BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System and SharkCore LG Fine Needle Biopsy System
Applicant
Covidien, LLC( Formerly Beacon Endoscopic Corp.)
Product Code
FCG · Gastroenterology, Urology
Decision Date
May 1, 2015
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Special
Regulation
21 CFR 876.1075
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System: The device is used to sample targeted sub-mucosal and extramural gastrontestinal lesions through the accessory channel of an ultrasound endoscope. The needle is designed with a passive (i.e., automatic) safety shielding feature to aid in the prevention of needle sticks. The 19Ga. and 22Ga. BNX™ ASPIRATION Needles are also intended to implant fiducial markers under endoscopic ultrasound to radiographically mark soft tissue for future therapeutic procedures. Shark Core Fine Needle Biopsy System: The device is used with an ultrasound endoscope for fine needle biopsy (FNB) of submucosal lesions, mediastinal masses, lymph nodes and intraperitoneal masses within or adiacent to the gastrointestinal tract. The needle is designed with a passive (i.e., automatic) safety shelding feature to aid in the prevention of needle sticks.
Device Story
Sterile, single-use endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) aspiration/biopsy needles; used with ultrasound endoscope accessory channel. System comprises Beacon delivery system and either BNX aspiration needle or SharkCore biopsy needle. Features integrated passive safety shield that automatically covers needle tip upon removal to prevent needle sticks. Operated by clinicians during endoscopic procedures to sample lesions or implant fiducial markers. Output is tissue sample or implanted marker. Benefits include reduced risk of accidental needle sticks for healthcare personnel and precise tissue acquisition/marking under EUS guidance.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Testing evaluated unlocking forces, retention forces, sheath extension, dimensional specifications, bond strengths, and durability to verify design modifications.
Technological Characteristics
Sterile, single-use endoscopic needles (19, 22, 25 gauge). Features passive automatic needle protection shield. Materials, sterilization, and shelf life consistent with predicate devices. Mechanical actuation for needle deployment and safety shield engagement.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients requiring endoscopic ultrasound-guided sampling of submucosal, extramural, or intraperitoneal lesions, mediastinal masses, or lymph nodes within or adjacent to the GI tract. BNX needles also indicated for fiducial marker implantation in soft tissue.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A gastroenterology-urology biopsy instrument is a device used to remove, by cutting or aspiration, a specimen of tissue for microscopic examination. This generic type of device includes the biopsy punch, gastrointestinal mechanical biopsy instrument, suction biopsy instrument, gastro-urology biopsy needle and needle set, and nonelectric biopsy forceps. This section does not apply to biopsy instruments that have specialized uses in other medical specialty areas and that are covered by classification regulations in other parts of the device classification regulations.
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Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
May 1, 2015
Covidien, LLC Saket Bhatt Regulatory Affairs Manager 540 Oakmead Parkway Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Re: K150891
> Trade/Device Name: BNX™ Fine Needle Aspiration System Product Code: FCG, NEU Trade/Device Name: SharkCore™ Fine Needle Biopsy System Product Code: FCG
> Regulation Number: 21 CFR 876.1075 Regulation Name: Gastroenterology-urology biopsy instrument Regulatory Class: II Dated: April 1, 2015 Received: April 2, 2015
Dear Saket Bhatt,
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.
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
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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,
# Benjamin R. Fisher -S
Benjamin R. Fisher, Ph.D. Director Division of Reproductive, Gastro-Renal, and Urological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration
## Indications for Use
Form Approved: OMB No. 0910-0120 Expiration Date: January 31, 2017 See PRA Statement below.
510(k) Number (if known)
K150891
Device Name
BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System and the SharkCore Fine Needle Biopsy System
Indications for Use (Describe)
BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System: The device is used to sample targeted sub-mucosal and extramural gastrontestinal lesions through the accessory channel of an ultrasound endoscope. The needle is designed with a passive (i.e., automatic) safety shielding feature to aid in the prevention of needle sticks. The 19Ga. and 22Ga. BNX™ ASPIRATION Needles are also intended to implant fiducial markers under endoscopic ultrasound to radiographically mark soft tissue for future therapeutic procedures.
