Medical Device Biocompatability
In healthcare, ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical devices is paramount. Patients rely on these devices for diagnosis, treatment, and improved quality of life. Biological evaluation plays a pivotal role in determining the biological safety of these devices. Governed by international standards, most notably the ISO 10993 series, biological evaluation involves a thorough assessment of a device’s interaction with living tissues. This blog delves into the importance of biological evaluation, highlighting the critical biological endpoints outlined in ISO 10993, the significance of a robust biological evaluation plan, and the crucial role of qualified experts in this process.
Understanding Biological Endpoints: ISO 10993 Standards
The ISO 10993 standards outline various biological endpoints to be considered during the evaluation process. These endpoints, including cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, sensitization, irritation, and systemic toxicity, are essential parameters for assessing the potential risks associated with a medical device’s interaction with the human body. The following list details the current ISO 10993 set of standards used for medical device biological evaluation:
ISO 10993-1 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Evaluation and Testing within a risk management process
ISO 10993-1 serves as the cornerstone for biological evaluation of medical devices. This standard lays down the fundamental principles and methods essential for assessing the biological safety of medical devices. It provides a systematic approach that emphasizes the integration of biological evaluation into the broader risk management process applied during the development and lifecycle of medical devices. ISO 10993-1 guides manufacturers in understanding the intricacies of biological assessment, ensuring that evaluations are comprehensive, consistent, and aligned with international regulatory requirements. By adhering to the principles outlined in ISO 10993-1, manufacturers can confidently navigate the complex landscape of medical device development, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients who rely on these devices for their health and quality of life.
ISO 10993-2 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Animal Welfare Requirements
This standard specifically focuses on the ethical treatment of animals during biological evaluations of medical devices. Recognizing the significance of humane practices, ISO 10993-2 provides a comprehensive framework ensuring that all testing involving animals is conducted with utmost care, respecting their welfare and minimizing any potential discomfort or harm. By establishing stringent criteria for animal testing, ISO 10993-2 promotes the ethical conduct of experiments, emphasizing the importance of responsible research practices in the field of medical device evaluation. Manufacturers, researchers, and regulatory bodies worldwide rely on ISO 10993-2 to uphold ethical standards while conducting essential experiments, ensuring that the advancement of medical technology occurs within the bounds of compassion and respect for all living beings.
ISO 10993-3 Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Tests for genotoxicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity
This standard focuses on specific tests designed to assess genotoxic, carcinogenic, and reproductive risks associated with medical devices. By outlining rigorous testing methods, ISO 10993-3 ensures that potential long-term genetic and reproductive effects are thoroughly examined. Manufacturers and regulatory bodies rely on the guidelines set forth in this standard to identify any adverse effects that could impact patients over extended periods. Through these meticulous tests, ISO 10993-3 contributes significantly to the assurance of patient safety, allowing the medical community to make informed decisions about the use and implementation of various medical devices, thereby safeguarding the well-being of patients worldwide.
ISO 10993-4 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Selection of tests for interactions with blood
This standard is a vital document within the ISO 10993 series, addressing the specific challenges associated with medical devices that come into contact with blood. This standard provides meticulous guidelines for selecting appropriate tests to evaluate the interaction between medical devices and blood components. Given the critical nature of devices like intravascular catheters and cardiovascular implants, ISO 10993-4 ensures that thorough assessments are conducted, considering parameters such as hemolysis, thrombosis, and complement activation. By adhering to the principles outlined in ISO 10993-4, manufacturers can accurately gauge the compatibility of their devices with blood, mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of these devices when used in medical applications.
ISO 10993-5 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Tests for in vitro cytotoxicity
This standard focuses on evaluating the cytotoxic potential of medical devices by employing in vitro methods. Cytotoxicity testing is essential as it assesses the adverse effects of a device’s components on living cells, providing crucial insights into its biocompatibility. ISO 10993-5 outlines specific procedures and criteria for conducting these tests, ensuring that manufacturers can accurately gauge the impact of their devices at the cellular level. By adhering to the guidelines set forth in this standard, medical device developers can identify and mitigate potential risks, ensuring that their products do not harm living tissues or compromise patient health. ISO 10993-5 plays a pivotal role in the early stages of device development, enabling manufacturers to make informed decisions and refine their designs, ultimately contributing to the creation of safer and more effective medical devices.
