The medical device registration certificate number is an important identifier for identifying the category of medical devices, and correctly distinguishing between Class II and Class III medical devices is crucial for medical practitioners and related enterprises. Below, I will provide a detailed explanation on how to identify the category of medical devices based on their registration certificate number.Basic structure of medical device registration certificate numberThe registration certificate number for medical devices in China usually consists of the following parts:Abbreviation of the location of the registration and approval department: for example, "Guo" represents the approval of the National Medical Products Administration, while "Beijing", "Shanghai" and other names represent the approval of provincial-level drug regulatory departmentsRegistration form: "Equipment" represents medical devicesRegistration category: The numbers "1", "2", or "3" respectively represent Class I, Class II, and Class III medical devicesProduct classification code: composed of letters and numbersRegistration year: 4 digitsSerial number: usually 4 digitsHow to identify Class II and Class III medical devicesThe key point lies in the third part of the registration certificate number:Class II medical devices: The registration certificate number contains the words "approved" or "entered", and the third digit is "2". For example, "2" in "National Medical Device Approval 2015324 *****" indicates that this is a Class II medical device.Three types of medical devices: The registration certificate number contains the words "approved" or "entered", and the third digit is "3". For example, the "3" in "National Medical Device Approval 2018312 *****" indicates that this is a Class III medical device.Other identification methodsRisk level: Class III medical devices have the highest risk level, followed by Class II. The three types are usually devices implanted in the human body, used to support and maintain life, or potentially dangerous to the human body.Approval authority: Class III medical devices are approved by the National Medical Products Administration, while Class II devices are approved by provincial drug regulatory departments.Product catalog: You can refer to the "Classification Catalog of Medical Devices" released by the National Medical Products Administration, which clearly lists the classification of various types of medical devices.PrecautionsThe classification of medical devices may change with technological development and regulatory requirements. It is recommended to regularly review the latest version of the "Classification Catalogue of Medical Devices"The registration certificate number for imported medical devices also follows similar rules, but will include the word "in" symbolIf you have any questions, you can log in to the official website of the National Medical Products Administration to inquire or consult professional institutionsCorrectly identifying the category of medical devices is crucial for procurement, use, and regulation, and medical practitioners should master this basic skill.

1、 Industry value: the "professional bridge" for medical device market accessMedical device registration agencies, as professional third parties connecting enterprises and regulatory authorities, play a key role in global market competition. According to data from the National Medical Products Administration, in 2023, about 65% of domestic second and third class medical device registration applications will be completed through agency agencies, and their core values are reflected in:Regulatory Interpreter: Gain a deep understanding of the "Regulations on the Supervision and Administration of Medical Devices" and international regulations such as the EU MDR and the US FDA 510 (k), and accurately match product classification and declaration paths.Process optimizer: By establishing standardized application templates, the average registration cycle is shortened by 30% -50%, avoiding repeated corrections due to incomplete information.Risk control party: Identify technical blind spots such as clinical evaluation and biocompatibility testing in advance to reduce the risk of registration rejection.2、 Service Capability Matrix: Building Competitiveness with Full Cycle SolutionsThe top agency has formed a service ecosystem covering the entire lifecycle of the product:Front end strategic consulting: Conduct product classification prediction and registration path planning (such as the application of special approval channels for innovative medical devices)Mid end technology breakthrough: leading registration inspection, clinical trial scheme design, EMC/safety testing problem rectificationBackend continuous compliance: assist in production license (GMP) verification, UDI coding system construction, post market regulatory reportingA typical case is that a domestic surgical robot company accurately positioned the "3D electronic abdominal endoscope" as an innovative medical device through an agency, and the final approval time was shortened by 14 months compared to the conventional process.3、 Choose a 5-dimensional evaluation system for agency selectionEnterprises need to examine their partners from multiple dimensions:Qualification endorsement: Possess a nationally recognized Medical Device Regulatory Affairs (RAC) certification teamDomain specialization: Successful cases in segmented fields (such as IVD, high-value consumables, AI medical software)Global Network: Localized declaration experience in major target markets (China NMPA/US FDA/EU CE)Response mechanism: Establish a 48 hour technical consultation response and critical node warning systemCost transparency: Adopting a phased payment model to avoid implicit charges4、 Industry Trends: Digitization and Value ExtensionWith the development of regulatory technology (RegTech), leading institutions are adopting:Intelligent declaration system: using NLP technology to automatically generate registration documents, reducing error rates by 72%Real time regulatory tracking: Deploying AI driven global regulatory database, dynamically updating requirements for over 200 countries/regionsValue added service extension: providing patent layout, medical insurance access consultation, and overseas market distribution resource dockingConclusion: Against the backdrop of exponential growth in the complexity of medical device registration, professional agency services have shifted from "optional" to "essential". Enterprises need to establish a long-term cooperative mindset, view agencies as strategic partners, and jointly address new challenges such as global regulatory sandbox pilots and real-world data applications, accelerating the process of product commercialization.

