IPG, integrated, 25/40 cm, single, tined, IPG, 2 cm, single 4, Lead (25/40 cm, 4, tined), Extension - 4
Applicant
Nalu Medical, Inc.
Product Code
GZF · Neurology
Decision Date
Sep 6, 2019
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 882.5870
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
This system is indicated for pain management in adults who have severe intractable chronic pain of peripheral nerve origin, as the sole mitigating agent, or as an adjunct to other modes of therapy used in a multidisciplinary approach. The system is not intended to treat pain in the craniofacial region. The trial devices are solely used for trial stimulation (no longer than 30 days) to determine efficacy before recommendation for a permanent (long term) device.
Device Story
Nalu Neurostimulation System provides peripheral nerve stimulation for chronic, intractable pain. System comprises miniature implantable pulse generator (IPG) and externally worn Therapy Disc. IPG delivers pulsed electrical current via leads to peripheral nerves to inhibit pain signal transmission. Physician implants IPG and leads (integrated or ported) into patient; leads feature 4 stimulation contacts and integrated tines for anchoring. Therapy Disc transmits energy wirelessly (40.68 MHz) to IPG. Healthcare providers use system to manage pain in clinical or home settings. Output is charge-balanced, biphasic, asymmetrical electrical pulses. Therapy parameters (frequency, width, amplitude) are adjustable to optimize pain relief. Benefits include targeted stimulation of smaller affected areas and reduced surgical complexity due to integrated tines eliminating separate anchors.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data provided. Substantial equivalence is supported by bench testing, including design verification, validation, sterilization validation, biocompatibility testing, and human factors/usability testing. Testing confirmed device meets functional specifications and performance requirements.
Technological Characteristics
Active implantable neurostimulator. Materials: Platinum-iridium (90:10) electrodes, Pellethane 2363-55D insulation. Energy: RF wireless transmission (40.68 MHz). Form factor: Miniature IPG with 4-contact leads (integrated or ported). Sterilization: Ethylene Oxide. Software: Moderate level of concern. Connectivity: Wireless power/data transfer between external Therapy Disc and implant.
Indications for Use
Indicated for pain management in adults with severe intractable chronic pain of peripheral nerve origin, as sole therapy or adjunct in multidisciplinary approach. Not for craniofacial pain. Trial devices limited to 30 days for efficacy determination.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An implanted peripheral nerve stimulator for pain relief is a device that is used to stimulate electrically a peripheral nerve in a patient to relieve severe intractable pain. The stimulator consists of an implanted receiver with electrodes that are placed around a peripheral nerve and an external transmitter for transmitting the stimulating pulses across the patient's skin to the implanted receiver.
Predicate Devices
Nalu Neurostimulation System for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (K183579)
Reference Devices
StimQ Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) System (K152178)
StimQ Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) System (K171366)
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September 6, 2019
Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image contains the logo of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). On the left is the Department of Health & Human Services logo. To the right of that is the FDA logo, which is a blue square with the letters "FDA" in white. To the right of the blue square is the text "U.S. FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION" in blue.
Nalu Medical, Inc. Michele Chin-Purcell VP Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance 2320 Faraday Ave. Suite 100 Carlsbad, California 92008
# Re: K191435
Trade/Device Name: IPG, integrated, 25/40 cm, single, tined, IPG, 2 cm, single 4, Lead (25/40 cm, 4, tined), Extension - 4 Regulation Number: 21 CFR 882.5870 Regulation Name: Implanted Peripheral Nerve Stimulator For Pain Relief Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: GZF Dated: August 5, 2019 Received: August 7, 2019
Dear Michele Chin-Purcell:
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. Although this letter refers to your product as a device, please be aware that some cleared products may instead be combination products. The 510(k) Premarket Notification Database located at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpmn/pmn.cfm identifies combination product submissions. 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
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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) for devices or postmarketing safety reporting (21 CFR 4, Subpart B) for combination products (see https://www.fda.gov/combination-products/guidance-regulatory-information/postmarketing-safety-reportingcombination-products); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (OS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820) for devices or current good manufacturing practices (21 CFR 4, Subpart A) for combination products; 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 https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-safety/medical-device-reportingmdr-how-report-medical-device-problems.
