This device is used in palliation of malignant neoplasms in the biliary tree.
Device Story
The Evolution® Biliary Stent System is a self-expanding nitinol stent with a radiopaque core, designed for permanent implantation in the biliary tree to provide palliation for malignant neoplasms. The stent features flared ends to resist migration and is provided preloaded on a coaxial delivery system. The delivery system includes an inner catheter compatible with 0.035" wire guides and an outer sheath with a pistol-grip handle, allowing for controlled deployment and stent recapture during the procedure. The device is used by physicians in clinical settings, utilizing fluoroscopic and endoscopic guidance for placement. By maintaining patency in obstructed biliary ducts, the stent improves bile flow, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with malignant biliary obstruction.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Testing included deployment, expansion force, compression force, dimensions, corrosion, joint strength, MRI compatibility, and shelf life. Biocompatibility testing was conducted in compliance with ISO 10993-1. No clinical data was provided.
Technological Characteristics
Self-expanding nitinol wire stent with radiopaque core; 8mm or 10mm diameter; 4cm to 10cm lengths. Delivery system: 8.5Fr introducer sheath, 200cm working length, pistol-grip handle. Coaxial deployment mechanism. Compatible with 0.035" wire guides. Sterilized. Bench testing performed per ASTM standards and FDA guidance for metal expandable biliary stents.
Indications for Use
Indicated for palliation of malignant neoplasms in the biliary tree in patients requiring biliary stenting.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A biliary catheter and accessories is a tubular flexible device used for temporary or prolonged drainage of the biliary tract, for splinting of the bile duct during healing, or for preventing stricture of the bile duct. This generic type of device may include a bile collecting bag that is attached to the biliary catheter by a connector and fastened to the patient with a strap.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The device, when it is a bile collecting bag or a surgical biliary catheter that does not include a balloon component, is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 876.9.
Predicate Devices
Boston Scientific Wallflex™ Biliary RX Stent System (Uncovered) (K061231 and K081733)
Wallstent™ RX Biliary Endoprosthesis Stent System (Uncovered) (K012752 and K030107)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
{0}------------------------------------------------
Cook Ireland Evolution® Biliary Stent System
↓
Page 8 of 87
## Section 5.0 510(k) Summary
| Name: | Cook Ireland Ltd | MAR 1 2013 | |
|-------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------|--|
| Address: | O'Halloran Road<br>National Technology Park<br>Limerick, Ireland | | |
| Phone: | 011 353 61 334440 | | |
| Fax: | 011 353 61 239293 | | |
| Contact Persons: | Jacinta Kilmartin, Regulatory Affairs Specialist<br>Sinead Burke, Regulatory Affairs Manager | | |
| Date: | May 11, 2012 | | |
| Trade Name: | Evolution® Biliary Stent System | | |
| Common Name: | Biliary Stent System | | |
| Classification Name: | Catheter, biliary, diagnostic (21 CFR 876.5010, Product<br>Code: FGE) | | |
| Predicate Devices: | Boston Scientific Wallflex™ Biliary RX Stent System<br>(Uncovered) (K061231 and K081733) and the Wallstent™<br>RX Biliary Endoprosthesis Stent System (Uncovered)<br>(K012752 and K030107). | | |
| Description of the<br>Device: | Stent Description:<br>This flexible, self-expanding stent is constructed of nitinol wire<br>with a radiopaque core. Both ends of the stent have an increased<br>diameter called flanges intended to provide resistance to<br>migration. The total length of the stent in its collapsed state is<br>indicated by radiopaque markers on the inner catheter assembly.<br>The stent is provided in either of two body diameters 8mm or<br>10mm and in the following lengths 4, 6, 8 or 10cm | | |
{1}------------------------------------------------
| Stent Delivery System Description: | The stent is mounted on an inner catheter, which accepts a<br>0.035" wire guide and is constrained by an outer sheath. A<br>pistol-grip delivery handle allows stent deployment or recapture.<br>The introducer sheath diameter is 8.5Fr and the working length<br>is 200cm. |
|------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Indications for use: | This device is used in palliation of malignant neoplasms in<br>the biliary tree. |
| Comparison of<br>Characteristics: | The Evolution® Biliary Stent System is substantially<br>equivalent to the currently marketed predicate devices, Boston<br>Scientific Wallflex™ Biliary RX Stent System (Uncovered)<br>(K061231 and K081733) and the Wallstent™ RX Biliary<br>Endoprosthesis Stent System (Uncovered) (K012752 and<br>K030107).<br>The proposed device shares many technological<br>characteristics with at least one of the predicate devices (or<br>fall within the range of predicates) in terms of the following:<br>Stents: Materials, Stent type, Stents supplied preloaded on the stent delivery system, Ability to be visualised under fluoroscopy, Dimensions, Intended for permanent implantation, Expanded stent ends. Stent Delivery System: Allows placement using fluoroscopic and endoscopic techniques, Allows deployment using a coaxial catheter system, Wire guide port on outer sheath, Compatibility with 0.035" wire guides, Allows stent recapture during the deployment process. Intended Use. All are intended for single use only and are supplied sterile |
:
:
:
{2}------------------------------------------------
Differences include different stent delivery system materials and dimensions.
