DEN170089 · Fresca Medical · QBY · Jun 5, 2018 · Anesthesiology
Device Facts
Record ID
DEN170089
Device Name
Curve Positive Airway Pressure System
Applicant
Fresca Medical
Product Code
QBY · Anesthesiology
Decision Date
Jun 5, 2018
Decision
DENG
Submission Type
Direct
Regulation
21 CFR 868.5273
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System is intended to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea by delivering a therapeutic breathing pressure to a patient. It provides positive airway pressure during expiration and also during an incipient apnea. The system includes a dedicated flow generator and a patient interface, and is intended for use in the home environment. This system is to be used by adult patients weighing more than 66 lbs (30 kg).
Device Story
CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in home settings. System comprises flow generator (Airbox), nasal pillow mask, headgear, valve, and hose. Device delivers therapeutic pressure to airway during disordered breathing. Valve mechanism enables positive airway pressure during expiration while reducing required inspiratory/expiratory airflow and utilizing patient's natural breathing effort. During apnea/hypopnea, valve opens to provide direct pressure from generator; valve also channels excess airflow to room to prevent CO2 rebreathing. Flow generator remains active, delivering pressurized air whenever pressure/flow drops. Operated by adult patients. Healthcare providers use clinical outcomes (AHI/ODI) to confirm therapeutic efficacy. Benefits include non-invasive OSA treatment, reduced snoring, and improved sleep quality.
Clinical Evidence
Prospective, randomized, cross-over clinical study (N=36) compared CURVE™ mask to commercial CPAP masks. Primary endpoints: Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) and Oxygen Desaturation Index (ODI). Results showed non-inferiority (p<0.001 for both). Mean AHI: 3.0 (CURVE) vs 2.4 (CPAP). Mean ODI: 1.4 (CURVE) vs 1.1 (CPAP). No serious adverse events reported.
Technological Characteristics
System includes flow generator, nasal pillow mask, headgear, valve, and hose. Materials biocompatible per ISO 10993-1. Dry gas pathway tested for VOCs, particulates, ozone, CO, and CO2. Electrical safety per IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-11, and IEC 60601-1-2. Non-sterile, reusable (90-day life). Pressure range up to 20 cm H2O. Proprietary connectors prevent cross-compatibility with standard CPAP equipment.
Indications for Use
Indicated for adult patients weighing >66 lbs (30 kg) with Obstructive Sleep Apnea requiring positive airway pressure therapy.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A positive airway pressure delivery system is a prescription noninvasive ventilatory device that delivers expiratory positive airway pressure for patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. The system also provides positive airway pressure during incipient apnea. The system may include a dedicated flow generator and a patient interface.
Special Controls
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the positive airway pressure delivery system is subject to the following special controls:
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special controls for this device are:(1) The patient-contacting components of the device must be demonstrated to be biocompatible.
(2) Non-clinical performance testing must demonstrate that the device performs as intended under anticipated conditions of use, including the following:
(i) Waveform testing must simulate breathing conditions and evaluate pressure and airflow response over a range and combination of high and low breath rates and tidal volumes.
(ii) Use life testing must demonstrate adequate device performance over the labeled use life of the device.
(iii) Device integrity testing must demonstrate that the device can withstand typical forces expected during use.
(iv) Carbon dioxide rebreathing testing must be performed.
(v) System flow rate, maximum expiratory pressure, inhalation pressure, and intra-mask static pressure testing must be performed.
(vi) Air bolus testing must demonstrate that the device can withstand worst-case scenario air pressures.
(vii) Maximum limited pressure testing of the flow generator in single fault condition must be performed.
(viii) Maximum output temperature testing of delivered gas, if humidified, must be performed.
(3) Performance data must validate reprocessing instructions for any reusable components of the device.
(4) Performance data must demonstrate the electrical, thermal, and mechanical safety and the electromagnetic compatibility of the device.
(5) Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis must be performed.
(6) Labeling must include the following:
(i) Therapy pressure range;
(ii) Use life and replacement schedule for all components;
(iii) Cleaning instructions; and
(iv) Instructions for assembly and connection of device components.