Breakthrough and Reconstruction: Deep Reform of China's Medical Device Registration System in 2025 and Industry InsightsAs artificial intelligence assisted diagnostic devices begin to enter community hospitals and wearable health monitoring instruments become standard in households, the medical device industry is undergoing unprecedented technological iterations. In this era of innovation explosion, China's medical device registration system has also undergone profound changes. The comprehensive implementation of the new version of the Medical Device Supervision and Administration Regulations in 2024, coupled with the upgraded version of the registrant system that will be implemented in 2025, is reshaping the game rules of the entire industry.1、 Institutional upgrading: the essential transformation from "threshold" to "track"The most significant change in the registration system in 2025 is the paradigm shift from "access control" to "full cycle management". The approval deadline for clinical trials has been compressed to 45 working days, and the scope of application of the special approval channel for innovative medical devices has been expanded to Class II devices. These changes not only optimize the process, but also reflect a fundamental shift in regulatory thinking. A certain IVD company in Hangzhou has advanced the launch time of its new product by 11 months through the "research and review linkage" mechanism, vividly demonstrating the value of the new system.Digital technology is profoundly changing the registration process. The electronic declaration system of the Medical Device Evaluation Center (CMDE) of the National Medical Products Administration has achieved paperless processing of over 95% of materials, and the AI assisted evaluation system can automatically identify 80% of formatting issues. However, it is worth noting that the average time for technical review remains at around 120 days, indicating that substantive review is still an insurmountable "quality red line".2、 Real world data: a paradigm revolution in clinical evaluationThe most breakthrough change in 2025 lies in the comprehensive application of RWS (Real World Research) data. A domestic heart valve saved 27 million yuan in costs by collecting 3285 clinical usage data instead of traditional clinical trials. But this innovation also brings new challenges: how to ensure data quality? The case of a company in Shenzhen being required to provide additional materials due to incomplete RWS data traceability highlights the importance of data governance.At the specific implementation level, different types of instruments face different situations:Imaging diagnostic equipment: DICOM standard data can be directly used for performance validationRehabilitation equipment: The usage data generated by the Internet of Things can serve as proof of effectivenessImplanted devices: strict follow-up combined with traditional clinical trials is still needed3、 Cross border regulation: Compliance restructuring brought about by globalizationWith China's accession to the IMDRF (International Medical Device Regulatory Forum), mutual recognition of review results with the EU MDR and the US FDA will be achieved by 2025. Medtronic's latest approved neurostimulator directly uses overseas clinical data, saving 18 months of time. However, local enterprises such as Mindray Medical still need to invest about 3.5% of their revenue to meet the registration requirements of multiple countries, indicating that the cost of international compliance cannot be ignored.The pilot project of "registration integration" in the Guangdong Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area shows that mutual recognition of standards among the three regions has shortened the product launch cycle by 40%. This regional exploration may become a Chinese solution to address global regulatory fragmentation.4、 Enterprise response: finding a balance between compliance and innovationTop enterprises have begun to restructure their research and development systems. The "registration driven research and development" model established by Minimally Invasive Medical has reduced the average registration time of products to 2/3 of competitors. However, startups face a dilemma: the game between first mover advantage and compliance risk. The lesson of a certain AI medical imaging company in Beijing being rejected for registration due to its eagerness to go public shows that grasping the balance point requires professional judgment.The battle for talent has already begun. The annual salary increase for compound talents who understand both clinical practice and registration is 25%, and data from a headhunter shows that there is a talent gap of over 12000 people in the industry. This structural shortage will continue at least until 2026.Looking back at the milestone of 2025, China's medical device registration system has evolved from a simple administrative approval to an infrastructure that promotes high-quality development of the industry. The loosening of regulations has released innovative vitality, but the accompanying restructuring of responsibility systems, challenges in data governance, and global compliance requirements are all testing the adaptability of enterprises. The future is here, only by embracing change with a professional attitude can we gain an advantage in the new era of medical devices. This quiet regulatory revolution will eventually translate into safer and more advanced medical solutions in the hands of patients.

