Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider (LF1212A)
K220411 · Stryker Sustainability Solutions · NUJ · May 13, 2022 · General, Plastic Surgery
Device Facts
Record ID
K220411
Device Name
Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider (LF1212A)
Applicant
Stryker Sustainability Solutions
Product Code
NUJ · General, Plastic Surgery
Decision Date
May 13, 2022
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 878.4400
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The Reprocessed LF1212A LigaSure Sealer/Divider is a bipolar electrosurgical instrument intended for use in open surgical procedures where ligation of vessels, tissue bundles, and lymphatics is desired. The LigaSure Sealer/Divider can be used on vessels (arteries and veins) up to and including 7 mm. It is indicated for use in general surgery and in such surgical specialties as urologic, thoracic, plastic, and reconstructive. Procedure may include, but are not limited to, bowel resections, gall bladder procedures, Nissen fundoplication, and adhesiolysis. The instrument is also indicated for open ENT procedures in adults (thyroidectorny, radical neck dissection, parotidectorny, and tonsillectomy) for ligation of vessels, lymphatics and tissue bundles 2-3 mm away from unintended thermally-sensitive structures such as nerves and parathyroid glands. The LigaSure system has not been shown to be effective for tubal sterilization or tubal coagulation for sterilization procedures. Do not use the LigaSure system for these procedures.
Device Story
Bipolar electrosurgical instrument for open surgery; used with compatible electrosurgical generators (ForceTriad, Valleylab FT10). Device inputs: RF energy from generator; manual user force. Mechanism: RF energy applied to vessels/tissue bundles between jaws to create seal; surgeon-actuated blade divides tissue. Operated by surgeon in OR. Output: Sealed and divided vessels/tissue. Benefits: Hemostasis and tissue division in various surgical specialties. Reprocessed device maintains original mechanical design, materials, and size. Device features scissor-like handle, activation button with two-stage tactile feedback, and blade trigger. Compatible with right or left-hand use.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing and preclinical animal studies performed. Bench testing included biocompatibility, sterilization validation, electrical safety (IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, IEC 60601-2-2), and functional performance (burst pressure, jaw temperature, seal/divide capability on 1-7mm vessels). Preclinical animal studies (acute and chronic survival) evaluated thermal spread and hemostasis efficacy.
Technological Characteristics
Bipolar electrosurgical instrument; 19cm length; 16.5mm curved jaw. Energy source: external electrosurgical generator (RF). Mechanical actuation for jaw closure and blade deployment. Reprocessed device; sterilization method not specified. Complies with IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, and IEC 60601-2-2 standards.
Indications for Use
Indicated for open surgical procedures in adults requiring ligation and division of vessels (up to 7mm), tissue bundles, and lymphatics. Specialties include general, urologic, thoracic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery. ENT indications include thyroidectomy, radical neck dissection, parotidectomy, and tonsillectomy. Contraindicated for tubal coagulation/sterilization.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An electrosurgical cutting and coagulation device and accessories is a device intended to remove tissue and control bleeding by use of high-frequency electrical current.
Predicate Devices
LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider (K152286)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
{0}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/0/Picture/0 description: The image contains the logo of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The logo consists of two parts: the symbol of the Department of Health & Human Services on the left and the text "FDA U.S. FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION" on the right. The text is in blue, with "FDA" in a larger font size and enclosed in a blue square.