Submission Summary (Full Text)
{0}------------------------------------------------
### DE NOVO CLASSIFICATION REQUEST FOR CURVE™ POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE SYSTEM
#### REGULATORY INFORMATION
FDA identifies this generic type of device as:
Positive airway pressure delivery system. A positive airway pressure delivery system is a prescription noninvasive ventilatory device that delivers expiratory positive airway pressure for patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. The system also provides positive airway pressure during incipient apnea. The system may include a dedicated flow generator and a patient interface.
NEW REGULATION NUMBER: 21 CFR 868.5273
CLASSIFICATION: Class II
PRODUCT CODE: QBY
#### BACKGROUND
DEVICE NAME: CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System
SUBMISSION NUMBER: DEN170089
DATE OF DE NOVO: December 14, 2017
- FRESCA Medical, Inc. CONTACT: 1291 Puerta Del Sol, Suite 200 San Clemente, CA 92673
#### INDICATIONS FOR USE
The CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System is intended to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea by delivering a therapeutic breathing pressure to a patient. It provides positive airway pressure during expiration and also during an incipient apnea. The system includes a dedicated flow generator and a patient interface, and is intended for use in the home environment. This system is to be used by adult patients weighing more than 66 lbs (30 kg).
#### LIMITATIONS
For prescription use only.
{1}------------------------------------------------
The CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System should only be used with the dedicated flow generator (CURVE™ System Airbox) and patient interface (CURVE™ Mask, Hose and Accessories). The flow generator and patient accessories of the CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System are not compatible with any other respiratory systems or accessories.
The CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System is not to be used with supplemental oxygen.
The CURVE "1" Positive Airway Pressure System should not be used in patients with severe bullous lung disease, a pneumothorax, pathologically low blood pressure, dehydration and cerebrospinal fluid leak, recent cranial surgery or trauma.
Not for use in an MR environment.
PLEASE REFER TO THE LABELING FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF WARNINGS, PRECAUTIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS.
### DEVICE DESCRIPTION
The CURVE™ Positive Airway System is comprised of five components: a Nasal Pillow, Headgear, Valve, Hose, and Flow Generator.
The CURVE™ System Airbox is a flow generator that provides airflow and pressure to the mask and delivers therapeutic pressure to the patient's airway during disordered breathing. The valve allows positive airway pressure to be generated during expiration but at the same time it (1) reduces the airflow required to provide positive airway pressure during inspiration and expiration, and (2) utilizes the patient's own breathing effort during both normal inspiration and expiration. During disordered breathing events, such as apnea or hypopnea, the valve opens to allow positive airway pressure to be provided to the patient directly from the flow generator. In addition, the valve is designed to channel excess airflow directly into the room, thereby minimizing spikes in pressure and preventing carbon dioxide rebreathing from the hose.
The CURVE™ System patient interface consists of a nasal pillow mask, headgear and a hose. The nasal pillow mask includes the valve and the mask is held in contact with the patient's nares via the headgear. The nasal pillow mask is available in three sizes (small. medium and large). The hose connects the flow generator to the valve in the mask to deliver air from the flow generator to the mask.
The CURVE™ System is designed to have pressurized air from the flow generator always available to provide airway support. During treatment, the flow generator is never "off" or paused. Pressurized air is always being delivered through the hose to the valve, and flows into the mask whenever there is a drop in pressure or flow rate.
The CURVE™ System flow generator can only be used with the CURVE™ System patient interface and vice versa. The size and configuration of the Curve System hose and
{2}------------------------------------------------
flow generator connectors are designed to prevent connection to a standard Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) hose, mask or flow generator.
# SUMMARY OF NONCLINICAL/BENCH STUDIES
### BIOCOMPATIBILITY/MATERIALS
The CURVE™ Positive Airway System includes components that have externally communicating patient contact via gas pathway for permanent duration. The flow generator, mask, hose and valve of the subject device also have contact with the dry gas pathway.
The complete device in its final, finished form was subjected to biocompatibility testing in accordance with the FDA guidance document. "Use of International Standard ISO 10993-1, 'Biological evaluation of medical devices - Part 1: Evaluation and testing within a risk management process. " The following tests were conducted to assess biocompatibility of the device for the externally communicating components for permanent duration:
- . Cytotoxicity
- . Sensitization
- Intracutaneous reactivity .
