K141434 · Research Instruments , Ltd. · MRX · Feb 18, 2015 · Obstetrics/Gynecology
Device Facts
Record ID
K141434
Device Name
SATURN 5 LASER
Applicant
Research Instruments , Ltd.
Product Code
MRX · Obstetrics/Gynecology
Decision Date
Feb 18, 2015
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 884.6200
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Real-World Evidence
Real-World Evidence
Submission
Device
Sponsor
RWD Sources
RWE Use Summary
Key Tags
K141434 · Feb 18, 2015
SATURN 5 LASER
Research Instruments , Ltd.
European market postmarket surveillance data
The sponsor utilized postmarket performance data from the European market to support the safety and effectiveness of the Saturn 5 laser system, noting extensive use since 2012 without reported safety incidents.
postmarket surveillance; European market experience
Clinical Evidence
Study Design
Population
Comparator
Key Endpoints
European market postmarket surveillance; Postmarket surveillance / Real-world usage monitoring; Follow-up/Duration: May 2012 to December 2014; Study Period: May 2012 - December 2014
Patients undergoing assisted reproduction procedures in the European market
Not applicable for this study
Safety and performance (reported incidents)
Indications for Use
For use in assisted reproduction procedures to ablate or thin the zona pellucida of an oocyte or embryo to facilitate assisted hatching or recovery of cells for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (blastomeres). The device can also be used on blastocyst stage embryos for biopsy of trophectoderm cells for pre-implantation diagnosis procedures, and blastocyst collapse prior to vitrification procedures.
Device Story
Saturn 5 is an ART laser system for assisted hatching, biopsy, and blastocyst collapse; used in assisted reproduction clinics by embryologists. System integrates with inverted microscopes; includes control unit, fiber optic patch lead, 40x objective, mirror/motor modules, IR filter, and optional foot pedal. Inputs: user-defined target points on embryo via PC/camera interface. Operation: main ablation laser and pilot laser; RI Viewer software controls laser movement, firing, and imaging. Active model features 'Biopsy Mode' for automated series of ablation holes along a user-defined path. Output: laser pulses to ablate zona pellucida. Clinical benefit: facilitates genetic diagnosis and embryo preparation for vitrification. Safety: software restricts firing parameters to minimize localized heating; same laser settings as predicate.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical trials performed. Evidence based on bench testing, electrical safety/EMC compliance (IEC 60601-1:2005, EN 60601-1-2:2007), and software verification/validation. Laser classification (Class I) verified per IEC 60825:2008 and 21 CFR 1040.10. Post-market performance data from European market (since 2012) indicates no reported safety or performance incidents.
Technological Characteristics
Laser-based ablation system for ART. Components: control unit, fiber optic lead, 40x objective, mirror/motor modules, IR filter. Laser: Class I (IEC 60825:2008, 21 CFR 1040.10). Connectivity: PC-based with camera interface. Software: RI Viewer for laser control, measurement, and image storage. Standards: IEC 60601-1:2005 (electrical safety), EN 60601-1-2:2007 (EMC).
Indications for Use
Indicated for assisted reproduction procedures requiring zona pellucida ablation or thinning in oocytes or embryos, including assisted hatching, blastomere biopsy, trophectoderm cell biopsy for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, and blastocyst collapse prior to vitrification.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
The assisted reproduction laser system is a device that images, targets, and controls the power and pulse duration of a laser beam used to ablate a small tangential hole in, or to thin, the zona pellucida of an embryo for assisted hatching or other assisted reproduction procedures.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special control is FDA's guidance document entitled “Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Assisted Reproduction Laser Systems.” See § 884.1(e) for the availability of this guidance document.
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Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
February 18, 2015
Research Instruments Ltd. David Landsdowne Technical Director Bickland Water Industrial Park Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 4TA United Kingdom
Re: K141434
Trade/Device Name: Saturn 5 Laser System Regulation Number: 21 CFR 884.6200 Regulation Name: Assisted reproduction laser system Regulatory Class: II Product Code: MRX Dated: January 14, 2015 Received: January 20, 2015
Dear David Landsdowne,
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 mav 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. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR
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Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical devicerelated 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 contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education 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. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 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 Industry and Consumer Education 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.
