Retrospective multicenter clinical study dataset; 186 patient studies from three clinical institutions
The retrospective dataset was used to validate the performance of the AutoEF software, including the Clip Selector and the ejection fraction estimation algorithm, against expert-produced reference standards.
Root mean square deviation (RMSD) between AutoEF derived values and reference standard
AI Performance
Output
Algorithm
Acceptance
Observed
Dev DS
Dev Readers
Test DS
Test Readers
Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Convolutional network
RMSD superior to 9.2% for view combinations; RMSD superior to 11.024% for single views
RMSD 7.21% (best available view); 7.27% (AP4 and AP2); 7.50% (AP4 and PLAX); 7.24% (AP4, AP2, and PLAX); 8.04% (AP2 and PLAX); 7.76% (AP4 only); 8.27% (AP2 only)
—
—
Pivotal clinical investigation: 186 patient studies acquired from three sites across the US.
>1 (expert cardiologists)
Indications for Use
The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction software is used to process previously acquired transthoracic cardiac ultrasound images, to store images, and to manipulate and make measurements on images using an ultrasound device, personal computer, or a compatible DICOM-compliant PACS system in order to provide automated estimation of left ventricular ejection fraction. This measurement can be used to assist the clinician in a cardiac evaluation. The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software is indicated for use in adult patients.
Device Story
Software-only device; processes 2D transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) images (PLAX, AP4, AP2 views). Uses deep learning-based convolutional networks to automatically classify views and assess image quality (IQS). Calculates left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) using single or multi-view combinations. Operates as add-in to DICOM PACS, ultrasound systems, or PCs. Clinician reviews output—EF percentage, standard error, qualitative bin (e.g., 'Normal'), and confidence metric—to accept/reject for final report. Assists in cardiac evaluation; does not replace professional diagnosis. Includes FDA-authorized Predetermined Change Control Plan (PCCP) for future algorithm updates (training on new data, additional views, speed optimization).
Clinical Evidence
The device underwent design verification and validation, including software verification, validation, and hazard analysis. Performance assessment utilized objective measures such as error metrics, Bland-Altman plots, dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff distance, sensitivity, and specificity. Testing was performed on datasets independent from training/development data, covering important cohorts including patient demographics, clinically relevant confounders, and image acquisition characteristics.
Technological Characteristics
Software-only; machine learning-based quantitative imaging. Inputs: 2D TTE DICOM images. Core technology: Convolutional neural networks for view classification and EF estimation. Connectivity: DICOM-compliant PACS/ultrasound integration. Deployment: Standalone software add-in. Locked algorithms (no continuous learning).
Indications for Use
Indicated for use in adult patients to provide automated estimation of left ventricular ejection fraction from transthoracic cardiac ultrasound images to assist clinicians in cardiac evaluation.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
Radiological machine learning-based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan. It is a software-only device that employs machine learning algorithms on radiological images to provide quantitative imaging outputs, including functions to support view selection, segmentation, and landmarking. The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction software is used to process previously acquired transthoracic cardiac ultrasound images, to store images, and to manipulate and make measurements on images using an ultrasound device, personal computer, or a compatible DICOM-compliant PACS system in order to provide automated estimation of left ventricular ejection fraction in adult patients.
Special Controls
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the radiological machine learningbased quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan is subject to the following special controls:
- Design verification and validation must include: (1)
- A detailed description of the image postprocessing algorithms, including a detailed (i) description of the algorithm inputs and outputs, each major component or block, and algorithm limitations.
- Detailed description of training data including detailed annotation methods and (ii) important cohorts (e.g., subsets defined by patient demographics, clinically relevant confounders, and subsets defined by image acquisition characteristics).
- (iii) Performance testing protocols and results that demonstrate that the underlying algorithms function as intended. The performance assessment must be based on objective performance measures (e.g., error metrics, Bland-Altman plots, dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff distance, sensitivity, specificity, predictive value). The test dataset must be independent from data used in training/development and contain sufficient numbers of cases from important cohorts (e.g., subsets defined by clinically relevant confounders, effect modifiers, concomitant diseases, and subsets defined by image acquisition characteristics) such that the performance estimates and confidence intervals of the device for these individual subsets can be characterized for the intended use population and imaging equipment.
- (iv) Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis.
- (2) As part of the design verification and validation activities, you must document the planned device modifications of the quantitative imaging software, and the associated methodology for the development, verification, and validation of modifications made consistent with the performance requirements in the plan.