- Extractables and leachables testing with a risk assessment .
The following additional tests were conducted for the dry gas contacting components:
- . Volatile organic compounds (VOC) (EPA Compendium Method TO-15) to demonstrate that Total VOCs < 5,000 ppb,
- Particulate matter EPA PM2.5 to demonstrate that the device shall not emit more . than 12 ug/m3 of particulates smaller than 2.5 microns,
- . Ozone gas analysis (U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Test Method ID-214) to demonstrate ozone concentration < 0.050ppm,
- . Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide gas analysis to demonstrate carbon monoxide concentration < 9 ppm and carbon dioxide concentration < 10,000 ppm
All tests passed. The results demonstrated the biocompatibility of the device.
### SHELF LIFE/REPROCESSING/STERILITY
The CURVE™ Positive Airway System is a single patient, multi-use device and is not provided sterile. All components are reusable for up to 90 days. The device is provided with cleaning and disinfection instructions.
The cleaning procedures for the reusable main unit were validated following the recommendations of the FDA Guidance Document "Reprocessing Medical Devices in Health Care Settings: Validation Methods and Labeling", AAMI TIR30 "A compendium of processes, materials, test methods, and acceptance criteria for cleaning reusable medical devices", and AAMI TIR12:2010 "Designing, testing, and labeling reusable medical devices for reprocessing in health care facilities: A guide for medical device
{3}------------------------------------------------
manufacturers." The cleaning validation study included 6 simulated use cycles of soiling and cleaning of the device. After 6 cycles, the test results showed no visible soil on the device components and analysis of the extract showed that residual soil, as shown by the carbohydrate and protein markers, was reduced to levels below the specified endpoints. The 6 simulated use cycles were shown to reflect that accumulation of soil will be limited over the recommended 90-day use period.
# ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY
The CURVE™ Positive Airway System was tested in accordance with the following consensus standards and conformed with the following electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), electrical, mechanical and thermal safety standards:
- IEC 60601-1-2:2014: Medical Electrical Equipment Part 1-2: General . Requirements for Basic Safety and Essential Performance - Collateral Standard: Electromagnetic Compatibility-Requirements and Tests.
- AAMI / ANSI ES60601-1:2005/(R) 2012 and A1:2012, Medical Electrical . Equipment - part 1: General Requirements for Basic Safety and Essential Performance.
- . IEC 60601-1-11 Edition 2.0 2015-01: Medical electrical equipment - Part 1-11: General requirements for basic safety and essential performance - Collateral Standard: Requirements for medical electrical equipment and medical electrical systems used in the home healthcare environment
The device was also tested for static magnetic field testing to characterize the strength and safe exposure distance of the magnet present in the device.
### MAGNETIC RESONANCE (MR) COMPATIBILITY
The device has not been tested for MRI compatibility and should not be used in an MRI suite.
### SOFTWARE
The De Novo request provided adequate software documentation consistent with a "Moderate" level of software concern as discussed in the FDA Guidance Document "Guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices," issued May 11, 2005.
Software validation and verification testing demonstrated that the device met its design, implementation, and cybersecurity specifications.
#### PERFORMANCE TESTING - BENCH
The non-clinical testing for the device consisted of verification and validation testing of hardware and software.
The following bench tests were performed
{4}------------------------------------------------
- . Device integrity testing to verify the hose crush force and confirm that the hose is crush resistant and can maintain an adequate flow rate to fill the airway.
- . Hose torsion force testing to confirm the hose can spin freely without disconnecting during normal use by measuring peak torque at each interface with a torque wrench.
- . Verification of appropriate hose removal force at the mask-valve interface and at the generator interface to ensure unintentional disconnection does not occur, but patients can easily disconnect hoses when necessary.
- . Testing of valve removal force (force required to remove the valve from nasal pillow), pillow crush force, side strap removal force, backstrap removal force to ensure unintentional disconnection does not occur, but patients can easily disconnect components when necessary.
