Study on Developing Assessment Guideline for Safety and Performance of Electric Moxibustion Apparatus

Objectives : We developed and proposed a guideline for safety and performance assessment of electric moxibustion apparatus (class II medical device). Methods : We drafted the guideline for safety and performance assessment of electric moxibustion apparatus by referring the existing standards, guidelines and measurement data from commercially available products. Temperature characteristics such as maximum temperature and ramp time, and physical characteristics such as weight, noise and diameter were measured. User friendliness was also evaluated for commercial devices. Results : This guideline only can be applied to the electric moxibustion apparatus where moxa is being heated by electricity for medical proposes. Maximum temperature of higher than $50^{\circ}C$ can be achieved mostly. Ramp rate of temperature seems to be reliable. Control of temperature is needed to be improved. Moxa and its derivative products seem to be regulated for reliable temperature performance for clinical application. Requirements for design and development of electric moxibustion apparatus are suggested : temperature indicator, temperature control and its accuracy, safety measure, surge protection, user friendliness and instruction for use (IFU). Design recommendation of the reduction of noise level and energy loss are suggested for better products. Conclusions : We proposed a guideline for safety and performance assessment of electric moxibustion apparatus to improve the quality of relating products and aid their commercialization by aiming higher industrial competitiveness of the medical device sectors in Korea. Discussion with related institutes such as industry, academy and government is further required. Public hearings also need to be held prior to the establishment of a final guideline and standard.

전기식 온구기에 대한 안전성 및 성능 평가 가이드라인 개발 연구