The Role of Massive Databases in the Post-market Clinical Follow-up of Medical Devices

International audienceWith the application of new European regulations on medical devices in May 2021, the requirements for clinical evaluation have been strongly reinforced. Post-marketing clinical follow-up is now a key activity for manufacturers to keep their medical devices on the market. The use of material-epidemiology studies and real-life databases has multiple strengths and advantages. However, the weaknesses and limitations identified do not yet allow manufacturers (especially small and medium-sized companies) to fully utilize these tools for post-market clinical follow-up. Yet certain technological and regulatory developments already implemented, and to be implemented over time, suggest that these tools could play a crucial role in the clinical monitoring of medical devices in the future. In order to better define the future use of real-life data in post-market clinical follow-up activities, a comprehensive update of technological and regulatory surveillance is still required