What is 510 (k) certification?FDA 510 (k) is the market access approval process for medical devices by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), requiring companies to demonstrate that their new products are "substantially equivalent" in safety and efficacy to predicate devices that have already been legally marketed.Real case analysis: Certification process of blood glucose monitoring deviceLet's learn step by step about the 510 (k) process through a certification case of a new non-invasive blood glucose monitor:Step 1: Determine product classification (takes 1-2 weeks)Case: Our blood glucose meter belongs to Class II medical devices, with product code "NBW", and requires submission of a 510 (k) application.Key points:Confirm product category through FDA classification databaseClarify whether clinical data is needed (not required in this case)Step 2: Find predicate devices (takes 2-4 weeks)Case: Dexcom G6, which has already been launched, was chosen as the main predicate device because its technical characteristics are similar to our product.Key points:Select 1-3 most similar legally listed devicesRecord the 510 (k) number and key parameters of the predicate deviceStep 3: Prepare technical documentation (takes 8-12 weeks)The case document includes:Performance test data: Accuracy reaches 98.5% (equivalent to 98.2% of Dexcom G6)Biocompatibility report: tested according to ISO 10993-1Electromagnetic compatibility test: compliant with IEC 60601-1-2 standardSoftware validation: Following IEC 62304 standardKey points:All tests must be conducted by an ISO 13485 certified laboratoryThe data must display substantial equivalence with the predicate deviceStep 4: Submit a 510 (k) application (FDA review for 90 days)Case submission content:Application Form (FDA 3601)Summary statementDeclaration of Authenticity and AccuracyDevice descriptionSubstantial equivalence argumentperformance dataLabel SampleSterilization information (if applicable)Key points:Electronic submission through FDA ESG systemThe application fee for 2023 is $19870 ($4967 for small businesses)Step 5: FDA Review and ResponseCase timeline:Day 30: FDA confirms receipt of applicationDay 60: FDA raises supplementary questions about calibration algorithmsDay 75: Submit supplementary dataDay 88: Obtain a "substantial equivalence" decision letterKey points:The average review time is about 90 days, and complex products may be delayedAbout 30% of applications will receive additional information requests from the FDAKey factors for successPredicate device selection: Select the marketed device with the closest technical parametersTest design: Ensure that the test plan can fully demonstrate substantive equivalenceDocument integrity: Avoiding review delays caused by incomplete informationPreliminary communication: It is recommended to submit a Pre Sub application for complex products to obtain FDA feedbackCommon Error WarningSelecting inappropriate predicate devicesThe test data is insufficient or does not meet the standardsX does not include all necessary partsUnderestimating document preparation timeThrough this real-life case, it can be seen that the core of 510 (k) certification lies in "proving similarity" rather than "proving innovation". Reasonable planning and sufficient preparation can usually complete the entire process within 4-6 months.

The fee standards for CE certification consulting green channels vary depending on the product type and certification requirements. Generally speaking, the cost of CE certification mainly includes testing fees, document preparation fees, certification body fees, supervision and audit fees, etc. The specific charging standards will depend on the complexity of the product and testing requirements.The cost structure of CE certification mainly includes the following aspects:Testing costs: Depending on the specific testing items of the product, such as safety testing, electromagnetic compatibility testing (EMC), chemical analysis, environmental adaptability testing, etc. These costs are usually high, ranging from 2000 to 5000 euros, depending on the complexity of the product and testing requirements.Document preparation costs: including product technical document preparation and application document preparation, with a cost range of approximately 2000-5000 euros and 500-3000 euros.Certification agency fees: Certification agencies will charge a certain service fee, which may range from 0-3000 euros, depending on their pricing strategy.Supervision and audit costs: During the certification process, supervision and audit may be required, with a cost of approximately 500-2000 euros.Other expenses, such as product sampling fees, expedited service fees, translation fees, etc., may vary depending on specific circumstances.The overview of CE certification fees for different types of products is as follows:Ordinary electronic products, such as electronic appliances, cost approximately 4000 yuan and mainly involve EMC and LVD instructions.Wireless electronic products: The cost starts from 3000 yuan, depending on the wireless communication frequency band and product characteristics, and usually requires certification under the RED directive.Mechanical products: The cost is relatively high, starting from 5000 yuan, involving MD instructions, and may require factory audit procedures and evaluations.Specific products: such as hardware and building materials, which cost about 5000 yuan or more, toys, which cost about 2000-4000 yuan, and personal protective products, which cost about 10000 yuan or more.When choosing CE certification services, the following points should be noted:Regional differences: The specific CE certification fees may vary depending on the specific policies of the region, certification body, and market supply and demand.Institution selection: When choosing a certification agency, one should consider its professional competence, reputation, and service quality. Different certification agencies may have different pricing strategies and service quality.Cost optimization: Enterprises can reduce CE certification costs by optimizing product design, strengthening communication with certification agencies, and improving production and management levels.