- As part of the risk management activities, you must identify and assess the risks of the (3) planned modification(s) and identify corresponding risk mitigations.
- (4) Labeling must include:
- A detailed description of the patient population for which the device was validated; (i)
- (ii) A description of the intended user and expertise needed for safe use of the device:
- A detailed description of the device inputs and outputs; (iii)
- A detailed description of compatible imaging hardware and imaging protocols; (iv)
- A detailed summary of the current performance of the device and a summary of the (v) performance testing conducted to support safe and effective use of the device including test methods, dataset characteristics (including demographics), testing environment, results (with confidence intervals), and a summary of sub-analyses on case distributions stratified by relevant confounders:
- (vi) A description of situations in which the device may fail or may not operate at its expected performance level (e.g., poor image quality or for certain subpopulations), as applicable:
- (vii) Labeling related to the predetermined change control plan (PCCP), including:
- (A) A statement that the device has a PCCP:
- (B) A description of modification(s) implemented for quantitative imaging and supporting algorithms, including a summary of current performance, associated inputs, validation requirements, and related evidence: and
- A version history, a description of how device modification(s) will be (C) implemented, and a description of how users will be informed of device modification(s) made in accordance with the PCCP.
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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#### DE NOVO CLASSIFICATION REQUEST FOR CAPTION INTERPRETATION AUTOMATED EJECTION FRACTION SOFTWARE
#### REGULATORY INFORMATION
FDA identifies this generic type of device as:
Radiological machine learning-based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan. A radiological machine learning based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan is a software-only device which employs machine learning algorithms on radiological images to provide quantitative imaging outputs. The device includes functions to support outputs such as view selection, segmentation and landmarking. The design specifications include planned modifications that may be made to the device consistent with an established predetermined change control plan.
NEW REGULATION NUMBER: 21 CFR 892.2055
CLASSIFICATION: Class II
PRODUCT CODE: QVD
#### BACKGROUND
DEVICE NAME: Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software
SUBMISSION NUMBER: DEN220063
DATE DE NOVO RECEIVED: September 28, 2022
#### SPONSOR INFORMATION:
Caption Health, Inc. 2000 Sierra Point Pkwy, 8th Floor Brisbane, CA 94005
#### INDICATIONS FOR USE
The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction software is used to process previously acquired transthoracic cardiac ultrasound images, to store images, and to manipulate and make measurements on images using an ultrasound device, personal computer, or a compatible DICOM-compliant PACS system in order to provide automated estimation of left ventricular ejection fraction. This measurement can be used to assist the clinician in a cardiac evaluation.
The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software is indicated for use in adult patients.
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## LIMITATIONS
Prescription Use only: The sale, distribution, and use of this device are restricted to prescription use in accordance with 21 CFR 801.109.
### Warnings:
- . Product users are responsible for image quality and diagnosis. A qualified medical professional must inspect the data being used for analysis and diagnosis, and ensure that the data is sufficient and appropriate in anatomical correctness and both spatial and temporal resolution for the measurement being employed.
- . The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software is not intended for transesophageal echocardiograms (TEE).
- . This device must be operated by or under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician.
PLEASE REFER TO THE LABELING FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF WARNINGS, PRECAUTIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS.
### DEVICE DESCRIPTION
The Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software ("AutoEF") applies machine learning algorithms to process two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography images for calculating left ventricular ejection fraction.
The current implementation of the device adds a predetermined change control plan (PCCP) to the device cleared under K210747, which allows future modifications to the device.
The version of Caption Interpretation AutoEF cleared under K210747 performs left ventricular ejection fraction estimation using apical four chamber (A4C), apical two chamber (A2C) and the parasternal long-axis (PLAX) cardiac ultrasound images.
The software uses an algorithm that was derived through use of deep learning and locked prior to validation. The product operates as an add-in to a DICOM PACS system, ultrasound device, or personal computer. Caption Interpretation receives imaging data either directly from an ultrasound system or from a module in a PACS system.
The device includes the following main components:
- 1. Clip Annotation and Selection: The AutoEF software includes a function that processes video clips in a study to automatically classify clips that are PLAX. AP4, and AP2 views. This view selection is based on a convolutional network. It also includes a function, Image Quality Score (IQS), that allows selection of best available PLAX, AP4, and AP2 clips within the study or provide an indication to the user if there are no clips with sufficient quality to estimate ejection fraction, based on prespecified IQS thresholds.
