K970285 · Aesculap, Inc. · MNH · Jun 25, 1997 · Orthopedic
Device Facts
Record ID
K970285
Device Name
AESUCLAP SOCON SPINAL SYSTEM
Applicant
Aesculap, Inc.
Product Code
MNH · Orthopedic
Decision Date
Jun 25, 1997
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 888.3070
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Intended Use
The Aesculap SOCON® Spinal System presented in this submission is intended only for patients with severe spondylolisthesis grades 3 and 4, at the L5-S1 vertebral joint, utilizing autologous bone graft, who are having the device fixed or attached to the lumbar and sacral spine and who are having the implants removed after the development of a solid fusion mass. Levels of pedicle screw fixation for this indication are from L3 to S1.
Device Story
The SOCON® Spinal System is a posterior pedicle spinal fixation construct used by surgeons to stabilize the lumbar and sacral spine. The system consists of 6mm transpedicular bone screws (35mm-65mm lengths), straight and pre-bent rods, cross bars, and clamps secured by single locking screws. The device is implanted during surgery to provide stability while a solid fusion mass develops, after which the implants are intended to be removed. By providing mechanical stabilization, the system supports the fusion process in patients with severe spondylolisthesis. The device is intended for prescription use only.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data provided. Substantial equivalence is supported by bench testing, including static and dynamic biomechanical testing of spinal implant assemblies in accordance with draft ASTM standards, demonstrating stability comparable to predicate devices.
Technological Characteristics
Construct consists of 6mm transpedicular bone screws, rods, cross bars, and clamps. Materials: Titanium alloy (TiAL4V4) per ISO 5832/III. Mechanical fixation via single locking screw mechanism. Designed for lumbar and sacral spinal attachment.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients with severe spondylolisthesis (Grades 3 and 4) at the L5-S1 vertebral joint requiring spinal fusion with autologous bone graft. Fixation levels L3 to S1. Contraindicated for use in stable spines or for indications other than severe spondylolisthesis.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
(1) Rigid pedicle screw systems are comprised of multiple components, made from a variety of materials that allow the surgeon to build an implant system to fit the patient's anatomical and physiological requirements. Such a spinal implant assembly consists of a combination of screws, longitudinal members (e.g., plates, rods including dual diameter rods, plate/rod combinations), transverse or cross connectors, and interconnection mechanisms (e.g., rod-to-rod connectors, offset connectors).(2) Semi-rigid systems are defined as systems that contain one or more of the following features (including but not limited to): Non-uniform longitudinal elements, or features that allow more motion or flexibility compared to rigid systems.
Special Controls
*Classification.* (1) Class II (special controls), when intended to provide immobilization and stabilization of spinal segments in skeletally mature patients as an adjunct to fusion in the treatment of the following acute and chronic instabilities or deformities of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine: severe spondylolisthesis (grades 3 and 4) of the L5-S1 vertebra; degenerative spondylolisthesis with objective evidence of neurologic impairment; fracture; dislocation; scoliosis; kyphosis; spinal tumor; and failed previous fusion (pseudarthrosis). These pedicle screw spinal systems must comply with the following special controls:(i) Compliance with material standards;
(ii) Compliance with mechanical testing standards;
(iii) Compliance with biocompatibility standards; and
(iv) Labeling that contains these two statements in addition to other appropriate labeling information:
“Warning: The safety and effectiveness of pedicle screw spinal systems have been established only for spinal conditions with significant mechanical instability or deformity requiring fusion with instrumentation. These conditions are significant mechanical instability or deformity of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine secondary to severe spondylolisthesis (grades 3 and 4) of the L5-S1 vertebra, degenerative spondylolisthesis with objective evidence of neurologic impairment, fracture, dislocation, scoliosis, kyphosis, spinal tumor, and failed previous fusion (pseudarthrosis). The safety and effectiveness of these devices for any other conditions are unknown.”