For comprehensive regulatory information about mediation-emitting products, including information about labeling regulations, please see Device Advice (https://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/device-advice-comprehensive-regulatory-assistance) and CDRH Learn (https://www.fda.gov/training-and-continuing-education/cdrh-learn). 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 (https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-advice-comprehensive-regulatoryassistance/contact-us-division-industry-and-consumer-education-dice) for more information or contact DICE by email (DICE@fda.hhs.gov) or phone (1-800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100).
Sincerely,
Robert Kang, PharmD Acting Assistant Director DHT5B: Division of Neuromodulation and Physical Medicine Devices OHT5: Office of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Product Evaluation and Quality Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K191435
Device Name Nalu Neurostimulation System for PNS
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
This system is indicated for pain management in adults who have severe intractable chronic pain of peripheral nerve origin, as the sole mitigating agent, or as an adjunct to other modes of therapy used in a multidisciplinary approach. The system is not intended to treat pain in the craniofacial region.
The trial devices are solely used for trial stimulation (no longer than 30 days) to determine efficacy before recommendation for a permanent (long term) device.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------|
| <span> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) </span> | <span> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) </span> |
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#### Submission Sponsor
Nalu Medical, Incorporated 2320 Faraday Ave., Suite 100 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Phone: (760) 448-2360 Fax: (760) 448-2377 Contact: Michele Chin-Purcell, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance
#### Date Prepared
August 30, 2019
#### Device Identification
Trade/Proprietary Name: Nalu Neurostimulation System, 4 Contact PNS System Common/Usual Name: Peripheral Nerve Stimulator Product Code: GZF Regulation number: 21 CFR 882.5870: Stimulator, peripheral nerve, implanted (Pain Relief) Class: Class II Device Classification Panel: Neurology
### Legally Marketed Predicate Device(s)
Nalu Neurostimulation System for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (K183579)
For areas where slight differences occur between the Nalu Neurostimulation system and the primary predicate (K183579), substantial equivalence to other reference devices in this same product code is demonstrated. These reference devices were used as part of the predicate history to the primary predicate in this submission. The history of the predicates is summarized in Table below:
#### Predicate history of the proposed primary predicate
| Device | 510(k) | Predicate(s) used for clearance |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| StimQ Peripheral Nerve<br>Stimulator (PNS) System<br>(Reference Devices) | K152178 | Stimwave Freedom SCS (K150517)<br>Medtronic Mattrix 3271/3272 (K934065)<br>Medtronic Xtrel, 3425 (K883780) |
| StimQ Peripheral Nerve<br>Stimulator (PNS) System<br>(Reference Devices) | K171366 | K152178 |
| Nalu Neurostimulation System<br>for PNS | K183579 | K171366 |
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| Device | 510(k) | Predicate(s) used for clearance |
|---------------------|--------|---------------------------------|
| (Primary Predicate) | | |
The 510(k) history of the StimQ PNS System includes design changes over time. The original Medtronic devices are part of the predicate history of the StimO PNS System and are also used as reference devices in this document.
# Device Description
This submission will add 4 stimulation contact options to the predicate Nalu Neurostimulation System (also referred to as the "Nalu PNS System"). The Nalu PNS System is used for peripheral nerve stimulation to provide therapeutic relief for chronic, intractable pain of peripheral nerve origin. The Nalu PNS System incorporates a miniature implanted neurostimulator, powered by an externally worn Therapy Disc device. The Nalu Neurostimulation therapy utilizes pulsed electrical current to create an energy field that acts on the peripheral nerves to inhibit the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The Nalu PNS System may be implanted following a successful trial period using the Nalu PNS trial system.
The leads that were cleared with the Nalu PNS System featured 8 stimulation contacts. This submission will provide an optional use of leads with 4 stimulation contacts.
| 1. | 4 Contact<br>Nalu<br>Implantable<br>Pulse<br>Generator | The implantable pulse generator (IPG) provides electrical<br>stimulation pulses that are transmitted through the leads to the<br>desired peripheral nerve. The IPG is available in two different<br>implant architectures: an “integrated” system with a single pre-<br>attached lead (available in two lengths) and a "ported" system where<br>a single lead (available in two effective lengths) may be attached,<br>via connector ports. The hermetic IPG housing includes a ceramic<br>enclosure and a feedthrough connected internally to a printed circuit<br>board assembly. Wires leaving the IPG are encapsulated in<br>polyurethane and a silicone over mold forms the final biocompatible<br>surface of the IPG for direct patient tissue contact. |
|----|--------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 2. | 4 Contact<br>Leads/Lead<br>Extension | Leads are implantable and are designed to deliver electrical pulses to<br>the peripheral nerve via an array of four cylindrical electrodes at the<br>distal end. Leads may be integrated with or connected to the IPG.<br>The leads use polyurethane insulation with Pt/Ir electrodes. The<br>leads are secured in place with tines designed into the lead body. A<br>4 contact Lead Extension is also available which connects to the<br>proximal end of the lead to extend the lead subcutaneously. |
The 4 Contact PNS System include the following subject devices in this submission:
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#### Indications for Use Statement
"This system is indicated for pain management in adults who have severe intractable chronic pain of peripheral nerve origin, as the sole mitigating agent, or as an adjunct to other modes of therapy used in a multidisciplinary approach. The system is not intended to treat pain in the craniofacial region.
