We last wrote about the U.S. FDA eSTAR when it became compulsory for 510(k)s. At the time, the eSTAR was voluntary for De Novos.
Background on De Novos
The De Novo Classification Request “De Novo” is the regulatory mechanism used when manufacturers have a novel medical device that they expect is not high risk and so should be Class II (special controls and general controls) or Class I (general controls). A De Novo is submitted when the manufacturer has determined there is no appropriate predicate device to claim substantial equivalence (SE) to or after a 510(K) was submitted with a verdict of not SE (NSE).
The FDA always recommends a Pre-Submission Q-submission for feedback before submitting a De Novo. In general, clinical evidence is necessary for the FDA to grant a De Novo, although there may be limited exceptions.
Completed reviews through the process are issued a “DEN” prefix and the device type is granted a product code and a specific classification (Class I or Class II). Subsequent devices can refer to that device as a predicate device and can be found SE to it through the 510(k) pathway.
Background on De Novos and eSTAR
The use of the electronic Submission Template And Resource (eSTAR) for De Novos has been voluntary. The eSTAR is a dynamic PDF that includes logic and automation.
The U.S. FDA has required eSTAR for submission of 510(k)s since October 1, 2023.
US FDA Announces De Novo Final Guidance and eSTAR Implementation Date | Emergo by UL