“Precaution: The implantation of pedicle screw spinal systems should be performed only by experienced spinal surgeons with specific training in the use of this pedicle screw spinal system because this is a technically demanding procedure presenting a risk of serious injury to the patient.”
(2) Class II (special controls), when a rigid pedicle screw system is intended to provide immobilization and stabilization of spinal segments in the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine as an adjunct to fusion in the treatment of degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis other than either severe spondylolisthesis (grades 3 and 4) at L5-S1 or degenerative spondylolisthesis with objective evidence of neurologic impairment. These pedicle screw systems must comply with the following special controls:
(i) The design characteristics of the device, including engineering schematics, must ensure that the geometry and material composition are consistent with the intended use.
(ii) Non-clinical performance testing must demonstrate the mechanical function and durability of the implant.
(iii) Device components must be demonstrated to be biocompatible.
(iv) Validation testing must demonstrate the cleanliness and sterility of, or the ability to clean and sterilize, the device components and device-specific instruments.
(v) Labeling must include the following:
(A) A clear description of the technological features of the device including identification of device materials and the principles of device operation;
(B) Intended use and indications for use, including levels of fixation;
(C) Identification of magnetic resonance (MR) compatibility status;
(D) Cleaning and sterilization instructions for devices and instruments that are provided non-sterile to the end user; and
(E) Detailed instructions of each surgical step, including device removal.
(3) Class II (special controls), when a semi-rigid system is intended to provide immobilization and stabilization of spinal segments in the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine as an adjunct to fusion for any indication. In addition to complying with the special controls in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) through (v) of this section, these pedicle screw systems must comply with the following special controls:
(i) Demonstration that clinical performance characteristics of the device support the intended use of the product, including assessment of fusion compared to a clinically acceptable fusion rate.
(ii) Semi-rigid systems marketed prior to the effective date of this reclassification must submit an amendment to their previously cleared premarket notification (510(k)) demonstrating compliance with the special controls in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) through (v) and paragraph (b)(3)(i) of this section.
Predicate Devices
Spine System® by Aesculap JBS
TSRH Spinal Screws & System by Sofamor Danek
Selby System by Advanced Spine Fixation System Inc.
VSP® Spinal Fixation System by AcroMed Corp.
SYNERGY™ Posterior Spinal System by Cross Medical Products Inc.
Varifix System by Advanced Spine Fixation System Inc.
Related Devices
K964533 — EBI SPINELINK SYSTEM · Electro-Biology, Inc. · Apr 9, 1997
K023438 — MODIFICATION TO MONARCH SPINE SYSTEM · Depuyacromed · Nov 13, 2002
K152098 — ODALYS Pedicle Screw System · Kisco International · Sep 17, 2015
K230482 — Swedge Pedicle Screw Fixation System · Spinal Resources, Inc. · Mar 23, 2023
K090033 — MODIFICATION TO: PSS SYSTEM · Spinal USA · May 6, 2009
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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# K970285, Amendment 1 K970285
SOCON® Spinal System
510(k) Summary of Safety and Effectiveness in Accordance with SMDA of 1990
Aesculap SOCON® Spinal System
510(k) #K970285
JUN 25 1997
Submitted by: Aesculap®, Inc.
1000 Gateway Blvd.
So. San Francisco, CA 94080
Contact: Victoria Mackinnon
Phone: (415) 876-7000 x346
FAX: (415) 589-3007
Product: Aesculap SOCON® Spinal System
Common Names: Posterior Pedicle Spinal System
Classification Names and Product Codes: MNH - Spondylolisthesis Spinal Fixation Device System
Product Classification: Class II
Regulatory Classification: Unclassified, as per CDRH draft guidance document: "Draft Guideline for Reviewing Spinal Fixation Device Systems", dated July 18, 1995.
The SOCON® Spinal System is a construct composed of implant-grade 6mm transpedicular bone screws of varying lengths (35mm to 65mm), straight and pre-bent rods, cross bars and specially designed clamps that are tightened by only one locking screw.
