K993840 · C.R. Bard, Inc. · EZN · Jan 31, 2000 · Gastroenterology, Urology
Device Facts
Record ID
K993840
Device Name
BARD UROFORCE BALLOON DILATION CATHETER
Applicant
C.R. Bard, Inc.
Product Code
EZN · Gastroenterology, Urology
Decision Date
Jan 31, 2000
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Abbreviated
Regulation
21 CFR 876.5470
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The Bard UroForce Balloon Dilation Catheter is indicated for dilation of the urinary tract.
Device Story
Dual-lumen balloon dilation catheter; features Nydex two-layer nylon balloon; two radiopaque markers for working length visualization. Input: 0.038" guidewire for tracking; balloon inflation via dedicated lumen; optional medication/contrast infusion or pressure monitoring via secondary lumen. Operation: Physician-operated in clinical setting; catheter advanced over guidewire to target site; balloon inflated to dilate urinary tract. Output: Mechanical dilation of urinary tract structures. Benefits: Facilitates treatment of urinary tract obstructions/strictures. Device includes stylet, balloon sheath, and attached stopcock.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Testing performed per FDA Draft Guidance for the Content of Premarket Notifications for Urological Balloon Dilatation Catheters (1992). Evaluated balloon burst strength, distensibility, inflation time, diameter, and profile. Results confirm device meets performance requirements and is equivalent to predicates.
Technological Characteristics
Dual-lumen catheter; Nydex two-layer nylon balloon; radiopaque markers; 6 Fr size; 4-8 mm diameter; 4-10 cm length; 10 atm operating pressure; 25 atm rated burst pressure; 0.038" guidewire compatibility; one-piece shaft with drawn-down tip; includes stylet, balloon sheath, and stopcock. Sterile, single-use.
Indications for Use
Indicated for dilation of the urinary tract in patients requiring such procedures. Prescription use only.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A ureteral dilator is a device that consists of a specially shaped catheter or bougie and is used to dilate the ureter at the place where a stone has become lodged or to dilate a ureteral stricture.
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Bard Medical Division C. R. Bard, Inc. 8195 Industrial Blvd. Covington, GA 30014
K993840 0. 1083
BARD
### SECTION VI
## 510(k) SUMMARY OF SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS INFORMATION
A. Submitter Information:
> Submitter's Name: Address:
Contact Person: Contact Person's Phone: Contact Person's Fax: Date of Preparation:
C. R. Bard, Inc., Urological Division 8195 Industrial Blvd., Covington, GA 30014 Angela L. Bunn 770-784-6135 770-784-6419 November 10, 1999
- B. Device Name:
Trade Name: Common/Usual Name: Classification Name:
Bard® UroForce™ Balloon Dilation Catheter Balloon Dilation Catheter Dilator, Catheter, Ureteral
- C. Predicate Device Name(s):
Trade Name: Trade Name: Opti-Plast® Centurion™ 5.5F PTA Catheter Bard® A-Trac Urological Balloon Dilation Catheter
- D. Device Description:
The Bard UroForce Balloon Dilation Catheter is a dual-lumen catheter with a Nydex® two-layer nylon balloon mounted on its distal tip and with two radiopaque markers beneath the balloon that define the working length. The lumen labeled "balloon" is for balloon inflation. The additional lumen allows the catheter to track over a 0.038"(.97mm) guidewire and can be used for monitoring of pressure or infusion of medication and/or contrast medium.
- E. Intended Use:
180-06
The Bard UroForce Balloon Dilation Catheter is indicated for dilation of the urinary tract.
- F. Technological Characteristics Summary:
Table VI-1 provides a comparison summary of the technological characteristics of the Bard UroForce Balloon Dilation Catheter versus the predicate devices.
