K072816 · Aerocrine AB · MXA · Mar 3, 2008 · Clinical Toxicology
Device Facts
Record ID
K072816
Device Name
NIOX MINO
Applicant
Aerocrine AB
Product Code
MXA · Clinical Toxicology
Decision Date
Mar 3, 2008
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 862.3080
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Real-World Evidence, Pediatric
Real-World Evidence
Submission
Device
Sponsor
RWD Sources
RWE Use Summary
Key Tags
K072816 · Mar 3, 2008
NIOX MINO
Aerocrine AB
Published clinical literature (Alving et al., 2006; Khalili et al., 2007); Clinical study patient cohorts
The sponsor used data from published clinical studies and a multi-center clinical study to demonstrate substantial equivalence, assess method comparison against the predicate device, and evaluate device reliability across different patient demographics (e.g., ethnicity).
Method comparison; Clinical reliability; Subgroup analysis; Literature review
NIOX MINO® measures Nitric Oxide (NO) in human breath. Nitric Oxide is frequently increased in some inflammatory processes such as asthma. The fractional NO concentration in expired breath (FENO), can be measured by NIOX MINO® according to guidelines for NO measurement established by the American Thoracic Society. Measurement of FENO by NIOX MINO® is a quantitative, non-invasive, simple and safe method to measure the decrease in FENO concentration in asthma patients that often occurs after treatment with anti-inflammatory pharmacological therapy, as an indication of the therapeutic effect in patients with elevated FENO levels. NIOX MINO® is suitable for children, approximately 7 - 17 years, and adults 18 years and older. FENO measurements provide the physician with means of evaluating an asthma patient's response to anti-inflammatory therapy, as an adjunct to the established clinical and laboratory assessments in asthma. NIOX MINO® should only be used as directed in the NIOX User Manual and the NIOX MINO Quality Control Test User Manual, by trained physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists or laboratory technicians. NIOX MINO® cannot be used with infants or by children approximately under the age of 7, as measurement requires patient cooperation. NIOX MINO® should not be used in critical care, emergency care or in anaesthesiology.
Device Story
Handheld airway inflammation monitor; measures fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) in human breath. Patient exhales into device; electrochemical sensor detects NO concentration in ppb. Used in clinical settings by physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, or lab technicians. Output displayed as quantitative FENO value; assists clinicians in evaluating asthma patient response to anti-inflammatory therapy. Non-invasive; requires patient cooperation; single measurement sufficient for reliable results.
Clinical Evidence
Prospective, randomized, open-label, single-cohort study (N=156; 105 adults, 51 children) compared NIOX MINO to predicate NIOX. Primary endpoint: change in FeNO after 2 weeks of corticosteroid therapy. Results: NIOX MINO showed 37.1% reduction in FeNO vs 35.5% for predicate (p<0.0001). Correlation between devices was high (r=0.98). Additional bench testing confirmed linearity (r²≥0.998), precision (repeatability <3 ppb at low levels, <10% at high levels), and analytical specificity against common breath contaminants.
Indicated for children 7-17 years and adults 18+ with asthma to measure fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) as an adjunct to clinical/laboratory assessments for evaluating response to anti-inflammatory therapy. Contraindicated for infants, children under 7, and use in critical/emergency care or anesthesiology.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A breath nitric oxide test system is a device intended to measure fractional nitric oxide in human breath. Measurement of changes in fractional nitric oxide concentration in expired breath aids in evaluating an asthma patient's response to anti-inflammatory therapy, as an adjunct to established clinical and laboratory assessments of asthma. A breath nitric oxide test system combines chemiluminescence detection of nitric oxide with a pneumotachograph, display, and dedicated software.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special control is FDA's guidance entitled “Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Breath Nitric Oxide Test System.” See § 862.1(d) for the availability of this guidance document.
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# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY ASSAY AND INSTRUMENT COMBINATION TEMPLATE
A. 510(k) Number:
k072816
B. Purpose for Submission:
New Device
C. Measurand:
Breath Nitric Oxide
D. Type of Test:
Quantitative
E. Applicant:
Aerocrine AB
F. Proprietary and Established Names:
NIOX MINO® Airway Inflammation Monitor
G. Regulatory Information:
1. Regulation section:
21 CFR § 862.3080
2. Classification:
Class II
3. Product code:
MXA
4. Panel:
Toxicology (91)
H. Intended Use:
1. Intended use(s):
Refer to indications for use below.
2. Indication(s) for use:
NIOX MINO® measures Nitric Oxide (NO) in human breath. Nitric Oxide is frequently increased in some inflammatory processes such as asthma. The fractional NO concentration in expired breath (FENO), can be measured by NIOX MINO according to guidelines for NO measurement established by the American Thoracic Society.
Measurement of FENO by NIOX MINO is a quantitative, non-invasive, simple and safe method to measure the decrease in FENO concentration in asthma patients that often occurs after treatment with anti-inflammatory pharmacological therapy, as an indication of the therapeutic effect in patients
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with elevated $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ levels. NIOX MINO is suitable for children, approximately 7 - 17 years, and adults 18 years and older.
