DEN210004 · Zuno Medical, Inc. · QJT · Jun 17, 2022 · General Hospital
Device Facts
Record ID
DEN210004
Device Name
Zuno Smart Sterilization Container
Applicant
Zuno Medical, Inc.
Product Code
QJT · General Hospital
Decision Date
Jun 17, 2022
Decision
DENG
Submission Type
Direct
Regulation
21 CFR 880.6855
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is a reusable sterilization container intended to be used to enclose another medical device that is to be sterilized by a healthcare provider with pre-vacuum, steam sterilization cycles, to maintain sterility after removal from the sterilizer until used, and to monitor and inform users of the status of the container's sterile barrier integrity. The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container has been validated to allow for the sterilization of its contents in pre-vacuum steam sterilizers with the following parameters: 132 ℃ sterilization temperature. 4-minute sterilization. 30-minute dry time. Do not use with instruments containing lumens with an inner diameter smaller than 1.2mm and an overall length longer than 500mm. Do not exceed a total container weight of 251bs.
Device Story
Reusable rigid sterilization container; encloses medical devices for pre-vacuum steam sterilization; monitors sterile barrier integrity via real-time electronic monitoring; informs users of sterility status; used by healthcare providers in clinical settings; ensures maintenance of sterility post-sterilization; prevents infection risk from unsterile instruments; supports clinical workflow by providing reliable sterility status.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data. Evidence based on non-clinical performance testing, including sterilization validation, vent-to-volume testing, microbial barrier testing, seal integrity, moisture/sterilant ingress, battery performance, and simulated use testing under worst-case conditions.
Technological Characteristics
Rigid sterilization container with integrated electronic monitoring system. Features include valves, gaskets, and seals for microbial barrier maintenance. Powered by battery; requires moisture/sterilant ingress protection for electronics. Must meet biocompatibility standards for patient-contacting components. Subject to EMC and electrical safety testing.
Indications for Use
Indicated for use by healthcare providers to enclose medical devices during pre-vacuum steam sterilization (132°C, 4-min cycle, 30-min dry time) and maintain sterility during storage. Contraindicated for instruments with lumens <1.2mm inner diameter or >500mm length; total container weight must not exceed 25lbs.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring is a device intended to be used to enclose medical devices that are to be sterilized by a health care provider. It is intended to allow sterilization of the enclosed medical devices and maintain sterility of the enclosed devices until used. The device provides sterility status of the enclosed medical devices via real time electronic monitoring.
Special Controls
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring is subject to the following special controls:
- (1) Non-clinical performance testing must demonstrate that the device performs as intended under anticipated conditions of use. The following performance characteristics must be evaluated to ensure device function and integrity during challenging use:
- (i) Vent-to-volume testing must demonstrate adequate sterilant penetration.
- Sterilization validation must demonstrate that the contents to be sterilized can (ii) adequately achieve the proposed Sterility Assurance Level (SAL).
- (iii) Performance testing must demonstrate the device accurately informs the end-user of the sterile status of the contents.
- Performance testing must demonstrate the device can maintain sterility of the (iv) enclosed medical products for a minimum 30 day storage period.
- (v) Battery performance and shelf life testing must demonstrate the device maintains its function throughout its total use-life.
- Battery performance and shelf life testing must demonstrate the device maintains (vi) its function during storage, throughout a minimum 30 day sterile storage period.
- (vii) Moisture/sterilant ingress testing must support that the electronic components are adequately sealed and do not allow moisture/sterilant ingress.
- (viii) Microbial barrier testing must support that the seals. gaskets, valves, etc. provide an adequate barrier to microbial ingress.
- (ix) Seal integrity testing must demonstrate that an adequate seal is created and maintained throughout the sterile storage period.
- (x) Mechanical functionality testing must demonstrate proper function of any valves, gaskets, or other components essential to the function of the device.
- For devices with handles, handle strength testing must demonstrate the handles (xi) can withstand the maximum indicated load weight.
- (xii) Corrosion resistance testing must demonstrate adequate function of any components susceptible to corrosion following the most challenging use.
- (xiii) Dryness evaluation testing must demonstrate the contents to be sterilized are dry prior to storage.
- (xiv) Simulated use testing must evaluate device performance (including maintenance of sterility and accurate sterility status monitoring) under real-world worst-case use conditions.
- (2) Device components that may contact medical products must be demonstrated to be biocompatible.
- (3) Performance data must validate the reprocessing instructions for the reusable components of the device.