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K 993840
గ్రా. 263 3
Table VI-1 Bard® UroForce™ Balloon Dilation Catheter of the
Bard® UroForce™ Balloon Dilation Catheter to Predicate Devices
| Characteristics | UroForce Balloon<br>Dilation Catheter | Opti-Plast Centurion<br>PTA Catheter | A-Trac Urological<br>Catheter |
|-------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Indications For Use | The Bard UroForce<br>Balloon Dilation Catheter<br>is indicated for dilation of<br>the urinary tract. | The Opti-Plast Centurion<br>5.5F PTA Catheter is<br>recommended for use in the<br>Percutaneous Transluminal<br>Angioplasty (PTA) of the<br>Iliac, Femoral and Renal<br>arteries and for the<br>treatment of obstructive<br>lesions of native or<br>synthetic arteriovenous<br>dialysis fistulae. The<br>catheter is not for use in the<br>Coronary arteries. | The Bard A-Trac<br>Urological Balloon<br>Dilation Catheter is<br>indicated for use in the<br>dilation of the ureter or<br>urethra through the<br>working channel of an<br>endoscope. |
| Reuse Status | Disposable. For single<br>patient use only. | Disposable. For single<br>patient use only. | Disposable. For single<br>patient use only. |
| Sterile | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Catheter Balloon Material | Nylon, 2 layers | Nylon, 2 layers | PET, Single layer |
| X-Ray Opaque | yes | yes | yes |
| Fr. Size | 6 | 5.5 | 5 |
| Balloon Lengths | 4, 6, 10 cm | 2, 4 cm | 4, 8, 10 cm |
| Balloon Diameters | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 mm | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 mm | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 mm |
| Operating Pressure | 10 atm | 10 atm | 10 atm |
| Rated Burst Pressures | 25 atm (max.) | 17-20 atm | 12-15 atm |
| Overall Catheter Length | 89.5 cm | 86 cm** | 96 cm |
| Guidewire Lumen Length | 85.5 cm | 84.5 cm** | 95.5 cm |
| Active Shaft Length | 75 cm* | 75 cm** | 75 cm* |
| Guidewire Compatibility | 0.038" | 0.035" | 0.035" |
| Shaft/Tip Design<br>(under balloon) | one piece with drawn<br>down tip | two piece with bonded tip | two piece with bonded<br>tip |
| Stopcock Attached | Yes | No | No |
| Stylet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Balloon Sheath | Yes | Yes | Yes |
* Excludes strain relief
** Shorter and longer shaft lengths are available
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K993840
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#### G. Performance Data:
Performance and functional testing standards are based on the FDA "Draft Guidance for the Content of Premarket Notifications for Urological Balloon Dilatation Catheters," dated January 24, 1992. Bench testing was conducted for the following characteristics: balloon burst strength, balloon distensibility, balloon inflation time and balloon diameter and profile. The test results indicate that the Bard UroForce Balloon Dilation Catheter is substantially equivalent to the stated predicate device, that there are no new safety or effectiveness issues, and that the device can be utilized for its stated indication.
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Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
JAN 31 2000
Ms. Angela L. Bunn Regulatory Affairs Associate C. R. Bard, Inc. 8195 Industrial Boulevard Covington, GA 30014
Re: K993840 Bard® UroForce™ Balloon Dilation Catheter Dated: November 10, 1999 Received: November 12, 1999 Regulatory Class: II 21 CFR §876.5470/Procode: 78 EZN
Dear Ms. Bunn:
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 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). 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 Current Good Manufacturing Practice requirements, as set forth in the Quality System Regulation (QS) for Medical Devices: General regulation (21 CFR Part 820) and that, through periodic QS 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 Compilance at (301) 594-4613. 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/dsma/dsmamain.html".
Sincerely yours,
CAPT Daniel G. Schultz, M.D. Acting Director, Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, Ear, Nose and Throat, and Radiological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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### SECTION I - D
# INDICATIONS FOR USE STATEMENT
x993840 510(k) Number (if known): ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Device Name: ___ Bard® UroForce™ Balloon Dilation Catheter
Indications for Use:
The Bard® UroForce™ Balloon Dilation Catheter is indicated for dilation of the urinary tract.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
CONCURRENCE OF CDRH, OFFICE OF DEVICE EVALUATION (ODE)
Prescription Use V (Per 21 CFR 801.109)
Over-The-Counter Use _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ OR
(Optional Format 1/2/96)
Stat
(Division Sign-Off) (Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, EN and Radiological Devi 510(k) Number
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.