CDSCO License for Breathing circuit gas- flow sensor, single- use
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A sterile device that includes a transducer intended to detect the movement of gases in a breathing circuit, and convert this into an electrical signal for relay to a ventilator (e.g., adult/paediatric/neonatal ventilators, anaesthesia system ventilators). It is connected to the breathing circuit and an appropriate data transfer cable and intended to enable the ventilator to display/monitor the gas flow to and from the patient, whereby controlled adjustments may be made. This is a single-patient device intended to be used for the duration of the treatment (single-use) before being discarded.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Breathing Circuit Gas-Flow Sensor, Single-Use (Class C)
Entering the Indian medical device market requires meticulous adherence to CDSCO regulatory processes, especially for sophisticated devices like the breathing circuit gas-flow sensor, single-use. This Class C device plays a critical role in pediatric and neonatal ventilation by accurately detecting and transmitting gas flow data to ventilators, ensuring patient safety during respiratory therapy. Given its sterile, single-patient use nature and technological complexity, obtaining the correct CDSCO license is vital for manufacturers and importers aiming for seamless market access.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Breathing Circuit Gas-Flow Sensor, Single-Use
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) governs the regulatory clearance of medical devices in India. Devices are classified into four risk classes (A, B, C, D) based on their risk profile and intended use. For our device, the breathing circuit gas-flow sensor, single-use, falls under Class C owing to its direct impact on critical patient monitoring and pediatric/neonatal application.
Class C devices require approval from the Central Licensing Authority and involve stringent evaluation including testing, documentation audit, and facility inspection. This regulatory rigor ensures safety and efficacy in line with Indian and international standards.
Risk Classification and License Requirements
Device Name | Risk Class | License Type | Licensing Authority |
---|---|---|---|
Breathing Circuit Gas-Flow Sensor, Single-Use | C | MD9 | CDSCO Central Authority |
The MD9 license is mandatory for Class C and D device manufacturers. This includes a comprehensive review of product testing, quality systems, and manufacturing practices.
Manufacturing License Process (MD9) for Class C Devices
The MD9 license process for your breathing circuit gas-flow sensor involves several critical steps:
- Test License (Form MD13): Initiate by applying for a test license which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months. This permits initial product testing.
- Product Testing: Conduct device testing at CDSCO-approved laboratories to verify compliance with relevant standards. The list of approved testing laboratories can guide you.
- Document Preparation: Prepare a comprehensive dossier including all technical, quality, and regulatory documents.
- Application Submission (Form MD7): File the MD9 manufacturing license application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- CDSCO Inspection: The Central Licensing Authority will conduct audits to verify compliance.
- Queries Resolution: Address any clarifications or deficiencies raised by the CDSCO or inspectors.
- License Grant: Upon successful review and inspection, the MD9 license is granted on Form MD9.
For a detailed overview, our MD9 License Guide covers the nuances specific to Class C devices.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
To ensure a smooth approval process, prepare the following critical documents:
- Company Constitution Documents (Incorporation certificate, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of Ownership/Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Staff Qualification and Experience Certificates
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed technical specifications, manufacturing process, and design controls. Our comprehensive Device Master File guide can assist in preparation.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Manufacturing facility details, quality control processes. Refer to our Plant Master File Guide.
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating compliance with regulatory safety and performance requirements
- Risk Management File: Documented risk analysis and mitigation strategies aligned with ISO 14971. Learn more about Medical Device Risk Management.
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documentation, preferably ISO 13485 certified
Import License Process (MD15) for Class C Devices
If you are an importer of the breathing circuit gas-flow sensor, the MD15 import license is essential. The process involves:
- Preparing import-specific documentation such as:
- Manufacturing license of the foreign manufacturer
- Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin
- ISO 13485:2016 and CE Certificates
- Device and Plant Master Files
- Wholesale license and Company Constitution
- Submitting application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Responding to CDSCO queries
- Awaiting approval, typically within 5 to 6 months
Government fees vary by risk class and product quantity—Class C devices incur approximately Rs 2,25,000 (approx 1500 per product). For detailed fee structure and process, see our Import License Guide.
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 – 2 months |
Product Testing | 1 – 1.5 months |
Documentation Preparation | 1 – 2 months |
MD9 License Application Review | 1 – 1.5 months |
Inspection and Queries Resolution | 1 month |
Total Time | 4 – 5 months |
For imports (MD15 license), expect approximately 5 – 6 months.
Government Fees and Costs
- MD9 License: Rs 50,000 per application + Rs 1,000 per product
- Test License (MD13): Nominal fee as per CDSCO
- Import License (MD15): Rs 2,25,000 approx for Class C device (site + product fees)
Manufacturers should budget for additional costs including testing fees at government labs, audit fees from notified bodies, and potential consultant fees.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delay in test reports due to overloaded government labs.
Solution: Plan testing early and consider labs accredited by CDSCO for timely results. Refer to the list of testing laboratories.
Challenge: Non-compliance during CDSCO inspection.
Solution: Conduct internal audits and gap assessments before submission. Utilize experienced notified bodies listed on the CDSCO Notified Bodies list for pre-audit.
Challenge: Documentation gaps especially in Risk Management and Device Master Files.
Solution: Follow internationally recognized standards and tailor documents to device-specific risks. Our guides on Risk Management and Device Master Files provide practical templates.
Expert Consultation and Support
With over 25 years of experience and having guided 500+ companies through the CDSCO maze, we offer turnkey solutions from documentation, testing coordination, to audit preparedness. Our expertise ensures:
- Accurate device classification and regulatory strategy
- Comprehensive document drafting and review
- Liaison with CDSCO and notified bodies
- Timely query resolution
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Assess your device classification and prepare a regulatory roadmap referencing the Medical Device Classification tool.
- Initiate the Test License (Form MD13) application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Coordinate product testing with CDSCO-approved laboratories.
- Develop your Device and Plant Master Files alongside risk management documentation.
- Prepare your QMS and compliance documents in line with ISO 13485 and essential principles.
- Submit your MD9 license application (Form MD7) online.
- Schedule and prepare for CDSCO audit with expert guidance.
Starting early and methodically following these steps can significantly reduce approval timelines and enhance your chances of a successful license grant.
For personalized assistance and to leverage our extensive CDSCO licensing experience, contact us today to ensure your breathing circuit gas-flow sensor enters the Indian market without regulatory hurdles.