Resource Centre

Discover a wealth of knowledge and insights from the experts at StarFish Medical. Our Resource Centre offers product development tips, reviews of new and cutting-edge technologies, and in-depth articles on regulatory updates and compliance in medical device development.

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  • A close-up image of a hand drawing on a whiteboard with a marker, illustrating a brainstorming or planning session. Bold text on the left reads 'Cost to develop Medical Device' with the word 'develop' highlighted in purple. The image conveys the concept of medical device development costs and design planning.

    What are the real costs of developing a medical device? In this episode of Bio Break, Nick and Joris dive into one of the most frequently asked questions they hear from clients: How much does it cost to develop a medical device?

  • White and colored label rolls isolated on white background with shadow reflection. Color reels of labels for printers. Labels for direct thermal or thermal transfer printing. Abstract background.

    We all know medical devices have labels, but how often do we consider their purpose and the effort required to ensure they provide the right information? Device labelling serves as the interface between the manufacturer, the user, and regulatory bodies. (Note that being from Canada, we spell labelling with two Ls.)

  • Common Mistakes for Medical Device Projects A businessman wearing a blue suit and an orange tie is pointing at a transparent virtual interface with hexagonal icons. The central hexagon displays the words "REGULATORY COMPLIANCE." Surrounding it are four smaller hexagons with white icons, including a scale inside a gear (symbolizing legal and ethical standards), a stack of binders (representing documentation), a checklist (indicating compliance requirements), and a person next to a legal symbol (denoting regulatory oversight). The background is blurred with a brick wall visible.

    Common mistakes in medical device projects can create roadblocks that, if left unchecked, can snowball into costly setbacks.

  • packaging plant line and signal.

    ASTM D4169 is a standard test method for performance testing of shipping containers and packaging systems. It evaluates the ability of shipping units to withstand the expected distribution environment. FDA recognizes it as a consensus standard as part of sterility testing that is commonly applied to all sorts of medical devices.

  • Close-up of a printed circuit board (PCB) with multiple connectors, sensors, and electronic components. The board has a purple solder mask with various capacitors, resistors, and ICs mounted. Colored caps on the connectors indicate different sensor inputs, with red and white wires attached. Visible traces and test points suggest a complex design, likely for a medical or industrial application.

    Getting a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) for a medical device right the first time is almost impossible. Datasheets can be misleading, or assumptions and architectures change. As a result, modifications are almost inevitable. Sometimes the modification is as simple as swapping resistors or adding capacitors. Other times it involves tacking on new circuits you had no idea you needed.

  • This blog explores key highlights of the Chemical Analysis for Biocompatibility Assessment of Medical Devices draft guidance, focusing on its scope, testing methodologies, and recommendations for reporting. In September 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a draft guidance titled Chemical Analysis for Biocompatibility Assessment of Medical Devices.

  • Two professionals discussing strategies for repurposing medical devices into new market sectors, sitting at a table with mugs featuring their names (Nick and Joris) and a star logo. The background is a blurred office or laboratory setting. The overlay text reads, 'New Markets Ahead! Repurposing Medical Devices,' in bold purple and black fonts, emphasizing innovation and market expansion.

    Nick and Joris explore the fascinating world of repurposing existing medical device technologies for new market sectors. As engineers and innovators, we often focus on creating brand-new solutions, but what about leveraging tried-and-true technologies to expand into untapped markets? This strategy not only opens doors to new revenue streams but also maximizes the potential of existing innovations.

  • Three team members collaborating at a workstation in a modern office environment. One person in a blue shirt is pointing at a computer screen displaying a colorful 3D model, while another operates the mouse. The workspace features a green wall, shelving with supplies, and a small plant on the desk, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

    Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) modeling is transforming the medical device industry by simulating complex dynamics between biological fluids and medical devices. In a field where safety and precision are paramount, FSI modeling offers engineers and researchers a powerful tool to design, test, and optimize devices in a virtual environment before physical prototypes are created or clinical trials are conducted. 

  • Two laboratory professionals in cleanroom attire, including hair covers, masks, and gloves, working in a high-tech lab. One person is using a microscope at a workstation, while the other operates a machine in the background. The environment is clean and well-organized, featuring advanced scientific equipment and tools.

    Cleanroom best practices are crucial to maintain a contamination-free environment, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, biotechnology, healthcare, and medical devices. Here are some essential guidelines for ensuring your cleanroom is indeed clean.