K151623 · Penumbra, Inc. · NRY · Aug 6, 2015 · Cardiovascular
Device Facts
Record ID
K151623
Device Name
Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing
Applicant
Penumbra, Inc.
Product Code
NRY · Cardiovascular
Decision Date
Aug 6, 2015
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Special
Regulation
21 CFR 870.1250
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The Penumbra System / Penumbra System MAX are intended for use in the revascularization of patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (within the internal carotid, middle cerebral - M1 and M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset. The Penumbra System is intended for use in the revascularization of patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (within the internal carotid, middle cerebral – M1 and M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset. The Reperfusion Catheters ACE 64 and ACE 68 are intended for use in revascularization within the Internal Carotid Artery (ICA) within 8 hours of symptom onset.
Device Story
The Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing connects a pump canister to reperfusion catheters to provide vacuum for thrombus removal; operated by physicians in clinical settings. The device features a flow control switch allowing manual start/stop of aspiration. The tubing assembly is a single-use, sterile, non-pyrogenic component. By providing a larger inner diameter (0.110in) compared to predicate devices, it accommodates larger clot burdens during revascularization procedures. The output is the application of vacuum pressure to the catheter system, facilitating the removal of occlusive material from intracranial vessels. This assists in restoring blood flow, potentially improving clinical outcomes for acute ischemic stroke patients.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. No clinical data provided. Testing included biocompatibility (cytotoxicity, sensitization, irritation per EN ISO 10993) and mechanical design verification (simulated use, leak testing, and destructive joint strength testing). All tests met established specifications.
Indicated for patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (internal carotid, middle cerebral M1/M2, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A percutaneous catheter is a device that is introduced into a vein or artery through the skin using a dilator and a sheath (introducer) or guide wire.
Penumbra System ACE 64 and ACE 68 Reperfusion Catheters (K142458)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo is circular and contains the words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" around the perimeter. In the center of the logo is a stylized image of three human profiles facing to the right, with a flowing ribbon-like element beneath them.
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
August 6, 2015
Penumbra, Inc. Ms. Michaela Mahl Senior Manager Regulatory Affairs One Penumbra Place Alameda, California 94502
Re: K151623
Trade/Device Name: Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing Regulation Number: 21 CFR 870.1250 Regulation Name: Percutaneous Catheter Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: NRY Dated: July 6, 2015 Received: Julv 7, 2015
Dear Ms. Mahl:
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. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical devicerelated adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in
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the quality systems (OS) 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,
Carlos L. Pena =5)/△
Carlos L. Peña, PhD, MS Director Division of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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## Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K151623
### Device Name
Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing
### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Penumbra System / Penumbra System MAX are intended for use in the revascularization of patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (within the internal carotid, middle cerebral - M1 and M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|---------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------|
| <div> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) </div> | <div> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) </div> |
### CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
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## Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K151623
### Device Name
Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing
### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Penumbra System is intended for use in the revascularization of patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (within the internal carotid, middle cerebral - M1 and M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset. The Reperfusion Catheters ACE 64 and ACE 68 are intended for use in revascularization within the Internal Carotid Artery (ICA) within 8 hours of symptom onset.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--|
| <label><input checked="" type="checkbox"/> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)</label> | |
| <label><input type="checkbox"/> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)</label> | |
### CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
### *DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.*
The burden time for this collection of information is estimated to average 79 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed and complete and review the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this information collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to:
> Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration Office of Chief Information Officer Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Staff PRAStaff@fda.hhs.gov
"An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB number."
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#### 1 510(k) Summary
(as required by 21 CFR 807.92)
Pursuant to Section 12, Part (a)(i)(3A) of the Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990, Penumbra Inc. is providing the summary of Substantial Equivalence for the Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing.