$\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measurements provide the physician with means of evaluating an asthma patient’s response to anti-inflammatory therapy, as an adjunct to the established clinical and laboratory assessments in asthma. NIOX MINO should only be used as directed in the NIOX MINO User Manual and the NIOX MINO Quality Control Test User Manual, by trained physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists and laboratory technicians. NIOX MINO cannot be used with infants or by children approximately under the age of 7, as measurement requires patient cooperation. NIOX MINO should not be used in critical care, emergency care or in anaesthesiology.
3. Special conditions for use statement(s):
NIOX MINO should only be used as directed in the User Manual and by trained physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists and laboratory technicians. NIOX MINO cannot be used with infants or by children under the age of 7, as measurement requires patient cooperation. NIOX MINO should not be used in critical care, emergency care or in anaesthesiology. Subjects should not smoke in the hour before measurements, and short- and long-term active and passive smoking history should be recorded. In addition, subjects should refrain from eating and drinking for 1 hour before exhaled NO measurement. Alcohol ingestion reduces $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ in patients with asthma and healthy subjects $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$. It is prudent, where possible, to perform serial NO measurements in the same period of the day and to always record the time.
4. Special instrument requirements:
NIOX MINO® Airway Inflammation Monitor
I. Device Description:
NIOX MINO® is a hand held device intended to measure fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide ($\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$) in human breath. The NIOX MINO system includes a sampling and gas conditioning system and a man-machine interface (MMI). The user is guided on the built-in touch-screen display through the breathing maneuver by use of the interactive MMI. The NO concentration is detected by an electrochemical sensor. Results are processed using dedicated software and are expressed as NO concentration in parts per billion (ppb).
J. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate device name(s):
NIOX
2. Predicate 510(k) number(s):
k021133
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3. Comparison with predicate:
| Characteristic | NIOX MINO® | NIOX® |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Device type | Hand held device | Stationary device |
| Risks to health | There are no known direct risks to patient health. However, failure of the test to perform as indicated or erroneous interpretation of results may lead to improper patient management.Therefore, use of FENO measurement results to adjust a treatment regimen without consideration of other clinical factors could pose a risk. | There are no known direct risks to patient health. However, failure of the test to perform as indicated or erroneous interpretation of results may lead to improper patient management.Therefore, use of FENO measurement results to adjust a treatment regimen without consideration of other clinical factors could pose a risk. |
| Target population | Suitable for children, 7 - 17 years, and adults 18 years and older. | Suitable for children, 4 - 17 years and adults 18 years and older. |
| Measurement principles | Measurement principle is based on ATS guidelines.The last three second fraction of a 10 second exhalation is evaluated for average NO concentration. The exhalation flow is controlled to 50 ml/s ±5 ml/s at an applied pressure of 10 to 20 cm H2O.The inhaled air is NO free.Electrochemical detection, NO concentration derived from proportional electrical current. | Measurement principle is based on ATS guidelines.The last three second fraction of a 10 second exhalation is evaluated for average NO concentration. The exhalation flow is controlled to 50 ml/s ±5 ml/s at an applied pressure of 10 to 20 cm H2O.The inhaled air is NO free.Chemiluminescence detection, NO concentration derived from proportional photon emission. |
| Measurement range | 5 - 300 ppb | 2 - 200 ppb |
| Detection level | 5 ppb | 2 ppb |
K. Standard/Guidance Document Referenced (if applicable):
The sponsor states the use of the following standards:
- ISO 13485:2003 Medical Device – Quality Management Systems – Requirements for Regulatory Purposes.
- ISO 14971:2000 Medical Devices - Application of risk management to medical devices
- 93/42/EEG, Medical Device Directive conformity, certification Intertek- SEMKO
- EN/IEC 60601-1:1988 Medical Electrical Equipment Part 1 General requirements for safety
- EN/IEC 60601-1-1:2000 Collateral standard; Safety requirements for medical electrical systems
- EN/IEC 60601-1-2:2001 Collateral standard; Electromagnetic compatibility - Requirements and tests
- EN/IEC 60601-1-4:2000 Collateral standard; Programmable electrical medical systems
- 21CFR 862.3080 Class II Special Control Guidance Document Breath Nitric Oxide Test System, Food and Drug Administration, Centre for Devices and Radiological
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Health, Division of Chemistry and Toxicology Devices, Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Device Evaluation and Safety, July 7, 2003.
- 21 CFR Part 820 - Quality System Regulation, US Federal Register, Food and Drug Administration, current version.
- Draft Guidance Total Product Life Cycle for Portable Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems, October 24, 2006
- Guidance for the content of premarket submission for Software Contained in Medical Devices, May 1998.
- General Principles of Software Validation, Final Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff, 2002
- CLSI EP5-A2, Vol 24 No. 25, Evaluation of Precision Performance of Quantitative Measurement Methods; Approved Guideline.
- CLSI EP6-A, Vol 23, No. 16, Evaluation of the Linearity of Quantitative Measurement Procedures; Approved Guideline.
- CLSI EP7-A, Vol 22, No. 27, Interference Testing in Clinical Chemistry; Approved Guideline.