ISO 10993-6 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Tests for local effects after implantation
This document outlines specific tests and methodologies designed to assess the local effects that a medical device might induce when implanted within the human body. These tests delve into various aspects, including tissue irritation, inflammation, and other adverse reactions that could occur at the implantation site. ISO 10993-6 plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of implantable devices, guiding manufacturers in understanding the potential impact of their products on surrounding tissues. By conducting these tests in accordance with the guidelines provided, manufacturers can gain valuable insights into the device’s biocompatibility, aiding them in refining designs and materials to minimize adverse local effects.
ISO 10993-7 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Ethylene Oxide sterilization residuals
This standard provides comprehensive guidelines specifically focusing on medical devices that are sterilized using ethylene oxide gas. Ethylene oxide sterilization is a common method employed for devices sensitive to heat or radiation. ISO 10993-7 meticulously outlines the procedures, validation methods, and considerations necessary to assess the biological safety of devices post-ethylene oxide sterilization. It ensures that residual ethylene oxide and its by-products do not pose harm to patients when the devices are used. By adhering to the protocols outlined in this standard, manufacturers can confidently apply ethylene oxide sterilization, ensuring that medical devices are not only free from harmful microorganisms but also biologically safe for patients.
Can we help you with your Biological Evaluation?
ISO 10993-9 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Framework for identification and quantification of potential degradation products
This standard focuses on the identification and quantification of degradation products that can arise from polymeric materials over time. Polymeric devices, widely used in various medical applications, undergo natural degradation, potentially releasing substances that could impact the human body. ISO 10993-9 provides a systematic framework, outlining methods and principles for analyzing these degradation products. By adhering to the protocols established in this standard, manufacturers can gain vital insights into the nature and quantity of degradation products, ensuring that the released substances do not pose a risk to patients.
ISO 10993-10 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Tests for skin sensitization
This standard outlines specific tests and methodologies designed to evaluate the device’s effects on living tissues, particularly focusing on skin and mucous membranes. By conducting these tests, manufacturers can determine whether a medical device induces any form of irritation or sensitization, ensuring that it is safe for use without causing adverse reactions in patients. Adhering to the guidelines set by ISO 10993-10 is essential, as it not only guarantees the device’s biocompatibility but also enhances its overall safety profile. Rigorous testing in accordance with this standard is crucial in ensuring that medical devices, ranging from topical dressings to implantable devices, do not cause discomfort, allergic reactions, or inflammation.
Does your medical device need biological evaluation?
ISO 10993-11 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Tests for systemic toxicity
This standard outlines specific tests and methodologies designed to assess systemic toxicity, ensuring that substances released from medical devices do not harm organs or tissues beyond the immediate contact area. These tests are crucial, especially for devices with prolonged or extensive contact with the body, such as implants. By conducting these systemic toxicity tests as per the guidelines of ISO 10993-11, manufacturers can thoroughly analyze the potential risks associated with their devices. This evaluation is essential in ensuring that medical devices do not cause harmful effects on vital organs, blood circulation, or other systemic functions, thus guaranteeing the safety and well-being of patients relying on these devices for their health and medical treatments.
ISO 10993-12 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Sample preparation and reference materials
This standard provides comprehensive guidelines on how samples for testing should be prepared and emphasizes the importance of using appropriate reference materials. Proper sample preparation is critical as it directly impacts the validity of the test results. ISO 10993-12 offers clear protocols, ensuring consistency across laboratories and enabling meaningful comparisons of results between different studies. Additionally, the standard underscores the necessity of using reference materials to calibrate instruments and validate testing methods, ensuring the precision of biological evaluations. By adhering to the procedures outlined in ISO 10993-12, manufacturers can enhance the reproducibility and credibility of their tests, leading to more accurate assessments of medical device safety. This standard plays a vital role in standardizing sample preparation techniques, fostering confidence in the reliability of biological evaluation.
