Are Medical Devices for Children Tested?

Yes, medical devices for kids are tested.  However, these medical devices are often only tested on adults.

According to the Pediatrics study, almost all medical devices are tested on people at the age of 18 or above.  The study was conducted from 2008 to 2011 and focused on high-risk medical devices that were approved for use in children.

A total of 25 medical devices were approved during this time period.  Only 4  of these medical devices approved for children were actually tested on children under the age of 18.

“Postmarketing studies were mandated by the FDA for 19 (76%) devices, although only 3 (18%) required enrollment of pediatric patients.”

Dr. Rita F. Redberg, an editor for JAMA, told Reuters Health that typically clinical trials are done on healthy middle-aged white men.

Dr. Katherine Bates, a cardiology fellow at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, suggests that parents discuss thoroughly with their doctors about any medical device safety and effectiveness.

The patient advocates at the law firm of Zoll, Kranz & Borgess represent victims who have experienced adverse events from dangerous drugs or defective medical devices.

For more information about this or other recalled medical drugs or devices, call toll free (888) 841-9623
.

Zoll, Kranz & Borgess, LLC – Defective Medical Drug and Device Lawyers

Source: Pediatrics & Reuters Health