Performance Data: Performance (bench) testing was carried out to determine the equivalence of the Evolution® Biliary Stent System to the predicate devices and to verify the safety and effectiveness of the device.
#### Performance Testing-Bench:
The bench testing was conducted in accordance with various applicable ASTM standards and in accordance with FDA's Guidance for the Content of Premarket Notifications for Metal Expandable Biliary Stents. The following bench tests were carried out: deployment, expansion force, compression force, dimensions, corrosion, joint strength, MRI and shelf life testing. The bench testing was successfully completed. Results of the testing provide reasonable assurance that the Evolution® Biliary Stent System will function as intended. Biocompatibility:
Biocompatibility testing in compliance with ISO 10993-1 and FDA's Guidance for the Content of Premarket Notifications for Metal Expandable Biliary Stents supports the safety of the Evolution® Biliary Stent System.
K121430
pg 3 of 3
{3}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/3/Picture/1 description: The image is a black and white logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo features a stylized eagle with its wings spread, symbolizing protection and care. The words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" are arranged in a circular pattern around the eagle.
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
March 1, 2013
Cook Ireland, Ltd. % Ms. Jacinta Kilmartin, Regulatory Affairs Specialist O'Halloran Road National Technology Park LIMERICK IRELAND
Re: K121430
Trade/Device Name: Evolution® Biliary Stent System Regulation Number: 21 CFR§ 876.5010 Regulation Name: Biliary catheter and accessories Regulatory Class: II Product Code: FGE Dated: February 22, 2013 Received: February 25, 2013
Dear Ms. Kilmartin:
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). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act and the limitations described below. 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.
The Office of Device Evaluation has determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that this device will be used for an intended use not identified in the proposed labeling and that such use could cause harm. Therefore, in accordance with Section 513(i)(1)(E) of the Act, the following limitation must appear in the Warnings section of the device's labeling:
The safety and effectiveness of this device for use in the vascular system have not been established.
Furthermore, the indication for biliary use must be prominently displayed in all labeling, including pouch box, and carton labels, instructions for use, and other promotional materials, in close proximity to the trade name, of a similar point size, and in bold print.
{4}------------------------------------------------
### Page 2 - Ms. Jacinta Kilmartin
Please note that the above labeling limitations are required by Section 513(i)(1)(E) of the Act. Therefore, a new 510(k) is required before these limitations are modified in any way or removed from the device's labeling.
The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and permits your device to proceed to the market. This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 510(k) premarket notification if the limitation statement described above is added to your labeling.
If your device is classified (see above). into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA 's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical device-related 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 go to http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/CDRH/CDRHOffices/ucm115809.htm for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's (CDRH's) Office of Compliance. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR 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 Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Resourcesfor You/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
# Christy L. Foreman
Christy Foreman Director Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{5}------------------------------------------------
## Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known): K121430
Device Name: Evolution® Biliary Stent System
Indications For Use: This device is used in palliation of malignant neoplasms in the biliary tree
Prescription Use _ × (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) AND/OR
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 807 Subpart C)
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Benjamin F 2013.02.26 18 :46:00 -05'00'
| (Division Sign-Off) | |
|---------------------|---------------------------------------------|
| | Division of Reproductive, Gastro-Renal, and |
| Urological Devices | |
| 510(k) Number | K121430 |
Page 1 of ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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.