There’s a new updated standard, (EN) ISO 17665:2024, sterilization of healthcare products using moist heat. This document provides requirements for the development, validation, and routine control of moist heat sterilization processes for medical devices. Of course it includes Annex ZA, relationship between the standard and the GSPR requirements of the MDR 2017/745. This sterilization method is primarily used in hospitals, including CSSD Departments, for the sterilization and re-sterilization of medical devices consisting of hard polymers and metals such as PEEK, Titanium and stainless steel. It will also be used for the upcoming EU new classification, class Ir, for the re-sterilization of reusable surgical instruments.

According to the official journal of the European Union (the Blue Guide) C 247, section 3.3, importers have important and clearly defined responsibilities under Union Harmonisation legislation. To a large extent, importers build on the type of responsibilities which a manufacturer based in the EU is subjected to and the importer must ensure that the manufacturer has correctly fulfilled his obligations.

Time is running out to qualify for the EU MDR transition extension as per the regulation (EU) 2023/607 amending Regulations (EU) 2017/745 and (EU) 2017/746. Manufacturers must apply for MDR certification with an MDR notified body by 26 May 2024 and before their MDD certificate expires. For new TGA ARTG entries, evidence must be submitted as part of the application. Contact us for more information.

MHRA published “Common Specification Requirements for In Vitro Diagnostic Devices” to seek views on the possible amendments to the Medical Device Regulations 2002. The goal is to include common specification requirements for manufacturers of high-risk IVD devices, similar to the current rules for List A IVDs under IVDD 98/79/EC.

The IMDRF published the final document ‘Principles of Labeling for Medical Devices and IVD Medical Devices’ on 26 April 2024. This document provides general labeling principles, including specific sections on the label, instructions for use, and information intended for the patient which can be used as guidance in meeting local regulatory requirements.