PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes, PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope, and PENTAX Medical Ultrasond Video Bronchoscope
K173554 · Pentax of America, Inc. · EOQ · Jan 19, 2018 · Ear, Nose, Throat
Device Facts
Record ID
K173554
Device Name
PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes, PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope, and PENTAX Medical Ultrasond Video Bronchoscope
Applicant
Pentax of America, Inc.
Product Code
EOQ · Ear, Nose, Throat
Decision Date
Jan 19, 2018
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 874.4680
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic, Pediatric
Indications for Use
The PENTAX Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family) have been designed to be used with a PENTAX Video Processor (including Light source), documentation equipment, video monitor, endo-therapy accessories (such as biopsy forceps) and other ancillary equipment for endoscopy and endoscopic surgery within the airways and tracheobronchial tree. The PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (VNL-1570STK) is designed to be used with a PENTAX Medical video processor, light source, documentation equipment, display monitor, endoscopic accessories, and other ancillary equipment and intended to provide optical visualization (via a video monitor) of, and therapeutic access to, nasal, pharyngeal, laryngeal and the upper airway anatomy. The EB-1970UK, Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope, is intended to provide optical visualization of, ultrasonic visualization of, and therapeutic access to, the Pulmonary Track including but not restricted to the organs, tissues, and subsystems: Nasal Passage, Pharynx, Trachea, Bronchial Tree (including access beyond the stem), and underlying areas. The instrument is introduced per orally when indications consistent with the requirement for procedure are observed in adult and pediatric patient populations.
Device Story
PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes, Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscopes, and Ultrasound Video Bronchoscopes are flexible endoscopic devices used for visualization and therapeutic access to the upper and lower airway. Devices consist of an insertion portion, control body, and connectors for video processors and light sources. The Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope includes an additional ultrasound umbilical connector for ultrasonic imaging. Devices are used by clinicians in clinical settings to perform endoscopic procedures, including biopsy, via endo-therapy accessories. The modification involves the addition of epoxy to the suction nipple to prevent mechanical loosening. The device provides real-time optical (and ultrasonic for the EB-1970UK) visualization on a video monitor, assisting the physician in navigating the airway and performing interventions. This improves diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities within the pulmonary tract.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data. Bench testing only. Performance testing of the suction nipple sub-assembly under stress conditions was conducted to measure torque required to loosen the component, confirming adequate adhesive strength.
Technological Characteristics
Reusable flexible endoscopes comprising an insertion portion, control body, and video/light connectors. Ultrasound model includes an ultrasound transducer. Modification: addition of epoxy to the suction nipple. No changes to dimensions, materials, or fundamental operating principles (fiberoptics, video processing). Devices are supplied non-sterile and require user reprocessing.
Indications for Use
Indicated for optical and/or ultrasonic visualization and therapeutic access to the nasal passage, pharynx, larynx, trachea, and bronchial tree in adult and pediatric populations.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A bronchoscope (flexible or rigid) and accessories is a tubular endoscopic device with any of a group of accessory devices which attach to the bronchoscope and is intended to examine or treat the larynx and tracheobronchial tree. It is typically used with a fiberoptic light source and carrier to provide illumination. The device is made of materials such as stainless steel or flexible plastic. This generic type of device includes the rigid ventilating bronchoscope, rigid nonventilating bronchoscope, nonrigid bronchoscope, laryngeal-bronchial telescope, flexible foreign body claw, bronchoscope tubing, flexible biopsy forceps, rigid biopsy curette, flexible biopsy brush, rigid biopsy forceps, flexible biopsy curette, and rigid bronchoscope aspirating tube, but excludes the fiberoptic light source and carrier.
PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (K162151)
PENTAX Medical Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope (K081518)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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January 19, 2018
PENTAX of America, Inc. James W. Monroe, Director RA PENTAX Medical 3 Paragon Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-1782
Re: K173554
Trade/Device Name: PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes. PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope, and PENTAX Medical Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope Regulation Number: 21 CFR 874.4680 Regulation Name: Bronchoscope (Flexible or Rigid) And Accessories Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: EOQ, EOB, ITX Dated: November 10, 2017 Received: November 17, 2017
Dear James Monroe:
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
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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 of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in 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.
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.
For comprehensive regulatory information about medical devices and radiation-emitting products, including information about labeling regulations, please see Device Advice (https://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/DeviceRegulationandGuidance/) and CDRH Learn (http://www.fda.gov/Training/CDRHLearn). Additionally, you may contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE) to ask a question about a specific regulatory topic. See the DICE website (http://www.fda.gov/DICE) for more information or contact DICE by email (DICE@fda.hhs.gov) or phone (1-800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100).
Sincerely.
