A post-market clinical follow-up study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the Flex System in providing visualization and surgical site access to the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx in 45 subjects.
European post-market clinical follow-up study; Post-market clinical follow-up
Adults undergoing procedures in the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx; Sample Size: 45 subjects
Not applicable for this study
Visualization and access to five anatomical locations (palatine tonsil area, base of tongue, epiglottis, posterior pharyngeal wall, false vocal cords)
Indications for Use
The Medrobotics Flex® System is a device that is intended for robot-assisted visualization and surgical site access to the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx in adults (≥ 22 years of age). The Flex System also provides accessory channels for compatible flexible instruments used in surgery.
Device Story
Operator-controlled flexible endoscope; provides robot-assisted visualization and surgical site access to oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. Input: digital camera at distal end of endoscope. Transformation: electromechanical controls driven from console-based, computer-controlled physician handle; cable-steered segments; semi-rigid 'follow-the-leader' guiding function. Output: real-time video visualization on monitor; accessory channels for flexible instruments. Used in clinical settings by head and neck surgeons. Physician operates joystick controller at console to navigate scope; haptic feedback provided to user. Benefits: improved access and visualization for surgical procedures in upper airway anatomy.
Clinical Evidence
European post-market clinical follow-up study (N=45 subjects, 46 procedures). Primary endpoints: visualization and access to five anatomical locations (palatine tonsil, base of tongue, epiglottis, posterior pharyngeal wall, false vocal cords). Results: >90% effectiveness in visualization and access for most locations; 89% success rate for surgical procedures. No safety issues reported.
Technological Characteristics
Cable-steered CMOS-based video endoscope; electromechanical controls; console-based physician interface. Features multi-segmented structure with semi-rigid 'follow-the-leader' capability. LED light source. Patient-contacting materials biocompatible per ISO 10993. Flex Scope sterilized via EtO (SAL 10^-6); reusable components cleaned/disinfected per AAMI TIR12/TIR30. Electrical safety per IEC 60601-1; EMC per IEC 60601-1-2.
Indications for Use
Indicated for robot-assisted visualization and surgical site access to the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx in adults (≥ 22 years of age). Provides accessory channels for compatible flexible surgical instruments.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A nasopharyngoscope (flexible or rigid) and accessories is a tubular endoscopic device with any of a group of accessory devices which attach to the nasopharyngoscope and is intended to examine or treat the nasal cavity and nasal pharynx. It is typically used with a fiberoptic light source and carrier to provide illumination. The device is made of materials such as stainless steel and flexible plastic. This generic type of device includes the antroscope, nasopharyngolaryngoscope, nasosinuscope, nasoscope, postrhinoscope, rhinoscope, salpingoscope, flexible foreign body claw, flexible biopsy forceps, rigid biopsy curette, flexible biospy brush, rigid biopsy forceps and flexible biopsy curette, but excludes the fiberoptic light source and carrier.
Predicate Devices
Vision-Sciences Flexible Endoscope with digital video processor and Disposable EndoSheath® System (K072073, K102733)
Hansen Medical Vascular Catheter Control System (K111004)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
July 16, 2015
Medrobotics Corporation Mr. John D. Bonasera Director of Regulatory Affairs 475 Paramount Drive Raynham, MA 02767
Re: K150776
Trade/Device Name: Medrobotics Flex System Regulation Number: 21 CFR 874.4760 Regulation Name: Nasopharyngoscope (Flexible Or Rigid) And Accessories Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: EOB, EOX, GCI Dated: June 16, 2015 Received: June 18, 2015
Dear Mr. Bonasera:
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. 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.
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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 (reporting of medical devicerelated adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm. 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
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Industry and Consumer Education at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours.
