NUCLETRON PLATO EXTERNAL BEAM PLANNING RTS V2 AND RTS 3D V2
K964206 · Nucletron Corp. · IYE · Jun 20, 1997 · Radiology
Device Facts
Record ID
K964206
Device Name
NUCLETRON PLATO EXTERNAL BEAM PLANNING RTS V2 AND RTS 3D V2
Applicant
Nucletron Corp.
Product Code
IYE · Radiology
Decision Date
Jun 20, 1997
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 892.5050
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Software as a Medical Device, Therapeutic
Indications for Use
PLATO 3-D Treatment Planning System is used to prepare individual treatment plans for cancer patients undergoing therapeutic radiation treatment. The system is utilized to develop plans for external photon and electron therapy. PLATO External Beam Planning RTS V2 and RTS 3D V2 has intended uses equivalent to its predecessor PLATO RTS V1. This device is used for external beam radiation therapy treatment planning for localization and treatment planning of malignant and benign lesions of patients. Treatment of cancer may require use of external radiation beams from an external source. Teletherapy unit coordinates of beam placement including gantry angle, field size, and shape along with accurately calculated predicted dose computation, are necessary in present day planning for radiotherapy. The ability to calculate both coplanar and noncoplanar beams to a highly accurate level is desirable by the industry. PLATO RTS V 2 allows for accuracy and speed to clinically facilitate this need. The recent use of linear accelerator Multileaf Collimators for field shaping is desired and supported by RTS V2.
Device Story
Computer-based radiation therapy planning system; inputs include patient anatomical data from radiographs, CT, or MRI scans. Operator defines treatment setup, source configuration, and beam parameters (gantry angle, field size, shape). System calculates radiation dose distribution using physical algorithms for radiation transport. Supports multileaf collimator (MLC) field shaping. Used by clinicians in radiation oncology to develop clinically acceptable treatment plans for linear accelerators, cobalt units, or afterloaders. Output consists of calculated dose distributions and treatment coordinates; assists physicians in optimizing radiation delivery to target lesions while sparing healthy tissue.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. No clinical study data provided. Substantial equivalence is supported by product design specifications, verification and validation procedures, and performance testing of dose calculation parameters.
Technological Characteristics
Computer-based modular software system. Features include external beam planning (RTS), evaluation module (EVAL 2.0), image import (IPS-CT), and multileaf collimator (MLC) support. Operates on standard computing hardware. Compliant with ISO 9001 and GMP requirements.
Indications for Use
Indicated for cancer patients requiring therapeutic radiation treatment, including localization and planning for malignant and benign lesions. Supports external photon and electron therapy planning.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A medical charged-particle radiation therapy system is a device that produces by acceleration high energy charged particles (e.g., electrons and protons) intended for use in radiation therapy. This generic type of device may include signal analysis and display equipment, patient and equipment supports, treatment planning computer programs, component parts, and accessories.
Predicate Devices
Nucletron PLATO Radiation Therapy Planning System (K921991)
Siemens Treatment Management System (TMS) (K953391)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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K964206
# SUMMARY OF 510(K)
## SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA
### PLATO 3D Radiation Therapy Planning System, External Beam Planning RTS V2 and RTS 3D V2
October 17, 1996
**Submitter/Contact:**
Randolph Hemingway
Nucletron Corporation
7080 Columbia Gateway Drive
Columbia, MD 21046-2133
Tel: (410) 312-4187 Fax: (410) 312-4199
PLATO External Beam Planning RTS V2 and RTS 3D V2
**Trade/Proprietary Name:**
RTS-2 3-D Radiation Treatment Planning System
**Common Name:**
3-D Radiation Therapy Planning System
**Classification Name:**
Medical Charged Particle Radiation Therapy System
21 CFR 892.5050 (Class II)
**Substantial Equivalence:**
Nucletron PLATO Radiation Therapy Planning System
510(k) K 921991
ADAC Pinnacle 3 APEX
510(k) K 951581
Siemens Treatment Management System (TMS)
510(k) K 953391
**Device Description:**
The PLATO 3-D Treatment Planning System described in this submission is a computer-based external beam and brachytherapy treatment planning system for clinical radiation therapy applications.
Based on an individual patient’s anatomical information obtained from radiographs, CT or MRI scans, a treatment setup or source configuration, including insertion times for brachytherapy, is defined and the resultant dose distribution is calculated. These calculations rely on physical algorithms describing the radiation transport process which finally leads to dose deposition inside a patient’s anatomy.
Treatment set-up, or source parameters, are changed until the corresponding dose distribution are clinically acceptable. The operator performing the treatment planning forms part of the PLATO Radiation Treatment Planning System. The prescribed treatment is then administered to the patient, utilizing medical linear accelerators, cobalt units, afterloaders, or manual techniques.
The PLATO 3-D Treatment Planning System is modular in structure and consists of the following main features which are depicted in the attached system overview diagram.
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510(k) Summary
Page 3
RTS - A module for External Beam planning
EVAL 2.0 - An evaluation module for combination of external and brachytherapy planning using evaluation tools;
IPS-CT - Imports images from CT, MRI, radiographs and outlining features;
MLC - Multileaf Collimator
## Device Intended Use:
As indicated above, the PLATO 3-D Treatment Planning System is used to prepare individual treatment plans for cancer patients undergoing therapeutic radiation treatment. The system can be applied for external photon and electron therapy.
