The Bio Compression Systems' Sequential, pneumatic compression devices intended for either primary or adjunctive treatment of lymphedema, peripheral edema, venous insufficiency, and venous stasis ulcers. Sequential Circulators are also intended for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Intended for use in a home or healthcare setting.
Device Story
Sequential pneumatic compression device consisting of segmented garment and pneumatic pump. Pump cyclically inflates garment chambers from distal to proximal to stimulate interstitial fluid and blood flow. Used in home or healthcare settings by patients or clinicians. Pump components include motor, air compressor, disc valves, and micro switch. Controlled via softkeys/LED (1000/2000 series) or touch screen LCD (4000 series). Features include adjustable cycle time, pressure, compliance meter, focus therapy, pause, and pre-therapy modes. Output is mechanical compression of limbs. Benefits include edema reduction and DVT prophylaxis.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical or animal studies were submitted or relied upon. Substantial equivalence is supported by bench testing, including electrical safety (IEC 60601-1 series), EMC (IEC 60601-1-2), functional verification (cycle/treatment time, pressure endpoint testing), and software validation.
Technological Characteristics
Pneumatic compression pump with motor, air compressor, and disc valve assembly. Garments: 200 Denier Nylon Oxford with 3 mil Polyurethane coating. Power: 120-240V, 50/60 Hz. Class II, Type BF applied part, IP21 ingress protection. Software class A (IEC 62304).
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients requiring treatment for lymphedema, peripheral edema, venous insufficiency, venous stasis ulcers, or DVT prophylaxis. Contraindicated for limb infections (e.g., cellulitis) without antibiotics, lymphangiosarcoma, suspected/confirmed DVT, inflammatory phlebitis, pulmonary embolism, or uncontrolled congestive heart failure.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A compressible limb sleeve is a device that is used to prevent pooling of blood in a limb by inflating periodically a sleeve around the limb.
Predicate Devices
Sequential Circulator models SC-3004-DL and SC-3008-DL (K142640)
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Image /page/0/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The logo consists of two parts: the Department of Health & Human Services logo on the left and the FDA logo on the right. The FDA logo is in blue and includes the letters "FDA" followed by the words "U.S. Food & Drug Administration".
May 14, 2021
Bio Compression Systems, Inc. Marc Somelofski Director of RA/QA 120 West Commercial Ave Moonachie, New Jersey 07074
### Re: K210417
Trade/Device Name: Sequential Circulators SC-1004-DL, SC-1008-DL, SC-2004-DL, SC-2008-DL, SC-4004-DL, SC-4008-DL Regulation Number: 21 CFR 870.5800 Regulation Name: Compressible Limb Sleeve Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: JOW Dated: April 13, 2021 Received: April 15, 2021
### Dear Marc Somelofski:
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 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
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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 (QS) 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 medical devices and radiation-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.
Nicole Gillette Assistant Director (Acting) DHT2B: Division of Circulatory Support, Structural and Vascular Devices OHT2: Office of Cardiovascular 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) K210417
Device Name
Sequential Circulator models SC-1004-DL, SC-1008-DL, SC-2004-DL, SC-2008-DL, SC-4004-DL, SC-4008-DL
Indications for Use (Describe)
The Bio Compression Systems' Sequential, pneumatic compression devices intended for either primary or adjunctive treatment of lymphedema, peripheral edema, venous insufficiency, and venous stasis ulcers. Sequential Circulators are also intended for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Intended for use in a home or healthcare setting.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
| <span style="font-size:100%;">☑ Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)</span> |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| <span style="font-size:100%;">☐ Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)</span> |
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Image /page/3/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo for Bio Compression Systems Inc. The logo is blue and white. The word "BIO" is in large, bold letters, and the words "COMPRESSION SYSTEMS INC." are in smaller letters to the right of "BIO". There are vertical blue lines on either side of the text.
# Section 5: Summary
Date Prepared: April 13, 2021
## I. SUBMITTER
Bio Compression Systems, Inc. 120 West Commercial Avenue Moonachie, NJ 07074, USA Phone: +1-201-939-0716
Contact Person: Marc L. Somelofski
### II. DEVICE
| Device Name | Sequential Circulators SC-1004-DL, SC-1008-DL, SC-2004-DL, SC-2008-DL, SC-4004-DL, SC-4008-DL |
|------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Trade/Proprietary Name | Sequential Circulators SC-1004-DL, SC-1008-DL, SC-2004-DL, SC-2008-DL, SC-4004-DL, SC-4008-DL |
| Common/Usual Name | Sequential Circulators SC-1004-DL, SC-1008-DL, SC-2004-DL, SC-2008-DL, SC-4004-DL, SC-4008-DL |
| Classification Name | Compressible Limb Sleeve (21 CFR 870.5800) |
| Product Code | JOW |
| Class | Class II |
### III. PREDICATE DEVICE
Sequential Circulator models SC-3004-DL and SC-3008-DL (K142640).