Eric A. Mann -S
Malvina Eydelman, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic and Ear, Nose, and Throat Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K150776
Device Name Medrobotics Flex® System
Indications for Use (Describe)
The Medrobotics Flex® System is a device that is intended for robot-assisted visualization and surgical site access to the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx in adults (≥ 22 years of age). The Flex System also provides accessory channels for compatible flexible instruments used in surgery.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| <div> <span> <input checked="true" type="checkbox"/> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) </span> </div> | <div> <span> <input type="checkbox"/> Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) </span> </div> |
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#### 510(k) Summary Medrobotics Flex System (K150776)
| Date prepared: | July 16, 2015 |
|----------------|---------------|
|----------------|---------------|
#### Applicant's Name and Address
| Applicant | Medrobotics Corporation | |
|------------------|--------------------------------|--|
| Address | 475 Paramount Drive | |
| | Raynham, MA 02767 | |
| Telephone Number | 508-692-6460 x 254 | |
| Fax Number | 508-832-1703 | |
| Contact Person: | John D. Bonasera | |
| Title | Director of Regulatory Affairs | |
#### Name of the Device
| Trade Name: | Flex® System |
|---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Name: | Nasopharyngoscope (flexible or rigid) |
| Classification Name | Nasopharyngoscope (flexible or rigid) and accessories |
| Device Classification: | II |
| Primary Product Code: | EOB |
| Subsequent Product Codes: | EOX and GCI |
| FDA Regulation | 21 C.F.R. § 874.4760 |
#### Predicate Device
The legally marketed predicate device to which substantial equivalence is claimed:
- The Vision-Sciences Flexible Endoscope with digital video processor and 1. Disposable EndoSheath® System, K072073, K102733 ("Vision-Sciences System"), and
- 2. The NeoGuide Navigator Endoscopy System, K052930, K070622 ("NeoGuide System").
#### Reference Device
The Flex System was also compared to the Hansen Medical Vascular Catheter Control System, K111004, because both devices employ a physician controller located at the physician console/workstation to drive and articulate the scope/catheter.
#### Device Description
The Flex System is an operator-controlled flexible endoscope that provides the benefits of both a rigid endoscope and a computer assisted controller. The Flex System allows for the
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endoscope to be introduced via an operator-controlled user interface, providing visualization and surgical site access to structures within the oropharynx, and larynx. Like some other video endoscopes, visualization is provided by a digital camera incorporated in the distal end of the endoscope. The Flex System's endoscope also provides two accessory channels for use of varied flexible instruments.
### Intended Use
The Medrobotics Flex® System is a device that is intended for robot-assisted visualization and surgical site access to the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx in adults (≥ 22 years of age). The Flex System also provides accessory channels for compatible flexible instruments used in surgery.
### Substantial Equivalence
Medrobotics believes that the subject device is substantially equivalent to the Vision Sciences System and the NeoGuide System. As shown in the comparison table (Table 3) at the end of this section, the Flex System has very similar functionality and the same intended use as the predicate devices.
### Summary of Performance Testing
The subject device has been successfully tested for function and performance in bench, usability/human factors, animal, and clinical studies. In addition, the Flex System has been evaluated for electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility, and biocompatibility and toxicity testing of the patient-contacting materials. The components of the Flex System have been tested and met acceptance criteria per FDA recognized standards for the establishment of labeled shelf life, shipping, sterilization, cleaning, and disinfection, as applicable.
## Bench Testing
The following testing was performed to verify that the Flex System, as a whole, and the components met their performance specifications:
- Flex System Components, Mechanical Engineering Verification ●
- Flex System Components, Mechanical Engineering Verification- Disposable Reliability
- Flex System Components, Mechanical Engineering Verification- Base Reliability
- Flex System Components, Mechanical Engineering Verification- Base Cleaning Survivability
- Flex System Hi-Res Camera Verification
- Flex Cart Verification
- Flex System Electrical Design Requirements Electrical Design Verification
- Flex Console Safety PCA Verification
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- Electrical Design Verification
- Overall Flex System Functionality (Simulated Use Re-Verification)
- Surgical Instrument Compatibility Verification
### Transportation Testing
Testing was performed to demonstrate that all components of the Flex System could withstand anticipated shipping conditions.
### Usability/Human Factors Testing
Medrobotics performed usability and human factors testing of the Flex System. Such testing was performed in accordance with FDA Draft Guidance Document "Applying Human Factors and Usability Engineering to Optimize Medical Device Design" (June 22, 2011). In addition, Wiklund's Usability Testing of Medical Devices was used as a reference.
