DAkkS: What’s behind the outrage about ISO 13485?

The DAkkS, the German Accreditation Body, is Germany’s national accreditation authority. Recently, manufacturers, associations, and certification bodies have been raising their voices against the DAkkS. It is being vilified as an example of how German bureaucracy nips any innovation in the bud. What is the truth of these accusations? Are they justified? This article presents…

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Approval of IVDs (in vitro diagnostic medical devices) in the EU

In vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs) are medical devices used to analyze samples derived from the human body. Typically, these products are reagents, kits, instruments, and devices. Software can also be considered as an IVD regarding its intended purpose. When “approving IVDs,” manufacturers must comply with many regulations, laws, and standards. 1. Significant steps for…

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Classification of in-vitro diagnostic medical devices: how to avoid a too-high classification

The classification of in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) can have far-reaching consequences, as it has an impact on the conformity assessment procedure, certification audits, and, thus, on market launch. To ensure that your IVD product is not unnecessarily allocated to a high-risk class, this article provides an overview of 1. What qualifies a product as an IVD?…

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Remediation: When things hit the fan

“Remediation” is often synonymous with maximum stress: Notified bodies or authorities such as the FDA have discovered significant deviations that must be remedied with the highest priority and without regard to the workload of employees or budgets. This article will help you to complete such “remediation projects” in such a way that 1. Remediation: First…

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The Clinical Evaluation Plan

Including a free download of the chapter structure for the Clinical Evaluation Plan The Clinical Evaluation Plan is one of the most complex documents in the technical documentation. Alongside the Clinical Evaluation Report, the Clinical Evaluation Plan (CEP) is the document most frequently criticized by notified bodies. Even experienced clinical experts typically need 60 working…

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Vigilance system

This article tells you which regulatory requirements you must fulfill, how a vigilance system differs from a system for post-market surveillance, and how you can set up and operate a vigilance system quickly and in compliance with the law. 1. Definition and objectives of vigilance There are legal requirements worldwide for monitoring medical devices on…

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