ISO 10993-13 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Identification and quantification of degradation products from polymeric medical devices
This standard focuses on identifying and quantifying degradation products that may be released from polymeric materials over time. As polymeric devices naturally degrade, the identification of these products is crucial to understanding their potential impact on human health. ISO 10993-13 offers a systematic approach, outlining methods and principles for analyzing degradation products, ensuring they do not pose risks to patients. By following the procedures detailed in this standard, manufacturers gain valuable insights into the nature and quantity of degradation products, allowing them to design safer devices. Complying with ISO 10993-13 guarantees that polymeric medical devices maintain their integrity and biocompatibility throughout their lifespan, contributing significantly to patient safety and confidence in medical technologies.
ISO 10993-14 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Identification and quantification of degradation products from ceramics
This standard outlines specific methodologies and rigorous testing procedures essential for evaluating the potential release of degradation products from ceramic medical devices over time. By following the protocols established in ISO 10993-14, manufacturers can systematically assess these products, ensuring they do not pose any harm to patients. Given the long-term applications of ceramic devices, understanding the nature and quantity of degradation products is vital to guarantee the device’s safety and effectiveness throughout its lifecycle
ISO 10993-15 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Identification and quantification of degradation products from metals and alloys
In medical applications, metals and alloys are often utilized for their mechanical strength and resilience. However, over time, these materials may degrade, potentially releasing harmful substances into the body. ISO 10993-15 meticulously outlines procedures to identify and quantify these degradation products, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of their biocompatibility. By adhering to the guidelines in this standard, manufacturers can systematically evaluate the safety of medical devices containing metals and alloys. Accurate identification of degradation products is pivotal as it guarantees that devices remain safe for long-term use, maintaining patient well-being. Compliance with ISO 10993-15 not only underscores the commitment to patient safety but also assures healthcare professionals and patients of the continued reliability and efficacy of medical devices constructed from metals and alloys, thereby upholding the highest standards of healthcare quality and safety.
ISO 10993-16 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Toxicokinetic study design for degradation products and leachables
ISO 10993-16 plays a crucial role in the realm of medical device evaluation by providing guidelines for toxicokinetic study design concerning degradation products and leachables. Understanding how these substances are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted within the human body is essential for assessing their potential impact on human health. This standard outlines systematic methodologies to design toxicokinetic studies, ensuring comprehensive evaluation of degradation products and leachables. By adhering to the protocols established in ISO 10993-16, manufacturers can conduct studies that provide vital insights into the body’s interaction with these substances, ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical devices. This standard not only emphasizes the importance of in-depth toxicokinetic analysis but also reinforces the commitment to patient safety, enabling healthcare professionals and patients to have confidence in the biocompatibility and safety of medical devices.
ISO 10993-17 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Toxicological risk assessment of medical devices of medical device constituents
This standard provides detailed guidelines for the systematic evaluation of the potential risks posed by the constituents of medical devices. By conducting rigorous toxicological assessments, manufacturers can identify and mitigate any hazards associated with the components used in their devices. ISO 10993-17 emphasizes a comprehensive approach, integrating the latest scientific methods to assess the toxicological impact of device constituents, ranging from materials to coatings and additives. Compliance with this standard is crucial as it not only reflects the commitment of the medical industry to patient welfare but also reinforces the trust healthcare professionals and patients have in the safety and reliability of modern medical devices. Adhering to ISO 10993-17 ensures that medical devices undergo thorough toxicological scrutiny, contributing significantly to the continuous enhancement of healthcare standards and the overall well-being of patients worldwide.
ISO 10993-18 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Chemical characterization of medical device materials within a risk management process
This standard provides comprehensive guidelines for evaluating the chemical composition of materials used in medical devices. Understanding the exact chemical makeup of these materials is crucial as it directly influences their biocompatibility and potential risks to patients. By integrating chemical characterization within the broader context of risk management, this standard ensures a systematic and holistic approach. Manufacturers are guided to identify, analyze, and document the chemical properties of device materials, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding their products’ safety. Compliance with ISO 10993-18:2020 ensures that medical devices undergo thorough chemical assessments, aligning with risk management strategies, and ultimately contributes to the development of safer and more reliable medical technologies.