This testing assessed the performance of the Flex System when used by representative end users (i.e., head and neck surgeons and nurses/surgical technicians) in accordance with the IFU after having been trained on how to use the system. The testing demonstrated that the Flex System design meets the intended user requirements and facilitates safe and effective user interactions with little chance of committing dangerous user errors.
### Animal Testing
Medrobotics performed two animal studies to evaluate the safety of the Flex System. Both studies evaluated abrasion and blunt force trauma caused by the Flex Scope (the patient contacting portion of the Flex System) compared to intubation control. The studies were conducted in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). Both studies concluded that the Flex Scope does not cause an increased level of abrasion and/or blunt force trauma during visualization and access of the oropharynx and hypopharynx/laryngopharynx when compared to intubation control.
## Electrical Safety
The Flex System has been tested to demonstrate electrical safety and compliance with:
- UL 60601-1 (1) Issued: 2003/04/25 Ed: 1 Rev: 2006/04/26 Medical Electrical Equipment, Part 1:General Req. for Safety
- CSA C22.2#601.1 Issued: 1990/01/01 (R2005) Medical Electrical Equipment Part ● 1: General Requirements for Safety General Instruction No. 1: 1990, Supplement 1: 1994, Amendment 2:1998; General Instruction No. 2: 2003
- ANSVAAMI ES60601-1:2005/(R)2012 Issued: 2012/01/17 Medical electrical ● equipment - Part1: General requirements for basic safety and essential performance with C1:2009/(R)2012 and A2:2010/(R)2012
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- CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 60601-1: 08(R2013) Issued: 2011/06/01 Medical Electrical Equipment -Part 1: General Req. for Basic Safety & Essential Perf.; Cor. 2: 2011
- IEC 60601-1-6: 2010, Edition 3.0 Version: 2010/01/27 Medical electrical equipment - Part 1- 6:General requirements for basic safety and essential performance -Collateral standard: Usability
- IEC 62366: 2007, Edition 1.0 Issued: 2007/10/18 Ed. 1 Medical Devices -● Application Of Usability Engineering To Medical Devices
- . IEC 60601-1-6: 2004. First Edition Issued: 2004/06/24 Medical electrical systems – Part 1- 6:General requirements for safety - Collateral standard: Usability
- IEC 60601-1-4: 2000, Edition 1.1 Issued 2000/04/01 Medical electrical systems ● Part 1- 4:General requirements for safety - Collateral standard: Programmable electrical medical systems
## Electromagnetic Compatibility Testing
The Flex System was tested and determined to be in compliance with:
- EN 60601-1-2:2007/AC:2010 Electromagnetic emissions and immunity requirements for medical electrical equipment -- Group 1 Equipment, Class A for non-life supporting equipment.
- IEC 60601-1-2 Ed. 3.0 Electromagnetic emissions and immunity requirements for ● medical electrical equipment -Group 1 Equipment, Class A for non-life supporting equipment.
## Biocompatibility
The Flex Scope contains the patient contacting portions of the Flex System. In accordance with ANSI/AAMI/ISO 10993-1:2009, and FDA 510(k) Memorandum - #G95-1 Table 1 Initial Evaluation Tests for Consideration, the Flex Scope is classified as "external communicating device", in contact with "tissue/bone/dentin" and "limited exposure" (≤24 hours). Table 1, below, provides a summary of the biocompatibility and toxicity testing performed on the Flex System.