Reference devices K043423, K122112, K131306, K150953, K171793, K182003, and K203178 are mentioned.
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Image /page/4/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo for Bio Compression Systems Inc. The logo is in blue and consists of the word "BIO" in large, bold letters, followed by the words "COMPRESSION SYSTEMS INC." in smaller letters. The logo is flanked on both sides by a series of vertical bars of varying widths, also in blue. The bars give the logo a sense of depth and dimension.
# IV. DEVICE DESCRIPTION
Bio Compression Systems' Sequential Circulators are sequential pneumatic compression device which consists of a segmented pneumatic compression sleeve ("qarment") connected to a pneumatic compression pump ("pump"). The pump cyclically inflates the garment's segments ("chambers") in sequence from the distal end toward the trunk of the body. The inflation of the garment compresses the limb on which it is worn, stimulating the movement of interstitial fluid and blood flow.
The core components of the pump are the motor, air compressor, disc valves, and micro switch. The air compressor generates air flow into a stationary disc valve. The motor moves a rotating disc valve. The geometry of the disc valve directs air flow and cyclically triggers the micro switch.
The pump is controlled by softkeys and an LED display (models SC-1004-DL, SC-1008-DL, SC-2004-DL, SC-2008-DL) or by a touch screen LCD (models SC-4004-DL, SC-4008-DL).
The device uses the Predicate Device's garments.
| | Subject Device<br>(K210417) | Predicate Device<br>(K142640) | Comparison |
|------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Indications for<br>Use | The Bio Compression<br>Systems' Sequential<br>Circulators are sequential,<br>pneumatic compression<br>devices intended for either<br>primary or adjunctive<br>treatment of lymphedema,<br>peripheral edema,<br>lipedema, venous<br>insufficiency, and venous<br>stasis ulcers. Sequential<br>Circulators are also<br>intended for the<br>prophylaxis of deep vein<br>thrombosis (DVT).<br>Intended for use in a home<br>or healthcare setting. | The Bio Compression<br>Systems' SC-3008-DL, SC-<br>3004-DL, SC-3004DC-DL, and<br>SC-2008-DL are sequential,<br>pneumatic compression<br>devices intended for either<br>primary or adjunctive<br>treatment of primary or<br>secondary lymphedema. The<br>devices are also intended for<br>additional or alternate<br>treatment of venous<br>insufficiency and chronic<br>venous stasis ulcers<br>associated with venous<br>insufficiency as well as general<br>treatment for swelling of the<br>extremities. The devices are<br>intended for both home and<br>hospital use | The addition of the<br>lipedema and deep<br>vein thrombosis<br>prophylaxis<br>indications is not a<br>new use; devices in<br>the category with<br>similar characteristics<br>and indications have<br>been cleared for<br>these indications<br>(Reference Devices<br>K131306, K182003,<br>K203178). |
# V. INDICATIONS FOR USE
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Image /page/5/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo for Bio Compression Systems Inc. The logo is in blue and white. The word "BIO" is in large, bold letters, with vertical bars on either side. To the right of "BIO" are the words "COMPRESSION SYSTEMS INC." in smaller letters.
