The PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) are indicated for use during pedicle screw pilot hole drilling to provide feedback to the surgeon via visual and audible alerts that indicate a change in impedance at the tip of the probe and may indicate contact of the tip with soft tissues and possible vertebral cortex perforation. The PediGuard also is specifically indicated for use in intraoperative electromyographic ("EMG") surveillance to assist in the location and evaluation of spinal nerves during surgery of the spine, by administration of low voltage electrical energy to tissues and nerves at the operative site, and EMG monitoring of muscle groups associated with those nerves.
Device Story
Single-use, handheld surgical probe; stainless steel shaft with distal sensor; plastic handle containing electronics/battery. Measures electrical impedance of tissues at sensor tip during pedicle screw pilot hole drilling. Transforms impedance data into real-time visual and audible alerts for the surgeon; indicates potential soft tissue contact or vertebral cortex perforation. Also delivers low-voltage electrical energy for intraoperative EMG nerve surveillance. Used in OR by surgeons. Provides immediate feedback to guide drilling, helping avoid nerve injury or cortical breach. Benefits patient by reducing risk of pedicle wall perforation and nerve damage during spinal instrumentation.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Performance evaluated via static bending tests, electrical signal emission, impedance detection actability, and audible signal volume. Firmware verified and validated. Biocompatibility testing (ISO 10993) confirmed non-cytotoxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-toxic status.
Technological Characteristics
Single-use, sterile, handheld probe. Materials: 316L/304 stainless steel (ASTM F138/F899), ceramic/PEEK insulators. Sensing: Electrical impedance measurement at distal tip. Energy: Silver oxide or Lithium-Ion battery. Connectivity: Standalone. Sterilization: Ethylene oxide. Firmware-based control on internal circuit board.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients undergoing spinal surgery requiring pedicle screw pilot hole drilling. Used by surgeons for real-time feedback on tissue impedance to detect potential vertebral cortex perforation and for intraoperative EMG surveillance to locate and evaluate spinal nerves.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A surgical nerve stimulator/locator is a device that is intended to provide electrical stimulation to the body to locate and identify nerves and to test their excitability.
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## 123390
#### 8 2013 AUG
#### 510(k) SUMMARY
### SpineGuard's PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS model (P1-U451) and Cannulated PediGuard Needle#2 model (P2ND1002)
Submitter:
SpineGuard, S.A. 5-7 rue l' Amiral Courbet 94160 Saint Mande France Phone: +(33) 1 45 18 45 19
Contact Person:
Donald W. Guthner Orgenix LLC 111 Hill Road Douglassville, PA 19518 646-460-2984 Phone: Facsimile: 484-363-5879
July 30, 2013 Date Prepared:
Name of Device:
PediGuard 2.5mm XS (Model P1-AU414) PediGuard Curv XS (Model P1-AU451) Cannulated PediGuard Needle#2 (Model P2ND1002)
Common or Usual Name: Classification Name: Review Panel: Product Code: Device Class: Regulation:
Nerve Stimulator Surgical Nerve Stimulator/Locator Neurology PDQ and ETN Class II 21 C.F.R. §874.1820
Predicate Devices
SpineGuard S.A., PediGuard Nerve Detector (K030526)
#### Device Description
The PediGuard® 2.5mm XS and PediGuard® Curv XS are single use, single piece devices composed of stainless steel and plastic that are provided sterile, and consist of a handle containing the electronics and a stainless steel shaft with distal sensor for measuring electrical impedance of the tissues immediately in contact with the sensor during use. The devices product visual and audible signal to indicate changes in impedance associated with possible vertebral perforation.
NDC・(13865)2000000) - 4712449 \ 2
1
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The Cannulated PediGuard® Needle #2 is the needle part of a single-use modular device provided sterile, consisting of a handle containing the electronics, a stainless steel cannulated outer shaft and a stainless steel inner sensor needle for measuring electrical impedance of the tissues immediately in contact with the sensor during use.
PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) provide realtime visual and auditory feedback to the surgeon during the preparation of the pedicle screw pilot holes, sounding an alert when the tip of the sensor senses a change in the impedance of the surrounding tissues, which may indicate that the tip is in contact with soft tissues and a possible vertebral cortex perforation.
