K121040 · Diamond Diagnostics, Inc. · CEM · Aug 30, 2012 · Clinical Chemistry
Device Facts
Record ID
K121040
Device Name
SMARTLYTE ELECTROLYTE ANALYZER
Applicant
Diamond Diagnostics, Inc.
Product Code
CEM · Clinical Chemistry
Decision Date
Aug 30, 2012
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 862.1600
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The SMARTLYTE is an automated, microprocessor-controlled analyzer which utilizes ion-selective electrodes for the measurement of sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and lithium in serum, plasma, whole blood, pre-diluted urine samples. In addition, the analyzer can also measure sodium, chloride and calcium in dialysate samples. The SMARTLYTE Sodium Assay is intended to measure sodium in whole blood, serum, plasma, pre-diluted urine and dialysate on the SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer. Measurements obtained by this device are used to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of aldosteronism (excessive secretion of the hormone aldosterone), diabetes insipidus (chronic excretion of large amounts of dilute urine, accompanied by extreme thirst), adrenal hypertension, Addison's disease (caused by destruction of the adrenal glands), dehydration, inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, or other diseases involving electrolyte imbalance. The SMARTLYTE Potassium Assay is intended to measure potassium in whole blood, serum, plasma, urine and dialysate. Measurements obtained by this device are used to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases conditions characterized by low or high blood potassium levels. The SMARTLYTE Chloride Assay is intended to measure the level of chloride in whole blood, serum, plasma, urine and dialysate. Chloride measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of electrolyte and metabolic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and diabetic acidosis. The SMARTLYTE Calcium Assay is intended to measure ionized calcium levels in whole blood, plasma, serum, and dialysate. Calcium measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of parathyroid disease, a variety of bone diseases, chronic renal disease and tetany (intermittent muscular contractions or spasms). The SMARTLYTE Lithium Assay is intended to measure lithium (from the drug lithium carbonate) in whole blood, plasma, and serum. Measurements of lithium are used to assure that the proper drug dosage is administered in the treatment of patients with mental disturbances, such as manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder).
Device Story
Automated, microprocessor-controlled electrolyte analyzer; uses ion-selective electrodes (ISE) to measure Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca++, and Li+ in clinical samples (blood, serum, plasma, urine, dialysate). Input: 95uL sample; Output: quantitative electrolyte concentrations displayed on alphanumeric screen, printed, or transmitted via RS-232/USB. Used in clinical settings by trained personnel. Features RFID-based reagent pack monitoring and expanded data storage. Self-calibrates every 4 hours or on-demand. Provides rapid diagnostic data to clinicians for managing electrolyte imbalances, renal/metabolic disorders, and lithium drug dosing.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Precision/reproducibility studies (n=30-40 per level) and linearity studies (n=34-48) performed on dialysate samples. Method comparison against Roche 9180 showed high correlation (R² > 0.99 for most analytes). Interference studies confirmed bias within ±10% for common dialysate components (urea, lactate, glucose, creatinine).
Indicated for patients requiring electrolyte monitoring (Na, K, Cl, Ca, Li) in whole blood, serum, plasma, urine, or dialysate. Used for diagnosis/treatment of renal, metabolic, cardiovascular disorders, and monitoring lithium therapy for mental disturbances. No specific age/gender contraindications listed.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A potassium test system is a device intended to measure potassium in serum, plasma, and urine. Measurements obtained by this device are used to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases conditions characterized by low or high blood potassium levels.
Predicate Devices
Roche AVL Electrolyte Analyzer 9180 (k961458)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY ASSAY AND INSTRUMENT COMBINATION TEMPLATE
A. 510(k) Number:
k121040
B. Purpose for Submission:
Add a new matrix type, dialysate, to a previously cleared device- SMARTLYTE Electrolyte analyzer (k082462) for Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Calcium
C. Measurand:
Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Calcium, Lithium
D. Type of Test:
Ion Selective Electrode
E. Applicant:
Diamond Diagnostics, Inc.
