Intended purpose and intended use: More consequences than you think!

The correct and precise formulation of the intended purpose of medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVD) is crucial for their successful development and approval. However, even the definitions of terms and the distinction between intended purpose and intended use make it difficult to achieve clarity and precision. This article reveals how to…

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Systems and procedure packs

The European legislation defines systems and procedure packs and distinguishes between different configurations. The regulatory requirements placed on the manufacturer are heavily dependent on these configurations. This article will explain to you what legislators understand by systems and procedure packs, what the most important legal requirements are for manufacturers, and what common mistakes you should avoid. 1.…

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Sampling kits from a regulatory perspective

The term “sampling kit” is not defined by the IVDR or any other regulation. Nevertheless, there are (indirect) regulatory requirements that IVD manufacturers and medical laboratories must be aware of and consider. The requirements depend on the particular constellation. This article presents five constellations. It provides clarity and helps to avoid regulatory hassles and minimize…

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PICO scheme: The method for systematic and structured literature research 

“Follow the PICO scheme.” This is the recommendation of many auditors and reviewers, as well as some regulatory documents (such as MDCG guidelines and MEDDEV 2.7/1 rev.4), regarding precise medical literature searches.  Read in this article,  1. PICO scheme: The basics  1.1 Definition  The topic is structured according to four aspects:     Aspect  Explanation  P …

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Regulatory requirements for medical devices with machine learning

The incorporation of AI in medical devices has made great strides, for example, in the diagnosis of disease. Manufacturers of devices with machine learning face the challenge of having to demonstrate compliance of their devices with the regulations. Even if you know the law – what are the standards and best practices to consider in…

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Why you should consider clinical studies in Australia 

Conducting clinical studies in Australia is not on the radar of many medical device manufacturers. However, good reasons exist to consider this continent for clinical studies or investigations. Yet manufacturers should also be aware of Australia’s regulatory requirements and specific disadvantages. 1. Advantages and disadvantages of clinical studies in Australia 1.1 Advantages of clinical studies…

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Understanding and avoiding deviations and nonconformities

Deviations, nonconformities, errors, findings, observations, and other terms are often used mistakenly synonymously. Even standards explicitly contradict each other when defining individual terms. This article clarifies, 1. Nonconformities: The basics 1.1 Definitions 1.1.1 Nonconformity ISO 9000:2015 defines nonconformity as “non-fulfilment of a requirement.” It equates this term with “error.” ISO 13485 contradicts this. This standard…

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