Medical Devices Classification EU

This purpose of this blog is to explain Medical Device Classification in the EU as well as what Medical Devices belong in which relevant class.

The European Union (EU) device classification system has some differences from the United Kingdom (UK) and FDA’s classification, as well as some similarities to both, so it’s well worth taking note.

If you need help with device classification to market your device in the EU, the patient guard team can provide this in our services. But first, let’s explain what is required to meet the EU classifications for medical devices.

The Purpose of Medical Device classification

The classification of medical devices in the EU is based on the potential risks that the devices can impose to the human body from contact with or use of the devices. The EU classification rules are set out in Annex VIII of Medical Device Regulation (EU) 2017/745 (MDR).

How many device classes exist in EU MDR 2017/745?

The EU MDR 2017/745 currently has 4 main medical device classification categories and three sub-categories:

• Class I

• Class I Sterile (Class Is)

• Class I Measuring (Class Im)

• Class I reusable (Class Ir)

• Class IIa

• Class IIb

• Class III

A Class I medical device in the EU present the lowest risk, medical manufacturers can usually self-certify class I devices without requiring a notified body.

Examples of Class I Medical Devices

• Bandages

• Stethoscopes

• Manual Wheelchairs

Additionally, under class I, there are subclasses that are higher risk that require a notified body; these are

Class I Sterile (Class Is), Class I Measuring (Class Im) and Class I reusable (Class Ir)

• Class Is – Medical Devices in this subcategory must be sterile.

• Class Im – Devices that fall into this category of class I medical devices have a measuring feature.

• Class Ir – This device category is for medical devices that are reprocessed for further use.

Class II Medical Devices are medium risk and require the involvement of a notified body. The CE certificate must be issued by the notified body, as these devices cannot be self-certified.

Examples of for Class IIa Medical Devices

• Blood Transfusion Tubes

• Catheters

• Ultrasonic Diagnostic Equipment

Class IIb devices are medium to high medical devices that are involved in surgery, implanted into the human body or pose other high risks.

Examples of for Class IIb Medical Devices

• Intensive care monitoring equipment

• Infusion pumps

The difference between Class IIa and Class IIb devices is an increase in risk to the patient, with Class IIb posing the higher risk.

Class III Medical Devices

The final device classification in the EU is class III devices. These are devices that pose the highest risk to patient safety, as with the UK and FDA’s versions of Medical Device classifications. Class III devices require a notified body and a complete clinical evaluation on the device.

Examples of class III Medical Devices

• Breast implants

• Surgical mesh

• Pacemakers

We hope this blog was useful in helping you to understand the difference between the Classes of Medical Devices according to EU regulations. Do you want to learn more about device classifications in the UK? Why not check out our other blogs below. Additionally, you can check out Patient Guard’s Quality Services here and Regulatory Services here, that will assist you in getting your medical devices to market in the UK and EU.

Connor is a recent graduate in ‘Digital Media and Web Technologies”, where he graduated with a First Class Honours degree at Blackpool & The Fylde College. Connor joined Patient Guard in September 2021 as the digital marketing assistant.