{2}------------------------------------------------
- 2. Eiection Fraction Estimator and Confidence Metric: The automated eiection fraction estimation is performed using a machine learning model trained on apical and parasternal long-axis views. The model is trained with a dataset from a large number of patients. representative of the intended patient population and variety of contemporary cardiac ultrasound scanners. The EF calculation can be performed on a 3-view combination (PLAX, AP4 and AP2), 2-view combinations (AP4 and AP2, AP2 and PLAX, AP4 and PLAX), or single views (AP4, AP2). The confidence metric provides expected error in left-ventricle ejection fraction estimation and is based on IQS.
The outputs of the software are presented to the clinician. The outputs are as follows:
- EF calculation stated as a percentage (e.g., "59%"); .
- Predicted standard error based on image quality (e.g., "+6%"); .
- . Qualitative characterization of the EF estimate mapped to guidelines from the American Society of Echocardiography (e.g., "Normal"); Predicted likelihood of the qualitative bin based on the standard error listed above (e.g., "80% likelihood"):
- . Information about which clip(s) and view(s) were used as the basis of the EF calculation;
- . Single-view EF calculations of views incorporated into overall EF calculation (e.g., "PLAX: 55%; AP4: 63%; AP2: 58%").
The clinician can edit the estimation, if desired, and must decide whether to accept or reject it for use in the final report.
## PREDETERMINED CHANGE CONTROL PLAN (PCCP)
Caption Interpretation Auto Ejection Fraction Software includes an FDA-authorized predetermined change control plan (PCCP). The authorized PCCP includes detailed description of planned device modifications, and the associated methodology to develop validate and implement those modifications in a manner that ensures the continued safety and effectiveness of the Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software. The plan includes the following four modification categories:
- Modification #1-Training on Additional Data .
- Modification #2-Incorporation of additional 2D TTE views .
- Modification #3-Optimization of implementation of core algorithm(s) in software .
- . Modification #4-Improving Algorithm Operating Speed
### Verification and Validation Activities
PCCP describes specifications and methods to achieve appropriate risk control for anticipated changes. Risk Analysis will be performed to identify any new hazards created by algorithm changes, and to trace mitigation activity and completeness.
The evaluation of the modification will be performed with verification at the algorithm. subsystem, and end-to-end system level. Functional and end-to-end verification tests confirm proper operation of revised algorithms in the product. Validation will be performed at the end-to-end system level with expert-labeled ground truth data. Training and test datasets will be independent. The performance targets must meet the prespecified criteria as detailed in the
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PCCP. The specific verification and validation details for each individual modification are described in the PCCP.
The PCCP specifies a minimum percentage of new data for the test datasets, and that test datasets may not be used more than a specified number of times for the same purpose.
The key acceptance criteria included, but were not limited to, the following:
- 1. 80% positive predictive value and 80% sensitivity for correct mode, view, and minimum number of frames.
- 2. 80% of clips meet expert criteria for suitability for EF estimation.
- 3. Overall (all views) and all combined views Auto EF is within 9.2% RMSD of expert EF.
- 4. New views superior to 11.024% RMSD individually.
- 5. For each standard view, the Confidence Metric must meet the equivalence to expert EF criteria as defined in PCCP.
### Implementation of Modifications and Control
The machine learning algorithms used in Caption Interpretation Auto Ejection Fraction Software are trained, tuned, and "locked" prior to release i.e., they do not continuously learn in the field. Caption Health follows its design controls as well as the test methods and acceptance criteria defined in the PCCP to verify and validate new release versions of Caption Interpretation AutoEF. Caption Health intends to deploy a single version of the software within the United States, e.g., there will not be site specific versions of the software.
#### Communication and transparency to users
If a new release version of the software is available, due to implementation of modification made in accordance with the PCCP, Caption Health notifies all existing customers that an update is available and requests that they upgrade to the latest version of the software. Caption Health continues to follow-up with each customer to ensure that they are on the latest version of the software. Version numbering of the Caption Interpretation software will be updated in the software interface and in the User Manual. User manual will be updated to reflect the associated performance, associated inputs, supporting evidence, version history and other necessary information about the modification(s) made pursuant to the PCCP.
