2018 US Device Approvals: The Year Of De Novos And Digital Health

It was another record year for novel device approvals by US FDA, driven by the big uptick in de novo classifications for low-to-moderate-risk devices in 2018. Meanwhile, original PMA approvals dropped significantly. An analysis and infographic on FDA device approval trends in 2018.

FDA approved background, 3D rendering, blue street sign

[Editor's note: For sortable and searchable tables of all US and non-US approvals and clearances in 2018 and previous years, check out our Approvals Tracker. For comprehensive tracking of company events and catalysts related to approvals and clearances, go to Meddevicetracker. Not a subscriber? Click here to request your free demo.]

The number of original PMA approvals – the regulatory pathway most typically linked to new breakthrough devices – dropped precipitously in 2018, by 33%. Even so, FDA broke a new...

The reason for the disconnect is a record performance for de novo classifications and a resurgence of panel-track PMA supplements during 2018 – these are the two other pathways that...

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