At ADRES, we provide comprehensive regulatory and quality assurance support for medical device companies, helping them achieve compliance with FDA, EU MDR, and other global regulatory frameworks. Our experts guide you through every stage of the regulatory process, ensuring a seamless pathway from product development to market approval.
At ADRES, we provide comprehensive regulatory and quality assurance support for medical device companies, helping them achieve compliance with FDA, EU MDR, and other global regulatory frameworks. Our experts guide you through every stage of the regulatory process, ensuring a seamless pathway from product development to market approval.
Our Services:
1. Regulatory Compliance
Our regulatory specialists help you navigate complex medical device regulations, ensuring your products meet all necessary requirements for global market entry.
- FDA and EU MDR Compliance – Guidance on FDA, EU MDR, and international regulatory frameworks.
- Pre-Market Submissions – Support for FDA 510(k), PMA, De Novo, and CE marking applications.
- Regulatory Strategy & Pre-Submission Support – Request for Designation (RFD), FDA Pre-Submissions, and discussions with Notified Bodies (NBs).
- Risk Management – Ensuring ISO 14971 compliance with structured risk management processes.
2. Quality Management Systems (QMS)
Develop a robust and compliant QMS that aligns with regulatory expectations and enhances operational efficiency.
- QMS Design & Implementation – Tailored systems to meet ISO 13485, FDA QSR, and MDR standards.
- CAPA Implementation & Root Cause Analysis – Proactive quality processes to address compliance gaps.
- Internal and Third-Party Audits – Ensure supplier and internal compliance readiness.
3. Product Development & Risk Management
Enhance product safety, performance, and regulatory approval success with structured risk management and usability evaluations.
- Usability Engineering & IEC 62366 Compliance – Human factors consulting for safer, user-friendly devices.
- Risk Analysis (FMEA) & Design Controls – Comprehensive assessment to mitigate potential failures.
- Design Documentation & Compliance Readiness – Preparation of Design History Files (DHF), gap analysis, and regulatory submissions.
- Biocompatibility Planning & Reporting – Strategic support in biological evaluation planning and execution.
4. Regulatory & Technical Writing Services
Our expert regulatory writers ensure clear, compliant, and high-quality documentation for both FDA and EU MDR submissions.
- Regulatory Submissions Writing – FDA 510(k), PMA, De Novo applications, and EU Technical Files.
- Safety & Performance Reporting – SSCP, General Safety and Performance Requirements (GSPR).
- Post-Market Surveillance (PMS) & Clinical Follow-Up (PMCF, PSURs) – Ongoing compliance planning, monitoring, and reporting.
- Risk Management & Design Documentation – Development of risk management plans, design inputs/outputs, and traceability matrices.
- Clinical & Scientific Writing – Literature reviews, clinical study protocols, investigator brochures, and informed consent forms.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) & Quality Manuals – Ensure operational consistency and compliance readiness.
5. Training & Workshops
We offer customized training programs to keep your team updated on regulatory requirements and best practices.
Regulatory Trends & Updates – Stay ahead of evolving regulations and industry expectations.
Regulatory & QMS Training – Hands-on workshops covering FDA, MDR, and ISO standards.
Data Integrity & Documentation Best Practices – Ensure accuracy and compliance in medical device records.
What is the difference between FDA 510(k), PMA, and De Novo pathways?
The 510(k) process is for demonstrating substantial equivalence to a legally marketed device. PMA (Pre-Market Approval) is required for high-risk Class III devices, and De Novo is for novel low-moderate risk class II devices with no predicate.
What are the key requirements for CE marking in the EU?
CE marking in the EU requires compliance with the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and certification from a notified body. Key elements include meeting safety and performance standards, providing clinical data, implementing a quality management system per ISO 13485, and conducting thorough risk management. Companies should also prepare comprehensive technical documentation and engage early with notified bodies to ensure timely approval.
How long does it take to get FDA approval for a medical device?
Approval timelines vary: 510(k) reviews typically take 3-6 months, De Novo can take 6-12 months, and PMA can take over a year, depending on complexity and FDA interactions.
What is ISO 13485, and why is it important?
ISO 13485 is the international standard for medical device quality management systems (QMS). It ensures regulatory compliance, risk management, and process control for device manufacturers.
Do all medical devices require clinical trials?