| Test | Outcome of Evaluation |
|----------------------------------------|-----------------------|
| Cytotoxicity Study | Pass |
| ISO Systemic Toxicity Study in Mice | Pass |
| ISO Systemic Toxicity Study in Mice | Pass |
| ISO -Intracutaneous Study | Pass |
| ISO -Intracutaneous Study | Pass |
| ISO - Maximization Sensitization Study | Pass |
| ISO - Maximization Sensitization Study | Pass |
| ISO - Oral Mucosal Irritation Test | Pass |
## Table 1. Summary of Biocompatibility and Toxicity Testing
## Sterilization, Packaging and Shelf Life for Single Use Flex Scope
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The Flex Scope is supplied sterile and is a single use device. The Flex Scope is sterilized via ethylene oxide (EtO). The EtO cycle has been validated to a sterility assurance level (SAL) of 10-6, in accordance with the following standards:
- ANSI/AAMI/ISO 11135-1:2007. Sterilization of health care products Ethylene ● Oxide - Part 1: Requirements for development, validation, and routine control of a sterilization process for medical devices
- ANSI/AAMI/ISO TIR 11135-2:2008, Sterilization of health care products Ethylene ● Oxide - Part 2: Guidance on the application of ANSI/AAMI/ISO 11135-1
- AAMI TIR 28:2009, Product adoption and process equivalence for ethylene oxide ● sterilization
- ANSI/AAMI/ISO/EN 10993-7:2008, Biological evaluation of medical devices – Part 7: Ethylene oxide sterilization residuals
The Flex Scope sterile packaging was validated in accordance with the following standards as part of a study demonstrating that the packaging system is stable over its labeled shelf life:
- ISO 11607-1:2006 (R) 2010, Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices -● Part 1: Requirements for materials, sterile barrier systems and packaging systems
- ASTM F1886M-09, Standard Test Method for Determining Integrity of Seals for ● Flexible Packaging by Visual Inspection
- ASTM F1929-12, Standard Test Method for Detecting Seal Leaks in Porous Medical Packaging by Dye Penetration
- ASTM F88M-09, Standard Test Method for Seal Strength of Flexible Barrier Materials
- ASTM F190-07, Standard Guide for Accelerated Aging of Sterile Barrier Systems for ● Medical Devices
## Cleaning and Sterilization of Reusable System Components
The Flex System consists of reusable capital equipment supplied non-sterile, with the exception of the Flex Scope, as discussed above.
The Flex Instrument Support is provided non-sterile. The Flex Instrument Support is intended to be cleaned and sterilized before each use. The Flex Instrument Support cleaning instructions were validated in accordance with the following standards:
- ANSI/AAMI ST79:2010, Comprehensive guide to steam sterilization and sterility ● assurance in health care facilities
- AAMI TIR12:2010, Designing, testing, and labeling reusable medical devices for ● reprocessing in health care facilities: A guide for medical device manufacturers
- AAMI TIR30:2011, A compendium of processes, materials, test methods, and acceptance criteria for cleaning reusable medical devices
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The Flex Instrument Support sterilization process was validated in accordance with the following standards:
- ANSI/AAMI/ISO 17665-1:2006, Sterilization of health care products - Moist heat -Part 1: Requirements for the development, validation, and routine control of a sterilization process for medical devices
- ANSI/AAMI ST79:2010, Comprehensive guide to steam sterilization and sterility assurance in health care facilities
- AAMI TIR12:2010, Designing, testing, and labeling reusable medical devices for reprocessing in health care facilities: A guide for medical device manufacturers
The Flex Base, Flex Cart, Stand and Flex Console, with the exception of the monitor, are intended to be cleaned and disinfected before each use. None of these components have direct patient contact during a surgical procedure. The Monitor is intended to be cleaned before each use. These pieces of equipment are intended to be covered prior to each use with sterile drapes.
The cleaning instructions for the Flex Base, Flex Cart, Stand, Flex Console, and Monitor were validated in accordance with the following standards:
- AAMI TIR12:2010, Designing, testing, and labeling reusable medical devices for reprocessing in health care facilities: A guide for medical device manufacturers
- AAMI TIR30:2011, A compendium of processes, materials, test methods, and acceptance criteria for cleaning reusable medical devices
The disinfection instructions for the Flex Base, Flex Cart, Stand and Flex Console (excluding the Monitor) were validated in accordance with the following standards:
- AAMI TIR12:2010, Designing, testing, and labeling reusable medical devices for reprocessing in health care facilities: A guide for medical device manufacturers
- AAMI TIR30:2011, A compendium of processes, materials, test methods, and ● acceptance criteria for cleaning reusable medical devices
## Software
Medrobotics followed the FDA guidance document, "Guidance for the content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices May 11, 2005." to classify the Flex System software as a "moderate level of concern." The software was verified and validated, and the software verification and validation documents were prepared and presented in accordance with FDA's guidance document.