- CLSI EP9-A2, Vol 22, No. 19, Method Comparison and Bias Estimation Using Patient Samples; Approved Guideline
L. Test Principle:
The measurement principle is based on the American Thoracic Society (ATS) guidelines (ATS/ERS Recommendations for Standardized Procedures for the Online and Offline Measurement of Exhaled Lower Respiratory Nitric Oxide and Nasal Nitric Oxide, 2005. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2005;171:912-930). The last three second fraction of a 10 second exhalation is evaluated for average NO concentration. The exhalation flow is controlled to $50\mathrm{ml/s} \pm 5\mathrm{ml/s}$ at an applied pressure of 10 to 20 cm $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$. The inhaled air is NO free. Electrochemical detection, NO concentration derived from proportional electrical current.
M. Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
1. Analytical performance:
a. Precision/Reproducibility:
Analytical precision was determined in-house. Certified NO in $\mathrm{N}_2$ calibration gas of 200 ppb was mixed with nitrogen gas in a gas mixer, connected in-line with the NIOX MINO instrument, to obtain three NO concentration levels (15, 75, and 200 ppb). Two replicate determinations of each concentration were made twice a day (more than 2 hours apart) for 20 days. 10 NIOX MINO sensors, continually mounted in 10 NIOX MINO instruments, respectively, were used in these tests. All NIOX MINO instruments were tested and stored at ambient room conditions. The NIOX MINO instruments were continuously powered during the test period.
Repeatability is an estimate of variation within one test run in one day. Within-device precision is an estimate of variation between test runs and days. Both repeatability and within-device precision were calculated for the 10 instruments. The results at 15 ppb are expressed as absolute values in ppb.
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The results at the 75 and 200 ppb levels were expressed as percentage of the measured NO concentration. The results demonstrate that the repeatability and within-device precision are within the sponsor's specification limits: $< 3$ ppb of measured NO value $< 30$ ppb, $< 10\%$ of measured NO value $\geq 30$ ppb. The results are presented in the figure and table below.



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| Precision at 15, 75 and 200ppb. | | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Repeatability | | | Within-device precision | | |
| NO concentration, ppb | 15 | 75 | 213 | 15 | 75 | 213 |
| Limits | < 3 ppb | < 10 % | < 10% | < 3 ppb | < 10% | < 10% |
| NIOX MINO # | | | | | | |
| 1 | 0.9 ppb | 2.3 % | 3.9 % | 1.9 ppb | 4.0 % | 3.3 % |
| 2 | 1.1 ppb | 2.3 % | 2.5 % | 1.7 ppb | 4.0 % | 2.3 % |
| 3 | 1.0 ppb | 2.8 % | 2.4 % | 1.6 ppb | 4.1 % | 2.1 % |
| 4 | 0.7 ppb | 2.3 % | 2.4 % | 1.4 ppb | 4.0 % | 2.2 % |
| 5 | 0.7 ppb | 2.3 % | 2.3 % | 1.7 ppb | 4.0 % | 2.2 % |
| 6 | 0.8 ppb | 2.1 % | 1.9 % | 1.7 ppb | 3.3 % | 2.1 % |
| 7 | 0.6 ppb | 2.3 % | 2.5 % | 1.4 ppb | 4.1 % | 2.3 % |
| 8 | 1.3 ppb | 2.7 % | 2.3 % | 2.0 ppb | 4.4 % | 2.2 % |
| 9 | 0.8 ppb | 2.5 % | 2.5 % | 1.4 ppb | 4.1 % | 2.2 % |
| 10 | 0.8 ppb | 2.1 % | 2.1 % | 1.7 ppb | 3.7 % | 2.0 % |
# Clinical Precision
Reproducibility was assessed in a clinical setting, evaluating the variability between measurements performed in the same patient by different operators. Total 62 subjects were assessed. Three operators each took two completed measurements in the same subject in a point of care setting. The order of the three operators used was randomized and the subject was to attempt to perform two completed measurement with each operator; i.e. a total of six completed $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measurements per subject with the NIOX MINO®, within a maximum of 18 attempts per subject.
The table below shows the agreement among operators for first NIOX MINO measurement at six different measurement ranges. The standard deviation was based on the individual $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ values.
| | N | Within sd | 95 % CI for sd | Within CV | 95 % CI for CV |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Median 0-10 | 1 | 0.58 ppb | Not possible to calculate | 5.59 % | Not possible to calculate |
| Median 10-20 | 6 | 1 ppb | (0.61 ppb : 1.39 ppb) | 6.06 % | (3.78 % : 15.02 %) |
| Median 20-30 | 16 | 1.98 ppb | (1.27 ppb : 2.7 ppb) | 7.91 % | (5.83 % : 12.3 %) |
| Median 30-40 | 20 | 1.95 ppb | (1.37 ppb : 2.52 ppb) | 5.4 % | (4.1 % : 7.89 %) |
| Median 40-50 | 5 | 2.43 ppb | (1 ppb : 3.85 ppb) | 5.51 % | (3.3 % : 16.02 %) |
| Median 50+* | 12 | 3.74 ppb | (2.45 ppb : 5.03 ppb) | 6.26 % | (4.43 % : 10.67 %) |
*Within the patients with a median of $50+$ there were two subjects who had a very large variation. One had a CV of $75\%$ and one had $38\%$ . This row presents data excluding these two subjects.