The trial devices are solely used for trial stimulation (no longer than 30 days) to determine efficacy before recommendation for a permanent (long term) device."
The Indications for Use statement for the 4 Contact PNS System are identical to the predicate Nalu Neurostimulation System. The intended use is unchanged from the predicate.
### Substantial Equivalence Discussion
The following tables compare the 4 Contact PNS System to the predicate device with respect to intended use, technological characteristics and principles of operation, providing more detailed information regarding the basis for the determination of substantial equivalence.
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| | 4 Contact PNS<br>System<br>(Subject<br>Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulati<br>on System<br>(Primary<br>Predicate) | StimQ<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Referen<br>ce<br>Device) | StimQ<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Referen<br>ce<br>Device) | Medtroni<br>c Mattrix<br>3271/327<br>2<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Xtrel<br>3425<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Analysis of<br>Technologi<br>cal<br>Differences<br>from<br>Primary<br>Predicate |
|---------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 510(k) | K191435 | K183579 | K171366 | K152178 | K934065 | K883780 | NA |
| Product<br>Code and<br>class | GZF, Class II | Same | Same | Same | GZF and<br>GZB | GZB | Same |
| Regulation<br>number | 21 CFR<br>§882.5870 | Same | Same | Same | Same,<br>plus 21<br>CFR<br>882.5880 | Same | Same |
| Classificatio<br>n name | Stimulator,<br>Peripheral<br>Nerve,<br>Implanted<br>(pain relief) | Same | Same | Same | Same<br>plus<br>Stimulato<br>r, Spinal<br>Cord,<br>Implante<br>d (Pain<br>Relief) | Same | Same |
| Intended<br>Use | Stimulation of<br>peripheral<br>nerves for<br>chronic,<br>intractable<br>pain | Same | Same | Same | Same,<br>plus<br>Stimulati<br>on of<br>spinal<br>cord for<br>chronic,<br>intractabl<br>e pain | Same | Same |
| Indications<br>for Use | This system is<br>indicated for<br>pain<br>management<br>in adults who<br>have severe<br>intractable<br>chronic pain<br>of peripheral<br>nerve origin,<br>as the sole<br>mitigating<br>agent, or as an<br>adjunct to<br>other modes<br>of therapy<br>used in a<br>multidisciplina | Same | The StimQ Peripheral<br>Nerve Stimulator<br>(PNS) System is<br>indicated for pain<br>management in<br>adults who have<br>severe intractable<br>chronic pain of<br>peripheral nerve<br>origin, as the sole<br>mitigating agent, or<br>as an adjunct to other<br>modes of therapy<br>used in a<br>multidisciplinary<br>approach. The StimQ<br>PNS System is not<br>intended to treat | The StimQ Peripheral<br>Nerve Stimulator<br>(PNS) System is<br>indicated for pain<br>management in<br>adults who have<br>severe intractable<br>chronic pain of<br>peripheral nerve<br>origin, as the sole<br>mitigating agent, or<br>as an adjunct to other<br>modes of therapy<br>used in a<br>multidisciplinary<br>approach. The StimQ<br>PNS System is not<br>intended to treat | Indicated as an aide in<br>the management of<br>chronic, intractable<br>pain of the trunk or<br>limbs | Indicated as an aide in<br>the management of<br>chronic, intractable<br>pain of the trunk or<br>limbs | Same |
| | 4 Contact PNS<br>System<br>(Subject<br>Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulati<br>on System<br>(Primary<br>Predicate) | StimQ<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Referen<br>ce<br>Device) | StimQ<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Referen<br>ce<br>Device) | Medtroni<br>c Mattrix<br>3271/327<br>2<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Xtrel<br>3425<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Analysis of<br>Technologi<br>cal<br>Differences<br>from<br>Primary<br>Predicate |