Not all devices require clinical trials. Low-risk devices may rely on existing data, while high-risk devices (Class III) most likely requires clinical evidence for approval.
What is post-market surveillance (PMS), and why is it necessary?
PMS involves monitoring a device's performance after market approval to detect safety issues, adverse events, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements like PMCF and PSURs.
How can ADRES help with regulatory submissions?
ADRES provides end-to-end support for FDA and EU submissions, including regulatory strategy, document preparation, risk analysis, and interaction with regulatory bodies.
How are medical devices classified under FDA and EU MDR?
Medical devices are classified based on risk:
- FDA: Class I (low risk, often 510K exempt), Class II (moderate risk, often requires 510(k)), and Class III (high risk, requires PMA).
- EU MDR: Class I (low risk), Class IIa (moderate risk), Class IIb (moderate-higher risk), and Class III (high risk). All device classes, except Class I non-sterile products, require a Notified Body approval.
What are the main differences between FDA and EU MDR regulatory requirements?
While both emphasize patient safety, key differences include:
- FDA: Primarily focuses on pre-market clearance (510(k), PMA) and post-market reporting. Additionally, the FDA's approach is relatively streamlined, allowing for quicker approval times for lower-risk devices.
- EU MDR: Requires a stricter lifecycle approach with comprehensive clinical evidence, more stringent post-market surveillance, and involvement of Notified Bodies even for moderate-risk devices. The EU MDR emphasizes thorough documentation and frequent updates to ensure continuous compliance throughout the device's lifecycle.
How do I ensure my device meets EU MDR General Safety and Performance Requirements (GSPR)?
Ensuring your device meets the EU MDR General Safety and Performance Requirements (GSPR) involves several crucial steps:
- Perform a Risk Assessment: Follow the guidelines of ISO 14971 to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks associated with your device.
- Biological Evaluation: Ensure safety through biological evaluation requirements as per ISO 10993, to assess the biocompatibility of your device.
- Conduct Clinical Evaluation: Gather comprehensive clinical evidence to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of your device.
- Performance Testing: Ensure your device undergoes rigorous performance testing to validate its functionality and reliability.
- Appropriate Labeling and IFU: Develop accurate and detailed labeling and Instructions for Use (IFU) that comply with MDR standards.
- Technical Documentation: Prepare thorough technical documentation that includes design, development, and manufacturing information.
- Post-Market Surveillance Plan: Implement a robust post-market surveillance plan to monitor your device's performance and address any issues promptly.
What is the role of Notified Bodies in EU MDR compliance?
Notified Bodies (NBs) are independent organizations designated by EU authorities to assess medical device compliance. For Class I sterile, IIa, IIb, and III devices, NBs review technical documentation, conduct audits, and issue CE certifications.
How can manufacturers ensure continuous compliance with regulatory standards post-certification?
Manufacturers can ensure continuous compliance by:
- Regularly updating technical documentation: Ensure all documentation reflects the latest standards and any changes in product design or manufacturing processes.
- Implementing a robust post-market surveillance plan: Continuously monitor the device’s performance and promptly address any issues that arise.
- Conducting periodic audits: Regular internal and external audits can help identify areas of non-compliance and ensure regulatory standards are maintained.
- Staying informed on regulatory updates: Keep up to date with changes in regulations and standards in all target markets to proactively adapt compliance strategies.
- Training staff: Regularly train employees on compliance requirements and best practices to ensure they are well-informed and capable of maintaining standards.
Why Choose ADRES?
When you choose ADRES, you are not just opting for a service; you are selecting a partnership that will provide expert guidance through every stage of your medical device development and regulatory journey. Our team of seasoned professionals will assist in the initial design and development phase, ensuring that your device meets all necessary standards from the ground up.
We will help you compile and update comprehensive technical documentation and navigate the stringent requirements of Notified Bodies. Our dedicated support extends to implementing and maintaining an effective post-market surveillance system, ensuring your device remains compliant long after initial certification.
By choosing ADRES, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge that keeps pace with the evolving regulatory landscape. Our continuous training programs will empower your staff with up-to-date compliance information and best practices, enabling them to uphold the highest standards of quality and safety. With ADRES, you can rest assured that your medical device approval process will be seamless and efficient.
Get Started Today