#### Sponsor/Applicant Name and Address 1.1
Penumbra, Inc. One Penumbra Place Alameda, CA 94502 USA
#### 1.2 Sponsor Contact Information
Michaela Mahl Senior Manager, Regulatory Affairs Phone: (510) 748-3288 FAX: (510) 217-6414 Email: michaela.mahl@penumbrainc.com
#### 1.3 Date of Preparation of 510(k) Summary
August 06, 2015
#### 1.4 Device Trade or Proprietary Name
Penumbra System® 110 Aspiration Tubing
#### 1.5 Device Classification
| Regulatory Class: | II |
|-----------------------|----------------------------------|
| Classification Panel: | Neurology |
| Classification Name: | Percutaneous Catheter |
| Regulation Number: | 21 CFR §870.1250 |
| Product Code: | NRY (Catheter, Thrombus Removal) |
#### 1.6 Predicate Devices
| 510(k) Number / Clearance<br>Date | Name of Predicate Device | Name of Manufacturer |
|-----------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| K133317 [13MAY2014] | Penumbra System® and<br>Penumbra System MAX® | Penumbra, Inc.<br>One Penumbra Place<br>Alameda, CA 94502 USA |
| K142458 [22May2015] | Penumbra System® ACE 64 and<br>ACE 68 Reperfusion Catheters | Penumbra, Inc.<br>One Penumbra Place<br>Alameda, CA 94502 USA |
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#### 1.7 Predicate Comparison
# Predicate 1:
| | Predicate Device | Subject Device |
|----------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------|
| Device Name | MAX Aspiration Tubing | 110 Aspiration Tubing |
| 510(k) No. | K133317 | K151623 |
| Classification | Class II, NRY | SAME |
| Indication | The Penumbra System / Penumbra System<br>MAX are intended for use in the<br>revascularization of patients with acute<br>ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial<br>large vessel occlusive disease (within the<br>internal carotid, middle cerebral - M1 and<br>M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries)<br>within 8 hours of symptom onset. | SAME |
| Materials | | |
| Luer fittings | Polycarbonate (2018-15-FC030004 or<br>equivalent); Isoplast 2530; EPDM RED,<br>Silicone coated | SAME |
| Adhesive | Loctite 3311 (Acrylated Urethane) | SAME |
| Solvent | Cyclohexanone, MEK solvent | SAME |
| Vacuum connector | Polyvinylchloride | SAME |
| Tubing | Polyurethane (Pellethane 2363-80A) and<br>Nylon | SAME |
| Male/Female adaptor Luer | Polycarbonate (Makrolon or equivalent) | SAME |
| Flow control switch | Polycarbonate (Lexan or equiv); Acetal<br>(Hostaform or equiv); ABS; Silicone | SAME |
| OFF label | Polyolefin (red) | SAME |
| ON label | MARAPROP PP black ink (solvent naphtha<br>(petroleum); 2-methoxy-1-methylethyl<br>acetate; xylene; ethylbenzene) | SAME |
| Dimensions | | |
| Tubing OD | $0.188in \pm 0.005in$ | SAME |
| Tubing ID | $0.088in \pm 0.005in$ | $0.110in \pm 0.005in$ |
| Overall Length | $112.0in \pm 7.0in$ | SAME |
| Distal Length | $7.0in \pm 2.0in$ | SAME |
| Accessories | None | SAME |
| Packaging Materials | | |
| Pouch | Polyester/Polyethylene/<br>Tyvek® | SAME |
| Display Carton | SBS Paperboard | SAME |
| Packaging Configuration | Individual | SAME |
| Sterilization | EO | SAME |
| Shelf-Life | 36 Months | SAME |
| | Predicate Device | Subject Device |
| Device Name | MAX Aspiration Tubing | 110 Aspiration Tubing |
| 510(k) No. | K142458 | K151623 |
| Classification | Class II, NRY | SAME |
| Indication | The Penumbra System is intended for use in<br>the revascularization of patients with acute<br>ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial<br>large vessel occlusive disease (within the<br>internal carotid, middle cerebral - M1 and<br>M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries)<br>within 8 hours of symptom onset. The<br>Reperfusion Catheters ACE 64 and ACE 68<br>are intended for use in revascularization<br>within the Internal Carotid Artery (ICA)<br>within 8 hours of symptom onset. | SAME |
| Materials | | |
| Luer fittings | Polycarbonate (2018-15-FC030004 or<br>equivalent); Isoplast 2530; EPDM RED,<br>Silicone coated | SAME |
| Adhesive | Loctite 3311 (Acrylated Urethane) | SAME |
| Solvent | Cyclohexanone, MEK solvent | SAME |
| Vacuum connector<br>Tubing | Polyvinylchloride<br>Polyurethane (Pellethane 2363-80A) and<br>Nylon | SAME |
| Male/Female adaptor Luer | Polycarbonate (Makrolon or equivalent) | SAME |
| Flow control switch | Polycarbonate (Lexan or equiv); Acetal<br>(Hostaform or equiv); ABS; Silicone | SAME |
| OFF label | Polyolefin (red) | SAME |
| ON label | MARAPROP PP black ink (solvent naphtha<br>(petroleum); 2-methoxy-1-methylethyl<br>acetate; xylene; ethylbenzene) | SAME |
| Dimensions | | |
| Tubing OD | $0.188in \pm 0.005in$ | SAME |
| Tubing ID | $0.088in \pm 0.005in$ | $0.110in \pm 0.005in$ |
| Overall Length | $112.0in \pm 7.0in$ | SAME |
| Distal Length | $7.0in \pm 2.0in$ | SAME |
| Accessories | None | SAME |
| Packaging Materials | | |
| Pouch | Polyester/Polyethylene/<br>Tyvek® | SAME |
| Display Carton | SBS Paperboard | SAME |
| Packaging Configuration | Individual | SAME |
| Sterilization | EO | SAME |
| Shelf-Life | 36 Months | SAME |
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## Predicate 2:
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#### 1.8 Device Description
The subject Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing Assembly connects the Pump Canister to the Reperfusion Catheters, providing a means for introducing vacuum during procedures, which is identical to the predicate MAX Aspiration Tubing [K133317 and K142458]. Furthermore, the 110 Aspiration Tubing has a flow valve that allows the physician to start and stop the flow of aspiration, which is identical to the predicate MAX Aspiration Tubing [K133317 and K142458]. The Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing has a slightly larger inner diameter of 0.110in compared to the predicate to accommodate larger clot burdens, this is the only difference to the predicate MAX Aspiration Tubing [K133317 and K142458]. The Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing is compatible with all Penumbra System Reperfusion Catheters and Separators included in K133317 and K142458. The device is provided sterile, non-pyrogenic, and intended for single use only, which is identical to the predicate MAX Aspiration Tubing [K133317 and K142458].