| | ry approach.<br>The system is<br>not intended<br>to treat pain<br>in the<br>craniofacial<br>region.<br>The trial<br>devices are<br>solely used for<br>trial<br>stimulation<br>(no longer<br>than 30 days)<br>to determine<br>efficacy<br>before<br>recommendati<br>on for a<br>permanent<br>(long term)<br>device. | | pain in the<br>craniofacial region.<br>The StimQ Trial Lead<br>Kit is only used in<br>conjunction with the<br>StimQ Stimulator<br>Receiver Kit. The trial<br>devices are solely<br>used for trial<br>stimulation (no<br>longer than 30 days)<br>to determine efficacy<br>before<br>recommendation for<br>a permanent (long<br>term) device. | | | | |
| Prescription<br>Use? | Yes | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Implant site | Peripheral<br>nerves,<br>excluding<br>craniofacial<br>region | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Environmen<br>tal Use | Hospital,<br>Home | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Intended<br>Clinician | Orthopedic,<br>Neurosurgeon<br>Anesthesiologi<br>st | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Intended<br>User | Physician,<br>Layperson | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Mode of<br>Action | Radio<br>Frequency<br>(RF) wireless<br>transmission<br>of energy to<br>produce<br>stimulation at<br>stimulator<br>electrodes. | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| | 4 Contact PNS<br>System<br>(Subject<br>Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulati<br>on System<br>(Primary<br>Predicate) | StimQ<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Referen<br>ce<br>Device) | StimQ<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Referen<br>ce<br>Device) | Medtroni<br>c Mattrix<br>3271/327<br>2<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Xtrel<br>3425<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Analysis of<br>Technologi<br>cal<br>Differences<br>from<br>Primary<br>Predicate |
| Software<br>Level of<br>Concern | Moderate | Same | Same | Same | Unreport<br>ed | Unreport<br>ed | Same |
| Sterilization | Ethylene<br>Oxide | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
Table: Substantial Equivalence Table – General and Implanted Components
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| | 4 Contact<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Subject<br>Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulatio<br>n System<br>(K183579)<br>(Primary<br>Predicate) | StimQ PNS<br>System<br>(K171366)<br>(Referenc<br>e<br>Predicate) | StimQ PNS<br>System<br>(K152178)<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Mattrix<br>3271/327<br>2<br>(K934065)<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Xtrel<br>3425<br>(K883780)<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Analysis of<br>Technologic<br>al<br>Differences<br>from<br>Primary<br>Predicate |
|------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Electrode<br>Material | Platinum-<br>iridium<br>90:10 | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Insulation<br>Body<br>Material | Pellethan<br>e 2363-<br>55D | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Cable<br>features | Coiled<br>Wires | Multilumen tube | Multilume<br>n tube | Multilume<br>n tube | Coiled<br>Wires | Coiled<br>Wires | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
| Lead<br>length | 25 cm, 40<br>cm | 40 cm, 60 cm | 44 cm | 45 cm | 30 to 110<br>cm | 30 to 110<br>cm | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
| Diameter | 1.30 mm | 1.30 mm | 1.35 mm | 1.35 mm | 1.3 mm | 1.3 mm | Same |
| Electrode<br>Array<br>length | 21 mm | 52 mm | 24 mm<br>(FRE-4)<br>52 mm<br>(FRE-8) | 24 mm | 24 mm | 24 mm | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
| No. of<br>Electrodes<br>, per lead | 4 | 8 | 4 (FRE-4)<br>8 (FRE-8) | 4 | Same | Same | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
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| | 4 Contact<br>PNS<br>System<br>(Subject<br>Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulatio<br>n System<br>(K183579)<br>(Primary<br>Predicate) | StimQ PNS<br>System<br>(K171366)<br>(Referenc<br>e<br>Predicate) | StimQ PNS<br>System<br>(K152178)<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Mattrix<br>3271/327<br>2<br>(K934065)<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Medtroni<br>c Xtrel<br>3425<br>(K883780)<br>(Referenc<br>e Device) | Analysis of<br>Technologic<br>al<br>Differences<br>from<br>Primary<br>Predicate |
