Medical Device & Research Laboratory

Casework involving medical products or biological samples will often require storage and analysis of evidence. Our highly qualified independent laboratory provides fast, affordable and reliable retrieval, processing and storage of medical device evidence.

We specialize in procuring medical instruments and surgically explanted components, to assist our clients with managing this critical aspect of their practice.

Medical Device & Research Laboratory Services

Our team of scientists and engineers has been involved in the writing of standards such as ASTM F561-19 Standard Practice for Retrieval and Analysis of Medical Devices, and Associated Tissues and Fluids. Their efforts have contributed to court order evidence handling protocols.

The engineers and scientists at Robson Forensic have developed a complete solution for medical evidence involved in legal disputes. Our patented medical device retrieval package streamlines the procurement of evidence. Our laboratory utilizes preservation methodologies that are widely accepted in the field of biomedical engineering and in accordance with applicable standards and court orders.

Laboratory Services Include:

• Custom Retrieval Kits: Patented intra-operative and post-operative explant retrieval kits designed to maintain device integrity and support compliant chain-of-custody from operating room to lab.
• Trained Coordination Personnel: Staff available to coordinate retrieval directly with hospitals, surgeons, pathology departments, and attorneys to ensure proper documentation and secure transfer of explanted devices.
• Chain-of-Custody Management: All items received are documented through a strict, unbroken chain-of-custody process, including digital and physical logs that track the collection, control, transfer, and storage history of each item.
• Preservation, Documentation, and Secure Storage: Upon receipt, devices are photo documented, labeled, and cataloged in accordance with strict forensic and legal standards. Storage facilities meet the highest standards for limited-access, long-term evidence preservation.
• Testing and Failure Analysis: We have designated medical devices laboratories that are equipped to perform a wide range of forensic and materials analyses, including but not limited to:
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
  • Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS)
  • White light interferometry
  • Tribological and wear testing
  • Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)
  • Light and digital microscopy
  • 3D laser scanning confocal microscopy 
• Support for Legal Proceedings: All evidence handling is conducted in accordance with FDA and ASTM standards. Our experts can testify to procedures followed and support claims related to product condition, failure mechanisms, or handling integrity.

Laboratory Facilities

Our evidence management and storage procedures ensure that the evidence in your case is collected, thoroughly documented, and stored systematically to preserve its condition from the time it enters our custody through case closure. All of our policies and procedures are in accordance with strict scientific and ASTM standards.

For more information on our medical device investigations, please visit our Medical Device page.

Need More Information?

For information on our laboratory and research services and how they apply to your case, or to order a retrieval kit directly, please contact rfikits@robsonforensic.com.