## Intended Use
The SOCON® Spinal System is intended for patients: a.) having severe spondylolisthesis (Grades 3 and 4) at the $L_5-S_1$ vertebral joint; b.) who are receiving fusions using autologous bone grafts only; c.) who are having the device fixed or attached to the lumbar and sacral spine; and d.) who are having the device removed after the development of a solid fusion mass. Levels of pedicle screw fixation for this indication are from $L_3$ to $S_1$.
1000 GATEWAY BOULEVARD • SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94080-7030 • USA • 415-876-7000 • FAX: 415-876-7028
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#K970285, Amendment 1
SOCON® Spinal System
41
# Technological Characteristics
## Biomechanical Testing
The implants and construct has undergone a variety of biomechanical testing, including static and dynamic testing for spinal implant assemblies in accordance with a draft ASTM standard. The test results show that the device components and system are able to provide significant stability with comparative realignment forces as other comparative devices.
## Material Composition
The implants in SOCON® Spinal System are composed of implant-grade titanium alloy (TiAL4V4), in accordance to ISO 5832/III. The predicate devices noted in this application are also manufactured of titanium / titanium alloy material.
## Substantial Equivalence
The SOCON® Spinal System presented in this application has similar design concept, materials, features, intended use and surgical approach as existing legally marketed spine systems, such as:
- Spine System® by Aesculap JBS;
- TSRH Spinal Screws & System by Sofamor Danek;
- Selby System by Advanced Spine Fixation System Inc.;
- VSP® Spinal Fixation System by AcroMed Corp.;
- SYNERGY™ Posterior Spinal System by Cross Medical Products Inc.; and
- Varifix System by Advanced Spine Fixation System Inc.; and
These systems are similar in that:
1. The devices have the same pedicle screw use;
2. With the exception of SYNERGY™ Posterior Spinal System, these devices are manufactured of titanium / titanium alloy;
3. The devices have similar components, dimensions, geometry and features.
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration
9200 Corporate Boulevard
Rockville MD 20850
Ms. Victoria Mackinnon
Manager, Regulatory Affairs
Aesculap®
1000 Gateway Boulevard
South San Francisco, California 94080-7030
JUN 25 1997
Re: K970285
SOCON® Spinal System
Regulatory Class: Unclassified
Product Code: MNH
Dated: May 13, 1997
Received: May 14, 1997
Dear Ms. Mackinnon:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) notification of intent to market the device system referenced above and we have determined the device system is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to device systems marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976 or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act). This decision is based on your device system being found equivalent only to similar device systems labeled and intended for patients: (a) having severe spondylolisthesis (Grades 3 and 4) of the fifth lumbar - first sacral (L5-S1) vertebral joint; (b) who are receiving fusions using autogenous bone graft only; (c) who are having the device fixed or attached to the lumbar and sacral spine; and (d) who are having the device removed after the development of a solid fusion mass. You may, therefore, market your device system subject to the general controls provisions of the Act and the limitations identified 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. Note that labeling or otherwise
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Page 2 - Ms. Victoria Mackinnon
promoting this device system for pedicular screw fixation/attachment for indications other than severe spondylolisthesis, as described above, would cause the device system to be adulterated under 501(f)(1) of the Act.
This device system, when intended for pedicular screw fixation/attachment to the spine for indications other than severe spondylolisthesis, as described above, is a class III device under Section 513(f) of the Act. Class III devices are required to have an approved premarket approval (PMA) application prior to marketing. Accordingly:
1. All labeling for this device, including the package label, must state that there are labeling limitations. The package insert must prominently state that the device system using pedicle screws is intended only for patients: (a) having severe spondylolisthesis (Grades 3 and 4) of the fifth lumbar - first sacral (L5-S1) vertebral joint; (b) who are receiving fusions using autogenous bone graft only; (c) who are having the device fixed or attached to the lumbar and sacral spine; and (d) who are having the device removed after the development of a solid fusion mass.