- (4) Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis must be performed.
- (5) Human factors testing must be performed to demonstrate that end user(s) can safely and correctly use the device. based solely on the directions for use.
- (6) Performance data must demonstrate the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and electrical safety of the device.
- (7) Labeling must include:
(i)
- Warnings, cautions, and limitations for safe use of the device including:
- A precaution that the lids/trays and any accessories should only be used (A) with the sterilization container.
- (B) A precaution that the use of nonabsorbent tray liners can cause condensate to pool.
- (ii) Device operating procedures including:
- Instructions for closures, gaskets, type, sizes, and valve assembly weight as (A) appropriate.
- Instructions for density and distribution of contents, stacking patterns, or (B) any other recommendations pertaining to load configuration of the medical devices to be sterilized.
- A description of the validated length of time sterility can be maintained. (iii)
- Identification of any replaceable components, information about the expected life (iv) of these components, and instructions for procedures on replacement when needed.
- Identification of products intended for sterilization that are compatible for use (v) with the device.
- Description of the required preparation of products intended for sterilization in (vi) the device.
Submission Summary (Full Text)
{0}------------------------------------------------
## DE NOVO CLASSIFICATION REQUEST FOR ZUNO SMART STERILIZATION CONTAINER
#### REGULATORY INFORMATION
FDA identifies this generic type of device as:
Rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring. A rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring is a device intended to be used to enclose medical devices that are to be sterilized by a health care provider. It is intended to allow sterilization of the enclosed medical devices and maintain sterility of the enclosed devices until used. The device provides sterility status of the enclosed medical devices via real time electronic monitoring.
NEW REGULATION NUMBER: 21 CFR 880.6855
CLASSIFICATION: Class II
PRODUCT CODE: OJT
#### BACKGROUND
DEVICE NAME: Zuno Smart Sterilization Container
SUBMISSION NUMBER: DEN210004
DATE DE NOVO RECEIVED: February 16, 2021
#### SPONSOR INFORMATION:
Zuno Medical, Inc. 743 Camden Ave. Suite B Campbell, CA 95008
### INDICATIONS FOR USE
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is indicated as follows:
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is a reusable sterilization container intended to be used to enclose another medical device that is to be sterilized by a healthcare provider with pre-vacuum, steam sterilization cycles, to maintain sterility after removal from the sterilizer until used, and to monitor and inform users of the status of the container's sterile barrier integrity.
{1}------------------------------------------------
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container has been validated to allow for the sterilization of its contents in pre-vacuum steam sterilizers with the following parameters: 132 ℃ sterilization temperature. 4-minute sterilization. 30-minute dry time.
Do not use with instruments containing lumens with an inner diameter smaller than 1.2mm and an overall length longer than 500mm. Do not exceed a total container weight of 251bs.
## LIMITATIONS
This is an over-the-counter device.
# PLEASE REFER TO THE LABELING FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF WARNINGS. PRECAUTIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS.
## DEVICE DESCRIPTION
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is a reusable, rigid sterilization container intended to enclose surgical instruments during steam sterilization, to allow for sterilization of the enclosed medical devices, maintain sterility of the container contents after removal from the sterilizer until intentionally opened in the surgical setting, and to inform the user of the status of the container's sterile barrier.
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container has been validated for use in pre-vacuum steam sterilizers with the following parameters: 132°C sterilization temperature, 4-minute sterilization, 30-minute dry time.
It has been validated for use with instruments containing lumens with an inner diameter smaller than 1.2mm and an overall length longer than 500mm. Do not exceed a total container weight of 25lbs.
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is validated to show that its contents can achieve required sterility levels during typical use. When the user queries the system following a sterilization cycle and prior to opening the container to access its contents, they are checking the integrity of the sterile barrier. This barrier is qualified by three (3) primary factors:
- · The valves must have remained open for the entirety of the sterilization cycle,
- . The valves must have closed when control module triggers closure guided by data from the pressure sensor during drying phase of the sterilization cycle,
- Following sterilization, the real-time pressure within the container must be below a target . threshold to determine whether the sterile barrier has been compromised.
The sensors provide feedback to the microcontroller so that it may identify the stages of the sterilization cycle and close the valves at the appropriate time to achieve the internal sterile environment. The firmware and microcontroller also coordinate with the status button to query the internal state of the container and the indicator lights provide feedback to the user.
{2}------------------------------------------------
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container will be offered in one size initially, a Full-Size Sterilization Container.
