K060764 · Research Instruments , Ltd. · MRX · Mar 12, 2007 · Obstetrics/Gynecology
Device Facts
Record ID
K060764
Device Name
SATURN 3 LASER SYSTEM
Applicant
Research Instruments , Ltd.
Product Code
MRX · Obstetrics/Gynecology
Decision Date
Mar 12, 2007
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 884.6200
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The Saturn 3 Laser System is to be used to drill a small tangential hole in, or to thin, the zona pellucida of the embryo in selected in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients with otherwise poor prognosis for successful pregnancy outcome, such as: Advanced maternal age, Prior failed IVF, Cryopreserved embryos, Abnormal zona pellucida morphology.
Device Story
Saturn 3 Laser System is an assisted reproduction device used to ablate a tangential hole in or thin the zona pellucida of an embryo. The system uses an infrared laser to perform assisted hatching or related procedures. It includes a pilot laser for alignment, a custom objective for focusing, and integrated imaging capabilities for recording and measurement. Operated by embryologists in a clinical laboratory setting, the device allows the user to target the embryo, control laser power and pulse duration, and visualize the procedure via video/still image recording. The output assists in embryo preparation for IVF, potentially improving pregnancy outcomes for patients with poor prognosis. The system provides report generation and measurement tools to support clinical decision-making during the procedure.
Clinical Evidence
Clinical evidence consists of a literature review (Chatzimeletiou et al., Reproductive BioMedicine Online 2005) evaluating the safety of non-contact infrared laser zona drilling on human biopsied embryos. The study assessed blastomere viability, cytoskeletal analysis, and molecular cytogenetics, concluding the laser method is safe for use on human embryos.
Technological Characteristics
Infrared laser system for zona pellucida ablation. Features include pilot laser for alignment, custom objective lens, and computer-generated targeting. Provides video/still image recording, measurement tools, and report generation. Operates via user-defined pulse times and power settings. Connectivity includes video output for imaging.
Indications for Use
Indicated for IVF patients with poor pregnancy prognosis, including advanced maternal age, prior failed IVF, cryopreserved embryos, or abnormal zona pellucida morphology.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
The assisted reproduction laser system is a device that images, targets, and controls the power and pulse duration of a laser beam used to ablate a small tangential hole in, or to thin, the zona pellucida of an embryo for assisted hatching or other assisted reproduction procedures.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special control is FDA's guidance document entitled “Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Assisted Reproduction Laser Systems.” See § 884.1(e) for the availability of this guidance document.
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KU60764
Premarket Notification [510]
MAR 1 2 2007
## 5. 510(k) Summary
# RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS LIMITED
Image /page/0/Picture/5 description: The image shows a logo with the letters 'RI' in a bold, serif typeface. A curved line underlines the letters, adding a sense of motion or emphasis to the design. The logo is simple, yet impactful, with the bold letters and curved line creating a visually appealing and memorable image.
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Bickland Industrial Park, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 4TA, U.K. Tel: 01326 372753 [International +44 1326 372 753] Fax: 01326 378783 [International +44 1326 378 783] e-mail: technical@research-instruments.com website: www.research-instruments.com
Date prepared [21CFR807.92(a)(1)]
March 20, 2006
Submitter's information [21CFR807.92(a)(1)]
Company Name: Research Instruments LTD. Registration number: 9617095 Address: Bickland Water Industrial Park Falmouth Cornwall. United Kingdom Tr 11 4ta Telephone: +44 (0) 1326 372 753 Fax: +44 (0) 1326 378 783 Contact person: David Lansdowne Contact title: Technical Director Contact email: david@research-instruments.com
Trade Name, Common Name, Classification [21CFR807.92(a)(2)]
Trade Name: Saturn 3 Laser System Common Name: Assisted Reproduction Laser System Device Class: Class J Regulation Number: 21CFR884.6200 Product Code: MRX
Identification of Predicate Device [21CFR807.92(a)(3)]
Substantial Equivalence to Hamilton Thorne Zilos-tk (K050768)
Description of the Device [21CFR807.92(a)(4)]
The Saturn 3 Laser System is a device that images, targets, and controls the power and pulse duration of a laser beam used to ablate a small
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tangential hole in, or to thin, the zona pellucida of an embryo for assisted hatching or other assisted reproduction procedures.
