Philips Recalls Respiratory Devices with Foam Component Problem

Philips has announced a recall of 3.5 million ventilation devices used to treat sleep apnea because of potential health risks linked to a foam component.

In some models of its bi-level positive airway pressure, continuous positive airway pressure and mechanical ventilator devices, the polyurethane sound-abatement foam could degrade into particles that have toxic and carcinogenic effects, the company said.

Philips is taking corrective actions, including issuing updated usage instructions and launching a repair and replacement program for the affected devices.