K133257 · Research Instruments , Ltd. · MQH · May 16, 2014 · Obstetrics/Gynecology
Device Facts
Record ID
K133257
Device Name
BIOPSY PIPETTES
Applicant
Research Instruments , Ltd.
Product Code
MQH · Obstetrics/Gynecology
Decision Date
May 16, 2014
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 884.6130
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
Biopsy pipettes are used in assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for the removal of blastomere(s) from embryos or polar bodies from oocytes, which may be done in order to perform preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) on the genetic materials in the biopsied cell(s).
Device Story
Biopsy pipettes are manual microtools used in assisted reproduction laboratories by embryologists. The device consists of a fine borosilicate glass tube with specific tip geometries (flat, non-spiked, or spiked) and varying inner diameters (14-40μm) and bend angles (0-45°). The operator uses the pipette to physically aspirate or remove blastomeres from embryos or polar bodies from oocytes. This procedure enables the collection of genetic material for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). The device is provided sterile and is intended for single-use. It functions as a mechanical tool; no electronic or automated processing is involved.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Performance validated via non-pyrogenic testing (LAL per AAMI ST72:2002/(R)2010, acceptance < 20 EU/device) and non-embryotoxicity testing (Mouse Embryo Assay, acceptance ≥80% blastocyst after 120h). Sterilization validated per ISO 11137-1:2006 and ISO 11137-2:2006. Packaging validated per ISO 11607-2:2006 and various ASTM standards (F1980-07, F1886-09, F2054-13, F1929-12).
Technological Characteristics
Borosilicate glass microtools; various tip profiles (flat, non-spiked, spiked) and diameters (14-40μm); bend angles 0-45°. Sterilized via gamma irradiation. Packaging validated per ISO 11607-2:2006 and ASTM F1980-07, F1886-09, F2054-13, F1929-12. Non-pyrogenic per AAMI ST72:2002/(R)2010.
Indications for Use
Indicated for use in assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for the removal of blastomere(s) from embryos or polar bodies from oocytes to facilitate preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).
Regulatory Classification
Identification
Assisted reproduction microtools are pipettes or other devices used in the laboratory to denude, micromanipulate, hold, or transfer human gametes or embryos for assisted hatching, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), or other assisted reproduction methods.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls) (mouse embryo assay information, endotoxin testing, sterilization validation, design specifications, labeling requirements, and clinical testing). The device, when the assisted reproduction microtools (pipettes) are manufactured from glass, is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 884.9.
Predicate Devices
RI Pipettes - ICSI Injection, Holding, Assisted Hatching, Denuding (K991261)
Polar body biopsy micropipet and blastomere biopsy micropipet (K012811)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
{0}------------------------------------------------
RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS LIMITED
Bickland Industrial Park, Faimouth, Cornwall, TR11 4TA, U.K. Tel: 01326 372753 [+44 1326 372 753] Fax: 01326 378783 [+44 1326 378 783] e-mail: sales@research-instruments.com www.research-instruments.com
#### 510(k) Summary
#### Date prepared
Wednesday, 07 May 2014
#### Submitter
| Company Name: | Research Instruments Ltd. |
|----------------------|--------------------------------|
| Registration Number: | 9617095 |
| Address: | Bickland Industrial Park |
| | Falmouth, |
| | Cornwall TR11 4TA |
| | United Kingdom |
| Telephone: | +44 (0) 1326 372 753 |
| Fax: | +44 (0) 1326 378 783 |
| Contact person: | David Lansdowne |
| Contact Title: | Technical Director |
| Contact email: | david@research-instruments.com |
#### Device Name
Trade Name: RI Pipettes - Biopsy Common name: RI Pipettes Classification Name: Microtools, Assisted Reproduction (21CFR 884.6130, 85 MQH) Classification Panel: Obstetrics/Gynecology 510(K): K133257
## Predicate Device
The RI Pipette - Biopsy claim substantial equivalence to two devices which have US market clearance.
