CDSCO License for Applicator for brachytherapy bile duct remote after loading
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A remote controlled brachytherapy applicator specifically designed for bile duct radiation therapy. It is designed to be temporarily implanted in the bile duct. It serves as a guide for computer-controlled temporary placement and removal of a single or multiple therapeutic radiation sources at treatment sites.

Introduction to Applicator for Brachytherapy Bile Duct Remote After Loading and Regulatory Importance
The Applicator for Brachytherapy Bile Duct Remote After Loading is a critical medical device used in radiotherapy to deliver targeted radiation treatment within the bile duct. This device enables the precise placement and removal of therapeutic radiation sources through computer-controlled remote loading, significantly improving treatment accuracy and patient outcomes in bile duct cancers.
Given its complex functionality and direct involvement in radiation therapy, regulatory compliance is paramount to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality before the device can be marketed or used in India. Navigating the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) licensing process for this Class C medical device requires a clear understanding of the regulatory framework, risk classification, and documentation requirements.
With over 25 years of experience and having assisted 500+ companies in obtaining CDSCO licenses, we provide practical guidance tailored specifically for manufacturers and importers of this sophisticated radiotherapy applicator.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Radiotherapy Applicators
The CDSCO governs medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017, classifying devices based on risk and intended use. Radiotherapy devices like the Applicator for Brachytherapy Bile Duct Remote After Loading are categorized under Class C due to their invasive nature and involvement in delivering radiation.
Compliance with CDSCO ensures adherence to Indian safety standards, post-market surveillance, and quality management system (QMS) requirements. This also facilitates smoother market access and builds trust among healthcare providers.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class C Devices
Class C devices pose moderate to high risk to patients and require a manufacturing license from the Central Licensing Authority via the MD9 license process. Unlike Class A/B devices licensed at the state level, Class C devices undergo stringent evaluation including product testing, audit inspections, and comprehensive documentation reviews.
For your Applicator, the applicable license is the MD9 License (Form MD7), which covers manufacturing of Class C medical devices.
Manufacturing License Process for MD9 License (Form MD7)
The MD9 license process is multi-staged, typically spanning 4 to 5 months, and includes the following key steps:
Test License on Form MD13: Initially, obtain a test license allowing trial production for product testing. This takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: Submit samples to CDSCO-approved testing laboratories to verify compliance with essential principles and performance specifications.
Document Preparation: Compile all required documents including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and QMS documentation.
Application Submission (Form MD7): File the manufacturing license application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit Inspection: CDSCO inspectors conduct a thorough audit of manufacturing facilities and quality systems.
Query Resolution: Address any observations or queries from inspectors or the CDSCO review committee promptly.
License Grant (Form MD9): Upon satisfactory compliance, the license is granted allowing commercial manufacture.
For detailed audit preparation, refer to the MD9 License Guide.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Applicator
Accurate and complete documentation is critical. The following documents must be submitted:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation certificate, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease Agreement of manufacturing premises
- Technical Staff Credentials (Qualifications, experience of responsible persons)
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Certificate
- Device Master File (DMF) covering design, components, and manufacturing processes (see our Device Master File guide)
- Plant Master File (PMF) detailing manufacturing environment and equipment (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Compliance Checklist
- Risk Management File demonstrating conformity with ISO 14971 (Risk Management Guide)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs (Testing Laboratories List)
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documents (ISO 13485 certification and SOPs)
Import License Process for Applicator (MD15 License)
If you are importing this device into India, an Import License under Form MD14 leading to grant of MD15 license is required from the Central Licensing Authority. This process typically takes 5 to 6 months.
Unlike manufacturing licenses, the import license does not require a test license but demands thorough documentation including:
- Manufacturing License from country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate or equivalent
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale License
- Company Constitution
Application must be filed on the CDSCO MD Online Portal. Fees vary by device class with Class C devices incurring 1500 per product.
For detailed import license procedures, consult our Import License Guide.
Timeline and Processing Duration
Stage | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5-2 months |
Product Testing | 1-1.5 months |
Document Preparation | Concurrent with testing |
Application Review & Audit | 1.5-2 months |
Query Resolution & Final Grant | 0.5-1 month |
Total Estimated Time: Approximately 4 to 5 months from test license application to MD9 license grant.
Government Fees and Costs
- Test License (MD13): Rs. 5,000 application fee
- MD9 Manufacturing License: Rs. 50,000 application fee plus Rs. 1,000 per product
- Product Testing: Varies by test scope, typically Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 per product
- Audit and Consultancy Fees: Dependent on auditor/notified body
Budgeting for these costs upfront is essential to avoid delays.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
Delayed Testing: Lab backlogs can extend timelines. Mitigate by early sample submission to CDSCO-approved labs.
Incomplete Documentation: Missing Device Master or Risk Management Files cause rejections. Use comprehensive checklists and expert review.
Audit Non-Compliance: Lack of QMS adherence or facility issues may lead to observations. Prepare with mock audits and staff training.
Query Management: Slow responses delay approvals. Assign dedicated personnel for prompt communication with CDSCO.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing for Class C radiotherapy devices requires specialized knowledge. Our team’s 25+ years’ experience spans over 500 successful licenses, including complex radiotherapy applicators.
We assist with:
- Gap analysis and readiness assessment
- Document preparation and review
- Coordination with notified bodies and testing labs
- Audit preparation and post-audit support
- Regulatory strategy for market entry
Engaging expert consultants early significantly reduces risk and accelerates approval.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
Assess Device Classification: Confirm Class C status and applicable regulations.
Prepare Essential Documents: Initiate compilation of Device Master File, Risk Management File, and QMS documentation.
Apply for Test License (MD13): Submit initial application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Coordinate Product Testing: Engage CDSCO-approved labs early to schedule testing.
Schedule Audit Preparation: Identify notified bodies for audit support; refer to the Notified Bodies List.
Maintain Open Communication: Monitor application status and respond promptly to queries.
By following these actionable steps and leveraging expert guidance, manufacturers and importers can confidently navigate the CDSCO regulatory pathway for the Applicator for Brachytherapy Bile Duct Remote After Loading, ensuring timely market access and compliance.
For tailored support, feel free to reach out to our regulatory consulting team with your specific requirements.