## Clinical Study
A European post-market clinical follow up study with 45 subjects was performed using the Flex System. The study protocol required that clinical study subjects undergo two separate procedures. The first was a five-point visualization and access procedure, in which the
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investigator visualized and accessed (1) the palatine tonsil area; (2) the base of tongue area; (3) the epiglottis; (4) the posterior pharyngeal wall; and (5) the false vocal cords. The second was a surgical procedure to treat the patient's previously diagnosed condition with surgical site access and visualization being provided by the Flex System. Forty five (45) subjects were treated in a total of 46 surgical procedures.
#### Five-Point Visualization & Access Procedure
As shown in Table 2, below, the Flex System was effective (>90%) in providing visualization and access in the oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx during the Five-Point Visualization & Access Procedure.
| Anatomical Location | Visualization Achieved<br>(N=45) | Access Gained<br>(N=45) |
|---------------------------|----------------------------------|-------------------------|
| Palatine tonsil area | 45 (100%) | 44 (98%) |
| Base of tongue area | 45 (100%) | 44 (98%) |
| Epiglottis | 45 (100%) | 44 (98%) |
| Posterior pharyngeal wall | 45 (100%) | 44 (98%) |
| False vocal cords1, 2 | 42 (93%) | 41 (91%) |
Table 2. Five Points Visualization and Access
1 The study investigators reported total inability to visualize and access the false vocal cords in 3 and 4 out of 45 subjects, respectively.
- 2 The study investigators reported difficulty in visualization and/or access in 7 out of 42 visualization-achieved/41 access-gained patients.
#### Surgical Procedures
A variety of surgical procedures were successfully completed (89%) in the oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx with surgical site access and visualization provided by the Flex System. A wide variety of anatomical locations in the oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx were visualized and accessed during the surgical procedures. The safety and effectiveness of the Flex System for providing visualization and access to the true vocal cords was not assessed in the study.
#### Conclusion
Based on the indications for use, technological characteristics, and performance testing, Medrobotics has demonstrated that the Flex System is as safe and effective as the predicate
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devices for the stated intended use, and the Flex System is, as a result, substantially equivalent to the predicate devices.
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# Table 3. Proposed and Predicate Device Comparison
| | Flex System<br>[K150776] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K072073] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K102733] | NeoGuide System<br>[K052930, K070622] |
|----------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Intended Use | For endoscopic access<br>and visualization of<br>patient anatomy through<br>a natural orifice. | For endoscopic access and visualization of patient<br>anatomy through a natural orifice. | For endoscopic access<br>and visualization of<br>patient anatomy through<br>a natural orifice. | For endoscopic access<br>and visualization of<br>patient anatomy through<br>a natural orifice. |
| Indications for Use | The Medrobotics Flex®<br>System is a device that is<br>intended for robot-<br>assisted visualization and<br>surgical site access to the<br>oropharynx,<br>hypopharynx, and larynx<br>in adults (≥ 22 years of<br>age). The Flex System<br>also provides accessory<br>channels for compatible<br>flexible instruments used<br>in surgery. | The flexible ENT<br>videoscope with the<br>EndoSheath System is<br>intended for use in<br>flexible endoscopic<br>examination of the<br>upper airway, vocal<br>cords, and/or nasal<br>passages.