- . Acoustics test was performed by measuring the noise level of the mask. The noise level was measured to be ≤30dB at 10cmH2O setting, in accordance with ISO 17510 and 3744.
- . Carbon dioxide rebreathing test measured carbon dioxide rebreathing in accordance with ISO 17510. Per that standard, under normal conditions the increase in carbon dioxide from baseline was ≤ 20%. For single fault conditions, the increase in carbon dioxide from baseline was ≤ 60%.
- System testing:
- Flow rate: delivered airflow to mask at various generator settings was o measured. Flow rate of > 10 1/minute confirmed that airflow path is not occluded or restrictive.
- Maximum expiratory pressure: the pressure drop into the mask was o measured. A ≤2 cm H2O pressure greater than the measured flow generator pressure confirmed sufficient ease of exhalation.
- Inhalation pressure: the pressure drop into the mask was measured. A ≥ - O 1.0 cm H2O pressure drop at an inhalation flow rate of 25 1/minute confirmed ease of inspiration.
- Intra-mask static pressure: the measured pressure in the mask resulted in O therapeutic pressure to the patient.
- Air bolus testing: an air bolus of 2 liters over 1 second was applied. No o impact on specifications for generator and mask pressures, airflow, exhaust pressure and inspiratory resistance was recorded.
- . Packaging testing subjected devices to simulated shipping challenges (as per the International Safe Transit Association Standards 2A) with no impact on specifications for the flow generator, mask pressures, minimum airflow, exhaust pressure and inspiratory resistance.
- . Use Life Testing was conducted to verify the recommended use life of the mask for up to 90 days. Testing included 712.800 simulated breathing cycles and 100 cleaning cycles and the device continued to meet the performance specifications following testing.
- . Maximum limited pressure testing was performed. Under normal use conditions, testing confirmed that the maximum pressure output of the flow generator did not exceed 20 cm H2O. Under simulated fault conditions, testing confirmed that the maximum pressure output of the flow generator did not exceed 30 cm H2O.
{5}------------------------------------------------
- . Maximum output temperature testing of humidified gas was not required for this submission because the device does not output humidified gas.
- . Waveform testing was conducted during simulated breathing conditions for evaluating pressure and airflow response over a range and combination of high and low breath rates and tidal volumes and a quantitative analysis of differences in waveform characteristics (e.g. shape: periodicity; inflection points; slope; and magnitude) to support pressure and flow responses were equivalent between clinical device configuration and final device configuration. Four simulated "patients" were defined for purposes of evaluating the pressure and airflow response over a range and combination of high and low breath rates and tidal volumes. Waveforms were obtained for each of the four simulated "patients" at set pressures of 4, 12 and 20 cmH2O during the following simulated breathing conditions:
- 0 Normal breathing.
- Hypopnea (with an airflow reduction of 30-40%). o
- Hypopnea (with an airflow reduction of 50-60%). O
- Hypopnea (with an airflow reduction of 70-80%). O
- o Apnea (at end of expiration).
- o Apnea (mid-inspiration)
# SUMMARY OF CLINICAL INFORMATION
A clinical study in adults was used to support a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for the use of this device for treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
# Purpose/Study Design
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is effectively treated using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. This prospective, controlled, randomized, cross-over clinical study was designed to demonstrate whether the resultant OSA treatment with the subject device (clinical study configuration, referred as FRESCA) mask is non-inferior to treatment with the patient's prescribed CPAP mask.
# Materials and Methods
Patients that were being successfully treated for OSA with a commercial CPAP device were randomized to Sequence 1 (polysomnography (PSG) control night with their existing CPAP mask followed by a PSG treatment night with the FRESCA mask) or Sequence 2 (PSG treatment night with the FRESCA mask followed by a PSG control night using their existing CPAP mask). Both nights were conducted in the sleep lab up to 14 days apart. Both nights utilized the same inlab CPAP blower.
If the patient completed both study nights (i.e. sleeping >4 hours without technical PSG difficulty), then their apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) data were entered into the database to determine whether the mean results of all FRESCA mask treatment nights were non-inferior (difference < 5 units) to those mean results from all the control nights with the patients' CPAP mask.
