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SaMD Classification in Brazil

Software qualifies as a medical device under RDC 751/2022 if it is intended to diagnose, prevent, monitor or treat a disease or condition, or provides clinical decision support that drives clinical action.

ANVISA aligns with the IMDRF SaMD classification framework (IMDRF/SaMD N12):

IMDRF significanceIMDRF healthcare situationLikely ANVISA class
Treat or diagnoseCriticalClass IV
Treat or diagnoseSeriousClass III
Drive clinical managementCriticalClass III
Inform clinical managementSeriousClass II
Inform clinical managementNon-seriousClass I

ANVISA expects manufacturers of AI/ML SaMD to include a change management protocol in the technical dossier, particularly for continuously learning algorithms.


Official sources

Verify all information against official ANVISA sources before making regulatory decisions.