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# b. Linearity/assay reportable range:
Linearity was evaluated using 10 concentration levels within the range 3-330 ppb (3, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, 300 and $330~\mathrm{ppb}$ ), with 3 replicates at each level. All NIOX MINO systems were scheduled for testing after keeping them continuously powered up for 0, 6, 12 and 18 months respectively, at ambient conditions, i.e. at room temperature, between $16^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ and $30^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ , and a relative humidity (RH) between $20\%$ and $60\%$ (non-condensing). The mean NO concentration for each set of replicates was plotted against the nominal NO concentration and the data subjected to regression analysis, applying option confidence intervals for slope.
The total regression analysis gave a slope of 1.03 and intercept 2.8.and the squared correlation coefficient $\mathbf{r}^2$ was $\geq 0.998$ for all the 20 devices tested. Results in NIOX MINO at 3 and 5 ppb are displayed as $< 5$ ppb, and results at 300 and 330 ppb are displayed as $>300$ ppb, and therefore these levels are not included in the plot. The results show that NIOX MINO® is linear within the measuring range of 5 - 300 ppb.

Linearity determination, plotted data from 20 NIOX MINO units
The combined effects of temperature and relative humidity (RH) were measured at $60^{\circ}\mathrm{F}$ , $72^{\circ}\mathrm{F}$ and $85^{\circ}\mathrm{F}$ ( $16^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ , $22^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ and $30^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ ) and $20\%$ , $40\%$ $60\%$ RH. This covers all the conditions within the low and high temperature and humidity ranges. Measures were taken at 15 ppb, and at 75 ppb, with standard reference gas mixtures of NO in $\mathbf{N}_2$ as nominal values for 15 ppb and 75 ppb. The data are presented in the tables below as the mean deviation from the nominal values 15 ppb and 75 ppb, respectively. The deviations are within the sponsor's technical specifications, i.e. $\pm 5$ ppb for the level 15 ppb and max $15\%$ for the level 75 ppb.
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| Effect of temperature and humidity measured at 15 ppb | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Temp °C | RH % | Mean deviation, ppb | n | Standard Error of Mean, ppb | Upper 95% confidence limit, ppb |
| 20-25 | 35-45 | 1.36 | 38 | 0.135 | 1.6 |
| 20-25 | 55, 60 | 1.09 | 18 | 0.145 | 1.4 |
| 16 | 20 | 1.25 | 10 | 0.301 | 1.9 |
| 15 | 35-45 | 0.78 | 10 | 0.176 | 1.2 |
| 32 | 35-45 | 1.61 | 9 | 0.548 | 2.9 |
| 30 | 60 | 1.84 | 10 | 0.284 | 2.5 |
| 20-25 | 15, 20 | 0.90 | 20 | 0.130 | 1.2 |
| Effect of temperature and humidity measured at 75 ppb | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Temp °C | RH % | Mean deviation, % | n | Standard Error of Mean, ppb | Upper 95% confidence limit, % |
| 20-25 | 35-45 | 5.2 | 38 | 0.66 | 6.3 |
| 20-25 | 55, 60 | 4.1 | 18 | 0.69 | 5.2 |
| 16 | 20 | 5.0 | 10 | 0.90 | 6.6 |
| 15 | 35-45 | 13.1 | 10 | 1.10 | 15.1 |
| 32 | 35-45 | 4.8 | 9 | 1.35 | 7.3 |
| 30 | 60 | 13.0 | 10 | 0.87 | 14.6 |
| 20-25 | 15, 20 | 5.6 | 20 | 0.92 | 7.2 |
c. Traceability, Stability, Expected values (controls, calibrators, or methods): The NIOX MINO Sensor is an electrochemical sensor pre-calibrated and preprogrammed by the manufacturer for a defined number of tests (50, 100 or 300 tests). The instrument is calibrated using certified gas concentrations of nitric oxide and prompts the user for upcoming exchange prior to sensor expiration and does not allow for measurements with an expired sensor.
The shelf life is 3.5 years from the manufacturing date of the NIOX MINO unit or 1500 measurements, whichever comes first. The sensor has a shelf life of 12 months from the manufacturing date, stored in unopened primary package.
The sensor expires after 4 months once opened and mounted in NIOX MINO instrument or after the specified number of measurements. When there is less than 10% of the number of the measurements left, or less than 2 weeks of use remaining, a message is shown on the display. The shelf life for NIOX Filter in unopened primary package is 3 years. NIOX Filter is for single use and must be replaced for every new patient and measurement occasion.
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# d. Detection limit:
Lowest detection limit was determined in a laboratory setting, using mixtures of standard reference NO gas and $\mathrm{N}_2$ gas below and above the detection limit, at 3 and 5 ppb. Three replicate determinations of each concentration were made at each occasion. 20 NIOX MINO sensors, continually mounted in 20 NIOX MINO instruments, respectively, were used in these tests. The resulting data at 3 ppb and 5 ppb are presented in the table below.
