The ultrasound gels are used to improve the transmission of the ultrasound waves during ultrasound procedures.
The FDA received a report involving 16 surgical patients infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The patients had transesophageal ultrasound procedures, while undergoing heart valve replacement, using Other-Sonic Generic Ultrasound Transmission Gel. An FDA analysis of product samples collected in February 2012 revealed the presence of the two bacterial strains: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella oxytoca.
The FDA warns healthcare professionals who perform ultrasound procedures to stop using Other-Sonic Generic Ultrasound Transmission Gel manufactured from June 2011 through December 2011, because of the risks posed by bacteria contamination.
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