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 In this section:

                The Device Development Process

The Device Development Process

                        Step 1: Device Discovery and Concept
          Step 2: Preclinical Research-Prototype
          Step 3: Pathway to Approval
          Step 4: FDA Device Review
          Step 5: FDA Post-Market Device Safety Monitoring Home
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          Learn About Drug and Device Approvals
          The Device Development Process
          Step 1: Device Discovery and ConceptThe Device Development Process Step 1: Device Discovery and Concept
  
  	
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    PrintIt is important to understand how devices are classified since the development process differs depending on the device’s classification.**Classifications**FDA classifies medical devices based on the risk posed by a device. Medical devices can change classification systems depending on the results of scientific data.**Class 1: General Controls**Class 1 devices pose the least amount of risk to consumers. These low-risk devices, such as oxygen masks or surgical tools, are subject to “general controls.” General controls ensure the safety and effectiveness of devices once they’re manufactured. General controls consider the following factors:Good manufacturing practicesStandards and Reporting Adverse Events to FDAregistration,general recordkeeping requirements**Class 2: General Controls With Special Controls**Class 2 devices pose more risk to consumers than do Class 1 devices. Therefore, Class 2 devices are subject to special controls in addition to general controls. Special controls include:Labeling requirements (information that must be included on a product label)Device specific mandatory performance standardsDevice specific testing requirementsClass 2 devices are also subject to general controls.**Class 3: General Controls and Premarket Approval**Usually, Class 3 devices support or sustain life, are implanted in the body, or have the potential for unreasonable risk of illness or injury. Examples include pacemakers, breast implants, and HIV diagnostic tests. As a result, Class 3 devices require premarket approval. To receive this, a manufacturer must prove that a device is safe and effective. Class 3 devices are also subject to general controls.**Development/Concept**Medical device development follows a well-established path. Many of these steps overlap with each other as scientists invent, refine, and test the devices.Typically, the development process begins when researchers see an unmet medical need. Then, they create a concept or an idea for a new device. From there, researchers build a “proof of concept,” a document that outlines the steps needed to determine whether or not the concept is workable. Many times, concepts are not practical. The concepts that do show promise move to the later stages of development.

                                                                                  Content current as of:
      01/04/2018The Device Development Process

          
                        Step 1: Device Discovery and Concept
          Step 2: Preclinical Research-Prototype
          Step 3: Pathway to Approval
          Step 4: FDA Device Review
          Step 5: FDA Post-Market Device Safety Monitoring
 
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