1. Medtech Insight
  2. >>Policy & Regulation
  3. >>Regulation

Opinion: The Great Implant Scandal Or 7.7 Billion Reasons To Celebrate Medical Devices?

 
• By Trevor Lewis

Investigative journalists, tort lawyers, the judicial system and public opinion all provide checks and balances on medical research, industrial innovation and commercial exploitation of health-care technologies. Whether those affected like it or not, these well-intentioned elements of society demand accountability of an industry that has a profound effect on all our lives. The "Implant Files" episode is a reminder for medtech stakeholders across the world that nothing can be taken for granted, says medtech industry and regulatory consultant Trevor Lewis in this guest column for Medtech Insight.

Thumbs up thumbs down. Yes and no concept.
About The Author

Trevor Lewis is an independent medical device consultant who has worked on thousands of medical device projects over a career of more than 30 years. He has trained medical device regulators from all over Europe, China and India, on EU medical device regulations, and has provided advice to regulators globally.

The significant volumes of documentation that medical technology manufacturers must generate in support of their products, as they make their way through trials, regulation, reimbursement and then through post-market surveillance and clinical follow-up, has a dual aim: to show that manufacturers have been duly diligent, professional, and ethical in their work; and to demonstrate that what they have done is in the best interests of patients – those who are at the center of their concerns.

More from Regulation

MHRA’s Tallon Hails PMS Regulation As Start Of UK Device Framework Transformation

 
• By Ashley Yeo

16 June marked the first major new regulatory instrument in the UK’s post-Brexit transition to a standalone device regulatory system for Great Britain.

Increasing Safety Concerns Spur Scrutiny of Device Plastics Use

 
• By Elizabeth Orr

With new regulations limiting the use of plastics popping up worldwide, the medtech industry sees arguments on both sides. Some argue hasty bans of PFAS ("forever chemicals") would harm patients, while others say phthalates should be phased out to protect the public.

UK Healthtech Center Of Excellence Given Key MHRA Digital Regulation Role

 
• By Ashley Yeo

Ahead of the 11 June UK spending review and its anticipated funding uplift for healthcare and life sciences, the MHRA announced an expansion of its digital expertise by creating a dedicated hub in Leeds, a renowned center of medtech excellence.

Where Do Questions Surrounding The EU’s AI Act Leave The Medtech Industry?

 
• By Amanda Maxwell

The EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, which entered into force on 1 August 2024, is already facing turbulence.

More from Policy & Regulation

US FDA Unveils Plans To Consolidate Support Services

 
• By Derrick Gingery and Sue Sutter

Commissioner Martin Makary told staff that plans are being developed to centralize HR, IT, travel and other functions, which were heavily impacted by the 1 April reduction-in-force.

A Year After Exiting The Ventilator Market, Medtronic Recalls Thousands Of Newport Devices

 
• By Brian Bossetta

After two serious injuries and one death linked to some of its ventilators, Medtronic has recalled the devices and asked customers to stop using them and find alternative means. The action comes more than a year after the company left the market.

MDUFA VI Launches With Public Meeting, Call For Comments

 
• By Elizabeth Orr

Preparations for the reauthorization of the Medical Device User Fee Amendments for 2028-2032 are underway, with the US FDA announcing a public meeting for 4 August. After negotiations with industry and other stakeholders, a draft agreement is due to Congress by 15 January 2025.