Intended Use [21CFR807.92(a)(5)]
The Saturn 3 Laser System is to be used to drill a small tangential hole in, or to thin, the zona pellucida of the embryo in selected in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients with otherwise poor prognosis for successful pregnancy outcome, such as: Advanced maternal age, Prior failed IVF, Cryopreserved embryos, Abnormal zona pellucida morphology.
Technological Characteristics [21CFR807.92(a)(6)]
Features Compared and found equivalent Laser Wavelength Laser Power Pulse time range Laser classification Number of preset pulse times Presets user definable Pilot laser for alignment checking Pilot laser power. Pilot laser classification Custom objective to focus infrared parfocal to visible Objective magnification Obiective Numerical Aperture Computer generated target Hole size indicator Still image recording Video image recording Measurement tools Report generation
Non-clinical Testing [21CFR807.92(b)(1)]
Measurement of laser power and pulse lengths demonstrates that the Saturn 3 delivers pulse energies comparable to the predicate. With the alignment procedure correctly performed the coalignment of the target and the ablated hole is within 1 µm. This is also comparable to the predicate.
Clinical Testing [21CFR807.92(b)(2)]
A recent study has shown that the Saturn 3 Laser System is safe for use on human embryos.
Reproductive BioMedicine Online 2005 Vol. 11, No. 6. 697-710
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"Comparison of the effects of zona drilling by non-contact infrared laser or acid Tyrode's on the development of human biopsied embryos as revealed by blastomere viability, cytoskeletal analysis and molecular cytogenetics" K Chatzimeletiou et al
### Conclusions [21CFR807.92(b)(3)]
The Research Instruments Saturn 3 Laser System is substantially equivalent to the Hamilton Thorne Zilos-tk based on the following:
(a) The pulse energies delivered by the two systems are comparable, and create similarly sized holes in the embryo zona pellucida.
(b) Clinical trials show that both systems are safe for use on human embryos, when operated in the prescribed manner.
(c) Both systems are operated in a similar way by the user.
The Research Instruments Saturn 3 Laser System has the same intended use as the predicate, and has performance and method of operation substantially equivalent to the predicate.
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Image /page/3/Picture/1 description: The image shows the seal of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The seal features a stylized caduceus, a symbol often associated with medicine and healthcare, to the right. The words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" are arranged in a circular pattern around the caduceus. The seal is black and white.
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Blvd. Rockville MD 20850
Research Instruments Ltd. c/o Ms. Grace Holland Consultant Regulatory Specialists, Inc. 3722 Ave. Sausalito IRVINE CA 92606
MAR 1 2 2007
K060764 Re:
> Trade/Device Name: Saturn 3 Laser System Regulation Number: 21 CFR §884.6200 Regulation Name: Assisted reproduction laser system Regulatory Class: II Product Code: MRX Dated: January 9, 2007 Received: January 11, 2007
#### Dear Ms. Holland:
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.
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 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Image /page/3/Picture/10 description: The image is a circular logo or emblem. The text "1906-2006" is at the top of the circle. The letters "FDA" are in the center of the circle in a bold, stylized font. Below the letters, the word "Centennial" is written in a cursive font. Three stars are below the word "Centennial". The text around the circle is difficult to read.
Promoting and Promoting Public Health
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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); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (OS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 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), please contact the Office of Compliance at one of the following numbers, based on the regulation number at the top of this letter:
| 21 CFR 876.xxxx | (Gastroenterology/Renal/Urology) | 240-276-0115 |
|-----------------|----------------------------------|--------------|
| 21 CFR 884.xxxx | (Obstetrics/Gynecology) | 240-276-0115 |
| 21 CFR 892.xxxx | (Radiology) | 240-276-0120 |
| Other | | 240-276-0100 |
Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 807.97). 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) 443-6597 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/industry/support/index.html
Sincerely yours,
Nancy C. Brogdon
Nancy C. Brogdon Director, Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, and Radiological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# 4. Indications for Use Statement Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known):
Device Name:
Indications for Use:
The Saturn 3 Laser System is to be used to drill a small tangential hole in, or to thin, the zona pellucida of the embryo in selected in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients with otherwise poor prognosis for successful pregnancy outcome, such as:
Advanced maternal age Prior failed IVF Cryopreserved embryos Abnormal zona pellucida morphology
× Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
AND/OR
Over-The-Counter Use _ (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE OF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Nancy C. Brogdon
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Reproductive, Abdo and Radiological Devices 510(k) Number
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REGULATORY SPECIALISTS, INC.
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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.