# Srinivas Nandkumar -S
for Malvina Eydelman, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic and Ear, Nose, and Throat 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) K173554
Device Name PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family)
Indications for Use (Describe)
Device Name: PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family): The PENTAX Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family) have been designed to be used with a PENTAX Video Processor (including Light source), documentation equipment, video monitor, endo-therapy accessories (such as biopsy forceps) and other ancillary equipment for endoscopy and endoscopic surgery within the airways and tracheobronchial tree.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|-------------------------------------------------|--|
|-------------------------------------------------|--|
X Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
# 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."
FORM FDA 3881 (7/17)
Form Approved: OMB No. 0910-0120 Expiration Date: 06/30/2020 See PRA Statement below.
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Traditional 510(k) Premarket Notification - Suction Nipple Modification: PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family), Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (VNL-1570STK), and Ultrasound Video Bronchosope (EB-1970UK)
| DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES<br>Food and Drug Administration | | Form Approved: OMB No. 0910-0120<br>Expiration Date: 06/30/2020<br>See PRA Statement below. | | |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Indications for Use | | | | |
| 510(k) Number ( <i>if known</i> ) | K173554 | | | |
| Device Name | PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope | | | |
| Indications for Use ( <i>Describe</i> ) | The PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (VNL-1570STK) is designed to be used with a PENTAX Medical video processor, light source, documentation equipment, display monitor, endoscopic accessories, and other ancillary equipment and intended to provide optical visualization (via a video monitor) of, and therapeutic access to, nasal, pharyngeal, laryngeal and the upper airway anatomy. | | | |
| Type of Use ( <i>Select one or both, as applicable</i> ) | <table style="border: none;"><tr><td><div style="display: inline-block;"> <img alt="checkbox" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="width: 10px; height: 10px;"/> </div> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) </td><td><div style="display: inline-block;"> <img alt="checkbox" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="width: 10px; height: 10px;"/> </div> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) </td></tr></table> | | <div style="display: inline-block;"> <img alt="checkbox" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="width: 10px; height: 10px;"/> </div> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) | <div style="display: inline-block;"> <img alt="checkbox" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="width: 10px; height: 10px;"/> </div> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) |
| <div style="display: inline-block;"> <img alt="checkbox" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="width: 10px; height: 10px;"/> </div> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) | <div style="display: inline-block;"> <img alt="checkbox" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="width: 10px; height: 10px;"/> </div> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) | | | |
| CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED. | | | | |
| This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. | | | | |
| <b>*DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.*</b> | | | | |
| 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<br>Food and Drug Administration<br>Office of Chief Information Officer<br>Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Staff<br>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."
FORM FDA 3881 (7/17)
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#### DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration
# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K173554
Device Name PENTAX Medical Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope
Indications for Use (Describe)
Device Name: PENTAX Medical Ultrasound Video Bronchoscopes, EB-1970UK, Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope, is intended to provide optical visualization of, ultrasonic visualization of, and therapeutic access to, the Pulmonary Track including but not restricted to the organs, tissues, and subsystems: Nasal Passage, Pharynx, Trachea Tree (including access beyond the stem), and underlying areas. The instrument is introduced per orally when indications consistent with the requirement for procedure are observed in adult and pediatric patient populations.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
X
Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) | Subpart C)
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801
# 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."
Form Approved: OMB No. 0910-0120 Expiration Date: 06/30/2020 See PRA Statement below.
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#### 510(k) Summary
#### I. SUBMITTER
PENTAX of America, Inc., HOYA Corporation PENTAX Division 3 Paragon Drive Montvale, New Jersey 07645-1782 Phone: 201-571-2318 Ext 2318 Fax: 201-571-2340
Contact: James W. Monroe Date Prepared: December 5, 2017
#### II. DEVICE
The purpose of this 510(k) is to obtain clearance for the addition of epoxy to the suction nipple of the PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family), PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (VNL-1570STK) and PENTAX Medical Ultrasound Video Brochoscope (EB-1970UK) to prevent loosening of the suction nipple. There are no changes to the intended use or indications for use of the EB scopes, VNL-1570STK or EB-1970UK.
Table 5.1: Regulatory Classification of PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes, Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope, and Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope
| Device Name | PENTAX Medical Video<br>Bronchoscopes | PENTAX Medical Video<br>Naso-Pharyngo-<br>Laryngoscope | PENTAX Medical<br>Ultrasound Video<br>Bronchoscope |
|------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Name | Bronchoscope | Nasopharyngoscope | Bronchoscope |
| Classification<br>Name | Bronchoscopes<br>(flexible or rigid) and<br>accessories | Nasopharyngoscop<br>e (flexible or rigid)<br>and accessories | Bronchoscope (flexible<br>or rigid) and accessories<br>Diagnostic Ultrasound<br>Transducer |
| Regulation No. | 874.4680 | 874.4760 | 874.4680, 892.1570 |
| Device Class | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Product Code | EOQ | EOB | EOQ, ITX |
| Classification Panel | Ear, Nose, & Throat | Ear, Nose, & Throat | Radiology |
#### III. PREDICATE DEVICES
The predicate devices for this submission are also the subject devices of this submission (see
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Traditional 510(k) Premarket Notification - Suction Nipple Modification: PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family), Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (VNL-1570STK), and Ultrasound Video Bronchosope (EB-1970UK)
Table 5.2). The predicate devices are identical to the devices subject to this 510(k) with the exception of the addition of epoxy to the suction nipple of the subject scopes.