PLATO External Beam Planning RTS V2 and RTS 3D V2 has equivalent intended uses as its predecessor PLATO RTS V1. This device is used for external beam radiation therapy treatment planning for localization and treatment planning of malignant and benign lesions of patients.
Treatment of cancer may require use of external radiation beams from an external source, Teletherapy unit coordinates of beam placement including gantry angle, field size, and shape along with accurately calculated predicted dose computation, are necessary in present day planning for radiotherapy. The ability to calculate both coplanar and noncoplanar beams to a highly accurate level is desirable by the industry. PLATO RTS V 2 allows for the accuracy and speed to clinically facilitate this need. The recent use of linear accelerator Multileaf Collimators for field shaping is desired and supported by RTS V2.
## Safety and Effectiveness
The PLATO Treatment Planning System is manufactured by Nucletron B.V. in The Netherlands that is officially registered as an ISO 9001 manufacturer. Accordingly, the system described herein will be manufactured in accordance with the ISO 9001 requirements, GMP regulations, and other applicable European standards.
The operator is provided with a comprehensive User's Manual, accompanied by an Instruction Manual, which provides the operator with a detailed tutorial. Nucletron employs a knowledgeable staff of clinical application specialists to complement the written documentation provided to the user. Such assistance is available during initial start-up and at other times when requested by the user. On-going training programs and seminars for users are conducted by Nucletron on a continual basis.
Nucletron's prior experience with treatment planning systems provides an extensive background in such devices and ensures that all systems are safe and effective as represented.
Software is designed in accordance with prescribed specifications, and detailed test plans ensure software integrity through definitive verification and validation procedures. A concept of "user-friendliness", safe, and effective operation is a top priority in all design and manufacturing efforts by Nucletron.
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510(k) Summary
Page 3
## Conclusion:
The FDA 510K certification pre-market notification for the RTS 2 product contains adequate information and data to enable the determination of substantial equivalence with the documentation summarized in this submission.
- Nucletron’s RTS 2 is subject to internal performance standards as defined by product design specifications.
- The RTS 2 external beam planning software will be developed and ongoing monitored to adhere to standards specified by Nucletron, Good Manufacturing Practices and ISO 9001 requirements.
- The information for users contains comprehensive instructions and documentation to ensure safe and effective use.
- Product Specifications and performance levels are substantially equivalent to other products currently cleared by FDA for marketing in the U.S. Function and Dose calculation parameters have been tested and will be retested before actual product release.
- Close evaluation of other equivalent predicate devices demonstrates that RTS 2 is safe and effective for marketing.
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration
9200 Corporate Boulevard
Rockville MD 20850
# JUN 20 1997
Randolph Hemingway
Nucletron Corporation
7080 Columbia Gateway Drive
Columbia, MD 21046
Re: K964206
Plato RTS-2 3D Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning System
Dated: March 30, 1997
Received: March 30, 1997
Regulatory class: II
21 CFR 892.5050/Procode: 90 IYE
Dear Mr. Hemingway:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) notification of intent to market the device referenced above and we have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to 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). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (Premarket Approval), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 895. A substantially equivalent determination assumes compliance with the Good Manufacturing Practice for Medical Devices: General (GMP) regulation (21 CFR Part 820) and that, through periodic GMP inspections, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will verify such assumptions. Failure to comply with the GMP regulation may result in regulatory action. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register. Please note: this response to your premarket notification submission does not affect any obligation you might have under sections 531 through 542 of the Act for devices under the Electronic Product Radiation Control provisions, or other Federal laws or regulations.
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801 and additionally 809.10 for in vitro diagnostic devices), please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4591 for Radiology devices, or 594-4613 for Ear, Nose and Throat devices. Additionally, for questions on the promotion and advertising of your device, please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4639. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 807.97). Other general information on your responsibilities under the Act may be obtained from the Division of Small Manufacturers Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its Internet address "http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsmamain.html".
Sincerely yours,

Enclosure
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06/11/97 15:22 4103124197 NUC-DELFT- REG 002
510(k) Number (if known): K964206
Device Name: **PLATO External Beam Planning System RTS V2 & RTS 3D V2**
Indications For Use;
PLATO 3-D Treatment Planning System is used to prepare individual treatment plans for cancer patients undergoing therapeutic radiation treatment. The system is utilized to develop plans for external photon and electron therapy.
PLATO External Beam Planning RTS V2 and RTS 3D V2 has intended uses equivalent to its predecessor PLATO RTS V1. This device is used for external beam radiation therapy treatment planning for localization and treatment planning of malignant and benign lesions of patients.
Treatment of cancer may require use of external radiation beams from an external source. Teletherapy unit coordinates of beam placement including gantry angle, field size, and shape along with accurately calculated predicted dose computation, are necessary in present day planning for radiotherapy. The ability to calculate both coplanar and noncoplanar beams to a highly accurate level is desirable by the industry. PLATO RTS V 2 allows for accuracy and speed to clinically facilitate this need. The recent use of linear accelerator Multileaf Collimators for field shaping is desired and supported by RTS V2.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
David A. Segram
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, ENT, and Radiological Devices
510(k) Number K964206
Prescription Use ☑ (Per 21 CFR 801.109)
OR
Over-the-Counter Use ☐
(Optional Format 1-2-96)
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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.