Measured data at 3 ppb and 5 ppb for 20 NIOX MINO units
| NIOX MINO NO | | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nominal 3 | replicate1 | 3,3 | 4,7 | 4,4 | 3,6 | 4,3 | 4,1 | 4 | 4,1 | 3,2 | 4,1 | 4,5 | 2,3 | 4,7 | 3,5 | 3,7 | 3,6 | 4,8 | 3,4 | 5,5 | 4,4 |
| | 2 | 4,4 | 3,4 | 4,7 | 3,8 | 5 | 3,6 | 4,5 | 2,7 | 2,9 | 3,9 | 4,2 | 4,4 | 3,8 | 4 | 4,9 | 4,3 | 4,6 | 4,2 | 3,7 | 3,6 |
| | 3 | 3,3 | 3,3 | 4,8 | 4 | 5 | 3,9 | 3,7 | 4,6 | 3,4 | 3,6 | 3,3 | 3,8 | 3,9 | 4,5 | 3,3 | 4 | 3,3 | 3,1 | 4,2 | 3,4 |
| | Average | 3,7 | 3,8 | 4,6 | 3,8 | 4,8 | 3,9 | 4,1 | 3,8 | 3,2 | 3,9 | 4,0 | 3,5 | 4,1 | 4,0 | 4,0 | 4,0 | 4,2 | 3,6 | 4,5 | 3,8 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Nominal 5 | replicate 1 | 6,8 | 5,6 | 6,1 | 5,3 | 5,6 | 5,3 | 6,4 | 4,6 | 4,1 | 6,8 | 5 | 6,2 | 4,9 | 5 | 5,4 | 5,3 | 6,5 | 5,8 | 6,6 | 4,8 |
| | 2 | 5,9 | 5,2 | 6,8 | 4,8 | 4,8 | 5,3 | 5,6 | 5,7 | 4,1 | 5 | 5,2 | 4,4 | 5,2 | 4,4 | 5,2 | 5,5 | 5,2 | 6,2 | 6,5 | 5,7 |
| | 3 | 5,1 | 5,3 | 5,8 | 4,3 | 7,1 | 6,1 | 5,7 | 6,1 | 5 | 5,2 | 4,7 | 4 | 6,5 | 5,9 | 6,6 | 5,8 | 5,8 | 5,3 | 6 | 5,2 |
| | Average | 5,9 | 5,4 | 6,2 | 4,8 | 5,8 | 5,6 | 5,9 | 5,5 | 4,4 | 5,7 | 5,0 | 4,9 | 5,5 | 5,1 | 5,7 | 5,5 | 5,8 | 5,8 | 6,4 | 5,2 |
At the nominal value of 3 ppb, the overall mean measured value was 3.95 ppb (95%CI 3.79;4.12). At the nominal value of 5 ppb, the overall mean measured value was 5.50 ppb (95%CI 5.31;5.70).
The manufacturer chose the specification limit for lowest detectable level at 5 ppb.
# e. Analytical specificity:
Sensor interference levels were tested in a laboratory setting. The substances and concentrations tested are summarized in the table below. Substances were selected based on their oxidizing potential, which could interfere with the electrochemical signal from NO detection. The concentrations were in the same range or higher than expected concentration of each substance in exhaled breath. The interference is calculated in relation to highest NO level in the measurement range, i.e. 300 ppb. The applicable concentration of each substance was generated, the gas stream was fed to the sensor by a gas-mixer, and the sensor signal was measured. All tests were performed at normal ambient conditions; Temperature between 20 and $24^{\circ}\mathrm{C}$ , relative humidity between 45 and $55\%$ .
Nitrogen Dioxide was the only detected significant interferent. The NIOX MINO® is designed to use a scrubber to eliminate Nitric Oxide and Nitrogen Dioxide and also other contaminants from the ambient air.
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| Interfering substances (calculated at 300 ppb NO) | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Substance | Concentration | Expected concentrations in exhaled breath of healthy subjects | Sensor Interference, equivalent to ppb NO |
| CO2 | ≤8 % | <4-5 % | <3 ppb |
| Ethanol | ≤165 ppm | 13 - 1000 ppb | <3 ppb |
| NH3(Ammonia) | ≤0.5 ppm | 50 - 500 ppb | <3 ppb |
| CO | ≤50 ppm | 0.5 - 15 ppm | <3 ppb |
| Isoprene | ≤1 ppm | 5 - 580 ppb | <3 ppb |
| H2O2 | ≤1 ppm | <1 ppb | <3 ppb |
| O2 | ≤21 % | <17 % | <3 ppb |
| H2 | ≤50 ppm | <20 ppm | <3 ppb |
| H2S | ≤1 ppm | 300 - 500 ppb | <3 ppb |
| Acetone | ≤10 ppm | 1.2 - 1880 ppb | <3 ppb |
| Acetonitrile | ≤100 ppb | <100 ppb | <3 ppb |
| Acetaldehyde | ≤100 ppb | <50 ppb | <3 ppb |
| NO2 | ≤200 ppb | Below detectable level | <10 ppb* |
*The gas scrubber in the instrument is designed to eliminate interference of Nitrogen Dioxide $(\mathrm{NO}_2)$ .