Against the backdrop of increasingly fierce competition in the global medical market, expanding into international markets has become an important strategy for medical device companies. This article will systematically review the key steps in international registration of medical devices, including the CE certification process, key registration points for the US FDA, selection criteria for EU authorized representatives (EUs), and special requirements for each country, providing a one-stop solution for enterprises.1、 Overview of International Medical Device Certification SystemThe certification framework of the global mainstream market presents diversified characteristics, mainly divided into three types of regulatory models:EU CE certification system: Based on risk level classification (Class I, IIa, IIb, III), it is required to comply with MDR (EU 2017/745) or IVDR (EU 2017/746) regulationsUS FDA registration system: Implement product classification management (Class I, II, III), requiring completion of enterprise registration, product listing, and pre-market notifications such as 510 (k)/PMAOther important markets: including China NMPA registration (classified management), Japan PMDA certification (with designated local agent), Canada Health Canada license, etcRisk management is the common core of regulation in various countries, and the higher the product risk level, the stricter the approval requirements. For example, EU Class III implantable devices require a complete clinical evaluation report, while US Class III products typically require PMA approval.2、 Analysis of the entire process of EU CE certification1. Product classification and compliance path selectionAccording to MDR regulations, medical devices are divided into:Class I (low-risk, such as tongue depressors): Self conformity declarationIIa category (low to medium risk, such as hearing aids): requires review by a notified bodyClass IIb (medium to high risk, such as ventilators): comprehensive technical document reviewClass III (high-risk, such as heart stents): strictest review processThe key steps include:Determine product classification and applicable regulationsChoose a conformity assessment path (11 different procedures)Prepare technical documents (including design documents, risk analysis, clinical data, etc.)Implement a quality management system (ISO 13485 certified as best practice)Select and undergo review by the notified body (for IIa and above products)Sign the conformity declaration and affix the CE mark2. Clinical evaluation requirementsAll CE certified devices must undergo clinical evaluation, including:Existing clinical data evaluationConduct new clinical research when necessaryContinuously updated evaluation report (PSUR)3、 Key points for the management of EU authorized representatives (EUs)According to Article 11 of the MDR, non EU manufacturers must designate a European representative, whose core responsibilities include:As a legal liaison within the European UnionSave technical documents and compliance statementsCooperate with regulatory requirements of the competent authoritiesReport serious incidents and on-site safety corrective measuresThe selection criteria for European agents should pay attention to:Professional qualifications (requiring expertise in medical device regulations)Service capability (multilingual support, coverage of target market)Compliance Record (No Regulatory Penalty History)Emergency response mechanism (ability to quickly handle emergencies)A typical service agreement should specify:Service scope and division of responsibilitiesFile retention period (at least 10 years after product launch)Cost structure and adjustment mechanismTermination clauses and transitional arrangements4、 Special Requirements for FDA Registration in the United States1. Registration and Listing ProcessObtain DUNS NumberComplete enterprise registration (updated from October to December each year)Submit device column name informationSubmit 510 (k), De Novo, or PMA applications based on product classification2. 510 (k) pre-market notificationSubstantial equivalence proof is crucial and requires:Detailed comparison of comparative instrumentsPerformance test dataBiocompatibility report (if applicable)Sterilization validation (for sterile products)3. Quality system requirements21 CFR Part 820 specifies cGMP requirements, including:Design control programProcess validationCorrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) SystemDevice History Record (DHR) Management5、 Suggestions for optimizing international registration strategiesGlobal Registration Roadmap Plan: Prioritize breaking through CE/FDA dual certification and utilizing this data to support applications in other marketsModularization of technical documents: Establish core technical files and supplement specific content according to national requirementsRegulatory resource integration: utilizing the mutual recognition agreement (MDSAP) between the EU MDR and the US FDA to reduce duplicate auditsLifecycle management: Establish a change control process to ensure continuous updates of registration informationDigital transformation is changing the registration process. Suggestions:Submit technical documents in eCTD formatUsing AI tools to monitor regulatory changesEstablish an electronic quality management systemWith the end of the EU MDR transition period (fully implemented on May 26, 2027) and the increasing emphasis on real-world evidence (RWE) by the FDA, medical device companies need to establish forward-looking registration strategies and integrate compliance requirements into product lifecycle management in order to gain a competitive advantage in the global market.