#### SUMMARY OF NON-CLINICAL/BENCH STUDIES
#### Software
The only change in this device compared to the Caption Interpretation Auto Ejection Fraction Software cleared in K210747 was the addition of PCCP. The software documentation was, therefore, referenced from K210747. The device was identified as having a moderate level of concern as defined in the FDA guidance document "Guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices." The software documentation included:
- 1. Software/Firmware Description
- 2. Device Hazard Analysis
- 3. Software Requirement Specifications
{4}------------------------------------------------
- 4. Architecture Design Chart
- 5. Software Design Specifications
- 6. Traceability
- 7. Software Development Environment Description
- 8. Verification and Validation Documentation
- 9. Revision Level History
- 10. Unresolved Anomalies
- 11. Cybersecurity
Software documentation and testing provided demonstrate that the device meets all the recommendations in the guidance document.
### SUMMARY OF CLINICAL INFORMATION
### Algorithm Performance Testing
The only component of this device which is new compared to the previously cleared device in K210747 is the addition of a PCCP. No new performance testing was provided for the current device and performance testing used for clearance of K210747 also applies to this device and is summarized below.
Caption Health AutoEF performance, including the integrated operation of the Clip Selector, was validated on a dataset of 186 patient studies in a retrospective multicenter study. These studies were representative of patient conditions, including range of ejection fraction values, and a significant portion of high body mass index patients as is typically associated with technically difficult studies.
### Clip Annotation Performance
A Clip Annotator study verified the ability of the software to receive, annotate and select clips for Auto EF calculation. Results of the Clip Annotator were compared to evaluation by a panel of expert readers. The study-level positive value (PPV) and sensitivity were computed, and each was tested for whether it exceeded the pre-specified performance goals of 80% PPV and 80% sensitivity. That study met the pre-defined acceptance criteria and found that the observed PPV point estimates for the Clip Annotator were greater than 97% for identification of the imaging mode and the view. Similarly, observed sensitivity point estimates were greater than 96% across views and imaging mode.
### Clinical Validation of AutoEF
Caption Interpretation AutoEF was also the subject of a pivotal clinical investigation to validate successful performance of the EF calculation in comparison to conventional EF calculation methods. The study comprised a dataset of 186 patient studies acquired from three sites across the US. This study was conducted to support the clearance of K210747.
The dataset demographics and distribution of ultrasound scanners are tabulated below:
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| Sex | Studies n, % |
|--------|--------------|
| Male | 104 (56%) |
| Female | 82 (44%) |
| Total | 186 (100%) |
# Table 1a: Dataset Demographics - Sex
#### Table 1b: Dataset Demographics - BMI
| BMI | Studies n, % |
|-------------------|--------------|
| BMI < 25 kg/m2 | 68 (37%) |
| 25≤BMI < 30 kg/m2 | 64 (34%) |
| BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 | 54 (29%) |
| Total | 186 (100%) |
## Table 1c: Dataset Demographics - Ejection Fraction
| LVEF | Studies n, % |
|----------------|--------------|
| EF < 30% | 33 (18%) |
| 30% ≤ EF < 53% | 80 (43%) |
| EF ≥ 53% | 73 (39%) |
| Total | 186 (100%) |
## Table 1d: Dataset Demographics - Institution
| Institution | Studies n, % |
|-----------------------------|--------------|
| Minneapolis Heart Institute | 60 (32%) |
| Duke University | 66 (36%) |
| Northwestern University | 60 (32%) |
| Total | 186 (100%) |
#### Table 1e: Distribution of Ultrasound System in Dataset
| Ultrasound System | Studies n, % |
|-------------------|--------------|
| Philips/CX50 | 4 (2%) |
| Acuson/SEQUO IA | 23 (12%) |
| Philips/EPIQ 7C | 2 (1%) |
| GE/Vivid i | 20 (11%) |
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| GE/Vivid E9 | 9 (5%) |
|-----------------------|------------|
| GE/Vivid E95 | 24 (13%) |
| GE/Vivid7 | 8 (5%) |
| Siemens/ACUSON SC2000 | 6 (3%) |
| Philips/iE33 | 90 (48%) |
| Total | 186 (100%) |
Reference Standard: The reference standard for the ejection fraction was established based on by 2D echo using the biplane Modified Simpson's method of disks, by expert cardiologists. The test compared the Caption Health AutoEF to the expert produced and reported biplane Modified Simpson's ejection fraction.