### Predicate 1
| Trade Name: | RI Pipettes - ICSI Injection, Holding, Assisted Hatching, Denuding |
|----------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Manufacturer: | Research Instruments Ltd |
| Classification Name: | Microtools, Assisted Reproduction |
| 510(K): | K991261 |
| Regulation Number: | 21CFR 844.6130 |
| Product Code: | MQH |
#### Predicate 2
| Trade Name: | Polar body biopsy micropipet and blastomere biopsy micropipet |
|----------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Manufacturer: | Humagen Fertility Diagnostics, Inc |
| Classification Name: | Microtools, Assisted Reproduction |
| 510(K): | K012811 |
| Regulation Number: | 21CFR 884.6130 |
| Product Code: | MOH |
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# RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS LIMITED
#### Description of the Device
The Biopsy pipette is part of the RI Pipettes range. Other pipettes available in this range include ICSI Injection, ICSI Holding, and Assisted Hatching pipettes.
Biopsy pipettes are offered in a range
- ID sizes - 14μm, 20μm, 25μm, 30μm, 40μm .
- bend angles 0°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45° .
- . tip profiles - flat , non-spiked (bevelled), spiked
All pipettes in this range are manufactured from very fine borosilicate glass, packed individually into a Twista-Pak (primary packaging) and sealed in a medical pouch. They are then batch sterilised by gamma irradiation.
#### Summary of Performance Testing
Each finished batch of pipettes is tested to prove
- . non-pyrogenic by Limulus Amoebocyte Lysate (LAL) per AAMI ST72:2002/(R)2010. Testing acceptance: < 20 EU/device
- . non-embryotoxic by Mouse Embryo Assay (MEA) Testing acceptance: Pass level: ≥80% blastocyst after 120h
The sterilization process was validated per ISO 11137-1:2006 and ISO 11137-2:2007.
The packaging was validated per ISO 11607-2:2006, ASTM F1980-07, ASTM F1886-09, ASTM F2054-13, and ASTM F1929-12.
Results of real-time aging studies demonstrate the device maintains its specifications for the duration of its shelf life.
#### Indications for Use
Biopsy pipettes are used in assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for the removal of blastomere(s) from embryos or polar bodies from oocytes, which may be done in order to perform preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) on the genetic materials in the biopsied cells(s).
#### Technological Characteristics
RI Pipette - Biopsy claims substantial equivalence to the
- RI Pipettes range with respect to raw material, manufacturing process, packaging, sealing and 1. irradiation processes, pre-clinical testing and batch release criteria. The only difference between the RI Biopsy pipettes and the other pipettes in the RI range of pipettes is its intended use and tip geometry ie the size and profile of the tip is specific to the 'biopsy' intended use.
- 2. Humagen Pipettes with regard to raw material, manufacturing and irradiation processes and pre-clinical testing. The intended use is the same and tip geometry is also very similar. Any differences in geometry are the manufacturers' response to perceived user preference and do not affect the safety and effectiveness of the device when used as labelled. The RI Pipettes has a 3 year shelf life where the predicate device has a 2 year shelf life.
These differences do not affect the safety and effectiveness of the intended purpose.
#### Conclusion
The subject device is substantially equivalent to the predicate devices based on intended use, sterilization validation, and bench performance testing (MEA and LAL).
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#### DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Image /page/2/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a stylized eagle with three tail feathers, representing the department's commitment to health, human services, and well-being. The words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" are arranged in a circular fashion around the eagle.
#### Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
May 16, 2014
Research Instruments Limited David Lansdowne Technical Director Bickland Industrial Park Falmouth, Cornwall TR114TA United Kingdom
Re: K133257
> Trade/Device Name: RI Pipettes - Biopsy Regulation Number: 21 CFR§ 884.6130 Regulation Name: Assisted reproduction microtools Regulatory Class: II Product Code: MQH Dated: April 14, 2014 Received: April 14, 2014
Dear David Lansdowne,
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.
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.
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Page 2 - David Lansdowne
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 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/MedicalDeyices/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/Resourcesfor You/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
Benjamin Fisher -S
Benjamin R. Fisher, Ph.D. Director Division of Reproductive, Gastro-Renal, and Urological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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#### DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration
# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K133257
Device Name
RI Pipettes - Biopsy
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
Biopsy pipettes are used in assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for the removal of blastomere(s) from embryos or polar bodies from oocytes, which may be done in order to perform preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) on the genetic materials in the biopsied cell(s).
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
2 Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
# PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
FOR FDA USE ONLY Concurrence of Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) (Signature)
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This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
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EF
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.