F. Proprietary and Established Names:
SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer
G. Regulatory Information:
1. Regulation section:
21 CFR 862.1665 – Sodium Test System
21 CFR 862.1600 – Potassium Test System
21 CFR 862.1170 – Chloride Test System
21 CFR 862.1145 – Calcium Test System
21 CFR 862.3560 – Lithium Test System
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2. Classification:
Class II
3. Product code:
JGS, CEM, CGZ, JFP, and JIH, respectively
4. Panel:
75 – Chemistry (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Calcium)
91 – Toxicology (Lithium)
H. Intended Use:
1. Intended use(s):
See indications for use below.
2. Indication(s) for use:
The SMARTLYTE is an automated, microprocessor-controlled analyzer which utilizes ion-selective electrodes for the measurement of sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and lithium in serum, plasma, whole blood, dialysate and pre-diluted urine samples. In addition, the analyzer can also measure sodium, potassium, chloride and calcium in dialysate samples.
The SMARTLYTE Sodium Assay is intended to measure sodium in whole blood, serum, plasma, urine and dialysate on the SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer. Measurements obtained by this device are used to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of aldosteronism (excessive secretion of the hormone aldosterone), diabetes insipidus (chronic excretion of large amounts of dilute urine, accompanied by extreme thirst), adrenal hypertension, Addison's disease (caused by destruction of the adrenal glands), dehydration, inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, or other diseases involving electrolyte imbalance.
The SMARTLYTE Potassium Assay is intended to measure potassium in whole blood, serum, plasma, urine and dialysate on the SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer. Measurements obtained by this device are used to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases conditions characterized by low or high blood potassium levels.
The SMARTLYTE Chloride Assay is intended to measure the level of chloride in whole blood, serum, plasma, urine and dialysate. Chloride measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of electrolyte and metabolic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and diabetic acidosis.
The SMARTLYTE Calcium Assay is intended to measure ionized calcium levels in whole blood, plasma, serum, and dialysate. Calcium measurements are used in the
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diagnosis and treatment of parathyroid disease, a variety of bone diseases, chronic renal disease and tetany (intermittent muscular contractions or spasms).
The SMARTLYTE Lithium Assay is intended to measure lithium (from the drug lithium carbonate) in whole blood, plasma, and serum. Measurements of lithium are used to assure that the proper drug dosage is administered in the treatment of patients with mental disturbances, such as manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder).
3. Special conditions for use statement(s):
For prescription use only
Bicarbonate based dialysis fluid should be analyzed in the Bicarbonate mode. Analysis should be carried out as quickly as possible after collection of the sample into an air tight container to prevent changes in Bicarbonate concentration.
4. Special instrument requirements:
Diamond Diagnostics SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer
I. Device Description:
The SMARTLYTE is an automated, microprocessor-controlled analyzer which utilizes ion-selective electrodes for the measurement of sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and lithium. The analyzer self-calibrates using Diamond Diagnostics Fluid Pack (k013850) every 4 hours through out the day or on request. Mission controls (k033063) are the recommended quality control material to be used daily.
J. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate device name(s):
Roche AVL Electrolyte Analyzer 9180
2. Predicate 510(k) number(s):
k961458 for Roche Electrolyte Analyzer
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3. Comparison with predicate:
| Characteristics | | Predicate k961458
Roche Electrolyte Analyzer 9180 | Proposed k121040
SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Intended Use
/Indications for use | | An automated analyzer for the measurement of sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and lithium | Same |
| Methodology | | Same | Same |
| Sample Type | | Whole blood, serum and plasma, urine and dialysate | Same |
| Measuring Range (Whole blood, plasma, serum and dialysate) | Na⁺ | 40 -205 mEq/L | 40 -200 mEq/L |
| | K⁺ | 1.5 -15 mEq/L | 1.7 -15 mEq/L |
| | Cl⁻ | 50 -200 mEq/L | 50 -200 mEq/L |
| | Ca²⁺ | 0.2 -5 mmol/L | 0.3 -5 mmol/L |
| | Li⁺ | 0.1 -6.0 mEq/L | 0.2 -5.5 mEq/L |
| Measuring Range Urine | Na⁺ | 1 -300 mEq/L | 3 -300 mEq/L |
| | K⁺ | 4.5 -120 mEq/L | 5 -120 mEq/L |
| | Cl⁻ | 1 -300 mEq/L | 15 -300 mEq/L |
| R/W RFID TAG for monitoring individual fluid pack consumption | | No | Yes |
K. Standard/Guidance Document Referenced (if applicable):
None were referenced.
