A medical device is any instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, appliance, implant, reagent for in vitro use, software, material, or other similar or related article intended by its manufacturer to be used, alone or in combination, for medical purposes.
These purposes include diagnosis, prevention, monitoring, treatment, or alleviation of disease, investigation, replacement, modification, or support of the anatomy or of a physiological process; supporting or sustaining life; control of conception; disinfection of medical devices; and providing information by means of in vitro examination of specimens derived from the human body.
Medical devices range from simple items like bandages and thermometers to complex technologies such as pacemakers, dialysis machines, and MRI scanners.
Medical devices aid in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions, enhancing the quality of life for individuals. They are instrumental in a wide range of healthcare functions, from routine care to critical emergencies, allowing for more accurate diagnoses, more effective treatments, and faster recoveries.
Medical devices also support healthcare professionals in monitoring patient health and managing chronic conditions more effectively. By enabling less invasive procedures and shorter recovery times, they contribute to reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes. The innovation and development in the medical device sector continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in medicine, significantly impacting global health and longevity.