#### Intended Use/Indications for Use
The PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) are indicated for use during pedicle screw pilot hole drilling to provide feedback to the surgeon via visual and audible alerts that indicate a change in impedance at the tip of the probe and may indicate contact of the tip with soft tissues and possible vertebral cortex perforation. The PediGuard also is specifically indicated for use in intraoperative electromyographic ("EMG") surveillance to assist in the location and evaluation of spinal nerves during surgery of the spine, by administration of low voltage electrical energy to tissues and nerves at the operative site, and EMG monitoring of muscle groups associated with those nerves.
#### Substantial Equivalence
The PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) have the same intended use/indications for use, and similar technological characteristics and principles of operation as the cleared PediGuard Nerve Detector. The materials in the modified devices are directly comparable to the predicate and the impedance detection algorithm is identical. The minor differences in shaft diameter, shaft materials or electronics (firmware and power source) do not raise any new questions of safety or effectiveness. Performance data that evaluated static bending, electrical signal emission, impedance detection actability and the ability to convey changes in impedance to the user demonstrate that the PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) are as safe and effective as the cleared PediGuard Nerve Detector, Thus, the PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and. Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) are substantially equivalent to the predicate device.
#### Substantial Equivalence Chart
| SpineGuard Cleared Device | PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (P1- | Cannulated PediGuard Needle#2 |
|---------------------------|-----------------------------------------|-------------------------------|
| PediGuard (K030526) | AU414) PediGuard® Curv XS<br>(P1-AU451) | (P2ND1002) |
いDC - 038659/00000】 - 47 12-419 12
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| Intended Use / Indications<br>for Use | The SpineGuard, PediGuard<br>Nerve Detector System is<br>indicated for use during pedicle<br>screw pilot hole drilling to provide<br>feedback to the surgeon via<br>visual and audible alerts that<br>indicate a change in impedance<br>at the tip of the probe and may<br>indicate contact of the tip with<br>soft tissues and possible<br>vertebral cortex perforation. The<br>PediGuard also is specifically<br>indicated for use in intraoperative<br>electromyographic ("EMG")<br>surveillance to assist in the<br>location and evaluation of spinal<br>nerves during surgery of the<br>spine, by administration of low<br>voltage electrical energy to<br>tissues and nerves at the<br>operative site, and EMG<br>monitoring of muscle groups<br>associated with those nerves. | The PediGuard® 2.5mm XS<br>(model P1-AU414), and<br>PediGuard® Curv XS (model<br>P1-AU451) are indicated for<br>use during pedicle screw pilot<br>hole drilling to provide feedback<br>to the surgeon via visual and<br>audible alerts that indicate a<br>change in impedance at the tip<br>of the probe and may indicate<br>contact of the tip with soft<br>tissues and possible vertebral<br>cortex perforation. The<br>PediGuard also is specifically<br>indicated for use in<br>intraoperative<br>electromyographic ("EMG")<br>surveillance to assist in the<br>location and evaluation of<br>spinal nerves during surgery of<br>the spine, by administration of<br>low voltage electrical energy to<br>tissues and nerves at the<br>operative site, and EMG<br>monitoring of muscle groups<br>associated with those nerves. | The PediGuard® Cannulated<br>PediGuard® Needle#2 (model<br>P2ND1002) Is indicated for use<br>during pedicle screw pilot hole<br>drilling to provide feedback to the<br>surgeon via visual and audible<br>alerts that indicate a change in<br>impedance at the tip of the probe<br>and may indicate contact of the tip<br>with soft tissues and possible<br>vertebral cortex perforation. The<br>PediGuard also is specifically<br>indicated for use in intraoperative<br>electromyographic ("EMG")<br>surveillance to assist in the<br>location and evaluation of spinal<br>nerves during surgery of the<br>spine, by administration of low<br>voltage electrical energy to<br>tissues and nerves at the<br>operative site, and EMG<br>monitoring of muscle groups<br>associated with those nerves. |
|---------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Handle Shape | Straight - screwdriver | Gearshift T-Handle | T-handle |