2. You may not label or in anyway promote this device system for pedicular, screw fixation/attachment to the cervical, thoracic or lumbar vertebral column for intended uses other than severe spondylolisthesis, as described above. The package insert must include the following statements:
**WARNINGS:**
- When used as a pedicle screw system, this device system is intended only for grade 3 or 4 spondylolisthesis at the fifth lumbar - first sacral (L5-S1) vertebral joint.
- The screws of this device system are not intended for insertion into the pedicles to facilitate spinal fusions above the L5-S1 vertebral joint.
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Page 3 - Ms. Victoria Mackinnon
- Benefit of spinal fusions utilizing any pedicle screw fixation system has not been adequately established in patients with stable spines.
- Potential risks identified with the use of this device system, which may require additional surgery, include:
- device component fracture,
- loss of fixation,
- non-union,
- fracture of the vertebra,
- neurological injury, and
- vascular or visceral injury.
See Warnings, Precautions, and Potential Adverse Events sections of the package insert for a complete list of potential risks.
3. Any pedicular screw fixation/attachment for intended uses other than severe spondylolisthesis, as described by item 1, for this device is considered investigational and may only be investigated as a significant risk device in accordance with the investigational device exemption (IDE) regulations under 21 CFR, Part 812. All users of the device for pedicular screw fixation/attachment for intended uses other than severe spondylolisthesis, as described above, must receive approval from their respective institutional review boards (IRBs) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prior to conducting an investigation.
4. Any previous warning statements identified as part of previous 510(k) clearances or required by OC/Labeling and Promotion which stated that a component/system was not approved for screw fixation into the pedicles of the spine must be replaced by the warnings of items 1 and 2 above.
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
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regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 895. A substantially equivalent determination assumes compliance with the Good Manufacturing Practice for Medical Devices: General (GMP) regulation (21 CFR Part 820) and that, through periodic GMP inspections, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will verify such assumptions. Failure to comply with the GMP regulation may result in regulatory action. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register. Please note: this response to your premarket notification submission does not affect any obligation you might have under sections 531 through 542 of the Act for devices under the Electronic Product Radiation Control provisions, or other Federal Laws or Regulations.
FDA advises that the use of your device system with any other device components but those identified in this 510(k) would require submission of a new 510(k) providing documentation of design, material, and labeling compatibility between the device components. Mechanical testing of a spinal system consisting of the subject device components and other device components, whether yours or those of other manufacturers, may also be required.
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your 510(k) premarket notification immediately. An 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.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801 and additionally 809.10 for in vitro diagnostic devices), please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4659. Additionally, for questions on the promotion and advertising of your device, please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4639. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 807.97). Other general information on your responsibilities under the Act may be
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Page 5 - Ms. Victoria Mackinnon
obtained from the Division of Small Manufacturers Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its Internet address "http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsmamain.html".
Sincerely yours,
Maria A. Schneider, MS, PT
for Celia M. Witten, Ph.D., M.D.
Director
Division of General and Restorative Devices
Office of Device Evaluation
Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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510(k) Premarket Notification
Aesculap SOCON® Spinal System
Page 1 of 1
# INDICATION FOR USE STATEMENT
510(k) Number (if known): N/A K970285
## Device Name:
## Indication for Use:
The Aesculap SOCON® Spinal System presented in this submission is intended only for patients with severe spondylolisthesis grades 3 and 4, at the $L_{5}-S_{1}$ vertebral joint, utilizing autologous bone graft, who are having the device fixed or attached to the lumbar and sacral spine and who are having the implants removed after the development of a solid fusion mass. Levels of pedicle screw fixation for this indication are from $L_{3}$ to $S_{1}$.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
(Division Sign Off)
Division of General Restorative Devices
510(k) Number K970285
Prescription Use ☑ (Per 21 CFR 801.109)
OR
Over-The-Counter Use ☐
(Optional Format 1-2-96)
003
Panel 1
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