The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released an updated version of its medical device shortages list to reflect current priorities and availabilities.
The FDA’s Medical Device Shortages List (MDSL) was first published in early 2021 to help bring greater transparency regarding the availability of critical medical devices during the global COVID-19 pandemic. The initial MDSL identified more than 20 different medical devices for which limited supplies were then available, including a variety of ventilators and ventilator systems, specimen collection systems and devices, and personal protective equipment.
The updated MDSL now lists just 6 separate devices, including 2 surgery-specific devices and 2 intended to provide cardiovascular circulatory support.
Along with the updated Device Shortage List, the FDA has also released what it calls a “Device Discontinuance List,” listing around 140 specific devices whose production has been permanently discontinued this year by their respective manufacturers.
Read the FDA’s updated MDSL and its Device Discontinuance List.