Study Endpoints: The primary endpoint was the root mean square deviation (RMSD) between AutoEF derived values based on the best available view and the reference standard. The acceptance criterion was defined as RMSD superior to 9.2% for view combinations. Likewise, the acceptance criteria for the combination of views were also defined as RMSD superior to 9.2%. The performance criterion for single views was defined as RMSD superior to 11.024%.
## Results:
The primary endpoint for the subject device was met with RMSD EF%[95% CIs]: 7.21[6.62, 7.74] for the best available view.
Likewise, the results for evaluating the performance of the algorithm against its objective performance goal for combinations of views was also met. The results for the combination views are summarized in the table:
| # | View Combination | RMSD EF% [95% CI] | p-value |
|---|--------------------|-------------------|----------|
| 1 | AP4 and AP2 | 7.27 [6.55, 7.92] | < 0.0001 |
| 2 | AP4 and PLAX | 7.50 [6.85, 8.09] | < 0.0001 |
| 3 | AP4, AP2, and PLAX | 7.24 [6.64, 7.80] | < 0.0001 |
| 4 | AP2 and PLAX | 8.04 [7.32, 8.7] | 0.0002 |
| 5 | Best available | 7.21 [6.62, 7.74] | < 0.0001 |
Results for testing of performance for individual views also met the acceptance criterion:
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| # | View | RMSD EF% [95% CI] | p-value |
|---|----------|-------------------|----------|
| 1 | AP4 only | 7.76 [7.01, 8.45] | < 0.0001 |
| 2 | AP2 only | 8.27 [7.44, 9.03] | < 0.0001 |
Finally, testing of the confidence metric functionality verified successful performance of the Confidence Metric in estimating the error range of the EF estimates around the reference EF using equivalence criteria and the evidence that the difference between the estimated EF and the reference EF is normally distributed.
Subgroup analyses were provided for range of EF, BMI, gender, institution, and ultrasound systems with statistically insignificant differences in RMSD across the subgroups.
PLEASE REFER TO THE LABELING FOR COMPLETE RESULTS OF THE SUBGROUP ANALYSIS.
# LABELING
The labeling supports the decision. including information on detailed description of device inputs and outputs, instructions for use, intended patient population and intended users of the device, adequate warnings and precautions as well as detailed performance testing summary. Additionally, the labeling mentions that the device has a PCCP and provides high-level details of the modifications agreed to in the PCCP. The labeling also includes information on how the modifications will be implemented and how the users will be informed about the device modifications made in accordance with the PCCP. Additionally, version history of the device is also included in the labeling. All the necessary information to grant the De Novo request for this device is available in the labeling.
## RISKS TO HEALTH
The table below identifies the risks to health that may be associated with use of a radiological machine learning-based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan and the measures necessary to mitigate these risks.
| Identified Risks to Health | Mitigation Measures |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Inaccurate device output leading to patient<br>receiving incomplete or suboptimal<br>treatment/diagnosis | Design verification and validation activities<br>identified in special control (1);<br>Certain labeling information identified in special<br>control (4) |
| Implementation of modifications agreed in<br>the authorized PCCP leads to algorithm<br>producing inaccurate output, including: | Special controls (2)-(3) and 4(vii)<br>Certain activities identified in special controls<br>(1) |
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| • Performance related to existing<br>specifications at the time of clearance<br>• Performance related to planned<br>additional device capabilities and<br>associated specifications | |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Misunderstanding of changes to the device<br>input criteria, output performance, or other<br>aspects of the design as changes are<br>implemented under the PCCP, leading to<br>misuse and incorrect treatment/diagnosis | Special control (2)-(3);<br>Labeling information identified in special<br>control (4)(vii) |
## SPECIAL CONTROLS
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the radiological machine learningbased quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan is subject to the following special controls:
- Design verification and validation must include: (1)
- A detailed description of the image postprocessing algorithms, including a detailed (i) description of the algorithm inputs and outputs, each major component or block, and algorithm limitations.
- Detailed description of training data including detailed annotation methods and (ii) important cohorts (e.g., subsets defined by patient demographics, clinically relevant confounders, and subsets defined by image acquisition characteristics).