# Benjamin R. 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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# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K141434
Device Name Saturn 5 Laser System
Indications for Use (Describe)
For use in assisted reproduction procedures to ablate or thin the zona pellucida of an oocyte or embryo to facilitate assisted hatching or recovery of cells for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (blastomeres). The device can also be used on blastocyst stage embryos for biopsy of trophectoderm cells for pre-implantation diagnosis procedures, and blastocyst collapse prior to vitrification procedures.
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)
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Image /page/3/Picture/1 description: The image shows a logo with the letters 'R' and 'I' in a bold, serif typeface. A curved line is positioned beneath the letters, adding a sense of motion or elegance to the design. The logo is monochromatic, with the letters and line appearing in black against a white background, creating a stark contrast.
Bickland Industrial Park, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 4TA, UK Tel: 01326 372753 [International +44 1326 372 753] Fax: 01326 378783 [International +44 1326 378 783] e-mail: sales@research-instruments.com www.research-instruments.com
#### 510(k) Summary
#### Submitter
| Company Name: | Research Instruments Ltd. |
|----------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Registration Number: | 9617095 |
| Address: | Bickland Industrial Park<br>Falmouth,<br>Cornwall TR11 4TA<br>United Kingdom |
| Telephone: | +44 (0) 1326 372 753 |
| Fax: | +44 (0) 1326 378 783 |
| Contact person: | David Lansdowne, Technical Director |
| Contact email: | david@research-instruments.com |
| Date prepared : | Thursday, 18 December 2014 |
| Device | |
| Trade Name: | Saturn 5 Laser Systems, Model - Saturn 5 Active Laser System and<br>Saturn 5 Laser System |
| Device Name: | Assisted Reproduction Laser System |
| Classification Name: | Laser, Assisted Reproduction (21CFR 884.6200) |
| Regulatory Class: | II |
| Product Code: | MRX |
## Predicate Device
Saturn 3 Laser Systems, K083208 and K060764 This predicate has not been subject to a design related recall.
#### Description of the device
The Saturn 5 is the latest generation of ART laser systems manufactured by Research Instruments Limited. It is offered in two versions, the fixed and the active models and is designed to enable laser assisted hatching (LAH), laser assisted biopsy (LAB) and related procedures in assisted reproduction clinics.
The system has been designed to be fitted to most commercially available inverted microscopes e.g. Olympus, Nikon and is also used with a PC and camera to provide an optical system and means of firing the laser. A foot pedal for firing the laser is available as an optional extra. The user/customer is requested to confirm their microscope set-up etc, at the point of ordering.
The Saturn system comprises hardware, software and firmware. Hardware components include a control unit, armoured fibre optic patch lead, special 40x objective, a mirror module, motor module (active models only), IR filter and foot pedal (optional). This Saturn 5 system delivers two lasers; the main ablation laser and the pilot laser. Both laser beams are launched from the end of a fibre optic and collimated by an achromatic collimator. Saturn 5, RI Viewer software controls the movement of the laser, fires the laser and allows the user to take measurements and store images.
Saturn 5 differs to the Saturn 3 - Biopsy mode is available with the active model allowing the user to ablate a series of holes along a set, pre-determined path/line. When 'Biopsy Mode' has been
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Image /page/4/Picture/1 description: The image shows a logo with the letters 'RI' in a bold, serif typeface. A curved line underlines the letters, adding a sense of elegance and motion to the design. The logo is monochromatic, with the letters and line rendered in black against a white background. The overall impression is one of sophistication and classic style.
activated, the user selects the position of the first and last hole to be drilled by clicking on the screen. A straight line is then clearly defined between these two points which may or may not, depending on user preference, be manipulated (curved) by dragging the center of the line with the mouse pointer. The software determines how many holes are drilled along this line and controls/restricts laser firing parameters e.g. pulse length, to minimize localized heating of the embryo during these procedures.
#### Indications for Use
For use in assisted reproduction procedures to ablate or thin the zona pellucida of an embryo to facilitate assisted hatching or recovery of cells for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (blastomeres). The device can also be used on blastocyst stage embryos for biopsy of trophectoderm cells for preimplantation diagnosis procedures, and blastocvst collapse prior to vitrification procedures.
The indications for use statement for the Saturn 5 system is not identical to the predicate device; however the differences do not alter the intended therapeutic use of the device nor do they affect the safety and effectiveness of the device relative to the predicate. Both the subject and predicate devices have the same assisted hatching intended use.