{6}------------------------------------------------
# Inclusion Criteria
Prior to study enrollment, subjects were assessed to determine if they met the following inclusion criteria:
- . Male or Female 18-70 years old;
- Qualifying diagnostic PSG/HSAT (Home Sleep Apnea test) resulting in AHI > 5 events/h ● of sleep:
- Qualifying titration PSG: In lab titration within the past 12 months and therapeutic . pressure resulting in AHI < 5 events/h;
- Primary medical diagnosis of OSA/ Hypopnea syndrome and on CPAP treatment > 1 ● month:
- Current user of nasal mask or nasal pillow mask;
- Have regular usage of their CPAP machine (sufficient amount of mask use to enable tolerance of at least 4 hours of mask use for study nights) confirmed by SD card download:
- No significant changes in the subject's general health and no change in weight greater than ±10 lbs since titration PSG was performed and CPAP therapy initiated (confirmed from medical records);
- . BMI < 35 kg/m²;
- Must be able to be fit properly with FRESCA mask;
- Must be able to comply with all study requirements as outlined in the protocol; ●
- Must be able to understand English and be willing to provide written informed consent. ●
# Exclusion Criteria
The following criteria excluded subjects from possible participation in this clinical study:
- Subjects with non OSA sleep disorders;
- Substantial central or mixed apneas (Central and Mixed apnea index ≥ 5 events/h);
- Subjects actively using bi-level PAP or require oxygen therapy;
- Subjects using a full face mask or chin strap: .
- . History of severe cardiovascular disease. including NYHA Class III or IV heart failure, CAD with angina or MI/stroke within past 6 months;
- . Subjects who are medically complicated or who are medically unstable (i.e. cancer, dementia, unstable cardiac or respiratory disease, or unstable psychiatric illness);
- . Potential sleep apnea complications that in the opinion of the investigator may affect the health and safety of the participant including: uncontrolled hypertension or hypotension, low blood oxygen (oxygen desaturations nadirs below 75% on their diagnostic PSG), or use of medication or other treatment which may pose additional risk to the subject;
- . Subjects exhibiting any flu-like or any upper airway tract infection symptoms at time of assessment:
- . Subjects with ongoing severe nasal allergies or sinusitis or difficulty breathing through the nose; persistent blockage or one or both nostrils; or any nasal or facial abnormalities that would not allow adequate placement of the device;
- Subjects with prior surgical intervention for obstructive sleep hypopnea/ apnea syndrome; ●
- Currently working nights, rotating night shifts, planned travel across two or more time . zones required during study period, or within two weeks prior to study enrollment, or sleep schedule not compatible with sleep lab practices;
{7}------------------------------------------------
- . Unstable use of medications or other agents that may affect sleep or PSG (sedatives or hypnotics):
- . Consumption of > 500mg caffeine per day (e.g. > 8 cola-type beverages, > 5 cups of coffee):
- Pregnant (confirmed verbally);
- Currently enrolled in any other research study.
# Selection of Doses in The Study
The FRESCA mask is intended to be used with positive airway pressure devices, such as CPAP, operating at or above 4 cm H2O and up to 20 cm H2O (i.e. ranges of pressure across which CPAP machines are titrated). The pressure used for each patient was their prescribed pressure as determined by his/her historical titration PSG study. Each patient's prescribed pressure setting was used for all nights of treatment.
# Primary Efficacy Variable(s)
The co-primary efficacy assessments are AHI and ODI as determined by a valid PSG study. These primary assessments are compared between the control CPAP mask and the FRESCA mask treatments, and both AHI and ODI assessments needed to be non-inferior for primary study success.
