Tulip Large Soft Tissue Retractor
510(k) K952980
Active
Valid until
No expiry
FDA recalls
None foundDocuments
Trust
Unverified
Regulatory status
| Region | Authorization | Number | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | FDA 510(k)SESE | NumberK952980 | Date29 Sep 1995 | StatusActive |
Recalls
No FDA recalls found in the data synced 22 Oct 2026.
Coverage
- Active
- Expiring
- Withdrawn
- Listed
- Not covered
United States — FDA 510(k) Active
Specification
- Full name
- The Tulip Large Soft Tissue Retractor
- 510(k) Number
- FDA Product Code
- GCJ
- Device Class
- Class II
- Regulation
- 21 CFR Part 876.1500
- Advisory Committee
- Gastroenterology, Urology
- FDA Decision
- SESE Substantially Equivalent
Overview
AI-generated summary, 19 Sep 2026
The Tulip Large Soft Tissue Retractor is a surgical retractor classified as a laparoscope for general and plastic surgery, designed to retract soft tissue during operative procedures. It provides controlled exposure of surgical sites in procedures within gastroenterology and urology, ensuring clear visualization and access for the surgeon.
This device is supplied as a reusable surgical instrument, intended for use in sterile operating room environments. It is regulated under FDA 510(k) clearance (K952980) with a classification under regulation number 876.1500, and is categorized under product code GCJ. No specific MRI safety or sterility requirements beyond standard surgical protocols are noted in the regulatory data.
Other devices from The Tulip Mfg. Co.
Questions
AI-generated answers, 19 Sep 2026
What types of surgical procedures is this retractor primarily used for, and why is it beneficial in those settings?
The Tulip Large Soft Tissue Retractor is designed for general and plastic surgery, with specific applications in gastroenterology and urology procedures. It is particularly useful in these fields because it retracts soft tissue to provide controlled exposure of surgical sites, ensuring clear visualization and improved access for the surgeon during operations. This helps minimize tissue manipulation and reduces the risk of unintended trauma or obstruction.
Is this retractor intended for single-use or reusable applications, and what does that mean for maintenance?
This retractor is explicitly supplied as a reusable surgical instrument, meaning it is meant to be cleaned, sterilized, and reused multiple times in sterile operating room environments. Since it is reusable, proper maintenance—including thorough cleaning, sterilization, and inspection for wear—is essential to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with surgical protocols.
What are the key differences between this retractor and other retractors in the same product category?
Unlike some retractors that may be designed for specific single-use applications or limited tissue types, the Tulip Large Soft Tissue Retractor is classified under product code GCJ and is FDA 510(k)-cleared for general and plastic surgery, with advisory committee input from Gastroenterology and Urology. Its design emphasizes controlled soft tissue retraction for broader procedural use, particularly in larger or more complex exposures where clear visualization is critical.
How should this retractor be stored to maintain its integrity and readiness for use?
Since this is a reusable instrument, it should be stored in a clean, dry, and protected environment—preferably in a dedicated surgical instrument tray or case—when not in use. After sterilization, it must be stored according to standard surgical protocols to prevent contamination or damage. The manufacturer’s instructions (not provided here) should specify any additional storage requirements, such as avoiding exposure to moisture or sharp objects.
What does the FDA 510(k) clearance (K952980) under product code GCJ indicate about this device’s regulatory pathway?
The FDA 510(k) clearance (K952980) with product code GCJ confirms that this retractor has been determined to be substantially equivalent to a legally marketed device already on the market. This classification means it meets FDA standards for safety and effectiveness in its intended surgical applications—specifically for retracting soft tissue in general, plastic, gastroenterology, and urology procedures—without requiring a new approval process beyond the 510(k) submission.