May 13, 2020
Stryker Sustainability Solutions Mr.Scott English, BS Principal Regulatory Affairs Specialist 1810 W Drake Drive Tempe, Arizona 85283
Re: K220411
Trade/Device Name: Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider (LF1212A) Regulation Number: 21 CFR 878.4400 Regulation Name: Electrosurgical Cutting and Coagulation Device and Accessories Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: NUJ Dated: April 15, 2022 Received: April 18, 2022
Dear Scott English:
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 ffor 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/cfpm/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
{1}------------------------------------------------
requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (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 (0S) 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,
Long Chen, Ph.D. Assistant Director DHT4A: Division of General Surgery Devices OHT4: Office of Surgical and Infection Control Devices Office of Product Evaluation and Quality Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{2}------------------------------------------------
# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K220411
Device Name
Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider (LF1212A)
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Reprocessed LF1212A LigaSure Sealer/Divider is a bipolar electrosurgical instrument intended for use in open surgical procedures where ligation and division of vessels, tissue bundles, and lymphatics is desired. The LigaSure Sealer/ Divider can be used on vessels (arteries and veins) up to and including 7 mm. It is indicated for use in general surgery and in such surgical specialties as urologic, thoracic, plastic, and reconstructive. Procedure may include, but are not limited to, bowel resections, gall bladder procedures, Nissen fundoplication, and adhesiolysis.
The instrument is also indicated for open ENT procedures in adults (thyroidectomy, radical neck dissection, parotidectorny, and tonsillectorny) for ligation of vessels, lymphatics and tissue bundles 2-3 mm away from unintended thermally-sensitive structures such as nerves and parathyroid glands.
The LigaSure system has not been shown to be effective for tubal coagulation for sterilization procedures. Do not use the LigaSure system for these procedures.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
| <span style="font-family: sans-serif;"> <svg height="15" width="15"> <rect height="15" style="fill:white;stroke:black;stroke-width:1" width="15"></rect> <path d="M2 2 L13 13 M13 2 L2 13" stroke="black" stroke-width="1"></path> </svg> </span> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) |
|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| <span style="font-family: sans-serif;"> <svg height="15" width="15"> <rect height="15" style="fill:white;stroke:black;stroke-width:1" width="15"></rect> </svg> </span> 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."
{3}------------------------------------------------
# Reprocessed Single-Use Device Model Included in Clearance
| Device Model | Device Name | Original Manufacturer |
|--------------|-------------------------------------------------|-----------------------|
| LF1212A | LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider | Covidien |
{4}------------------------------------------------
# 510(k) SUMMARY
#### Submitter:
Stryker Sustainability Solutions 1810 W. Drake Drive Tempe, Arizona 85283
### Contact:
Scott English, BS Principal Regulatory Affairs Specialist 901-451-1456 (o) 480-763-5310 (f) scott.english@stryker.com
Date of Preparation: May 13, 2022
Name of Device:
| Trade/Proprietary Name: | Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider<br>(LF1212A) |
|-----------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Name: | Electrosurgical cutting and coagulation device and accessories |
| Classification Information: | Electrosurgical, Cutting & Coagulation Accessories, Laparoscopic &<br>Endoscopic, Reprocessed<br>(21 CFR§878.4400, Product Code NUJ, Class II) |
### Predicate Devices:
| Model<br>Number | 510(k)<br>Number | 510(k) Title | Original<br>Manufacturer |
|-----------------|------------------|-------------------------------------------------|--------------------------|
| LF1212A | K152286 | LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider | Covidien |
### Device Description:
The Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider (LF1212A) is a bipolar electrosurgical instrument intended for use in open surgical procedures where ligation and division of vessels, tissue bundles, and lymphatics is desired. The instrument is intended to be used with Covidien electrosurgical generators that include vessel sealing capability. The instrument can be used on vessels (arteries and veins) up to and including 7 mm. The instrument creates a seal by application of radiofrequency (RF) electrosurgical energy to vascular structures (vessels and lymphatics) or tissue bundles interposed between the jaws of the instrument. A blade within the instrument is surgeon actuated to divide tissue. The following controls are located on the device:
- Scissor like design for opening and closing the instrument jaws and activating RF energy. The mechanism must be held in the closed position during vessel sealing and cutting.
- An activation button at the bottom of the handle for generator power to initiate vessel . sealing. The button has two stages that provide tactile feedback to the user. The first stage
{5}------------------------------------------------
button click does not apply energy, whereas the second stage click begins energy application.
- . A trigger for actuating the blade.
All controls can be operated with either the right or left hand. Vessel sealing can be initiated using the activation button or utilizing a footswitch connected to the generator. The instrument attached to the generator via a cable with a connector that identifies the instrument type to the generator.