Image /page/2/Figure/1 description: The image shows a technical drawing of the Zuno Medical Smart Sterilization Container. The drawing includes multiple views of the container, including a top view, a side view, and a perspective view. The drawing also includes labels for the different parts of the container, such as the container lid (FG0006), the control module (FG0005), and the container base (FG0007). The container has dimensions of 3.4, 24.0, and 12.0.
{3}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/3/Figure/0 description: The image shows a technical drawing of a control module, possibly for a medical device. The front panel features status indicators labeled "GOOD" and "BAD", along with valve position indicators and status buttons. Dimensions are noted as 3.8 and 6.5. The back panel shows valve connector contact pins and a pressure sensor ferrule.
The device is composed of 3 primary components: the lid assembly (which includes the valves and has a space for attaching the control module), the base assembly (which houses the instruments to be sterilized), and the control module (which electronically controls valve actuation and monitors the low-pressure state of the container).
### SUMMARY OF BENCH STUDIES
### REPROCESSING, STERILITY AND SHELF-LIFE
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container does not itself need to be sterilized. It is intended to maintain the sterility of the sterilized instruments contained within. Performance related to this aspect was reviewed as a part of the performance testing. The device does include instructions for reprocessing between uses. Specifically, the sponsor has included cleaning instructions that they have validated according to the FDA guidance "Reprocessing Medical Devices in Health Care Settings: Validation Methods and Labeling".
The device is not labeled with a shelf-life; however, the labeling includes instructions describing how the end user is able to determine if the unit is damaged or at the end of its use-life. To support that the device can withstand multiple rounds of sterilization and reprocessing, test articles were exposed to hundreds of worst-case cycles with reprocessing occurring between each cycle.
{4}------------------------------------------------
### BIOCOMPATIBILITY
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is not meant to contact patients. However, there may be indirect contact as the container contacts the medical devices to be sterilized, which will then have contact with patients. To address this, the sponsor provided cytotoxicity testing following ISO 10993-5:2009, which showed the device to be noncytotoxic.
#### SOFTWARE
The software level of concern was considered major since a failure could result in delayed surgical procedures or potential infection. Testing was provided to demonstrate that the device meets all requirements outlined in the FDA guidance document "Guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices" for software of major level of concern. The software is intended to monitor environmental conditions within the container and autoclave so the device can register when a drying phase has ended and the valves should close. It also monitors the valve position to ensure they are in the appropriate position. The device is equipped with a Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) for diagnostic purposes. Software verification and validation activities were conducted to confirm that the device software met the defined software specifications.
#### ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY & ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and Electrical safety (ES) testing were provided. Testing demonstrated that the system was compliant to IEC 60601-1:2005 (Third edition) + CORR 1:2006 + CORR 2:2007 + A1: 2012 and IEC 60601-1-2:2014 (Fourth edition). Emissions testing was provided per CISPR 11:2015, electrostatic discharge testing was provided per IEC 61000-4-2:2008, Radiated RF Electromagnetic Fields testing was provided per IEC 61000-4-3:2010, Magnetic Fields testing was provided per IEC 61000-4-8:2009. Touch Current testing was provided per IEC 60601-1:2012, and Battery Safety testing per IEC 60086-4 + UL1642.
### HUMAN FACTORS
A Human Factors study was provided in accordance with the guidance "Applying Human Factors and Usability Engineering to Medical Devices". User and user-interface focused risk analysis combined with an identification of tasks that the two user groups of the device must perform when using the device established a set of critical tasks that provided the foundation for the Human Factors study. The HF/UE validation study collected observational data of subjects fitting into one of two user groups (i.e. sterile processing department staff or operating room staff) performing all of the critical tasks required to clean the device, inspect the device, prepare the device for sterilization, sterilize the device, verify the integrity of the sterile barrier, open the device, and transfer the contents of the container to the sterile field.
{5}------------------------------------------------
## PERFORMANCE TESTING - BENCH
The sponsor conducted the following performance tests to support that the device can achieve its intended use:
- . Vent-to-volume testing was provided to support adequate sterilant penetration into the container.
- Sterilization validation per ANSI/AAMI ST77:2013 was provided to support that . the container allows for the contents to be sterility Assurance Level (SAL) of 10-6. Thermal mapping was also provided to support device exposure throughout the container.
- . Battery performance testing has supported that the battery maintains its function throughout the proposed storage period as well as throughout the device's entire proposed use life. This was done through a combination of bench studies and simulated-use testing.