| Components | Single Piece or Modular,<br>Stainless Steel shaft, plastic<br>handle, PEEK insulator | Single Piece, Stainless Steel<br>shaft, plastic handle, ceramic<br>insulator | Modular unit with Cannulated<br>outer shaft, active sensory<br>needle, and ceramic insulation |
| Shaft Material | Inner electrode: 316L Stainless<br>Steel (ASTM F138) Outer<br>electrode: 316L Stainless Steel<br>(ASTM F138) | Inner electrode: 316L Stainless<br>Steel (ASTM F138) Outer<br>electrode or shaft: 316L<br>Stainless Steel and/or 17-4PH<br>(ASTM F899) | Inner electrode: 316L Stainless<br>Steel (ASTM F138) (Electrode)<br>Outer electrode and shaft: 304<br>Stainless steel (ASTM F899) |
| Safety Features | Device cannot be turned off until<br>battery exhausted. Prevents<br>reuse of device. | Device cannot be turned off<br>until battery exhausted.<br>Prevents reuse of device. | Device cannot be turned off until<br>battery exhausted. Prevents<br>reuse of device. |
| Power Source | Silver Oxide Battery | Lithium-Ion Battery | Lithium-Ion Battery |
| Sterility | Sterile | Sterile | Sterile |
| Single Use or Reusable | Single-use | Single-use | Single-use |
| Distal Shaft shape | Straight | Curved or straight | Straight with removable inner<br>starter stylet (optional) and<br>sensory needle. |
| Dimensions | 3.2mm and 4.0 mm shaft<br>diameter | 2.5mm shaft diameter / tapered<br>for 2mm to 4mm | 3.0mm shaft diameter |
| Circuit board | Capacitors, Resistors and Diodes | Capacitors, Resistors and<br>Diodes - Firmware<br>(programmable chip) on circuit<br>board | Capacitors, Resistors and Diodes<br>- Firmware (programmable chip)<br>on circuit board |
#### Biocompatibility
Biocompatibility testing was conducted on the PediGuard® models in accordance with the testing recommendations in ISO 10993 -1 (Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices Part 1: Evaluation and Testing) and the FDA's Blue Book Memorandum # G95-1for a device in limited (≤ 24 hours) contact with tissue/bone. All studies were conducted pursuant to 21 CFR, Part 58, Good Laboratory Practices. The tests and results are summarized in the table below.
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| Tests | Results1 | Conclusion1 |
|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------|------------------------|
| In vitro Cytotoxicity test<br>(ISO MEM Elution assay with<br>quantitative evaluation of<br>cytotoxicity) - ISO 10993-5 | No evidence of cytotoxicity | Non-cytotoxic |
| Intracutaneous Reactivity test<br>(irritation) - ISO 10993-10 | No evidence of irritation | Non-irritant |
| Sensitization test (Guinea pig<br>maximization) - ISO 10993-10 | No evidence of<br>sensitization | Non-sensitizing |
| Acute Systemic Toxicity test -<br>ISO 10993-11 | No signs of toxicity | Not systemically toxic |
1Separate biocompatibility testing was conducted for the PediGuard Curv, PediGuard Curv XS, and the Cannulated PediGuard models. Results and conclusions are summarized for all three models unless otherwise noted.
As shown in the table, biocompatibility testing found the PediGuard® models to be non-cytotoxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-toxic (acute systemic).
#### Performance Data
Static bending testing was performed on the shafts. All device models performed as intended in a manner directly comparable to the predicate devices. All device models have completed firmware verification and validation testing. The PediGuard® models conform to the following standards:
- ASTM F138-08, Standard specification for wrought 18 Chromium 14 Nickel . - 2.5 Molybdenum Stainless Steel Bar and Wire for surgical implants (UNS S31673) (Version 8) (2008).
- ASTM F899-1, Standard specification for wrought stainless steel for surgical . instruments (Version 11) (2009).
- IEC 60601-1 Medical Electrical Equipment Part 1: General requirements for . safety. Amendment 1. Amendment 2.
- IEC 60601-1-4. Medical Electrical Equipment Part 1-4: General . requirements for safety, Collateral Standard. Programmable electrical medical systems, Edition 1.1
- ISO 10993-5, Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices: Tests for in vitro . cytotoxicity (1999).
- ISO 10993-10, Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices: Tests for irritation . and sensitization.
- ISO 10993-11. Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices: Tests for systemic ● toxicity.
- ISO 11135-1, Sterilization of health care products Ethylene oxide: . Requirements for the development, validation and routine control of a sterilization process for medical devices (2007).
いDC・038654910(x)(x)) ・ ・ ・ 7 | 244 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・
{4}------------------------------------------------
- ISO 10993-7, Biological evaluation of medical devices: Ethylene Oxide . sterilization residuals (2008).
- ISO 11737-1. Sterilization of medical devices Microbiological methods: . Determination of a population of microorganisms on products (2006).
