What Goes Into The Making of Medical Device Packaging

Launching a new medical device can provide many obstacles along the way, from the type of materials and design used in order to make sure the device works properly. But one thing that can really affect the launch of a medical device is the packaging. Although packaging can be forgotten a lot of the time, this is actually a crucial aspect of launching a new medical device. 

Underestimating the packaging process and not planning ahead can set you back a couple of months due to the strict packaging requirements that go into medical packaging. 

Here we discuss some of the best practices to avoid long product delays due to common misconceptions that arise frequently when thinking of medical packaging.

Test Packaging More Than Once

Medical devices go through a rigorous process to ensure that the product will produce the desired results while maintaining its integrity and staying intact. Therefore distributors should plan ahead to ensure they have enough time to perform these tests. Medical device packaging testing looks at everything from the materials being used to the strength of the packaging, the environment it will go through during distribution, and ensures the device can be stored for long periods of time without compromising its quality.

Medical Device Packaging Can Be Challenging

Packaging can usually be the last thing people think about when creating a new product, it is seen as the last piece in the puzzle in order to have a successful launch. But when it comes to the medical industry, the packaging is a crucial aspect manufacturers and distributors should keep in mind. The planning process should keep in mind the packaging at every stage of the way as this will reduce the risk of any surprises as these might delay the launch times due to package testing.

Keep Medical Device Packaging In Mind At All Times

It is important to stress how important it is to keep your medical device packaging in mind during the planning and design process. While the actual medical device is tested rigorously, this is also true for the packaging. After all, it is the packaging that protects the device from being contaminated or damaged before it makes its way to facilities. 

Manufacturers and distributors should keep in mind how long the testing process will take, as this can last up to six months. During this time many tests are performed, for example, the ISO 11607 has the following tests for terminally sterilized medical devices:

  • Stability Test
  • Performance Test
  • Package Strength Test
  • Package Integrity Test

Each of these testing categories implement various number of tests, if devices were to fail any of these the manufactures and distributors would have to go back to the drawing board and start again. This can severely impact the launch timeline of the device. 

Pioneer Can Handle Your Medical Packaging

Packaging in the medical industry is more important than any other industry, as picking the wrong design or materials can set you back months in development and loss of money in the process. Pioneer Packaging has been engineering innovative packaging solutions for more than 35 years, meeting the stringent requirements and standards set forth by the medical industry. The medical industry has strict guidelines for packaging. A product’s package is rarely changed or updated, which makes getting it right the first time vital.
Contact us today to get started.

Scroll to Top