### Results
Of the 47 subjects enrolled in the study, thirty-six (36) patients (26 men; mean age 51 years, range 32 - 69) completed both study nights with valid PSG results. Prior to being treated for their OSA, the patients were documented in a diagnostic PSG with a mean AHI of 26.1 events/h (range: 5.7 - 74.4) and a mean ODI of 16.4 events/h (range: 0.0-74.4). The summary of the results is presented in Table 1.
| N=36 patients | FRESCA<br>Mean<br>Range | Commercial<br>CPAP<br>Mask<br>Mean<br>Range | Difference<br>between<br>the<br>means | p-value of<br>non-<br>inferiority<br>test |
|----------------------------------|-------------------------|---------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| AHI results<br>(events per hour) | 3.0<br>0.0 – 23.5 | 2.4<br>0.0 - 33.7 | 0.6 | p<0.001 |
| ODI results<br>(events per hour) | 1.4<br>0.0 – 6.5 | 1.1<br>0.0 - 10.2 | 0.3 | p<0.001 |
# Table 1: AHI and ODI endpoint analyses
Both the AHI and the ODI endpoint analyses demonstrated the FRESCA mask results were noninferior to the results with the commercial CPAP mask. All adverse events were mild or moderate in nature and were resolved by the time of the PSG completion. There were no serious adverse events. The adverse events reported are displayed below in Table 2.
{8}------------------------------------------------
| Table 2: Adverse events listing | Adverse event | Number of subjects (n=47) |
|-------------------------------------------|---------------|---------------------------|
| Difficulty breathing through study device | 4 (8.5%) | |
| Skin/nose irritation | 2 (4.3%) | |
| Difficulty sleeping due to study device | 1 (2.1%) | |
| EKG irregularity | 1 (2.1%) | |
| Headache | 1 (2.1%) | |
| Pain in the nose | 1 (2.1%) | |
| Unable to tolerate mask | 1 (2.1%) | |
# Conclusion:
The clinical study was a prospective, controlled, randomized, cross-over clinical study designed to demonstrate whether the resultant OSA treatment with the FRESCA mask is non-inferior to treatment with the patient's prescribed CPAP mask.
Baseline characteristics support use of the FRESCA mask in all AHI severities (mild, moderate, severe) with an equivalent number of subjects in each severity successfully completing study requirements. Minor adverse events were resolved without medical intervention or other action, and without clinical sequelae. This study demonstrated that there are no significant clinical differences between typical commercial CPAP nasal or nasal pillow masks and the FRESCA mask.
The clinical device configuration was modified to produce the final finished device. This was mitigated by in vitro bridging using waveform testing to demonstrate there were no significant differences in performance characteristics that would affect clinical function between the device tested in the clinical trial and the final finished device.
### Pediatric Extrapolation
In this De Novo request, existing clinical data were not leveraged to support the use of the device in a pediatric patient population.
# LABELING
The labeling (User Instructions) meets the requirements of 21 CFR 801.109 for prescription devices. The user instructions include the following:
- a. A description and function of all components of the system and instructions regarding how to use each component for therapy;
- b. A description of pressure settings range available with the system;
- The available flow provided by the system at different pressure settings; C.
- d. A warning that the device should not be used with supplemental oxygen:
- Contraindications listing patient comorbidities that would preclude use of the e. system; and
- A warning stating that device should only be used with the CURVE System t Airbox and the CURVE Mask, Hose and Accessories are not compatible with any other respiratory systems or accessories.
{9}------------------------------------------------
### RISKS TO HEALTH
The table below identifies the risks to health that may be associated with use of the positive airway pressure delivery system and the measures necessary to mitigate these risks.
| Identified Risk | Mitigation Measures |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Adverse tissue reaction | Biocompatibility evaluation<br>Labeling |
| Electromagnetic interference with other<br>devices | Electromagnetic compatibility testing<br>Labeling |
| Infection | Reprocessing validation<br>Labeling |
| Device software failure leading to<br>ineffective treatment | Software verification, validation, and<br>hazard analysis |
| Device hardware failure/malfunction<br>leading to high airway pressure, carbon<br>dioxide rebreathing or ineffective<br>treatment | Non-clinical performance testing<br>Labeling |
| Electrical shock injury or thermal injury | Electrical safety, thermal safety, and<br>mechanical safety testing<br>Software verification, validation, and<br>hazard analysis<br>Labeling |
| Use error leading to ineffective therapy<br>or patient injury | Labeling |
### SPECIAL CONTROLS:
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the positive airway pressure delivery system is subject to the following special controls:
- 1. The patient-contacting components of the device must be demonstrated to be biocompatible.