# Interference of exogenous substances
A clinical study was performed to investigate the influence of exogenous substances (chewing gum, carbonated beverage and mouthwash) on $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measured with NIOX MINO. The primary endpoint was the difference between baseline $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ and $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measured directly after, one and two hours after exposure to each exogenous substance. Results were obtained from 11 apparently healthy subjects between 20 and 65 years of age
The result showed that there are no statistically detectable changes in the $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ levels from baseline to 0 minutes, 1 or 2 hours assessments for chewing gum, carbonated beverage and mouth wash. The student's T-test for the difference between baseline $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ and $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measured one and two hours after exposure to each exogenous substance was calculated. The largest systematic change was observed for chewing gum, which demonstrated a decrease in the clinically observed difference with less than one ppb. The results for chewing gum are presented in the table below.
| Student's t-test of difference between baseline FENO and FENO measured immediately after, 1 and 2 hours after exposure to chewing gum. | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Difference | No. of observations | Mean | Standard deviation | t-value | p-value |
| immediately after vs baseline | 11 | 0.36 | 1.86 | 0.65 | 0.5310 |
| 1 hour vs baseline | 11 | -0.91 | 1.51 | -1.99 | 0.0744 |
| 2 hour vs baseline | 11 | -0.18 | 2.18 | -0.28 | 0.7880 |
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f. Assay cutoff: Not Applicable
# 2. Comparison studies:
a. Method comparison with predicate device:
A method comparison between NIOX MINO® and predicated device NIOX® in $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ values using the same subjects was performed. Data from the clinical study and the published study by Alving et al (Alving, K., C. Janson, and L. Nordvall, Performance of a new hand-held device for exhaled nitric oxide measurement in adults and children. Respir Res, 2006. 7: p. 67) were analyzed. The first reading in NIOX MINO was compared with the mean of readings in NIOX for each subject. Pooling the data yielded an N of 208 subjects and a regression analysis resulted in an intercept of 0.97 (95% CI - 0.65; 2.59) and a slope of 1.01 (95% CI 0.98; 1.05). The results are presented in the table below.
| Percentage of patients within sponsor's tolerance limits | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | First NIOXMINO | | |
| | Total | Subset <30 ppb | Subset >30ppb |
| | N=209 | N=111 | N=98 |
| Proportion of patients within limits | 94.2% | 100% | 87.7% |
| Lower limit of 95 % CI | 91.6% | 100% | 82.3% |
* For subjects with a $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ value below 50 ppb (mean of NIOX and NIOX MINO) the sponsor's tolerance limit was defined as $\pm 10$ ppb. For subjects with a $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ above 50 ppb the tolerance limit was defined as $\pm 20\%$ .

A scatter plot comparing the mean of two measurements with predicate, NIOX® with the first measurement in NIOX MINO® and the associated regression line
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The scatter plot showed that the deviation is increased at higher $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ values compared to values in the lower range. When divided in measurement ranges $>50$ ppb, $50 - 100$ ppb and $>100$ ppb, the Mean Difference in ppb, for one standard deviation is shown in table below:
Method Comparison
| Mean Range ppb | Standard Deviation |
| --- | --- |
| <50 ppb | 4.81 ppb |
| 50 – 100 ppb | 9.23 ppb |
| >100 ppb | 21.94 ppb |
b. Matrix comparison: Not applicable.
# 3. Clinical studies:
a. Clinical Sensitivity: Not applicable.
b. Clinical specificity: Not applicable.
c. Other clinical supportive data (when a. and b. are not applicable): A multi-center device randomized open-label prospective single-cohort study aimed at demonstrating substantial equivalence between NIOX MINO® and predicate device (NIOX®) when measuring the change of $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ that often occurs after 2 weeks of corticosteroid therapy compared to their baseline levels was conducted. Symptomatic asthmatic males and females, from 7 years of age performed two valid $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measurements at each visit, with NIOX MINO and NIOX respectively, with a limit of six exhalation attempts per subject in each device. The order of the $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measurement on NIOX MINO versus NIOX was randomized. At every visit and for every patient, spirometry was performed and asthma symptoms were recorded using Asthma Control Questionnaire® (ACQ). In total, 156 subjects were included, 105 adults 18 - 70 years old and 51 children 7 - 17 years old. 147 individuals performed valid measurements on both visits and were evaluated per protocol. The demographics of the subjects are presented in the table below.
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| | | Adults (N=105) | Children (N=51) | Total (N=156) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Gender | n (%) | | | |
| Male | | 53 (50.5) | 31 (60.8) | 84 (53.8) |
| Female | | 52 (49.5) | 20 (39.2) | 72 (46.2) |
| Ethnic origin | n (%) | | | |
| Caucasian | | 100 (95.2) | 42 (82.4) | 142 (91.0) |
| African | | 2 (1.9) | 2 (3.9) | 4 (2.6) |
| Hispanic | | - | 1 (2.0) | 1 (0.6) |
| Asian | | 2 (1.9) | 4 (7.8) | 6 (3.8) |
| Other | | 1 (1.0) | 2 (3.9) | 3 (1.9) |
| Age (years) | | | | |
| | Mean (SD) | 42.9 (14.9) | 12.3 (2.9) | 32.9 (19.0) |
| | Median | 42.0 | 13.0 | 30.0 |
| | Range | 18 to 70 | 7 to 17 | 7 to 70 |
| | n | 105 | 51 | 156 |
NIOX MINO® and the predicate, NIOX®, showed similar performance in $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ with minor non-significant differences between the types of device used (37.1% and 35.5% reduction in $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ , respectively). The reduction in $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ from visit 1 to follow-up visit 2, following corticosteroid treatment was significant for both devices. The patients' well-being which was followed with the validated ACQ (Asthma Control Questionnaire) also showed a significant improvement in the same range (39.7%) as the improvement of $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ values. These data (improvement in $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ and ACQ) were in accordance with the spirometry that also showed a significant improvement although the magnitude of the improvement using this method was less obvious (+6.9%).
