The ISO 10993 set entails a series of standards for evaluating the biocompatibility of medical devices. These documents were preceded by the Tripartite agreement and is a part of the international harmonisation of the safe use evaluation of medical devices.
The following table provides a framework for the development of a biocompatibility evaluation. Different biological endpoints may require evaluation for particular medical devices, including either additional or fewer endpoints than indicated. If it is unclear in which category a device falls, consulting device-specific guidances or contacting the appropriate FDA review division for more information is possible.
A-limited
(≤24 h)
B-prolonged
(>24 h to 30 d)
C-permanent
(> 30 d)