Special Controls
In 1976, amendments to Section 514 of the Act directed the FDA to develop mandatory performance standards for all Class II devices (radiological device performance standards are promulgated under the RCHSA). The Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990 changed the designation of Class II from “Performance Standards” to “Special Controls.” Special Controls apply to class II and III devices and may include one or more of the following: mandatory performance standards, guidelines, special labeling requirements, and postmarket surveillance studies. A Special Control becomes a requirement for a particular device, or a group of devices,
when The FDA includes this designation in the CFR or requires a special control during the review process. Examples of current Special Controls include the classification for the Cranial Orthosis, 882.5970, and the performance standard for electrode lead wires and cables, 21 CFR Part 898.