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Table 5.2: Subject vs. Predicate Devices
| Subject<br>Device | PENTAX<br>Medical Video<br>Bronchoscopes | PENTAX Medical Video<br>Naso- Pharyngo-<br>Laryngoscope | PENTAX Medical<br>Ultrasound Video<br>Bronchoscope |
|---------------------|------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------|
| Predicate<br>Device | PENTAX<br>Medical Video<br>Bronchoscopes | PENTAX Medical Video<br>Naso- Pharyngo-<br>Laryngoscope | PENTAX Medical<br>Ultrasound Video<br>Bronchoscope |
| Predicate<br>Device | K131028 | K162151 | K081518 |
# IV. DEVICE DESCRIPTION
The PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes, Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope and Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope are identical to their respective predicate devices with the sole exception being that epoxy has been added to the suction nipple of the subject devices to prevent loosening of the suction nipple. There are no other changes to the design, specifications, or technological characteristics of the predicate devices as described in K131028 (EB family), K162151 (VNL-1570STK) and K081518 (EB-1970UK).
The model numbers for the PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes, Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope and Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope that are applicable to this 510(k) are provided in Table 5.3.
Both the Bronchoscopes and Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope are composed of an Insertion Portion, Control Body, PVE Connector and Light Guide Plug. In addition to the parts above, the Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope has an Ultrasound Umbilical Connector.
All the Bronchoscopes, Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope and Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope are reusable devices initially supplied non-sterile to the user and require the user to reprocess prior to initial use and between each use. All the Bronchoscopes, Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope and Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope are used with compatible PENTAX Medical Video Processors.
| Scope Family | Model Number |
|--------------|-----------------------------------------|
| EB Family | EB-1170K EB-1570K EB-1970K<br>EB-1970TK |
| VNL Family | VNL-1570STK |
Table 5.3: EB and VNL Model Numbers associated with addition of epoxy to suction nipple
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#### V. INDICATIONS FOR USE
There are no changes to the Indications for Use for the subject devices. The sole purpose of this 510(k) is to obtain clearance for the addition of epoxy to the suction nipple of the scopes.
The PENTAX Medical Video Bronchoscopes (EB Family) have been designed to be used with a PENTAX Medical Video Processor (including Light source), documentation equipment, video monitor, endo-therapy accessories (such as biopsy forceps) and other ancillary equipment for endoscopy and endoscopic surgery within the airways and tracheobronchial tree.
The PENTAX Medical Video Naso-Pharyngo-Laryngoscope (VNL-1570STK) is designed to be used with a PENTAX Medical video processor, light source, documentation equipment, display monitor, endoscopic accessories, and other ancillary equipment and intended to provide optical visualization (via a video monitor) of, and therapeutic access to, nasal, pharyngeal, laryngeal and the upper airway anatomy.
The EB-1970UK, Ultrasound Video Bronchoscope, is intended to provide optical visualization of, ultrasonic visualization of, and therapeutic access to, the Pulmonary Track including but not restricted to the organs, tissues, and subsystems: Nasal Passage, Pharynx, Trachea, Bronchial Tree (including access beyond the stem), and underlying areas. The instrument is introduced per orally when indications consistent with the requirement for procedure are observed in adult and pediatric populations.
# VI. COMPARISON OF TECHNOLOGY CHARACTERISTICS WITH THE PREDICATE
The subject devices are identical to the predicate devices with the exception of the addition of epoxy to prevent loosening of the suction nipple of the subject devices. The subject devices have the same fundamental technology and operating principles as the predicate device, including the same intended use and technological characteristics, such as Insertion Portion, Control Body and fiberoptics illumination. There are no differences in specifications, including, but not limited to, depth of field, distal end width, insertion tube width, instrument channel width, and total length. The sole difference between the subject and predicate devices is the addition of epoxy to the suction nipple of the scopes. This modification does not impact the intended use and does not raise different questions of safety and effectiveness.
#### VII. PERFORMANCE DATA
The addition of epoxy to the suction nipple of the EB, VNL and EB-1970UK scopes do not affect the biocompatibility, reprocessing, electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, or software
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verification and validation.
Performance testing of the suction nipple sub-assembly under stress conditions utilizing epoxy materials was conducted to determine the force (torque) required to loosen the subassembly. The results indicate that the subject epoxy has adequate adhesive strength to prevent looseness of the suction nipple under all stress conditions specified by the protocol.
# VIII. CONCLUSION
The subject and predicate devices are identical with the exception of the addition of epoxy to the suction nipple. The subject devices have the same intended use and technological characteristics as the predicate devices. There are no other changes to the design of the subject devices.
The performance data indicates that the subject devices with epoxy applied to the suction nipple have adequate adhesive strength to prevent looseness of the suction nipple under stress conditions. The data provided in this 510(k) Premarket Notification support the equivalence of the subject and predicate devices.
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.