The EEG monitor Narcotrend serves the purpose of registering and displaying EEG signals and thus monitoring the state of the brain. It was developed specifically for use in operating rooms, intensive care units, and for clinical research. The Narcotrend includes the Narcotrend Index, a processed EEG parameter which may be used as an aid in monitoring the effects of certain anesthetic agents.
Device Story
Stand-alone EEG monitor; records/processes 1-2 channels of EEG data via preamplifier and patient leads. System components: preamplifier, monitor, system/patient leads. Operates via touch screen interface. Displays raw EEG, power spectrum, and processed parameters including Narcotrend Index. Used in ORs, ICUs, and clinical research by healthcare professionals. Narcotrend Index provides numerical value to assist clinicians in assessing hypnotic effects of anesthetic agents, potentially aiding in anesthetic titration and patient management.
Clinical Evidence
Randomized controlled clinical trials compared Narcotrend to the predicate device. Results demonstrated equal effectiveness in assessing hypnotic drug effects during general anesthesia.
Technological Characteristics
Two-component system (monitor and preamplifier). Uses standard single-use ECG electrodes. Features high-resolution color touch screen. Connectivity via RS232 serial port for printer support and data transfer. Complies with IEC 60601-1 (safety), IEC 60601-1-2 (EMC), IEC 60601-1-4 (programmable medical systems), and IEC 60601-2-26 (electroencephalographs).
Indications for Use
Indicated for monitoring brain state via EEG signals in operating rooms, intensive care units, and clinical research settings; includes Narcotrend Index as an aid for monitoring hypnotic effects of anesthetic agents.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An electroencephalograph is a device used to measure and record the electrical activity of the patient's brain obtained by placing two or more electrodes on the head.
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K 033543
# 510(k) Summary
### As required by 21 CFR 807.92
Date: 2003-10-29
SEP 17 2004
# General Company Information
MT MonitorTechnik GmbH u. Co. KG Maienbaß 27 D-24576 Bad Bramstedt Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 4192 201753 Fax: +49 (0) 4192 201754 Email: monitortechnik@t-online.de
Name of contact: Friedmund Wieland
#### Device
| Trade name: | Narcotrend Compact 4.0 |
|-----------------|---------------------------------------------|
| Common name: | EEG Monitor |
| Classification: | Product code: OLW, OMC, OLT |
| | CFR Section: 882.1400 Electroencephalograph |
| | Classification Panel: Neurology |
| | Device Class: Class II |
# Name of legally marketed device for which a claim of substantial equivalence is made
The Narcotrend is of comparable type and is substantially equivalent to the following predicate device:
| Name: | A-2000 EEG Monitor with BIS |
|---------------|-----------------------------|
| Manufacture: | Aspect Medical Systems |
| 510(k) No.: | K974496 |
| Date cleared: | 1998-02-06 |
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### Device description
The Narcotrend is a stand-alone EEG monitor including the following components:
- · Preamplifier
- · Monitor for data analysis and display
- . System lead (connects preamplifier and monitor)
- · Patient lead (connects the electrodes with the preamplifier)
The Narcotrend records and processes data of one or two channels of EEG. The monitor display includes the following:
- · Raw EEG
- · Power spectrum
- · Processed EEG parameters including spectral parameters, EEG stage, and the Narcotrend Index (current values and trend plots)
#### Intended use
The EEG monitor Narcotrend serves the purpose of registering and displaying EEG signals and thus monitoring the state of the brain.
It was developed specifically for use in operating rooms, intensive care units, and for clinical research.
The Narcotrend includes the Narcotrend Index, a processed EEG parameter which may be used as an aid in monitoring the effects of certain anesthetic agents.
#### Summary of technological characteristics compared to predicate device
The Narcotrend and the predicate device are similar in the following ways:
- · Both devices record and display the EEG.
- · Both monitors provide processed EEG parameters including a numerical EEG index which serves as an aid in assessing the hypnotic effects of certain anesthetic agents.
- · Both devices conduct self-tests and electrode checks (automatic and manual).
- · Both devices have capabilities for marking events and reviewing stored data.
- · Both devices have capabilities for printer support and data transfer via RS232 serial port.
- · Both systems have two main components, a monitor and a preamplifier.
The Narcotrend and the predicate device are different in the following ways:
- · The Narcotrend is operated via touch screen while the predicate device is operated via keys.
- · The Narcotrend includes a high resolution color monitor while the predicate device has a monochrome monitor.
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- · By default, the Narcotrend uses standard single-use ECG electrodes while the predicate device uses specially designed EEG sensors placed on the forehead.
- · The Narcotrend can record and display two channels of EEG while the predicate device uses one channel of EEG.
# Summary of nonclinical testing for the device
The Narcotrend complies with the safety standards below and is therefore safe and effective for the intended use. The device has been thoroughly tested including electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, mechanical and environmental tolerance, software validation and verification of specifications. Verification with the following mandatory and voluntary standards and guidelines has been made:
- · IEC 60601-1, Medical electrical equipment Part 1: General requirements for safety
- · IEC 60601-1-2. Medical electrical equipment Part 1-2: General requirements for safety - Collateral standard: Electromagnetic compatibility - Requirements and tests
- · IEC 60601-1-4, Medical electrical equipment Part 1-4: General requirements for safety - Collateral standard: Programmable electrical medical systems
- · IEC 60601-2-26, Medical electrical equipment Part 2: Particular requirements for the safety of electroencephalographs
- · Electroencephalograph Devices, Guidance for 510(k) Content, Draft Document, Version 1.0, November 3,1997
- · Guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices, May 29, 1998
# Summary of clinical testing for the device
Results of randomized controlled clinical trials demonstrate equal effectiveness of the Narcotrend and the predicate device regarding the assessment of hypnotic drug effects during general anesthesia.
# Conclusion
The summary above shows that there are no new questions of safety and effectiveness for the Narcotrend as compared to the predicate device. We believe that the submitted device is substantially equivalent to the predicate device, and is safe for its intended use.
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Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Room -WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
Mr. Friedmund Wieland President MT MonitorTechnik GmbH u. Co. KG Maienbas 27 D-24576 Bad Bramstedt Germany
APR - 9 2012
Re: K033543
Trade/Device Name: Narcotrend Model Compact 4.0 Regulation Number: 21 CFR 882.1400 Regulation Name: Electroencephalograph Regulatory Class: II Product Code: OLW, OMC, OLT Dated (Date on orig SE ltr): June 18, 2004 Received (Date on orig SE ltr): June 21, 2004
Dear Mr. Wieland:
This letter corrects our substantially equivalent letter of September 17, 2004.
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you, however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
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Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please go to http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/CDRH/CDRHOffices/ucm115809.htm for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's (CDRH's) Office of Compliance. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
Kesia Alexander
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Malvina B. Eydelman, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic, Neurological, and Ear, Nose and Throat Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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Page ! of I
510(k) Number (if known): K 0 3 3 5 43
Device Name: Name: Narcotrend Compact 4.0
Indications For Use:
The EEG monitor Narcotrend serves the purpose of registering and displaying EEG signals and thus monitoring the state of the brain.
It was developed specifically for use in operating rooms, intensive care units and for clinical research.
The Narcotrend includes the Narcotrend Index, a processed EEG parameter which may be used as an aid in monitoring the effects of certain anesthetic agents.
# (PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE) OVEV
miriam (Division Sign-Off) Division of General, Restorative, and Neurological Devices
K033543 510(k) Number.
(Optional Format 3-10-98)
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.