- 2. Non-clinical performance testing must demonstrate that the device performs as intended under anticipated conditions of use, including the following:
- a. Waveform testing must simulate breathing conditions and evaluate pressure and airflow response over a range and combination of high and low breath rates and tidal volumes.
- b. Use life testing must demonstrate adequate device performance over the labeled use life of the device.
- Device integrity testing must demonstrate the device can withstand typical forces C. expected during use.
- d. Carbon dioxide rebreathing testing must be performed.
- System flow rate, maximum expiratory pressure, inhalation pressure, and intrae. mask static pressure testing must be performed.
{10}------------------------------------------------
- f. Air bolus testing must demonstrate that the device can withstand worst-case scenario air pressures.
- Maximum limited pressure testing of the flow generator in single fault condition g. must be performed.
- h. Maximum output temperature testing of delivered gas, if humidified, must be performed.
- 3. Performance data must validate reprocessing instructions for any reusable components of the device.
- Performance data must demonstrate the electrical, thermal, and mechanical safety and the 4. electromagnetic compatibility of the device.
- 5. Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis must be performed.
- 6. Labeling must include the following:
- Therapy pressure range: a.
- b. Use life and replacement schedule for all components;
- c. Cleaning instructions: and
- d. Instructions for assembly and connection of device components.
# BENEFIT/RISK DETERMINATION
The risks of the device are based on nonclinical laboratory studies as well as data collected in the clinical studies described above. The device exhibited an acceptable safety profile in the clinical study which was conducted. No device-related serious adverse events were observed.
The CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System risks include device failure, air leaks due to poor adjustment of headgear or detachment of headgear during use, air leaks due to incomplete or improper seals of nasal pillow, poor flapper performance resulting in difficult inhalation or lack of therapy and carbon dioxide rebreathing due to lack of a proper seal of the flow generator. Although these risks are associated with all positive airway pressure therapies, these device malfunctions or device related adverse events were not seen in the clinical studies. The probability of a harmful event with the use of this device is relatively low. As the system interacts only with the nasopharynx, the patient can breathe using the mouth or discontinue use if any discomfort is experienced.
The sponsor conducted a prospective, controlled, randomized, cross-over clinical study to demonstrate the device can treat OSA and that treatment with the subject device is non-inferior to treatment with CPAP. the standard of care for OSA. OSA is a sleep disorder characterized by snoring, repetitive apneas, sleep disruption due to frequent arousals, and, for some, daytime sleepiness. Untreated OSA is associated with adverse health outcomes, including decreased quality of life, psychological symptoms, insulin resistance, and increased risk for cardiovascular disease and mortality.
### Patient Perspectives
The conducted clinical study showed that patients could use the subject device with comfort with minor adverse events that were resolved quickly by the time of PSG completion. No specific patient related outcome scales were evaluated.
{11}------------------------------------------------
# Benefit/Risk Conclusion
In conclusion, given the available information above, the data support that the probable benefits outweigh the probable risks for the CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System to provide OSA treatment. The device provides benefits and the risks can be mitigated using general controls and the identified special controls.
### CONCLUSION
The De Novo request for the CURVE™ Positive Airway Pressure System is granted and the device is classified under the following:
Product Code: QBY Device Type: Positive airway pressure delivery system Class: II Regulation: 21 CFR 868.5273
Predicate graph will load when search results are available.
Embedding visualization will load when search results are available.
PDF viewer will load when search results are available.
Loading panels...
Select an item from Submissions
Click any panel, subpart, regulation, product code, or device to see details here.
Section Matches
Results will appear here.
Product Code Matches
Results will appear here.
Special Control Matches
Results will appear here.
Loading collections...
Loading
My Alerts
You will receive email notifications based on the filters and frequency you set for each alert.
Sort by:
Create Alert
Search Filters
Agent Token
Create a read-only bearer token for Claude, ChatGPT, or other agents that can call HTTP APIs.
Copy this now. It will not be shown again.
Connected apps
Apps you authorized through browser sign-in. Disconnecting revokes their access immediately.
Learn the FDA Browser
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.