- . Moisture ingress testing for the electronic components was provided to support that no moisture enters the electronic control module under worst case conditions.
- Microbial barrier testing was provided to support that the device does not allow . microbial ingress under worst case conditions.
- . Seal integrity testing was provided to support that the device maintains an appropriate seal throughout the proposed storage period.
- Mechanical functionality testing was provided to support that the valve/latch . assemblies, electro permanent magnet, gaskets, etc. perform as intended.
- . Handle strength testing was provided to support that the handles can support the indicated maximum weight of 25lbs.
- . Electronic control module testing was provided to support that the control module functions as intended. Specifically, testing was provided supporting the module can accurately inform the end-user of the status of the contents in all situations throughout the entire validated storage period including accurate readouts for the various scenarios the module might be exposed to (including successful cycles, failed cycles, aborted cycles, cycles under sub-optimal conditions, etc.). Performance was supported through a combination of bench studies and simulated-use testing.
- Corrosion resistance testing was provided to support that the risk of corrosion for . susceptible components has been mitigated by showing that no corrosion has occurred following worst-case use of the device.
- . Dryness evaluation was provided to support the contents to be sterilized are adequately dried and no moisture is present following exposure to the sterilant.
- . Simulated use testing was provided by repeatedly exposing the test articles to worst case use conditions followed by worst case (i.e. most intensive) reprocessing. The device was also artificially soiled in the most challenging locations to ensure soil build-up does not impact device functionality.
- . In-use testing was addressed via the provided human factors study, discussed above.
- Long term sterile storage assessment was provided to support that the system can . maintain sterility and accurately inform the end-user of the status well beyond 30 days of storage. Simulated use was conducted on multiple test articles followed
{6}------------------------------------------------
by long term storage under a variety of conditions. Device functionality was confirmed at multiple timepoints throughout the study.
The device has been appropriately evaluated for performance on the bench.
## LABELING
The labeling consists of Instructions for Use and packaging labels. The instructions for use include the indications for use; a description of the device, contraindications, warnings, precautions; information on use-life; and instructions for the safe use of the device.
## RISKS TO HEALTH
The table below identifies the risks to health that may be associated with use of a rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring:
| Identified Risks to Health | Mitigation Measures |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Infection resulting from exposure to<br>unsterile instruments due to device<br>failure or failure to properly<br>interpret sterile barrier status | Sterilization validation;<br>Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis;<br>Reprocessing validation;<br>Non-clinical performance testing;<br>Labeling;<br>Human factors testing |
| Delayed or cancelled treatment due<br>to device failure | Non-clinical performance testing; |
| Adverse tissue reaction | Biocompatibility evaluation |
| Electric shock to user | Electrical safety testing,<br>Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, and<br>Labeling |
#### Identified Risks to Health and Mitigation Measures
# SPECIAL CONTROLS
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring is subject to the following special controls:
- (1) Non-clinical performance testing must demonstrate that the device performs as intended under anticipated conditions of use. The following performance characteristics must be evaluated to ensure device function and integrity during challenging use:
- (i) Vent-to-volume testing must demonstrate adequate sterilant penetration.
- Sterilization validation must demonstrate that the contents to be sterilized can (ii) adequately achieve the proposed Sterility Assurance Level (SAL).
- (iii) Performance testing must demonstrate the device accurately informs the end-user of the sterile status of the contents.
- Performance testing must demonstrate the device can maintain sterility of the (iv) enclosed medical products for a minimum 30 day storage period.
{7}------------------------------------------------
- (v) Battery performance and shelf life testing must demonstrate the device maintains its function throughout its total use-life.
- Battery performance and shelf life testing must demonstrate the device maintains (vi) its function during storage, throughout a minimum 30 day sterile storage period.
- (vii) Moisture/sterilant ingress testing must support that the electronic components are adequately sealed and do not allow moisture/sterilant ingress.
- (viii) Microbial barrier testing must support that the seals. gaskets, valves, etc. provide an adequate barrier to microbial ingress.
- (ix) Seal integrity testing must demonstrate that an adequate seal is created and maintained throughout the sterile storage period.
- (x) Mechanical functionality testing must demonstrate proper function of any valves, gaskets, or other components essential to the function of the device.
- For devices with handles, handle strength testing must demonstrate the handles (xi) can withstand the maximum indicated load weight.
- (xii) Corrosion resistance testing must demonstrate adequate function of any components susceptible to corrosion following the most challenging use.
- (xiii) Dryness evaluation testing must demonstrate the contents to be sterilized are dry prior to storage.
