CDSCO License for Intraluminal oesophageal retractor
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A sterile, hand-held manual surgical instrument intended to be inserted through an orogastric (or nasogastric) tube to mechanically divert the oesophagus away from the site of surgery during electrical treatments of the heart (e.g., cardiac ablation), to facilitate surgical site access and to help prevent injury to the oesophagus.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Intraluminal Oesophageal Retractor (Class B Medical Device)
Introduction: Understanding the Intraluminal Oesophageal Retractor and Its Regulatory Importance
The Intraluminal oesophageal retractor is a specialized, sterile, hand-held manual surgical instrument designed to be inserted through an orogastric or nasogastric tube. Its primary function is to mechanically divert the oesophagus away from the surgical site during electrical cardiac procedures such as cardiac ablation. This device plays a crucial role in preventing oesophageal injury while improving surgical access in gastroenterology and cardiac interventions.
Given its direct contact with internal tissues and its critical protective role, the Intraluminal oesophageal retractor falls under Class B medical devices per the CDSCO classification system. This classification mandates stringent regulatory compliance and licensing before marketing or manufacturing in India.
With over 25 years of experience and having supported 500+ companies in securing CDSCO approvals, we provide a step-by-step, practical guide tailored for manufacturers and importers of this device to navigate the regulatory landscape efficiently.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Intraluminal Oesophageal Retractors
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules, 2017. Since the Intraluminal oesophageal retractor is notified under Notification No. 29/Misc./03/2020-DC (182) dated 27.09.2021, it must comply with all applicable regulations including licensing, quality management, and post-market surveillance.
Manufacturers of Class B devices require a manufacturing license known as the MD5 license, issued by the State Licensing Authority. Importers must obtain the MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class B Devices
Class B devices, like the Intraluminal oesophageal retractor, are moderate-risk devices requiring:
- MD5 Manufacturing License (Form MD3) issued by the State Licensing Authority
- Test License (Form MD13) prior to manufacturing license application
- Product testing from government-approved laboratories
- Audit by a notified body
This process ensures safety, quality, and compliance before market entry.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Class B Devices
The manufacturing license process involves several sequential steps:
Obtain Test License (Form MD13): Submit the application to manufacture the device for testing purposes. This license is valid for 1 year and is required to perform product testing.
Product Testing: Get the device tested at government-approved laboratories listed on the CDSCO Testing Laboratories list. Testing typically includes biocompatibility, sterility, mechanical integrity, and electrical safety as applicable.
Documentation Preparation: Prepare comprehensive documentation including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Essential Principles Checklist, Risk Management File, and Quality Management System (QMS) documents.
Application for MD5 License (Form MD3): Submit the manufacturing license application along with all required documents on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit by Notified Body: A notified body from the official List of Notified Bodies will conduct an on-site audit of manufacturing facilities, QMS, and compliance with medical device rules.
Resolution of Queries: Address any queries or observations raised by the licensing authority or notified body promptly.
Grant of MD5 License: Upon satisfactory compliance, the State Licensing Authority issues the MD5 license (Form MD5), permitting manufacturing of the device.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for MD5 Application
To ensure a smooth application process, gather the following documents:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, Memorandum of Association)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualification Certificates of Technical Staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Covering device design, specifications, manufacturing process (Detailed guide here)
- Plant Master File (PMF): Detailing manufacturing site facilities and equipment (Guide here)
- Essential Principles Checklist
- Risk Management File (per ISO 14971 principles) (Implement risk management)
- Product Test Reports from government-approved labs
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System Documentation (typically ISO 13485 compliant)
Import License Process (MD15) for Intraluminal Oesophageal Retractors
If you are an importer, obtaining the MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority is mandatory. The process includes:
Document Preparation: Compile documents such as manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016 certification, CE marking (if applicable), Device Master File, Plant Master File, and wholesale license.
Application Submission: File the import license application using Form MD14 on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Department Review & Queries: Respond promptly to any queries raised by CDSCO.
Grant of MD15 License: On compliance, the MD15 license is issued permitting import of the device.
For detailed import licensing, see our Import License Guide.
Import License Documents Required for MD15 Application
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate issued by the country of origin
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File
- Plant Master File
- Wholesale License
- Company Constitution documents
Timeline and Processing Duration for Intraluminal Oesophageal Retractor Licensing
- Test License (MD13): Approximately 1.5 to 2 months
- Product Testing: 2 to 4 weeks depending on lab workload
- Preparation of Documentation: Variable, typically 2-4 weeks
- MD5 Manufacturing License: 3 to 4 months total including audit and query resolution
Overall, from test license application to manufacturing license grant, expect 3 to 4 months if documentation is complete and audit schedules align.
Government Fees and Costs
- Test License (MD13): Fees vary by state but generally modest
- MD5 Manufacturing License Application: Rs. 5,000 per application
- Product Fee: Rs. 500 per product
- Audit and Testing Costs: Variable; testing at government labs may range between Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 depending on test complexity
Budgeting for unforeseen delays and additional documentation requests is prudent.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
Incomplete Documentation: Many applicants underestimate the depth of technical documents required. We recommend early preparation of Device and Plant Master Files along with risk management documentation.
Delayed Testing: Testing laboratories often have backlogs. Booking lab slots early and choosing multiple approved labs can mitigate delays.
Audit Non-Compliance: Not adhering strictly to QMS or GMP can lead to audit observations. Pre-audit internal checks and training of staff on regulatory requirements are essential.
Query Resolution Delays: Prompt and clear responses to CDSCO queries expedite approval. Avoid generic replies; provide detailed supporting evidence.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO regulations can be complex, especially for niche devices like the Intraluminal oesophageal retractor. Our team has successfully guided over 500 companies through this process, ensuring compliance and timely approvals. We offer expertise in:
- Preparation of regulatory dossiers
- Coordination with notified bodies and testing labs
- Pre-audit readiness and training
- Query response management
- Post-approval compliance
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application for the Intraluminal Oesophageal Retractor
Assess Your Device Classification: Confirm Class B status and understand applicable regulations via the Medical Device Classification resource.
Collect and Prepare Key Documents: Initiate development of Device Master File and Plant Master File early.
Apply for Test License (MD13): Submit this to start product testing legally.
Schedule Product Testing: Contact government-approved testing laboratories and prepare samples.
Engage Notified Body for Audit: Plan and book audit dates well in advance.
Submit Manufacturing License Application (MD5): Use the CDSCO MD Online Portal for all submissions.
Respond to Queries Promptly: Maintain close communication with CDSCO officials.
By following these actionable steps with expert guidance, you can secure your CDSCO license for the Intraluminal oesophageal retractor efficiently and enter the Indian market with confidence.
For a detailed walkthrough of the MD5 license application process, please refer to our MD5 License Guide.
Navigating CDSCO regulations for specialized medical devices demands precision and experience. With our comprehensive support, your Intraluminal oesophageal retractor can achieve regulatory approval and market success in India.