| | Subject Device<br>(K210417) | Predicate Device<br>(K142640) | Comparison |
|-------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Contra -<br>indications | Compression IS NOT<br>recommended in the<br>following conditions:<br>• Infections in the limb,<br>including cellulitis, without<br>appropriate antibiotic<br>coverage<br>• The presence of<br>lymphangiosarcoma<br>• Suspicion or confirmation<br>of the presence of Deep<br>Vein Thrombosis (DVT)<br>• Inflammatory phlebitis or<br>episodes of pulmonary<br>embolism<br>• Congestive Heart Failure<br>(CHF) unless controlled by<br>medication<br>• Other indications as<br>identified by the treating<br>physician | Compression IS NOT<br>recommended in the following<br>conditions:<br>• Infections in the limb,<br>including cellulitis, without<br>appropriate antibiotic coverage<br>• The presence of<br>lymphangiosarcoma<br>• Suspicion or confirmation of<br>the presence of Deep Vein<br>Thrombosis (DVT)<br>• Inflammatory phlebitis or<br>episodes of pulmonary<br>embolism<br>• Congestive Heart Failure<br>(CHF)<br>• Active cancer except for<br>palliative care<br>• Other indications as identified<br>by the treating physician | The cancer<br>contraindication and<br>clarifies the CHF<br>contraindication.<br>Removal of the<br>cancer<br>contraindication does<br>not suggest a new<br>use. Devices in the<br>category with similar<br>characteristics and<br>indications have been<br>cleared without this<br>contra-indication<br>(Reference Devices<br>K182003, K203178). |
| Prescription/<br>over-the-<br>counter use | Prescription | Prescription | Identical |
#### TECHNOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS WITH VI. COMPARISON OF THE PREDICATE DEVICE
| | Subject Device<br>(K210417) | Predicate Device<br>(K142640) | Comparison |
|-----------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Operating Principle | Same as Predicate | An air compressor<br>generates air flow in a<br>stationery disc valve.<br>A motor turns the top<br>disc valve which<br>directs air and trigger's<br>a micro switch. | Identical |
| Power Supply<br>Rating | 120-240V, 50/60 Hz | 120 VAC, 60 Hz | Equivalent - the Subject<br>Device and Predicate Device<br>both connect to mains power.<br>This is the same as other<br>similar cleared devices<br>(Reference Device K203178). |
| | Subject Device<br>(K210417) | Predicate Device<br>(K142640) | Comparison |
| Rated Input | 12VDC, 3A | 120 VAC, 0.5 A | Equivalent - the Subject<br>Device has a lower input<br>voltage. This is the same as<br>other similar cleared devices<br>(Reference Device K203178). |
| Electrical<br>Classification | Class II | Class II | Identical |
| Applied Part | Type BF | Type BF | Identical |
| Ingress Protection | IP21 | IP21 | Identical |
| Cycle Time | • 1000 series: 60-120<br>seconds in 30-<br>second increments<br>• 2000/4000 series:<br>60-120 seconds in<br>15-second<br>increments | 60 seconds | Similar - other devices in this<br>category with the same<br>operating principle have cycle<br>times longer than 60<br> |
| Treatment Time | Continuous or<br>adjustable as follows:<br>• 1000 series: 30-120<br>minutes adjustable<br>in 30-minute<br>increments<br>• 2000/4000 series:<br>10-120 minutes in 5-<br>minute increments | Continuous or 60<br>minutes | Equivalent |
| Pressure Range | • 20-100 mmHg,<br>adjustable in 5<br>mmHg increments<br>• 10-120 mmHg,<br>adjustable in 1<br>mmHg increments<br>• 0-120 mmHg,<br>adjustable in 1<br>mmHg increments | 0-120 mmHg,<br>adjustable in 1 mmHg<br>increments | Equivalent - Endpoint<br>pressure values are not<br>frequently used |
| Pressure Accuracy | ± 20% | ± 20% | Identical |
| Pressure Gradient<br>(decrease/proximal<br>chamber) | -1 mmHg (8-chamber<br>models) or -2 mmHg<br>(4-chamber models) | -1 mmHg | Equivalent - the Subject<br>Device's 8-chamber models<br>are identical and the 4-<br>chamber models have the<br>same total gradient as the<br>Predicate Device's model SC-<br>3008-DI |
| | Subject Device<br>(K210417) | Predicate Device<br>(K142640) | Comparison |
| Software Safety<br>Class (IEC 62304) | A | A | Identical |
| Weight<br>(4-chamber model) | • SC-1004-DL, SC-<br>2004-DL: 3.3 lbs.<br>(1.5 kg)<br>• SC-1008-DL, SC-<br>2008-DL: 3.65 lbs.<br>(1.66 kg)<br>• SC-4004-DL: 3.5 lbs.<br>(1.59 kg)<br>• SC-4008-DL: 3.85<br>lbs. (1.75 kg) | • SC-3004-DL: 5.65<br>lbs.<br>(2.56 kg)<br>• SC-3008-DL: 5.9 lbs.<br>(2.68 kg) | Similar - The Subject<br>Device's models are lighter |
| Dimensions | • 1000 series: 4.5" x<br>11.75" x 7.75" (114<br>mm x 298 mm x 197<br>mm)<br>• 2000/4000 series:<br>4.5" x 12" x 7.34"<br>(114 mm x 304 mm<br>x 186 mm) | 4.5" x 11.75" x 7.75"<br>(114 mm x 298 mm x<br>197 mm) | Similar |
| Compression<br>Sleeves<br>("Garments") | Uses Predicate's<br>garments | 200 Denier Nylon<br>Oxford, coated with 3<br>mil of Polyurethane | Identical |
