The world of medical devices is a realm of constant innovation, where the development of new technologies has the power to transform healthcare. However, these innovations must also meet stringent safety and performance standards to ensure patient safety. In the European Union (EU), the process of ensuring that medical devices comply with these standards is known as conformity assessment, and it plays a pivotal role in the regulation of medical devices under the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR). The EU MDR significantly enhances the regulatory framework for medical devices in the EU, aiming to strengthen patient safety, improve device traceability, and increase transparency.
Conformity Assessment: The Heart of EU MDR Compliance
Conformity assessment is the process by which manufacturers demonstrate that their medical devices meet the essential safety and performance requirements outlined in the MDR. The goal is to ensure that these devices are safe, effective, and fit for their intended purpose before they are placed on the market.
Under EU MDR, different conformity assessment procedures exist based on the device's classification and the involvement of Notified Bodies. These procedures include:
Self-Certification (Class I Devices): Low-risk Class I devices that are not sterile or do not have a measuring function can often be self-certified by the manufacturer. They do not require Notified Body involvement.
Conformity Assessment with Notified Body (Class IIa, IIb, and III Devices): Higher-risk devices must undergo conformity assessment with a Notified Body. This assessment includes a thorough review of technical documentation, clinical evaluation, and quality management systems.
Special Procedures (Custom-Made Devices): Custom-made devices have their own specific conformity assessment requirements, which may involve a Notified Body depending on the risk class.
For the device: the EU technical documentation assessment certificate (under Annex IX). EU type-examination certificate (under Annex X) or EU product verification certificate (under Annex XI).
Annual surveillance audits are conducted by the notified body and unannounced audits can be decided by the notified body in-between surveillance audits.
The Role of Notified Bodies
Notified Bodies are an integral part of the conformity assessment process, especially for devices with higher risk classifications. These independent organizations are authorized by EU member states to evaluate medical devices for compliance with EU regulations. Notified Bodies assess a range of aspects, including:
Quality Management System (QMS): They review the manufacturer's QMS to ensure it meets the requirements outlined in the MDR.
Technical Documentation: Notified Bodies examine the technical documentation submitted by manufacturers. This documentation provides detailed information about the device's design, construction, and performance.
Clinical Evaluation: For certain devices, clinical evaluation is required. Notified Bodies assess the clinical data supporting the device's safety and effectiveness.
Post-Market Surveillance: Manufacturers must have robust post-market surveillance processes in place to monitor the performance of their devices once they are on the market. Notified Bodies review these processes to ensure ongoing compliance.
Conformity Assessment Procedures
The conformity assessment procedures vary according to EU MDR risk classification of medical devices. Here are the primary conformity assessment procedures under EU MDR:
Self-Certification (Class I Devices)
Low-risk Class I devices, especially those that are neither sterile nor have a measuring function, often allow manufacturers to self-certify their products. This means that they can declare conformity without the involvement of a Notified Body, streamlining the certification process.
Conformity Assessment with Notified Body (Class IIa, IIb, and III Devices)
Devices with higher levels of risk, falling into Class IIa, IIb, or III, require a more rigorous conformity assessment. Manufacturers must engage with a Notified Body, an independent third- party organization authorized to assess compliance with EU regulations. This assessment involves a comprehensive review of technical documentation, clinical evaluation, and quality management systems.
Distinct Certification Requirements
EU MDR outlines specific requirements for the certification of medical devices. The type of certificate issued corresponds to the assessment procedure. Certificates can include:
EU Technical Documentation Assessment Certificate (Annex IX)
EU Type-Examination Certificate (Annex X)
EU Product Verification Certificate (Annex XI)
In addition to these certificates, annual surveillance audits are conducted by Notified Bodies, and unannounced audits may be scheduled between surveillance audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
Manufacturer vs. Notified Body Assessments
The responsibility for conformity assessment primarily falls on manufacturers. Class I devices that are neither sterile nor reusable and lack a measuring function are marked with a CE mark, signifying that the manufacturer has sole responsibility for the conformity assessment, without Notified Body involvement.
In contrast, the following devices require assessment and periodic review by a Notified Body:
Class I Sterile Medical Devices (Is)
Class I Medical Devices with Measuring Function (Im)
Class I Surgically Reusable Medical Devices (Ir)
Class IIa, IIb, and III Medical Devices
Class III Custom-Made Devices
The level of scrutiny and involvement of Notified Bodies (third-party organizations designated by EU member states) in the conformity assessment process varies depending on the device's risk class. Higher-risk devices, such as implantable devices or those that come into direct contact with the central circulatory system, undergo more rigorous assessments. Devices assessed with the involvement of a Notified Body are marked with a CE mark and the identification number of the responsible Notified Body.
Successful conformity assessment by the manufacturer hinges on meeting all applicable General Safety and Performance Requirements (GSPRs). Documentation supporting this conformity must be maintained throughout the device's lifecycle, with regular reviews in response to changes in processes, regulations, or standards.
Classification | |
Class I | EU Declaration of Conformity, Technical documentation as per Annexes II and III (without notified body involvement) |
Class Is, Im, Ir | Chapters I and III of Annex IX OR Part A of Annex XI |
Class IIa | Chapters I and III of Annex IX OR technical documentation (Annexes II and III) along with Conformity Assessment as per Section 10 or 18 of Annex XI |
Non Implantable - Annex IX (technical documentation of at least one representative device per generic device group); Implantable Class IIb devices (Other than exceptions of Article 52) - technical documentation review of every device OR Annex X (EU Type Examination) in combination with Annex XI | |
Class III | Annex IX OR Annex X (EU Type Examination) in combination with Annex XI |
Custom Made | Class III - Chapter I of Annex IX OR Part A of Annex XI. Other Classes - Annex XIII (without notified body) |
System and Procedure Pack | Article 22 (without notified body involvement) |
Streamlining Conformity Assessment
Manufacturers often opt for the conformity assessment route described in Annex IX for devices above risk class I. This process combines an evaluation of the quality management system and technical documentation, simplifying CE marking for multiple devices.
Notified Bodies assess the manufacturer's quality management system according to MDR, with existing certification to ISO 13485 serving as a presumption of conformity. Depending on the risk class, the assessment may also include a review of technical documentation or design dossiers. This ensures robust design controls and adequate processes for technical documentation creation and maintenance.
Navigating the complex landscape of EU Medical Device Regulation (EU MDR) is crucial for medical device manufacturers. To safeguard patient safety and product quality, you need to master conformity assessment procedures, understand device risk classifications, and collaborate effectively with Notified Bodies.
Ready to Ensure Compliance Under EU MDR?
Take the first step toward compliance excellence: Contact Artixio Today!
Our expert team is here to guide you through the intricacies of EU MDR, ensuring your devices meet the highest standards. Don't wait; protect your reputation and your patients' well-being by embracing EU MDR compliance now.
Comments