Shark Core Fine Needle Biopsy System: The device is used with an ultrasound endoscope for fine needle biopsy (FNB) of submucosal lesions, mediastinal masses, lymph nodes and intraperitoneal masses within or adiacent to the gastrointestinal tract. The needle is designed with a passive (i.e., automatic) safety shelding feature to aid in the prevention of needle sticks.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
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FORM FDA 3881 (8/14)
Page 1 of 1
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# 510(k) Summary Page 1 of 2
This 510(k) Summary for BNX™ Fine Needle Aspiration System and SharkCore™ Fine Needle Biopsy System is being submitted in accordance with 21 CFR 807.92.
| Submitter's Name and Address: | Covidien Ilc<br>15 Hampshire Street<br>Mansfield, MA 02048 |
|-------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Contact Person: | Saket Bhatt,<br>Regulatory Affairs Manager<br>Covidien IIc<br>540 Oakmead Parkway<br>Sunnyvale, CA, 94085<br>Phone : 408-328-7357<br>Fax : 408-328-7357 (same as phone #) |
| Date: | April 1, 2015 |
| Name of Medical Device: | Device Regulation: 21 CFR 876.1075, Class II<br>Product Code: FCG for SharkCore Fine Needle Biopsy System<br>FCG and NEU for BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System<br>Common/Usual Name: Kit, Needle, Biopsy<br>Proprietary Name: BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System / SharkCore Fine Needle Biopsy System<br>Classification Panel: Gastroenterology-Urology Devices Panel |
| Predicate Devices: | The modified BNX EUS FNA is substantially equivalent to the BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System cleared in K142198 (October 8, 2014).<br>The modified SharkCore EUS FNB is substantially equivalent to the SharkCore <sup>TM</sup> EUS FNB cleared in K141894 (October 6, 2014). |
| Device Description: | The BNX FNA / SharkCore FNB Systems are sterile, single patient use endoscopic ultrasound aspiration needles. The devices consists of the Beacon <sup>TM</sup> Endoscopic Ultrasound Delivery System and either the BNX Fine Needle Aspiration Needle or the SharkCore Fine Needle Biopsy Needle which are assembled before insertion through the accessory channel of an ultrasound endoscope. The devices are offered with needle sizes of 19, 22 and |
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## 510(k) SUMMARY Page 2 of 2
25 gauge. The BNX FNA / SharkCore FNB Systems have an integrated needle protection shield that automatically engages over the distal end of the needle during removal to cover the needle sharp. In this manner, the needle tip is covered to help protect against inadvertent needle sticks.
BNX Fine Needle Aspiration System: The device is used to sample targeted sub-Indications For mucosal and extramural gastrointestinal lesions through the accessory channel Use: of an ultrasound endoscope. The needle is designed with a passive (i.e., automatic) safety shielding feature to aid in the prevention of needle sticks. The 19Ga. And 22 GA. BNX™ Aspiration Needles are also intended to implant fiducial markers under endoscopic ultrasound to radiographically mark soft tissue for future therapeutic procedures.
> SharkCore Fine Needle Biopsy System: The device is used with an ultrasound endoscope for fine needle biopsy (FNB) of submucosal lesions, mediastinal masses, lymph nodes and intraperitoneal masses within or adjacent to the gastrointestinal tract. The needle is designed with a passive (i.e., automatic) safety shielding feature to aid in the prevention of needle sticks.
Technological The modified BNX FNA / SharkCore FNB Systems are similar to the legally marketed devices described in K142198 and K141894 respectively in terms of Characteristics: principle of operation, technological and performance characteristics (control mechanism, environmental specifications, dimensional specifications, ergonomics of patient-user interface, packaging, sterilization and shelf life), materials, anatomical site, operating instructions, and single-use disposition.
Performance Bench testing has been performed for those attributes that may be impacted by Data: the modifications made to the subject devices which demonstrates that the proposed modified BNX FNA / SharkCore FNB Systems met the required specifications for completed design verifications tests which included evaluation of unlocking forces, retention forces, sheath extension over the needle, dimensional specifications, bond strengths and durability.
- The results of the non-clinical testing and a comparison of similarities and Conclusion: differences between the modified devices and the respective predicate devices demonstrate that the proposed and predicate devices are substantially equivalent.
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.