L. Test Principle:
The SMARTLYTE measures sodium, potassium, chloride, ionized calcium, and lithium using ion selective electrode technology. The flow-through sodium electrode contains a glass tube, specially formulated to be sensitive to sodium ions. The flow-through potassium, chloride, ionized calcium, and lithium electrodes incorporate a neutral carrier ionophore membrane. The potential of each electrode is measured relative to a fixed, stable voltage established by the silver/silver chloride reference electrode. An ion selective electrode develops a voltage that varies with the concentration of the ion to which it responds. The relationship between the voltage developed and the concentration of the sensed ion is logarithmic.
M. Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
1. Analytical performance:
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Performance studies for this submission are limited to dialysate samples only. Please refer to the original submission (k082462) for the studies performed on whole blood, serum, plasma, and urine samples for each analyte.
a. Precision/Reproducibility:
Three levels (spent dialysates) of each analyte across the measuring range were used for the study. Within run precision was performed by running 30 replicates of each level without calibration between measurements. The replicates were run consecutively in one day. For run-to-run precision, the samples were measured twice a day in duplicate for ten consecutive days resulting in n=40 replicates. The acceptance criteria for sodium, potassium and chloride were expressed as %CV, while SD was used for Calcium. The results are summarized below.
Within Run precision for dialysate:
| Sample 1 | Na+(mEq/L) | K+(mEq/L) | Cl-(mEq/L) | Ca2+(mmol/L) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mean | 122.45 | 2.7073 | 83.93 | 0.8013 |
| %CV | 0.32 | 0.87 | 0.89 | SD=0.0087 |
| n | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| Sample 2 | Na+(mEq/L) | K+(mEq/L) | Cl-(mEq/L) | Ca2+(mmol/L) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mean | 139.56 | 4.0400 | 107.32 | 1.2491 |
| %CV | 0.32 | 0.28 | 0.33 | SD=0.0143 |
| n | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| Sample 3 | Na+(mEq/L) | K+(mEq/L) | Cl-(mEq/L) | Ca2+(mmol/L) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mean | 158.12 | 6.7653 | 123.05 | 0.8013 |
| %CV | 0.47 | 0.39 | 0.24 | SD=0.0155 |
| n | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 |
Run-to-Run Precision for dialysate:
| Sample 1 | Na+(mEq/L) | K+(mEq/L) | Cl-(mEq/L) | Ca2+(mmol/L) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mean | 122.41 | 2.7243 | 83.48 | 0.7975 |
| %CV | 0.32 | 1.27 | 1.44 | SD=0.0074 |
| n | 40 | 40 | 40 | 40 |
| Sample 2 | Na+(mEq/L) | K+(mEq/L) | Cl-(mEq/L) | Ca2+(mmol/L) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mean | 140.59 | 4.4718 | 107.91 | 1.2347 |
| %CV | 0.54 | 0.88 | 0.53 | SD=0.0158 |
| n | 40 | 40 | 40 | 40 |
| Sample 3 | Na+(mEq/L) | K+(mEq/L) | Cl-(mEq/L) | Ca2+(mmol/L) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mean | 158.12 | 6.7653 | 123.05 | 0.8013 |
| %CV | 0.51 | 1.02 | 0.59 | SD=0.0226 |
| n | 40 | 40 | 40 | 40 |
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# b. Linearity/assay reportable range:
Linearity was evaluated by preparing serially diluted solutions with 17 different concentrations covering entire measuring range of $\mathrm{Na+}$ , $\mathrm{K+}$ , $\mathrm{Cl-}$ , $\mathrm{Ca2+}$ in spent dialysates. Linear regression was performed on the results using expected values based on the stock sample dilution. The results are shown below.