The table below shows a summary of the primary and secondary outcome data for the Intent to Treat (ITT) population. The following two tables show the subgroup analyses for children and adults, respectively.
| Mean change between visit 1 and 2 for the two devices (NIOX MINO® versus predicate NIOX®) and change in clinical well being and spirometry. | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Mean % change | Standard Error of Mean, % | p-value1 | N |
| NIOX MINO | -37.1 | ±3.02 | <0.0001 | 151 |
| NIOX | -35.5 | ±2.89 | <0.0001 | 151 |
| ACQ | -39.7 | ±3.23 | <0.0001 | 151 |
| FEV1 | 6.9 | ±0.57 | <0.0001 | 149 |
$1 = \mathrm{p}$ -value for statistical significance of change vs baseline.
{13}
| Subset analysis for children, first attempt NIOX MINO | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Mean % change | Standard Error of Mean, % | p-value1 | n |
| NIOX MINO (first reading) | -41.1 | +/-4.39 | <0.0001 | 49 |
| NIOX | -42.0 | +/-4.63 | <0.0001 | 49 |
| ACQ | -35.8 | +/-6.50 | <0.0001 | 49 |
| FEV1 | 8.3 | +/-2.20 | 0.0005 | 48 |
$1 = \mathrm{p}$ -value for statistical significance of change vs baseline.
| Subset analysis for adults, first attempt NIOX MINO | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Mean % change | Standard Error of Mean, % | p-value1 | n |
| NIOX MINO (first reading) | -35.9 | +/-3.06 | <0.0001 | 102 |
| NIOX | -32.3 | +/-3.33 | <0.0001 | 102 |
| ACQ | -41.6 | +/-3.27 | <0.0001 | 102 |
| FEV1 | 6.3 | +/-1.35 | <0.0001 | 101 |
$1 = \mathrm{p}$ -value for statistical significance of change vs baseline.
The relationship between the percent change in $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ and the percent change in pre-bronchodilator $\mathrm{FEV}_{1}$ , post-bronchodilator Forced Expiratory Volume $(\mathrm{FEV}_{1})$ and the total symptom scores; Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) from V1 to V2 was investigated for the ITT population per the tables above.
118 out of 133 (89%) patients experienced a reduction of $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ had also an improvement in symptom score as measured by the ACQ. The magnitude of the $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ change and degree of improvement in ACQ are different because the scale and precision of these metrics varies. The data presented in the table below indicate that FEV1 (spirometry) and symptom score (ACQ) are different metrics and are not directly correlated with $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ in both NIOX MINO and the predicate, NIOX.
| Correlation between change in FENO and change in FEV1 and ACQ for NIOX and NIOX MINO in the ITT population (adults and children combined) | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | NIOX | NIOX MINO |
| Change in FEV1 | R-square correlation | -0.213 | -0.208 |
| | P-value | 0.0100 | 0.0120 |
| Change in asthma symptom score (ACQ) | | | |
| | R-square correlation | 0.274 | 0.244 |
| | P-value | 0.0008 | 0.0029 |
{14}
15
# Subgroup analysis, gender/sex
A significant difference between males and females for the proportion of patients within the sponsor’s tolerance limits was observed (see the table below). This indicates that sex could be a confounder when comparing measurements with NIOX MINO® and the predicate, NIOX®. As between men and women, in this study, 92% of the men and 77% of the women were within the sponsor’s tolerance limits. For subjects with a FE$_{\text{NO}}$ value below 50 ppb (mean of NIOX and NIOX MINO) the sponsor’s tolerance limit was defined as ±10 ppb. For subjects with a FE$_{\text{NO}}$ above 50 ppb the sponsor’s tolerance limit was defined as ±20%.
| Tolerance limit percentages for individual sexes | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | Number of Subjects PP | First NIOX MINO trial |
| | Total | n (%) within limits* |
| Females | 70 | 54 (77) |
| Males | 77 | 71 (92) |
* Fishers exact test: p=0.01
# Ethnicity
Another clinical study has been performed, comparing NIOX MINO® and the predicate, NIOX®, by Khalili et al (Khalili B, Boggs PB, Bahna SL. Reliability of a new hand-held device for the measurement of exhaled nitric oxide. Allergy 2007;62(10):1171-4), with 110 subjects wherein 32% were African Americans. A subgroup analysis comparing Caucasians and African Americans was performed on data from this study, and no statistical significant difference was observed between Caucasians and African Americans with respect to correlation coefficients (r=0.975 vs r=0.982, p=0.378 [Significance test based on Fisher Z-transform]). See the table below.
| Subgroup analysis comparing Caucasians and African Americans | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Parameter | African Americans (n=33) | Caucasians (n=76) | Entire group (n=109) |
| Correlation analysis | | | |
| R | 0.97 | 0.98 | 0.98 |
| p-value | < 0.0001 | < 0.0001 | < 0.0001 |
| Regression analysis | | | |
| Slope (95% CI) | 1.09 (1.00; 1.18) | 1.02 (0.97;1.06) | 1.05 (1.01; 1.09) |
| Intercept (95% CI) | -2.06 (-5.83; 1.70) | -0.48 (-1.83; 0.87) | -1.09 (-2.50; 0.31) |
| Tolerance limit analysis | | | |
| Proportion of patients within tolerance limits | 0.97 | 0.99 | 0.98 |
| Lower limit of 95% CI | 0.92 | 0.96 | 0.96 |
# 4. Clinical cut-off:
Not applicable.