- (iii) Performance testing protocols and results that demonstrate that the underlying algorithms function as intended. The performance assessment must be based on objective performance measures (e.g., error metrics, Bland-Altman plots, dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff distance, sensitivity, specificity, predictive value). The test dataset must be independent from data used in training/development and contain sufficient numbers of cases from important cohorts (e.g., subsets defined by clinically relevant confounders, effect modifiers, concomitant diseases, and subsets defined by image acquisition characteristics) such that the performance estimates and confidence intervals of the device for these individual subsets can be characterized for the intended use population and imaging equipment.
- (iv) Software verification, validation, and hazard analysis.
- (2) As part of the design verification and validation activities, you must document the planned device modifications of the quantitative imaging software, and the associated methodology for the development, verification, and validation of modifications made consistent with the performance requirements in the plan.
- As part of the risk management activities, you must identify and assess the risks of the (3) planned modification(s) and identify corresponding risk mitigations.
- (4) Labeling must include:
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- A detailed description of the patient population for which the device was validated; (i)
- (ii) A description of the intended user and expertise needed for safe use of the device:
- A detailed description of the device inputs and outputs; (iii)
- A detailed description of compatible imaging hardware and imaging protocols; (iv)
- A detailed summary of the current performance of the device and a summary of the (v) performance testing conducted to support safe and effective use of the device including test methods, dataset characteristics (including demographics), testing environment, results (with confidence intervals), and a summary of sub-analyses on case distributions stratified by relevant confounders:
- (vi) A description of situations in which the device may fail or may not operate at its expected performance level (e.g., poor image quality or for certain subpopulations), as applicable:
- (vii) Labeling related to the predetermined change control plan (PCCP), including:
- (A) A statement that the device has a PCCP:
- (B) A description of modification(s) implemented for quantitative imaging and supporting algorithms, including a summary of current performance, associated inputs, validation requirements, and related evidence: and
- A version history, a description of how device modification(s) will be (C) implemented, and a description of how users will be informed of device modification(s) made in accordance with the PCCP.
## BENEFIT/RISK DETERMINATION
Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction (LVEF) is an important parameter for assessing the severity of decrease in the systolic function of heart and in directing patient management for various cardiovascular diseases. Caption interpretation automated ejection fraction software, based on machine learning applied to 2D transthoracic cardiac ultrasound images, provides automated estimation of LVEF. The device performance demonstrated using a clinical dataset, covering the intended patient population and representative ultrasound systems, met the pre-specified performance criteria, which translate to clinically significant probable benefits.
The probable benefits of machine learning-based devices include the capability to improve their performance through iterative modifications, including learning from real-world data. Caption interpretation automated ejection fraction software is a machine learning based device. It includes a predetermined change control plan (PCCP) which supports performance improvement through specific device modifications. The authorized PCCP includes detailed description of planned device modifications, and the associated methodology to develop validate and implement those modifications in a manner that ensures the continued safety and effectiveness of the Caption interpretation automated ejection fraction software.
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The probable risks for this device are related to inaccurate results which could impact patient management decisions; it may be exacerbated by transparency of the communication to the end users of the device about intended use and performance. Causes may include:
- . Inaccuracies in the initial algorithm, including problems with the generalizability of the device performance due to its underlying models being based on machine learning.
- . Inaccuracies after implementation of modification(s) agreed in the authorized PCCP
- Lack of transparency to end user about changes to device made through PCCP. .
The probable benefits of this machine learning-based device include plan to implement predetermined modifications that would improve the overall performance. These benefits outweigh the risks, given the mitigations employed including the special controls in combination with the general controls. In particular, the implementation plan for the modifications authorized in the PCCP would allow enhancing the generalizability of the device and improving the performance for quantitative imaging applications while ensuring continued safety and effectiveness. The implementation of modifications in the authorized PCCP, made according to a verification and validation plan developed in conjunction with FDA input and agreed to by FDA. would allow health care professionals quicker access to improved tools for patient management, without necessitating additional marketing submissions.
## Patient Perspectives
This submission did not include specific information on patient perspectives for this device.
### Benefit/Risk Conclusion
In conclusion, given the available information above, the data support that for the intended use and indications for use statements above, the probable benefits outweigh the probable risks for the Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software. The device provides benefits and the risks can be mitigated by the use of general controls and the identified special controls.
### CONCLUSION
The De Novo request for the Caption Interpretation Automated Ejection Fraction Software device is granted and the device is classified under the following:
Product Code: OVD Device Type: Radiological machine learning-based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan Class: II Regulation: 21 CFR 892.2055
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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.