| Parameter | Slope | Intercep t | R2 | Claimed Measuring | n |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sodium | 0.980 | 2.53 | 0.999 | 40-200 mEq/L | 34 |
| Potassium | 1.003 | -0.37 | 0.997 | 1.7-15 mEq/L | 36 |
| Chloride | 0.999 | 1.60 | 0.999 | 50-200 mEq/L | 34 |
| Calcium | 0.985 | 0.06 | 0.997 | 0.3-5 mmol/L | 48 |
The data provided in the linearity studies supports the sponsor's claimed measuring ranges.
c. Traceability, Stability, Expected values (controls, calibrators, or methods):
Calibrators were previously cleared under k013850 and controls under k033063.
d. Detection limit:
Reportable ranges were determined based on the linearity studies (see M.1.b. above)
e. Analytical specificity:
Prepared dialysate solutions are aqueous solutions of salts typically consisting of the analytes at the concentrations close to the following: $140\mathrm{mEq/L}$ Sodium, $1.25\mathrm{mmol/L}$ Calcium, $1.0\mathrm{mEq/L}$ Potassium, $1.0\mathrm{mEq/L}$ Magnesium, $105.5\mathrm{mEq/L}$ Chloride, $4.00\mathrm{mEq/L}$ Acetate, $0.1\%$ Dextrose, and $39\mathrm{mEq/L}$ Bicarbonate. The effects of endogenous and exogenous factors would vary depending upon the formulation of the membrane used in the electrode. Spent dialysate may contain urea, lactate, glucose and creatinine and other small molecules from the hemodialysis process. Interference studies were performed on the possible interferents found in spent dialysates using dialysates spiked with the potential interference substances. The $\%$ biases were calculated between the spiked and un-spiked samples. All samples were tested in replicates of ten. The $\%$ bias between the spiked samples and un-spiked samples were all within $\pm 10\%$ bias for the following concentrations tested.
Endogenous Interference:
| Interferent tested | Concentration tested |
| --- | --- |
| Urea | 30.81 mg/dL |
| Lactate | 108.11 mg/dL |
| Glucose | 216.22 mg/dL |
| Creatinine | 5.66 mg/dL |
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The sponsor has placed the following limitations in the labeling:
"A number of substances have been reported to cause physiological changes in blood, serum and plasma analyte concentrations. These substances can also alter dialysates. Medications and endogenous substances can affect results and clinicians must evaluate results based on the patient's entire clinical situation."
"Bicarbonate based dialysis fluid should be analyzed in the Bicarbonate mode. Analysis should be carried out as quickly as possible after collection of the sample into an air tight container to prevent changes in Bicarbonate concentration."
f. Assay cut-off:
No Applicable
2. Comparison studies:
a. Method comparison with predicate device:
Method comparisons to the predicate device (Roche Electrolyte 9180 analyzer) were performed with spent dialysate samples. Some samples were spiked or diluted to fully span the claimed measuring ranges. The results are summarized below.
| | Dialysate | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | slope | intercept | R² | n | conc. tested |
| Sodium | 1.0183 | -2.52 | 0.9989 | 43 | 49-179 mEq/L |
| Potassium | 0.9882 | 0.04 | 0.9996 | 56 | 1.5-14 mEq/L |
| Chloride | 0.9825 | -2.86 | 0.9966 | 51 | 52-199 mEq/L |
| Calcium | 1.0021 | 0.03 | 0.9956 | 43 | 0.3-4.5 mmol/L |
b. Matrix comparison:
Not applicable
3. Clinical studies:
a. Clinical Sensitivity:
Not Applicable
b. Clinical specificity:
Not Applicable
c. Other clinical supportive data (when a. and b. are not applicable):
Not Applicable
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4. Clinical cut-off:
Not applicable
5. Expected values/Reference range:
The values given in the tables below are intended to be used only as a guide. Each laboratory or testing site should establish its own range of normal values, taking into account factors such as age, sex, diet, and other determinants of electrolyte levels.