| Features | • Adjustable Cycle<br>Time<br>• Adjustable Pressure<br>• Compliance/Usage<br>Meter<br>• Focus Therapy<br>Mode (2000/4000<br>series)<br>• Pause<br>• Pre-Therapy Mode<br>(SC-4008-DL)<br>• Timed Treatment<br>• Individual Chamber<br>Adjustment (4000<br>series) | • Adjustable Pressure<br>• Compliance/<br>Usage Meter<br>• Pre-Therapy Mode<br>(SC-3008-DL)<br>• Timed Treatment<br>• Individual Chamber<br>Adjustment | Minor differences in features.<br>Subject Device:<br>• has Adjustable Cycle Time<br>- the range of which is<br>comparable to the Predicate<br>Device (60 seconds) and<br>similar cleared devices<br>(Reference Device<br>K150953, 90 seconds).<br>• has a Focus Therapy mode<br>(2000/4000 series) which<br>doubles inflation time on a<br>group of garment chambers<br>for the first 10 minutes -<br>this is similar to the<br>Predicate Device's Pre-<br>Therapy mode which<br>inflates the most distal<br>group of garment chambers<br>for the first 10 minutes<br>• can pause treatment and<br>treatment time - this is the<br>same as other similar |
Section 5: Summary
Page 5-3
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| | 120 West Commercial Avenue, Moonachie, New Jersey 07074 | | | | |
|--|---------------------------------------------------------|--|--|--|--|
|--|---------------------------------------------------------|--|--|--|--|
| Subject Device<br>(K210417) | Predicate Device<br>(K142640) | Comparison |
|-----------------------------|-------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| | | cleared devices (Reference<br>Device K203178).<br>• 1000 and 2000 series lack<br>Individual Chamber<br>Adjustment feature - this is<br>the same as other similar<br>cleared devices (Reference<br>Device K150953). |
The Subject Device is based upon the Predicate Device and has the same technological characteristics with respect to design, materials used, and construction.
- . Subject Device and Predicate Device have the same operating principle and use the same disc valve assembly for operation
- . Components used in Subject and Predicate Devices are identical, the same material, or have the same specifications
- The Predicate Device uses the Subject Device's compression garments.
- . Subject Device and Predicate Device have the same or similar performance specifications
The differences between the Subject Device and Predicate Device exist in similar cleared devices and do not raise any different questions of safety and/or effectiveness.
- The Adjustable Cycle Time range is similar to cycle times for cleared devices with . the same Predicate as the Subject Device (Reference Device K150953)
- . The lack of Individual Chamber Adjustment in 1000 and 2000 series is identical as cleared devices with the same Predicate as the Subject Device (Reference Device K150953)
- The differences in rated input and power supply rating are equivalent, and the Pause feature is the same as similar cleared devices Reference Device (Reference Device K203178).
# VII. PERFORMANCE DATA
The following testing and performance data were provided in support of the substantial equivalence determination.
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Image /page/9/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo for Bio Compression Systems Inc. The logo is in blue and consists of the word "BIO" in large block letters, with the words "COMPRESSION SYSTEMS INC." stacked to the right of the "BIO". The logo is flanked on both sides by a series of vertical blue bars.
### Electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
- ANSI/AAMI ES60601-1:2005/(R)2012 and A1:2012 .
- ANSI/AAMI HA60601-1-11:2015-08 ●
- IEC 60601-1:2005/AMD1:2012 ●
- IEC 60601-1-2:2014 ●
- IEC 60601-1-6:2010/AMD1:2013 ●
- IEC 60601-1-11:2015 ●
## Predicate Device routine acceptance tests conducted on Subject Device
- Observation of continuous and timed operation ●
- Pressure testing .
- HiPot (dielectric withstand test) testing ●
## Functional verification and validation testing
- Cycle time verification and validation
- Treatment time verification and validation ●
- Pressure setting endpoint testing ●
- Operation to confirm all modes, settings, and mode/setting changes function as ● intended
## Comparative pressure testing of Subject and Predicate Device Individual Chamber Adjustment
- The standard gradient setting ●
- . Typical upper extremity settings
- Typical fibrotic leg setting .
### Software Verification and Validation Testing
Software verification and validation testing were conducted, and documentation was provided as recommended by FDA's Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff, "Guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices" and "Content of Premarket Submissions for Management of Cybersecurity in Medical Devices". The software for this device is considered as a "minor" level of concern and there are no cybersecurity risks.
### Clinical/Animal Studies
Clinical/animal studies were not submitted, referenced, or relied on in this premarket notification submission for a determination of substantial equivalence.
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Image /page/10/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo for Bio Compression Systems Inc. The logo is primarily blue and white. The word "BIO" is in large, bold, blue letters, with a series of blue vertical bars on either side. To the right of "BIO" are the words "COMPRESSION SYSTEMS INC." in smaller, white letters.
### VIII. CONCLUSION
The data included in this submission demonstrates that the Subject Device is substantially equivalent to the legally marketed Predicate Device and performs comparably to the Predicate Device that is currently marketed for the same intended use.
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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.