The instrument is compatible with the Covidien ForceTriad Enerqy Platform and Valleylab FT10 Energy Platform.
The scope of the submission only includes the Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider and not the Covidien ForceTriad Energy Platform or Valleylab FT10 Energy Platform that are used to power the device, or the footswitch that connects to the generator. Stryker Sustainability Solutions does not reprocess or market the generators or footswitch.
## Intended Use:
The Reprocessed LF1212A LigaSure Sealer/Divider is a bipolar electrosurgical instrument intended for use in open surgical procedures where ligation of vessels, tissue bundles, and lymphatics is desired. The LigaSure Sealer/Divider can be used on vessels (arteries and veins) up to and including 7 mm. It is indicated for use in general surgery and in such surgical specialties as urologic, thoracic, plastic, and reconstructive. Procedure may include, but are not limited to, bowel resections, gall bladder procedures, Nissen fundoplication, and adhesiolysis.
The instrument is also indicated for open ENT procedures in adults (thyroidectorny, radical neck dissection, parotidectorny, and tonsillectomy) for ligation of vessels, lymphatics and tissue bundles 2-3 mm away from unintended thermally-sensitive structures such as nerves and parathyroid glands.
The LigaSure system has not been shown to be effective for tubal sterilization or tubal coagulation for sterilization procedures. Do not use the LigaSure system for these procedures.
## Indications for Use Comparison:
The indications for use for the proposed device are the same in comparison to the predicate device.
## Technological Comparison:
The design, materials, and intended use of the Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider are equivalent to the predicate device. The mechanism of action of the reprocessed device is identical to the predicate device in that the same standard mechanical design, materials, and size is utilized. There are no changes to the claims, intended use, clinical application, patient population, performance specifications, or method of operation. In addition, Stryker Sustainability Solutions' reprocessing of the device includes removal of adherent visible soil and decontamination. Each individual device is tested for appropriate function of its components prior to packaging and labeling operations. The only differences between the Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider and the predicate LigaSure
{6}------------------------------------------------
Curved. Small Jaw. Open Sealer/Divider are that the device is reprocessed, and some device components are replaced with equivalent components during the reprocessing operation.
| | Predicate Device | Subject Device |
|-----------------------|----------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Uses | Single Patient Use | Single Patient Use |
| Device Length | 19cm | 19cm |
| Jaw Length | 16.5mm | 16.5mm |
| Jaw Shape | Curved | Curved |
| Mechanism for Cutting | Mechanical - User actuated blade | Mechanical - User actuated blade |
# Performance Data:
Bench and laboratory testing was conducted to demonstrate performance (safety and effectiveness) of the Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider. This included the following tests:
- Biocompatibility ●
- Validation of Reprocessing
- Sterilization
- Electrical Safety and Electromagnetic Compatibility
- Functional Performance Tests
- Blade Trigger Actuation Force O
- O Clamp Arm Closing and Seal Button Force
- Clamp Arm Opening Force o
- Clamp Arm Deflection O
- O Jaw Clamp Force
- Blade Excursion O
- Jaw Opening Angle O
- Burst Pressure O
- Maximum Jaw Temperature O
- Device Reliability O
- Functional Attribute Testing O
The functional performance testing involved electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility testing in accordance with IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, and IEC 60601-2-2, and verification/comparative testing (to the predicate device). The bench testing involved evaluation of the device's performance and ability to seal and divide vessels from 1mm to 7mm, including burst pressure, maximum jaw temperature, device functionality, device reliability, and functional attribute tests.
Additionally, preclinical laboratory evaluations in an animal model were performed, which included acute and chronic survival studies were done to evaluate thermal spread and the ability to achieve hemostasis of vessels of the reprocessed device.
# Conclusion:
The results of bench testing and preclinical laboratory evaluations demonstrate that the Reprocessed LigaSure Curved, Small Jaw, Open Sealer/Divider is at least as safe and effective as the predicate and perform as well as the identified legally marketed predicate device as described herein.
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.