{15}
5. Expected values/Reference range:
The expected values are provided from the literature. In the labeling the sponsor states, “Given that physiological and environmental factors can affect $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ levels, in clinical practice, ‘healthy’ $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ levels need to be established on an individual basis. However, most healthy individuals will have NO levels in the range 5-35 ppb (children slightly lower 5-25 ppb) when measured at $50~\mathrm{mL/s}$. (ATS/ERS Recommendations for Standardized Procedures for the Online and Offline Measurement of Exhaled Lower Respiratory Nitric Oxide and Nasal Nitric Oxide, 2005. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2005;171:912-930).”
N. Instrument Name:
NIOX MINO Breath Nitric Oxide Test System
O. System Descriptions:
1. Modes of Operation:
NIOX MINO System is a hand-held, portable system for the non-invasive, on-line, quantitative measurement of the fractional nitric oxide (NO) concentration in expires human breath ($\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$) measured in parts per billion (ppb).
The NIOX MINO system is comprised of the NIOX MINO unit with AC/DC adapter, an electrochemical sensor, disposable patient filter, a QC sensor, a QC filter, test card for storage of patient data, and an optional printer.
The NIOX MINO system includes a sampling and gas conditioning system and a man-machine interface (MMI). The user is guided on the built-in touch-screen display through the breathing maneuver by use of the interactive MMI. The valves and pumps of the instrument are automatically controlled to handle the inhaled samples appropriately via the instrument electronics and software program. Filtering of inhaled air eliminates contamination from ambient NO levels. A built-in flow control keeps exhalation at $50~\mathrm{ml/s}$ so that it is standardized for all patients. The NO concentration is detected by an electrochemical sensor. Results are processed using dedicated software and are expressed as the NO concentration in parts per billion (ppb).
NIOX MINO utilizes analytical electrochemical sensor. The test procedure starts with the patient emptying the lungs and then inhaling N)-free air to total lung capacity (TLC) in order to trigger the 10-second exhalation standard mode, through the mouthpiece.
2. Software:
FDA has reviewed applicant’s Hazard Analysis and software development processes for this product:
{16}
Yes ☐ X or No ☐
3. Specimen Identification:
There is no mechanism to identify the specimen.
4. Specimen Sampling and Handling:
The user obtains a breath sample by exhaling into the device.
5. Calibration:
The manufacturer performs the calibration for each NIOX MINO® Sensor. NIOX MINO Sensor is an electrochemical sensor pre-calibrated and pre-programmed for a defined number of tests (50, 100 or 300 tests). The user easily exchanges it upon expiration. The instrument prompts the user for upcoming exchange prior to sensor expiration and does not allow for measurements with an expired sensor.
6. Quality Control:
NIOX MINO® provides internal controls as well as an External Quality Control program for the user to verify the reliability of measurements.
The External Quality Control consists of a daily and a weekly control procedure. When the weekly quality control procedure is not performed successfully, the instrument's Lock-Out function is activated and the text "LOCK-OUT" is displayed. It is not possible to perform any $\mathrm{FE}_{\mathrm{NO}}$ measurements in the instrument when in Lock-Out mode. Once lock-out occurs, the mandatory Weekly Quality Control procedure must be immediately performed. The instrument cannot be used until this has been performed successfully.
Daily Quality Control Procedure consists of a biological control test of a human breath sample:
An exhaled breath sample from one or more qualified staff members is used. The staff member conducts a standard exhalation test, and the instrument is expected to display a result that is within the staff members moving average $\pm 10$ ppb, which average must remain within $10 - 40$ ppb. Values should be logged in a log book. See NIOX MINO® Quality Control Test User Manual.
Weekly Quality Control Procedure is mandatory and prompted for:
- Every time a new instrument is used for the first time.
- Every time a new NIOX MINO® Sensor has been mounted.
- After 45 measurements or 7 days, whichever comes first.
Weekly Quality Control tests consist of three sequentially performed tests, for details on the procedure; see NIOX MINO Quality Control Test User Manual.
1. The first test is performed using exhaled breath samples from one or more
17
{17}
qualified staff members. The staff member conducts a standard exhalation test, and the instrument is expected to display a result that is within the staff members moving average ± 10 ppb which average must remain within 10 - 40 ppb. Values should be logged in a log book. Values are logged in a log-book.
2. The second test is performed with the NIOX MINO® QC Filter, specially designed to present a sample which should be free of NO. When the instrument completes its analysis of this sample, it should present a result below the detection limit.
3. The third test uses a NIOX MINO® QC Sensor, specially designed to provide electronic signals to the NIOX MINO, simulating exhaled breath samples containing Nitric Oxide (NO) of 15 ppb and 75 ppb. These levels are in the clinical "normal" and the clinical "high" range.
There is also a possibility to manually prompt for this QC sequence, using a QC Test card.
P. Other Supportive Instrument Performance Characteristics Data Not Covered In The "Performance Characteristics" Section above:
Q. Proposed Labeling:
The labeling is sufficient and it satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Part 809.10.
R. Conclusion:
The submitted information in this premarket notification is complete and supports a substantial equivalence decision.
18
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Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
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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.
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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
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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.