#### Comparison of Technological Characteristics with the Predicate Device
The Saturn 5 and Saturn 3 laser systems operate on the same technological principle ie are used to ablate a user defined section zona pellucida of an embryo. Both devices use a pilot laser to align the main laser and each are available as fixed or moveable lasers. At a high level, other similarities are summarised below:
| Saturn 3 models | Saturn 5 models |
|-----------------------------------|-----------------|
| Laser interaction with target | Same |
| Laser wavelength | Same |
| Laser power | Same |
| Laser pulse duration | Same |
| Laser classification | Same |
| Laser preset pulse durations | Same |
| Laser beam target alignment | Same |
| Objective magnification | Same |
| Objective focal length | Same |
| Computer generated target | Same |
| Exclusion zone | Same |
| Image capture and video recording | Same |
| Measurement functions | Same |
The following technological differences exist between the subject and predicate devices:
| Saturn 3 models | Saturn 5 models |
|---------------------|----------------------------------------------------------|
| Indications for use | Same but includes blastomere and trophectoderm<br>biopsy |
| Software | Same but includes Biopsy mode (active model only) |
The new intended use (blastomere and trophectoderm) biopsy is achieved using the same technique as the currently cleared use assisted hatching.
Assisted hatching involves the ablation of the ZP at day 3 to promote 'hatching' of the embryo once it has been re-implanted. Biopsy procedures require the same treatment ie ablation of the ZP at day 3 but to be able to introduce a biopsy needle to the embryo or to promote the herniation of the TE cells, which can be subsequently be biopsied on day 5/6.
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Image /page/5/Picture/1 description: The image shows a logo with the letters 'RI' in a bold, serif typeface. The letters are black and appear to be connected or very close together. Below the letters, there is a curved line that resembles a wave or a swoosh, adding a dynamic element to the design. The overall impression is one of a professional and possibly sophisticated brand identity.
The same size hole would be created for both LAH and for LAB, requiring the same laser pulse length - same location on embryo.
For TE biopsy the laser is also used to dissociate the TE cells from the remaining embryo. By firing several single pulses, whilst holding embryo and extended TE cells under is used in exactly the same way using the same pre-sets as used for LAH and LAB - to weaken the connections between TE cells. Because the laser is employed using the same settings during LAB procedures as LAH procedures, the embryo is not exposed to any new risks with regard to safety and effectiveness.
Biopsy-mode is a new feature for Saturn 5 and is available with the active model only. It was designed as a time saving feature, allowing the user to ablate a series of holes in succession, along a set, pre-determined path. This mode has no behavioural differences to the single shot in that it executes the same fire command as the single shot mode, but delivers them as a series of shots. Because the same calculations and inhibit time applies as for single shot mode heat is allowed to dissipate within the same time period when using Biopsy mode. There is no limit to the length of the ablation area and this length has no effect on the amount of heat generated, so we can conclude Biopsy Mode performs and is as safe as single shot mode.
#### Summary of Performance Testing
The following performance data was provided in support of the substantial equivalence determination.
### Electrical Safety and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
Electrical safety and EMC testing have been conducted on the Saturn 5 Active Laser System. The system complies with IEC 60601-1:2005 3rd edition safety standards and EN 60601-1-2:2007 for EMC. These standards exceed those met by the predicate ie they are medical device as opposed to general laboratory equipment standards of electrical safety and EMC.
#### Software Verification and Validation Testing
Software verification and validation testing have been conducted and documentation was provided as recommended by FDA's Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff, "Guidance for the Content of premarket Submissions for software Contained in medical devices." The software for this device was considered as a "moderate" level of concern. This matches evidence provided in the predicate submission.
#### Laser Testing
Both pilot and main lasers are classified as Class I in accordance with IEC60825:2008 and US 21CFR 1040.10. The Saturn 5 laser system uses the same lasers as the Saturn 3 predicate device.
#### Clinical Use
The Saturn 5 laser system has been used extensively in the European market since May 2012 with no reported incidents with regard to safety or performance when used as intended, including biopsy use.
#### Conclusion
This non-clinical data supports the safety of the device and the hardware and software verification and validation demonstrate that the Saturn 5 laser systems should perform as intended in the specified use conditions.
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.