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CATEGORY: REGULATORY PATHWAYS

Total Product Life Cycle (TPLC)

The FDA approach encompassing all phases of a medical device from conception through design, manufacturing, marketing, use, and disposal. TPLC integrates premarket review with postmarket surveillance for continuous safety monitoring.

Last reviewed 2026-08-05 · Reviewed by MedFlux Editorial Board · Editorial policy

WHEN IT APPLIES

Total product lifecycle (TPLC) is FDA’s framing that connects premarket review, manufacturing quality, and postmarket surveillance into one continuous safety/effectiveness story—especially visible in digital health and high-risk devices.

PROCESS / STEPS

  1. Plan premarket evidence with postmarket commitments in mind.
  2. Use real-world performance to refine risk controls and labeling.
  3. Feed complaints, MDRs, and recalls into design changes.
  4. Align cybersecurity and software updates with lifecycle risk management.

EXAMPLES

  • AI device predetermined change control plans embody TPLC thinking for iterative model updates.

RELATED GUIDES & TOOLS

SOURCES

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