<br>The digital video<br>processor is intended for<br>use with the VSI flexible<br>video scope. | The flexible ENT-500<br>Video ENT Scope with<br>EndoSheath Technology<br>is intended for use in<br>flexible endoscopic<br>examination of the<br>upper airway, vocal<br>cords and/or nasal<br>passages; and for use in<br>diagnostic arthroscopic<br>and endoscopic<br>procedures to provide<br>illumination and<br>visualization of the<br>interior cavity of the<br>body through either a<br>natural or surgical<br>opening. | The NeoGuide Navigator<br>Endoscopy System is<br>intended to provide<br>visualization and<br>diagnostic/therapeutic<br>access to the adult lower<br>gastrointestinal tract<br>(including, but not<br>limited to, the anus,<br>rectum, sigmoid colon,<br>colon, cecum, and<br>ileocecal valve) for<br>endoscopy and<br>endoscopic surgery. |
| | Flex System<br>[K150776] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K072073] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K102733] | NeoGuide System<br>[K052930, K070622] |
| Operational<br>Principles | Cable-steered CMOS-<br>based video endoscope<br>using electromechanical<br>controls driven from a<br>console-based, computer-<br>controlled physician<br>handle. | A cable-steered flexible video laryngoscope with<br>CCD-based imaging allowing for high resolution<br>picture quality. | A cable-steered flexible video laryngoscope with<br>CCD-based imaging allowing for high resolution<br>picture quality. | Cable-steered endoscope<br>using electromechanical<br>controls on the handle<br>distal tip CCD camera<br>and tool channels for<br>instrument-based<br>therapeutic procedures,<br>valves for air insufflation,<br>water irrigation, and<br>suction. |
| Rigidity | Flexible/semi-rigid<br>endoscope. | Continuously flexible endoscope. | Continuously flexible endoscope. | Flexible/semi-rigid<br>endoscope. |
| Advance/Retract | Electromechanically<br>aided with physician<br>controller on console. | Manual. | Manual. | Manual. |
| Steering | Electromechanical<br>joystick controls (the<br>Physician Controller) on<br>a console aid steering. | Manual control. | Manual control. | Electromechanical<br>joystick controls on the<br>handle of the scope aid<br>steering. |
| Direct Visualization | Yes, during the entire<br>procedure. | Yes, during the entire procedure. | Yes, during the entire procedure. | Yes, during the entire<br>procedure. |
| | Flex System<br>[K150776] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K072073] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K102733] | NeoGuide System<br>[K052930, K070622] |
| Multi-Segmented<br>Endoscope<br>Structure | Yes. | One continuously extruded flexible structure. | | Yes. |
| Semi-Rigid Follow<br>the Leader/Guiding<br>Function | Yes. | No, manual. | | Yes. |
| Electromechanically<br>Cable-<br>Driven/Controlled<br>Segments | Yes. | No, manual. | | Yes. |
| 3D Flexible<br>Movements and Tip<br>Orientation | Yes. | Yes. | | Yes. |
| Haptic Feedback to<br>User | Yes. | No. | | No. |
| Fluid Lumen | Yes. | Yes. | | Yes. |
| Working<br>Channel(s) | Yes, 4.7 mm in diameter. | Yes. | | Yes, 3.2 mm in diameter. |
| | Flex System<br>[K150776] | Vision-Sciences System<br>[K072073] | | NeoGuide System<br>[K052930, K070622] |
| View Optics/Optical<br>Sensor | Lens/solid state camera<br>(CMOS). | Lens/solid state camera<br>(CCD). | | Lens/solid state camera<br>(CCD). |
| Light Source | LED. | LED. | | LED. |
| Video Image<br>Processing | Video data display, | Video data display, | | Video data display, |
| Biocompatibility | Patient contacting<br>materials have been<br>shown to be<br>biocompatible after<br>testing to ISO 10993. | Patient contacting materials have been shown to be<br>biocompatible after testing to ISO 10993. | | Patient contacting<br>materials have been<br>shown to be<br>biocompatible after<br>testing to ISO 10993. |
| Sterilization | The Flex Scope is<br>provided sterile. The<br>reusable components of<br>the Flex System are<br>provided clean/non-<br>sterile. | Sheath for scope provided sterile. | | Provided clean/non-<br>sterile. |
| Electrical Safety<br>and EMC | Passed the applicable<br>electrical safety<br>requirements of IEC<br>60601-1-2 and IEC<br>60601-1. | Passed. | | Passed. |
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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.