Whole Blood, Serum, Plasma (mmol/L)*
Na⁺ 136 - 145 mmol/L
K⁺ 3.5 - 5.1 mmol/L
Cl⁻ 97 - 111 mmol/L
iCa²⁺ 1.0 - 1.30 mmol/L
Li⁺ 0.6 - 1.2 mmol/L
Urine (mmol/L)*
Na⁺ 40 - 220 mmol/L
K⁺ 25 - 120 mmol/L
Cl⁻ 110 - 250 mmol/L
*From Burtis C, Ashwood E (Eds.), Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry, 2nd ed. (Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders, Co., 1994)
N. Instrument Name:
Diamond Diagnostics SMARTLYTE Electrolyte Analyzer
O. System Descriptions:
1. Modes of Operation:
Fully automated with 'Yes' or 'No' commands for menu navigation.
2. Software:
FDA has reviewed applicant's Hazard Analysis and software development processes for this line of product types:
Yes ☐ X or No ☐
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3. Specimen Identification:
Manual
4. Specimen Sampling and Handling:
Samples are manually placed on the instrument one at a time, tested, and removed.
5. Calibration:
One point automated on board calibration performed every four hours or upon request. The slope is calculated during calibration and stored for sample measurement.
6. Quality Control:
Controls are run manually and recommended daily. Results can be stored in instrument memory for future use.
P. Other Supportive Instrument Performance Characteristics Data Not Covered In The "Performance Characteristics" Section above:
Matrix Stability Study:
Aliquots of prepared dialysate solution stored in tightly closed air impermeable containers were tested at room temperature, 22 C, in the refrigerator (4 - 8 oC) and in the freezer, -20 oC for 24 hours, and each aliquot was returned to appropriate storage condition for additional 24 hours. The concentration change for each analyte before and after the study was calculated. The test results were shown below:
| Sodium Stability | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Date | Day Stored | Temp, °C | Concentration | % Decrease |
| 7/11/2012 | 0 | 4 | 137.2 | - |
| 7/12/2012 | 1 | 4 | 137.7 | 0.4% |
| 7/13/2012 | 2 | 4 | 138.6 | 1.0% |
| 7/16/2012 | 0 | - | 134.2 | - |
| 7/17/2012 | 1 | - | 130.1 | -3.0% |
| Potassium Stability | | | | |
| Date | Day Stored | Temp, °C | Concentration | % Decrease |
| 7/11/2012 | 0 | 4 | 1.018 | - |
| 7/12/2012 | 1 | 4 | 1.015 | -0.3% |
| 7/13/2012 | 2 | 4 | 1.019 | 0.1% |
| 7/16/2012 | 0 | - | 1.038 | - |
| 7/17/2012 | 1 | - | 1.024 | -1.3% |
| Chloride Stability | | | | |
| Date | Day Stored | Temp, °C | Concentration | % Decrease |
| 7/11/2012 | 0 | 4 | 108.6 | - |
| 7/12/2012 | 1 | 4 | 108.0 | -0.6% |
| 7/13/2012 | 2 | 4 | 108.7 | 0.0% |
| 7/16/2012 | 0 | - | 107.6 | - |
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| 7/17/2012 | 1 | - | 106.8 | -0.7% |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Calcium Stability | | | | |
| Date | Day Stored | Temp, °C | Concentration | % Decrease |
| 7/11/2012 | 0 | 4 | 1.04 | - |
| 7/12/2012 | 1 | 4 | 0.99 | - |
| 7/13/2012 | 2 | 4 | 0.72 | -31% |
| 7/16/2012 | 0 | - | 1.01 | - |
| 7/17/2012 | 1 | - | 0.59 | -41% |
The study results indicate that ionized calcium is not stable in bicarbonate dialysate solutions. Since prepared dialysate is not stable, spent dialysate is not expected to be stable during storage. Dialysates should be tested as soon as possible after collection.
Q. Proposed Labeling:
The labeling is sufficient and it satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Part 809.10.
R. Conclusion:
The submitted information in this premarket notification is complete and supports a substantial equivalence decision.
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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.