CDSCO License for Annuloplasty ring
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
An annuloplasty ring is a rigid or flexible ring implanted around the mitral or tricuspid heart valve for reconstructive treatment of valvular insufficiency.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Annuloplasty Rings (Class C Cardiovascular Devices)
Annuloplasty rings are specialized cardiovascular medical devices used in cardiac valve repair surgeries, specifically designed to restore function in cases of mitral or tricuspid valve insufficiency. Given their critical role in patient outcomes and implantation within the heart, annuloplasty rings are classified as Class C devices under CDSCO regulations, reflecting their moderate to high risk profile.
Navigating the regulatory landscape for such devices is essential for manufacturers and importers aiming to enter the Indian market. With over 25 years of expertise and having supported 500+ companies in obtaining CDSCO licenses, we provide a detailed, actionable roadmap tailored specifically for annuloplasty rings.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Annuloplasty Rings
Medical devices in India are regulated under the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017, enforced by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). Annuloplasty rings fall under cardiovascular devices and are notified under the reference 29/Misc./03/2020-DC (159) dated 26.7.2021.
The regulatory framework mandates compliance with safety, quality, and performance standards, including adherence to Essential Principles and implementation of a Quality Management System aligned with ISO 13485:2016.
Manufacturing and import of Class C devices require licensing from the Central Licensing Authority, ensuring rigorous assessment through product testing, audits, and document verification.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Annuloplasty Rings
Annuloplasty rings, being Class C devices, are considered moderate to high risk. This classification necessitates obtaining:
- MD9 Manufacturing License — for companies manufacturing these devices within India.
- MD15 Import License — for importers bringing these devices into the Indian market.
The MD9 license process involves a comprehensive audit by CDSCO inspectors and product testing, while the MD15 license focuses primarily on document evaluation and verification.
Manufacturing License Process (MD9) for Annuloplasty Rings
The MD9 license application is a multi-stage process:
Test License Application (Form MD13): Before manufacturing license application, companies must obtain a test license to initiate product testing. This takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: Conduct testing at CDSCO-approved laboratories to validate device safety and performance. Testing can span 4 to 6 weeks depending on lab schedules. You can refer to the list of CDSCO-approved testing laboratories to select certified centers.
Documentation Preparation: Prepare comprehensive documentation, including Device Master File (DMF), Plant Master File (PMF), Risk Management File, Essential Principles Checklist, and Quality Management System (QMS) documents.
License Application (Form MD7): Submit the MD9 application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit by CDSCO Inspectors: CDSCO conducts a detailed audit of manufacturing facilities, quality systems, and documentation.
Queries Resolution: Address any observations or queries raised during audit or document review promptly.
Grant of Manufacturing License (Form MD9): Upon satisfactory compliance, the license is granted.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
- Company Constitution documents (e.g., Incorporation Certificate, MOA/AOA)
- Proof of ownership or lease of manufacturing premises
- Qualification and experience certificates of technical staff
- Fire No Objection Certificate (Fire NOC)
- Pollution Control Board clearance (Pollution NOC)
- Device Master File (DMF) detailing device design, specifications, and manufacturing processes. Our Device Master File guide offers practical insights.
- Plant Master File (PMF) describing manufacturing environment and equipment. Refer to our Plant Master File guide for best practices.
- Essential Principles Checklist aligning with CDSCO regulatory requirements
- Risk Management File documenting hazard analysis and mitigation strategies, crucial for Class C devices. Learn more about medical device risk management.
- Product Test Reports from CDSCO-approved laboratories
- Labels, packaging, and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) documentation evidencing compliance with ISO 13485:2016
Import License Process (MD15) for Annuloplasty Rings
Importers must secure an MD15 license granted by the Central Licensing Authority. Unlike manufacturing, no test license is required, but thorough document verification is compulsory.
Import License Application Steps:
Document Compilation: Assemble required certificates and licenses.
Submission of Application (Form MD14): Apply through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Review and Queries: CDSCO reviews the application and may seek clarifications.
Grant of Import License (Form MD15): Upon approval, the import license is issued.
Import License Documents Required
- Valid manufacturing license (MD9) from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate or Certificate of Market Authorization from the country of origin
- ISO 13485:2016 certification
- CE Certificate or equivalent international regulatory approval
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale License (if applicable)
- Company Constitution documents
- Quality System certifications
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Approximate Duration | Key Steps Included |
---|---|---|
MD9 Manufacturing | 4-5 months | Test license, product testing, document prep, CDSCO audit, query resolution |
MD15 Import | 5-6 months | Document preparation, application, review, query resolution |
Manufacturers should anticipate approximately 4-5 months to complete the MD9 licensing process, considering testing turnaround times and audit scheduling. Importers should plan for roughly 5-6 months for MD15 licenses.
Government Fees and Costs
License Type | Application Fee | Per Product Fee |
---|---|---|
MD9 Manufacturing | Rs. 50,000 | Rs. 1,000 per product |
MD15 Import | Class C & D: $3,000 per site | $1,500 per product |
Additional costs include laboratory testing fees, audit charges (borne by notified bodies), and consultancy fees if applicable.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays in product testing due to limited slots at government-approved labs.
Solution: Early scheduling with multiple labs from the CDSCO testing laboratories list can mitigate delays.
Challenge: Incomplete or inconsistent documentation leading to prolonged query cycles.
Solution: Engage experienced regulatory consultants and use standardized templates for DMF and PMF preparation. Our detailed guides ensure compliance and minimize errors.
Challenge: Audit non-conformities related to QMS implementation.
Solution: Conduct internal audits and gap assessments before the CDSCO audit to identify and rectify issues proactively.
Expert Consultation and Support
With over 25 years of experience and having assisted 500+ companies in successful CDSCO licensing, we provide end-to-end support:
- Gap analysis for existing documentation
- Preparation of Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Coordination of product testing and audit scheduling
- Application submission and query management
Our tailored approach ensures your annuloplasty ring device obtains timely approvals, enabling swift market entry.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
Assess your device classification and confirm Class C status using our Medical Device Classification resource.
Prepare technical documentation including DMF, PMF, Risk Management, and QMS.
Apply for the test license (MD13) if manufacturing, to initiate product testing.
Schedule product testing at CDSCO-approved laboratories early.
Gather statutory documents such as Fire NOC, Pollution NOC, and company constitution.
Submit your application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Plan for audits and be responsive to CDSCO queries.
By following this structured approach and leveraging expert guidance, manufacturers and importers of annuloplasty rings can efficiently navigate the CDSCO licensing process and establish a strong foothold in the Indian cardiovascular device market.