ISO 10993-19 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Physico-chemical, morphological and topographical characterization of materials
This technical specification provides detailed guidelines for understanding the physical and chemical properties, as well as the structural characteristics, of materials used in medical devices. These parameters play a significant role in determining the device’s biocompatibility, mechanical stability, and overall performance. By delving into the intricacies of the material at a fundamental level, manufacturers can gain essential insights into how it interacts with biological systems, ensuring safety and efficacy. ISO/TS 10993-19:2020 aids in establishing a comprehensive profile of materials, guiding manufacturers in making informed decisions during the device development process. This standard’s focus on physico-chemical, morphological, and topographical aspects reinforces the industry’s commitment to producing medical devices that are not only functionally superior but also biologically safe.
ISO 10993-20 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Principles and methods for immunotoxicology testing of medical devices
this technical specification outlines systematic guidelines for evaluating the potential immunological responses elicited by medical devices within the human body. Immunotoxicology testing is critical as it assesses how these devices might trigger adverse reactions within the immune system, ensuring patient safety. By employing rigorous methodologies established in ISO/TS 10993-20:2006, manufacturers can comprehensively evaluate the immunological impact of their devices. This includes understanding the device’s potential to induce allergic reactions, hypersensitivity, or other immune-related complications. Compliance with this standard enables manufacturers to identify and mitigate potential risks, ensuring the development of medical devices that do not compromise the body’s immune response. Adherence to ISO/TS 10993-20:2006 underscores the industry’s commitment to producing safe and biocompatible medical devices.
ISO 10993-22 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Guidance on nanomaterials
This standard provides comprehensive advice on experimental techniques, risk assessment, and considerations tailored to nanomaterials, ensuring a thorough understanding of their effects on living tissues. By following the recommendations outlined in ISO/TR 10993-22:2017, manufacturers can conduct precise assessments, enabling the development of safe medical devices utilizing nanomaterials. This standard plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation in the medical industry while ensuring the protection of patient health. Adherence to ISO/TR 10993-22:2017 is fundamental, reflecting the commitment to rigorous scientific evaluation and the responsible advancement of nanotechnology in medical applications.
ISO 10993-23 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Tests for irritation
This standard outlines meticulous procedures for evaluating the potential irritant effects of medical devices on living tissues. These tests are crucial as they help identify any irritation or inflammation that a device might induce when in contact with the skin or mucous membranes. By adhering to the guidelines set forth in ISO 10993-23, manufacturers can conduct systematic and standardized irritation tests, ensuring that their devices are safe for human use. The standard encompasses various methods, including both in vitro and in vivo assessments, providing a comprehensive approach to understanding the device’s potential to cause irritation. Compliance with ISO 10993-23 is vital, as it not only ensures the biocompatibility of medical devices but also emphasizes the industry’s dedication to patient safety by preventing discomfort or harm caused by irritation.
ISO 10993-33 - Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices - Guidance on tests to evaluate genotoxicity
ISO 10993-33 provides essential guidance on tests to evaluate genotoxicity in the context of biological evaluation of medical devices. Published as part of the ISO 10993 series, this standard offers comprehensive instructions on assessing the potential genetic damage caused by medical devices, ensuring a thorough evaluation of their safety. Genotoxicity testing is crucial as it examines whether a device’s components can induce mutations or damage the genetic material within cells, which could lead to adverse health effects, including cancer. ISO 10993-33 outlines specific tests and methodologies, ensuring a systematic approach to evaluating genotoxic risks. Manufacturers rely on this standard to conduct rigorous assessments, enabling them to identify and mitigate any potential genotoxic effects of their devices. Adherence to ISO 10993-33 not only ensures compliance with international regulatory requirements but also underscores the commitment to producing medical devices that do not pose genotoxic risks.
How do you select the right Biological Endpoints?
Types of Medical Device
There are three types of medical device when its comes to biological evaluation.
- Surface Devices
- Externally communicating devices
- Implant devices
Depending on which type of device the medical device falls under, determines which type of biological endpoints are relevant to demonstrate its biological safety.
Surface Device
Skin contact: Such as electrodes, external prostheses, fixation tapes, compression bandages and monitors of various types.
Mucosal membrane contact (lips, eyes, epithelium): Such as contact lenses, urinary catheters, intravaginal and intra-intestinal devices (stomach tubes, sigmoidoscopes, colonoscopes, gastroscopes), endotracheal tubes, bronchoscopes, some dental
prostheses and orthodontic devices.
Breached surfaces contact (cuts or wounds): Such as dressings or healing devices and occlusive patches for ulcers, burns and granulation tissue.