- (xiv) Simulated use testing must evaluate device performance (including maintenance of sterility and accurate sterility status monitoring) under real-world worst-case use conditions.
- (2) Device components that may contact medical products must be demonstrated to be biocompatible.
- (3) Performance data must validate the reprocessing instructions for the reusable components of the device.
- (4) Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis must be performed.
- (5) Human factors testing must be performed to demonstrate that end user(s) can safely and correctly use the device. based solely on the directions for use.
- (6) Performance data must demonstrate the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and electrical safety of the device.
- (7) Labeling must include:
(i)
- Warnings, cautions, and limitations for safe use of the device including:
- A precaution that the lids/trays and any accessories should only be used (A) with the sterilization container.
- (B) A precaution that the use of nonabsorbent tray liners can cause condensate to pool.
- (ii) Device operating procedures including:
- Instructions for closures, gaskets, type, sizes, and valve assembly weight as (A) appropriate.
- Instructions for density and distribution of contents, stacking patterns, or (B) any other recommendations pertaining to load configuration of the medical devices to be sterilized.
- A description of the validated length of time sterility can be maintained. (iii)
- Identification of any replaceable components, information about the expected life (iv) of these components, and instructions for procedures on replacement when needed.
{8}------------------------------------------------
- Identification of products intended for sterilization that are compatible for use (v) with the device.
- Description of the required preparation of products intended for sterilization in (vi) the device.
### BENEFIT-RISK DETERMINATION
#### Benefit
The current paradigm for rigid sterilization containers is that they support, through testing, that the container will allow for the contents to be sterilized to an appropriate Sterility Assurance Level (SAL) and that the container can maintain the sterility of the contents for the duration of the proposed shelf-life. From an end-user perspective, there is no way to determine if the sterile barrier has been compromised other than tamper-evident accessories available with many models. Based on the proposed indications for use, the subject device intends to perform as a typical rigid sterilization container with the added feature of informing the end-user of the status of the sterile barrier. With appropriate testing and controls in place, the probable benefit of this feature is it will add another layer of confidence that devices being stored in these containers will be sterile when used. Proper use of this device is also likely to prevent the delay of treatment as contaminated or not successfully sterilized instruments are often not identified until they are opened when needed. This device will allow the end-user to query the status before the container is transported to the point of use. These probable benefits were supported through both non-clinical performance testing as well as simulated/in-use testing.
### Risk
The identified risks have been mith appropriate performance testing focusing on performance of the control module and valves as well as addressing human factors and the unique risks this device poses related to electrical safety and EMC.
#### Patient Perspectives
This submission did not include specific information on patient perspectives for this device.
#### Benefit/Risk Conclusion
Based on the performance testing provided (in particular sterilization validation, software verification/validation, maintenance of sterility testing, reprocessing validation, and non-clinical testing supporting validation of the monitoring mechanism, labeling, and human factors study) the sponsor has adequately supported that the device will accurately inform the end-user of the sterile status of the contents of the container. This feature will aid in both assuring the end-user the contents are sterile as well as prevent delayed treatment. This testing has also mitigated the probable risk of infection resulting from exposure to unsterile instruments or from an end-users' misinterpretation of the sterility status display. Biocompatibility testing has mitigated the risk of
{9}------------------------------------------------
adverse tissue reaction. Electrical safety/EMC testing and labeling have mitigated the risk of electric shock to the end user.
In conclusion, given the testing provided above, for the following indication statement:
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is a reusable sterilization container intended to be used to enclose another medical device that is to be sterilized by a healthcare provider with pre-vacuum, steam sterilization cycles, to maintain sterility after removal from the sterilizer until used, and to monitor and inform users of the status of the container's sterile barrier integrity.
The Zuno Smart Sterilization Container has been validated to allow for the sterilization of its contents in pre-vacuum steam sterilizers with the following parameters: 132 ℃ sterilization temperature, 4-minute sterilization, 30-minute dry time.
Do not use with instruments containing lumens with an inner diameter smaller than 1.2mm and an overall length longer than 500mm. Do not exceed a total container weight of 251bs.
The probable benefits outweigh the probable risks for the Zuno Smart Sterilization Container. The device provides benefits and the risks can be mitigated by the use of general controls and the identified special controls.
#### CONCLUSION
The De Novo request for the Zuno Smart Sterilization Container is granted and the device is classified as follows:
Product Code: OJT Device Type: Rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring Regulation Number: 21 CFR 880.6855 Class: II
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.