- ISO 11737-2. Sterilization of medical devices Microbiological methods: . Tests of sterility performed in the definition, validation and maintenance of a sterilization process (2000).
- ISO 11607-1. Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices: . Requirements for materials, sterile barrier systems and packaging systems (2006).
- ISO 11607-2. Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices: Validation . requirements for forming, sealing and assembly processes (2006).
- ASTM F88, Standard test method for seal strength of flexible barrier materials . (2009).
- ASTM F1929. Standard test method for detecting seal leaks in porous ● medical packaging by dye penetration.
- ASTM F1980, Standard guide for accelerated aging of sterile medical device ● packages (2007).
- ASTM D4169. Standard practice for performance testing of shipping . containers and systems (2005).
- In addition to these standards, testing was conducted on the devices to demonstrate that the electrical signal emitted by the modified PediGuard was directly comparable to that of the predicate. The ability to measure changes in impedance and the volume of the audible signal emitted by the device were also measured and found to be directly comparable.
The following design verification and validation testing was performed to support the substantial equivalence of the modification to the original predicate performance levels: Surgeon testing, Bending tests, Sensor Testing, Drill durability testing. Compliance with ASTM standards, Compliance with biocompatibility standards, 100% testing of firmware, Battery function testing, and Destructive testing.
#### Conclusion
The comparison to the predicate devices demonstrates that the PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1- AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) are safe and effective for its intended use and are substantially equivalent to the predicate devices
{5}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/5/Picture/0 description: The image shows the seal of the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). The seal is circular and contains the words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" around the perimeter. In the center of the seal is a stylized image of an eagle with its wings spread.
#### DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Aveque Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring MD 20993-0002
August 8, 2013
SpineGuard, S.A. c/o Mr. John J. Smith Hogan Lovells US LLP 555 13th Street, NW Washington, DC 20004
Re: K123390
Trade/Device Name: PediGuard 2.5mm XS (Model P1-AU414) PediGuard Curv XS (Model P1-AU451) Cannulated PediGuard Needle#2 (Model P2ND1002) Regulation Number: 21 C.F.R. §874.1820 Regulation Name: Neurosurgical Nerve Locator Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: PDQ and ETN Dated: November 2, 2012 Received: December 11, 2012
Dear Mr. Smith
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device we nove and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the cnclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to commerce provisions 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). and Costlette Act (Act) that of not roquine to the general controls provisions of the Act. The I bu may, alcreible, market the act include requirements for annual registration, listing of general connois provisions of are feel 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 It may be subject to additional controlor and to 898. In addition, FDA may Iound in the Code of I casia. Nogeraing your device in the Federal Register,
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean Please be advised that FDA s issuance of a subscribes with other requirements of the Act that FDA has made a octorinination in administered by other Federal agencies. You must or any Federal Statutes and regulations annualing, but not limited to: registration and listing (ZI CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical CFK Fall 607), labeling (21 OFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set
{6}------------------------------------------------
#### Page 2 - Mr. John J. Smith
forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the clectronic 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 contact the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its tollfree number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm. 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/defuult.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,
# Joyce M. Whang -S
for Victor Krauthamer, Ph.D. Acting Director Division of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{7}------------------------------------------------
### Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known): _ K123390
Device Name: PediGuard 2.5mm XS (Model P1-AU414) PediGuard Curv XS (Model P1-AU451) Cannulated PediGuard Needle#2 (Model P2ND1002)
Indications For Use:
The PediGuard® 2.5mm XS (model P1-AU414), PediGuard® Curv XS (model P1-AU451) and Cannulated PediGuard® Needle#2 (model P2ND1002) are indicated for use during pedicle screw pilot hole drilling to provide feedback to the surgeon via visual and audible alerts that indicate a change in impedance at the tip of the probe and may indicate contact of the tip with soft tissues and possible vertebral cortex perforation. The PediGuard also is specifically indicated for use in intraoperative electromyographic ("EMG") surveillance to assist in the location and evaluation of spinal nerves during surgery of the spine, by administration of low voltage electrical energy to tissues and nerves at the operative site, and EMG monitoring of muscle groups associated with those nerves.
Prescription Use x (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) AND/OR
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
| Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE) | |
|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------|
| Joyce M. Whang -S | |
| (Division Sign Off) Division of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices (DNPMD) | |
| 510(k) Number | K123390 |
Page 1 of 1
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.