Externally Communicating Devices
Blood path indirect contact: Such as solution administration sets, extension sets, transfer sets and blood administration
sets.
Tissue/Bone/Dentin contact: Such as Laparoscopes, arthroscopes, draining systems, dental filling materials and skin staples. Tubing used for irrigation and medical device components that have fluid contact that can also contact the patient.
Circulating blood contact: Such as Intravascular catheters, temporary pacemaker electrodes, oxygenators, extracorporeal
oxygenator tubing and accessories, dialysers, dialysis tubing and accessories, haemoadsorbents and immunoadsorbents.
Implant Medical Devices
Tissue/Bone contact: Orthopaedic pins, plates, replacement joints, bone prostheses, bone cements and intraosseous devices. Pacemakers, drug supply devices, neuromuscular sensors and simulators, replacement tendons, breast implants, artificial larynxes, subperiosteal implants, ligation clips and intrauterine devices that do not achieve their primary function by chemical activity.
Blood contact: Pacemaker electrodes, artificial arteriovenous fistulae, heart valves, vascular grafts, internal drug-delivery catheters and ventricular assist devices.
For the latest news about updates to standards and regulations
Can we help you with Biocompatibility?
Duration of contact time
Not only is the type of medical device taken into consideration in terms of what type of contact the device has, but also the amount of time that the medical device has contact with those tissue types. This also applies to medical devices which may have a cumulative contact time. These are devices that can be applied for a few minutes or hours and then not applied again until a later time. Based on the medical devices total cumulative contact time over its lifetime on the same user needs to be taken into account.
There are three periods of contact time which are taken into consideration when it comes to the assessment of which biological endpoints are relevant to a medical device, these are as follows:
- Less than 24 hours contact time
- Between 24 hours and 30 days contact time
- Over 30 days contact time
Table showing applicable biological endpoints based on being surface medical devices
Table showing applicable biological endpoints based on externally communicating medical devices
Table showing applicable biological endpoints based on implantable medical devices
Biological Evaluation Plan
Manufacturers of medical devices must prioritize the creation of a comprehensive Biological Evaluation Plan (BEP) to assess the relevant biological endpoints associated with their products. The BEP serves as a vital document, clearly outlining and identifying the biological endpoints pertinent to the specific medical device under evaluation. It is imperative that all potential biological risks stemming from device usage are identified and evaluated in accordance with the principles set forth in ISO 14971 and the manufacturer’s risk management plan.
To effectively mitigate these foreseeable risks, the BEP must rely on evidence derived from rigorous testing procedures or scientific literature, aligning with the standards mentioned in this article. This evidence should be used to determine whether testing is necessary or if existing scientific data suffices, ensuring a thorough and accurate evaluation. Subsequent to testing or the accumulation of supporting scientific evidence, a Biological Evaluation Report must be meticulously prepared. This report synthesizes all test data and pertinent scientific literature to reach a definitive conclusion: whether the medical device can be deemed biologically safe for use.
Crucially, both the BEP and the Biological Evaluation Report should be authored by a Qualified Person, such as a toxicologist. This expertise is essential to guaranteeing the accuracy and reliability of the assessment process, aligning with regulatory standards and ensuring the safety of the medical device in question. Manufacturers must adhere to these meticulous procedures to uphold the highest standards of safety and efficacy for their medical devices.
Biological Evaluation Report
A crucial requirement in the medical device industry is the preparation of a comprehensive Biological Evaluation Report (BER). This document serves as tangible proof that all relevant biological endpoints associated with a medical device have undergone thorough assessment. The BER provides essential evidence, derived from meticulous testing and scientific literature, indicating that the device is indeed biologically safe. This assessment carefully examines all risks outlined in the Biological Evaluation Plan (BEP) to confirm that they have been effectively controlled, minimizing these risks while maximizing the device’s intended benefits.
The BER holds significant importance as a validation document, showcasing adherence to Medical Device Regulations. It is a vital component of the verification and validation process for medical devices. To ensure accuracy and reliability, the BER must be prepared by a qualified professional, such as a toxicologist. This ensures that the assessment meets the highest industry standards, providing assurance of the device’s biological safety and regulatory compliance.
For assistance with BEPs and BERs please click on the below button to see how Patient Guard can help:
