Verification and validation: Differences and definitions

What is the difference between verification and validation, and how are these terms defined? Even standards and regulations use the terms incorrectly or misleadingly. This article 1. Verification a) Definition This definition does not explain what type of “requirements” need to be confirmed by verification. Limiting these requirements to product or component requirements is recommended to avoid…

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Summative evaluation: The following points are essential

The term summative evaluation can be translated as “final evaluation.” A summative evaluation checks at the end of the development phase whether users can operate a device or a user interface safely. This article provides an overview of the regulatory requirements for the “summative evaluation” (sometimes also referred to as “summative assessment“) and gives you…

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ISO 10993-17: What the standard has changed and now requires from manufacturers

The ISO 10993-17 standard is part of the ISO 10993 series of standards on biocompatibility. ISO 10993-17 describes the procedures for Toxicological Risk Assessment. In the fall of 2023, a comprehensive standard revision was published after over 20 years. Medical device manufacturers should know, This article will help. 1. Context of ISO 10993-17 1.1 The…

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Regulatory affairs manager (medical devices)

Regulatory affairs managers take care of the approval of medical devices. In this article, you will learn, Update: Impact of the digital transformation on the tasks of regulatory affairs managers added! 1. Responsibilities of regulatory affairs managers Regulatory affairs managers are responsible for ensuring that 2. Tasks of regulatory affairs managers To achieve these objectives,…

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Risk management in hospitals and at other operators

Laws require risk management in hospitals, especially in order to improve patient safety. Nevertheless, many hospitals find this difficult. This article presents the most important regulatory requirements and provides tips for implementation. 1. Typical risks in a hospital a) Risks for patients The most important risks for patients include: b) Risks for all people in…

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Qualification and classification of IVD software

The qualification and classification of IVD software determine how and how quickly IVD manufacturers can bring their software to market and what costs arise for “approval.” This article will help you correctly qualify and classify IVD software, thereby avoiding regulatory problems and the resulting costs and delays. 1. Definition of terms 1.1 Qualification Qualification is…

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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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