedures.
  

Distributed to:

NHS trusts in England - Chief Executives*
Healthcare Commission (CHAI) - Headquarters
Primary care trusts in England - Chief Executives*

* via CE Bulletin

>Page 2

Contacts:
Details of MHRA contacts for technical and clinical aspects.
Change of address or removal from address list for Healthcare Commission.

>Page 2



Action deadlines for the Safety Alert Broadcast System (SABS)
Deadline (action underway): 20 October 2006
Deadline (action complete): 21 November 2006


Page last modified: 07 February 2008