#### Indications For Use 1.9
The Penumbra System / Penumbra System MAX are intended for use in the revascularization of patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (within the internal carotid, middle cerebral - M1 and M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset.
## and
The Penumbra System is intended for use in the revascularization of patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial large vessel occlusive disease (within the internal carotid, middle cerebral – M1 and M2 segments, basilar, and vertebral arteries) within 8 hours of symptom onset. The Reperfusion Catheters ACE 64 and ACE 68 are intended for use in revascularization within the Internal Carotid Artery (ICA) within 8 hours of symptom onset.
## 1.10 Summary of Non-Clinical Data
As required under Section 12, Part (a)(i)(3A) of the Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990, a summary of any information regarding substantial equivalence of the device follows.
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Included in this section are summary descriptions of the testing, which substantiates the performance of the subject Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing as well as its substantial equivalence to the predicate device:
- Biocompatibility
- . Design Verification (Bench-Top Testing)
The subject Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing device met all established requirements.
## 1.10.1 Biocompatibility Testing
Evidence of the biocompatibility of the 110 Aspiration Tubing materials is derived from a series of previously successfully performed studies on the predicate device. The studies were selected in accordance with EN ISO 10993-1 guidelines. The studies were selected in accordance with EN ISO 10993-1 guidelines (Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices) for a limited exposure (ك 24 hours), surface device, with skin contact. All studies were conducted pursuant to 21 CFR, Part 58, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). The following tests were previously performed and all tests passed successfully:
| Test / Standard | Acceptance Criteria | Results | Pass / Fail |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------|
| Cytotoxicity (MEM Elution)<br>/ EN ISO 10993-5 | Sample extracts must yield a<br>cell lysis grade of 2 or lower | Grade 0: None | Pass |
| Sensitization / EN ISO<br>10993-10 | Test Group shall yield Grade <<br>1 score on Magnusson and<br>Kligman scale (provided<br>Control Grade < 1) | Grade 0: No visible change | Pass |
| Irritation (Intracutaneous<br>Reactivity Irritation Test) /<br>EN ISO 10993-10 | The difference in the mean test<br>article and mean control score<br>must be grade 1.0 or lower | Grade 0.1 difference (saline<br>extract) and Grade 0.2<br>difference (cottonseed oil<br>extract) | Pass |
As all materials of the subject 110 Aspiration Tubing are identical to the materials of the predicate device [K133317 and K142458] biocompatibility is established. In summary, non-clinical testing found the 110 Aspiration Tubing materials to be non-cytotoxic, non-sensitizing, and a non-irritant.
## 1.10.2 Bench-top Testing
The physical and mechanical properties of the Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing was assessed using the identical test methods and acceptance criteria as
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the predicate [K133317 and K142458]. The following tests were performed and all tests passed successfully:
| Attribute | Specification | Acceptance Criteria | Results |
|--------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------|---------|
| Dimensional/<br>Visual Inspection | These evaluations confirm that the units used in this Design Verification testing meet all inspection criteria for release of finished goods (clinically acceptable) product. | | Pass |
| Performance/Simulated<br>Use and Leak Test | | | |
| Suction Connector | 110 Aspiration Tubing securely attaches to canister lid | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| RHV Compatibility | 110 Aspiration Tubing Assembly distal luer securely connects to RHV port | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| Lumen Ovalization | 110 Aspiration Tubing maintains functionality and maintains an open lumen at vacuum pressure of 25inHg minimum for 30 seconds minimum | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| Joints Leak | 110 Aspiration Tubing Assembly maintains functionality with no leaks at vacuum pressure of 25inHg minimum for 30 seconds minimum | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| Destructive Testing | | | |
| Suction Connector /<br>Tubing Joint | 2.0 lbf minimum | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| Distal Rotating Male<br>Luer / Tubing Joint | 2.0 lbf minimum | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| Proximal Rotating<br>Male Luer / Tubing<br>Joint | 2.0 lbf minimum | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
| Female Luer / Tubing<br>Joint | 2.0 lbf minimum | 100% Must meet<br>Specification | Pass |
The results of the tests appropriately address the physical and mechanical performance expectations of the device. Based on these overall results, the physical and mechanical properties of the subject Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing is acceptable for the intended use and substantially equivalent to the predicate device.
## 1.10.3 Summary of Substantial Equivalence
The subject Penumbra System 110 Aspiration Tubing is substantially equivalent to the predicate device [K133317 and K142458] with regard to intended use, operating principle, design concept, materials, shelf-life, packaging and sterilization processes.
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.
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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.