|-----------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Individual<br>Electrode<br>length | 3.0 mm | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Electrode<br>spacing | 3.0 mm | 4.0 mm | 4.0 mm | 4.0 mm | 4.0 mm | 4.0 mm | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
| Electrode<br>surface<br>area | 12.25 mm² | 12.25 mm² | 12.72 mm² | 12.72 mm² | 12.25 mm² | 12.25 mm² | Same |
| Lead<br>extension | Lead<br>extension<br>available | Lead extension<br>available | NA | NA | Lead<br>extension<br>available | Lead<br>extension<br>available | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
| Lead<br>Anchor | Integrate<br>d Lead<br>Tines | Separate molded<br>silicone anchor<br>with Ti locking<br>mechanism | Integrated<br>Lead Tines<br>Separate<br>Suture<br>Sleeve<br>Cap,<br>Pellethane<br>55-D,<br>placed<br>over<br>proximal<br>end of<br>stimulator | Suture<br>Sleeve<br>Cap,<br>Pellethane<br>55-D,<br>placed<br>over<br>proximal<br>end of<br>stimulator | Molded<br>silicone<br>anchor | Molded<br>silicone<br>anchor | Differences<br>do not affect<br>safety and<br>effectiveness<br>of intended<br>use |
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# Table: Substantial Equivalence Table - Therapy
| | 4 Contact PNS System<br>(Subject Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulation<br>System<br>(K183579)<br>(Predicate) | Analysis of<br>Technological<br>Differences |
|-------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|
| Pulse Frequency | 2 Hz to 1500 Hz | Same | Same |
| Pulse Width | 12 µs to 1000 µs | Same | Same |
| Current/Voltage Regulated | Current | Same | Same |
| Output Voltage (300<br>Ohms) | 0 to 3.1 V | Same | Same |
| Output Voltage (500<br>Ohms) | 0 to 5.1 V | Same | Same |
| Output Voltage (800<br>Ohms) | 0 to 8.2 V | Same | Same |
| Output Current (300<br>Ohms) | 0 to 10.2 mA | Same | Same |
| Output Current (500<br>Ohms) | 0 to 10.2 mA | Same | Same |
| Output Current (800<br>Ohms) | 0 to 10.2 mA | Same | Same |
| Waveform | Charge balanced (delayed) biphasic<br>asymmetrical | Same | Same |
| Pulse Shape | Decaying Exponential | Same | Same |
| Maximum phase charge<br>(300 Ohms) | 10.2 µC/pulse | Same | Same |
| Maximum phase charge<br>(500 Ohms) | 10.2 µC/pulse | Same | Same |
| Maximum phase charge<br>(800 Ohms) | 10.2 µC/pulse | Same | Same |
| Maximum charge density<br>(300 Ohm) | 83.3 µC/cm² | Same | Same |
| Maximum charge density<br>(500 Ohm) | 83.3 µC/cm² | Same | Same |
| Maximum charge density<br>(800 Ohm) | 83.3 µC/cm² | Same | Same |
| Maximum current density<br>(300 Ohm) | 83.3 mA/cm² | Same | Same |
| Maximum current density<br>(500 Ohm) | 83.3 mA/cm² | Same | Same |
| Maximum current density<br>(800 Ohm) | 83.3 mA/cm² | Same | Same |
| Net Charge | 0 µC | Same | Same |
| Average Phase Power (300<br>Ohms) | 0.031 W/phase | Same | Same |
| Average Phase Power (500<br>Ohms) | 0.052 W/phase | Same | Same |
| Average Phase Power (800<br>Ohms) | 0.083 W/phase | Same | Same |
| Average Phase Power<br>density (300 Ohms) | 0.25 W/cm²/phase | Same | Same |
| Average Phase Power<br>density (500 Ohms) | 0.51 W/cm²/phase | Same | Same |
| | 4 Contact PNS System<br>(Subject Device) | Nalu<br>Neurostimulation<br>System<br>(K183579)<br>(Predicate) | Analysis of<br>Technological<br>Differences |
| Average Phase Power<br>density (800 Ohms) | 0.55 W/cm²/phase | Same | Same |
| Pulse Delivery Mode | Continuous | Same | Same |
| Current Path options | Bipolar | Same | Same |
| Software level of Concern | Moderate | Same | Same |
| Program Cycle | Cycle through programs | Same | Same |
| Pulse Pattern | Fine tuning of pulse patterns<br>(On/Off; If On, spans from 12 µs to<br>1000 µs) | Same | Same |
| Dosage Time | Allows for stimulation to be applied<br>in periodic doses (On/Off; If On,<br>spans from 1 ms to 25 ms) | Same | Same |
| Transmit Frequency | 40.68 MHz | Same | Same |
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All of the physical and therapeutic attributes for the 4 Contact PNS System are the same as the parameters in the predicate devices. There are no significant differences in these characteristics that would raise different questions of safety or effectiveness.
