CDSCO License for Gas-powered trephine system
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A rotary surgical device consisting of a motor (an engine) and a cylindrical or trephine insertion portion. It usually has an extremely sharp-edged saw blade or a cutting blade with a thin saw blade. The blade is beveled on one side. It is used for removal of the intervertebral disc, other hard tissues, or soft tissues. It may have a speed control device. This is a gas- driven device.

Introduction to Gas-Powered Trephine System and Its Regulatory Importance
The gas-powered trephine system is a sophisticated rotary surgical device widely used in dermatological and plastic surgery procedures. It comprises a gas-driven motor and a cylindrical cutting blade designed for precise removal of intervertebral discs, hard tissues, or soft tissues. Given its critical role in surgical interventions and the potential risks associated with its operation, obtaining appropriate regulatory approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India is essential before marketing or manufacturing this device.
Navigating the CDSCO licensing process ensures compliance with Indian medical device regulations, helping manufacturers mitigate legal risks and build trust with healthcare providers and patients. With over 25 years of collective experience, we have successfully guided 500+ companies through these regulatory pathways, making the process efficient and transparent.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Gas-Powered Trephine System
The CDSCO regulates medical devices under the Medical Device Rules 2017. The gas-powered trephine system falls under the category of dermatological and plastic surgery devices and is classified as a Class B device due to its moderate risk profile. This classification mandates manufacturers to obtain an MD5 manufacturing license from the State Licensing Authority before commencing production.
Manufacturers and importers must comply with the Indian Medical Device Rules 2017 and ensure adherence to essential principles including safety, performance, quality, and post-market surveillance.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class B Devices
According to the CDSCO device classification, Class B devices represent low to moderate risk devices. The gas-powered trephine system, involving surgical cutting powered by gas, requires stringent controls but does not fall under the highest risk categories (Class C or D).
For Class B devices, the applicable license type is the MD5 license (application via Form MD3), issued by the State Licensing Authority. This process incorporates a mandatory test license (Form MD13), product testing by government-approved laboratories, and an audit by a notified body.
Refer to our detailed Medical Device Classification guide for additional clarity on device classes.
Manufacturing License Process for Gas-Powered Trephine System (MD5 License)
The MD5 license process involves several key steps:
Application for Test License (Form MD13): Initially, you must apply for a test license to legally conduct product testing. This takes about 1.5 to 2 months for approval.
Product Testing: Samples of the gas-powered trephine system must be tested in CDSCO-recognized government or notified laboratories to validate safety and efficacy. Find an updated list of Testing Laboratories here.
Document Preparation: Prepare comprehensive documentation including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and Quality Management System (QMS) documents.
Application Submission (Form MD3): Submit the manufacturing license application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Notified Body Audit: An audit is conducted by a notified body accredited by CDSCO. Check the list of notified bodies to identify the suitable agency.
Queries Resolution: Address any queries or clarifications raised by the licensing authority or notified body.
Grant of MD5 License: Upon successful evaluation, the State Licensing Authority issues the MD5 manufacturing license enabling commercial production.
The entire process typically spans 3 to 4 months.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for MD5 Application
For your gas-powered trephine system, ensure submission of the following documents:
- Company Constitution (Partnership Deed, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of ownership or lease of manufacturing premises
- Technical staff qualifications and appointment letters
- Fire Safety NOC
- Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File detailing device specifications and manufacturing processes (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File outlining manufacturing site details (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating compliance with Indian Medical Device Rules
- Risk Management File highlighting hazard analysis and mitigation strategies (Risk Management Guide)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Product labels and Instructions For Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System documents such as ISO 13485 certificates
Import License Process for Gas-Powered Trephine System (MD15 License)
If you are an importer seeking to bring the gas-powered trephine system into India, you must apply for an MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority. This license process is slightly longer, generally taking 5 to 6 months.
Key steps include:
Document Preparation: Compile all required documentation including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016 certificate, CE certificate, Device Master and Plant Master Files, and wholesale license.
Application Submission (Form MD14): File the import license application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Queries Resolution: Respond promptly to any queries from CDSCO during the review.
Grant of MD15 License: After satisfactory evaluation, the import license is granted.
Refer to our Import License Guide for detailed assistance.
Import License Documents Required for MD15 Application
- Valid manufacturing license from country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 certificate
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File
- Plant Master File
- Wholesale license
- Company Constitution
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Step | Approximate Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) Approval | 1.5 to 2 months |
Product Testing | 1 to 1.5 months (concurrent) |
Document Preparation | 1 month |
Application Submission to MD5 License | Immediate upon docs ready |
Notified Body Audit and Review | 1 month |
Queries Resolution | 2 to 4 weeks |
Total Estimated Time | 3 to 4 months |
For import licenses (MD15), anticipate 5 to 6 months due to central authority processing.
Government Fees and Costs
MD5 License (Class B Device):
- Application fee: Rs 5,000
- Per product fee: Rs 500
Test License (MD13): Included in overall process, no separate fee specified but testing costs apply.
Notified Body Audit Fees: Varies depending on auditor; typically ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000.
Testing Costs: Variable depending on laboratory and tests required; budget approximately Rs 1,00,000 to Rs 2,00,000.
MD15 Import License Fees:
- For Class B devices, Rs 2,000 per site and Rs 1,000 per product.
Budgeting for these fees upfront helps avoid delays.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
Delays in Product Testing: Coordinate early with CDSCO-approved testing labs to schedule testing slots. Maintain open communication to track progress.
Incomplete Documentation: Use detailed checklists to ensure all documents such as Device Master File and Risk Management File are prepared thoroughly. Our Device Master File guide can streamline this.
Notified Body Audit Findings: Conduct internal pre-audit assessments to identify and rectify non-compliances before official audits.
Query Resolution Delays: Assign dedicated personnel to respond swiftly and accurately to CDSCO queries to prevent processing bottlenecks.
Expert Consultation and Support
Our team, with over 25 years of regulatory expertise, has successfully assisted over 500 manufacturers and importers in obtaining CDSCO licenses for Class B devices like the gas-powered trephine system. We offer end-to-end support including:
- Gap analysis and documentation preparation
- Coordination with notified bodies and testing labs
- Application submission via the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Post-submission query management
Our practical insights help you avoid common pitfalls, saving time and costs.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
Classify Your Device: Confirm that your gas-powered trephine system is Class B as per CDSCO guidelines.
Prepare Test License Application: Gather technical and company documents to apply for test license using Form MD13.
Identify Testing Laboratories: Select a CDSCO-approved lab early to plan product testing.
Compile Required Documents: Use our detailed guides to prepare Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and QMS documents.
Engage a Notified Body: Contact a notified body from the official list to schedule your audit.
Submit Applications Digitally: Register and file all applications through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Plan for Queries: Allocate resources to promptly address any queries from CDSCO or auditors.
By following these targeted steps, manufacturers and importers can successfully navigate the CDSCO licensing process for the gas-powered trephine system and enter the Indian market with confidence.
For personalized assistance or to discuss your specific project, contact our regulatory experts who specialize in medical device registrations and compliance.