The main difference between the subject device and the primary predicate is the number and spacing of electrical contacts, integrated tines, and a coiled lead design. This reduced number of contacts reduces the stimulation area, allowing the physician to target a smaller affected area, if needed. The integrated tines eliminate the need for a separate anchor making the system more convenient to be placed in peripheral location. All of the physical attributes for the 4 Contact PNS System are within the parameters seen in the predicate and reference devices, or the differences are minor and do not affect the safe and effective use of the devices.
### Nonclinical Performance Testing
Nalu Medical performed a range of testing to gather data supporting the safety and performance of the 4 Contact PNS System prior to use. Nalu follows the Design Controls section of 21 CFR 820.30, ISO 14971, and ISO 13485:2016. These procedures ensure that all designs are appropriately planned, defined, transferred to production, and ongoing changes are reviewed for impact on safety and effectiveness and appropriately evaluated and tested. The system is designed and tested to ensure that it meets all applicable standards and guidance documents. Bench testing includes design verification and validation, sterilization validation, and biocompatibility testing. Human factors and usability testing were also performed on the device. Validation and performance testing demonstrate that the device meets user needs as reflected in the functional specification.
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# Applicable Standards and Guidance Documents
The testing for the 4 Contact PNS System includes the following test standards and guidance:
| Standard Number | Title |
|----------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| ISO 14708-1:2014 | Implants for surgery -- Active implantable medical devices -- Part 1:<br>General requirements for safety, marking and for information to be<br>provided by the manufacturer |
| ISO 14708-3:2017 | Implants for surgery -- Active implantable medical devices -- Part 3:<br>Implantable neurostimulators |
| IEC 62366-1:2015 | Medical Devices -- Part 1: Application of usability engineering to medical<br>devices |
| ISO 10993-1:2009 | Biological evaluation of medical devices -- Part 1: Evaluation and testing<br>within a risk management process |
| EN ISO 14971:2012 | Medical devices -- Application of risk management to medical devices |
| ISO 14971:2007 | |
| ISO 11607-1:2006/Amd<br>1:2014 and -2:2006/Amd<br>1:2014 | Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices -- Part 1: Requirements<br>for materials, sterile barrier systems and packaging systems, Part 2:<br>Validation requirements for forming, sealing and assembly processes |
| ISO 11135-1:2014 | Sterilization of health-care products -- Ethylene oxide -- Requirements for<br>the development, validation and routine control of a sterilization process<br>for medical devices |
| CISPR 11 | Industrial, scientific and medical equipment - Radio-frequency disturbance<br>characteristics - Limits and methods of measurement |
#### Table: Standards and Guidance Documents
### Biocompatibility testing
The biocompatibility testing followed the International Standard ISO 10993-1: 2009 "Biological evaluation of medical devices - Part 1: Evaluation and testing within a risk management process," as well as Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff Document entitled "Use of International Standard ISO 10993-1, Biological evaluation of medical devices - Part 1: Evaluation and testing within a risk management process," issued on: June 16, 2016.
The same biocompatibility reports that supported the Nalu Neurostimulation System also support the 4 Contact PNS System in this submission. The materials and processes involved in producing the 4 Contact PNS System were already assessed in the previous test reports. No additional testing was necessary.
### Animal Testing
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Additional animal testing was not necessary to support the addition of the 4 Contact PNS System to this system.
# Summary of Nonclinical Performance Testing
Verification testing of the 4 Contact PNS System included electrical and mechanical tests to show that the device met its target specifications over a range of operating and storage conditions. Validation, performance, and usability testing demonstrated that the device met user needs as reflected in the functional specification.
# Clinical Performance Data
Nalu Medical determined that bench and non-clinical testing are sufficient to demonstrate that the 4 Contact PNS System is as safe and effective as the predicate device.
# Conclusions
The bench and non-clinical data support the safety of the device, and the verification and validation demonstrated that the 4 Contact PNS System performs as intended in the specified use conditions. The results do not raise different questions of safety and effectiveness.
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.