The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm. When therapy is performed under MRI guidance, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time. The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician. this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.
Device Story
System comprises laser source, cooled laser applicator, coolant pump, and MRI-integrated workstation. Physician uses workstation to control laser output and coolant pump. During MRI-guided therapy, system processes MRI data to visualize relative tissue temperature changes. Software enables prescription of temperature limits at specific image locations; system provides automatic laser deactivation (interlock) if limits are reached. User retains ability to override interlock. System provides real-time thermal monitoring to assist physician in assessing therapy progress. Benefits include increased safety and precision in thermal therapy delivery. Device used in clinical settings by trained physicians.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. No clinical data provided.
Technological Characteristics
System includes laser source (800-1064nm), cooled applicator, coolant pump, and workstation. Connectivity via computer interface port. Software performs PRF shift analysis and image subtraction for thermal mapping. Compatible with GE Signa and Siemens Magnetom Espree MRI scanners.
Indications for Use
Indicated for soft tissue necrosis or coagulation via interstitial irradiation/thermal therapy under MRI guidance. Applicable across various surgical specialties including neurosurgery, orthopedics, and general surgery. Compatible with GE Signa and Siemens Magnetom Espree MRI systems.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A medical image management and processing system is a device that provides one or more capabilities relating to the review and digital processing of medical images for the purposes of interpretation by a trained practitioner of disease detection, diagnosis, or patient management. The software components may provide advanced or complex image processing functions for image manipulation, enhancement, or quantification that are intended for use in the interpretation and analysis of medical images. Advanced image manipulation functions may include image segmentation, multimodality image registration, or 3D visualization. Complex quantitative functions may include semi-automated measurements or time-series measurements.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls; voluntary standards—Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) Std., Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) Std., Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Test Pattern).
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K 081656
SEP 1 0 2008
### 510(k) Summary
In accordance with the Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990 and in compliance with 21CFR 807, the following serves as the 510(k) Summary information upon which the substantial equivalence determination is based.
# Contact Information
| Submitter: | BioTex, Inc.<br>8058 El Rio St.<br>Houston, TX 77054 |
|-----------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Phone: | 713.741.0111 |
| Contact Person: | Roger McNichols, Ph.D.<br>8058 El Rio St.<br>Houston, TX 77054<br>713.741.0111 |
| Date Prepared: | 7 May 2008 |
# Device Names
| | Trade/Proprietary Name: Visualase® Thermal Therapy System |
|----------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Name: | Magnetic Resonance Image-Guided Thermal<br>Therapy System |
| Classification Name: | Picture Archiving and Communication System<br>Powered Surgical Laser Instrument/Applicato<br>Infusion Pump |
| Product Code: | LLZ (Image Processing System),<br>GEX (Surgical Laser, Laser Applicator)<br>FRN (Infusion Pump) |
| Reg.Class: | Class II |
| Reg. Number: | 21CFR892.2050 (LLZ)<br>21CFR878.4810 (GEX)<br>21CFR880.5725 (FRN) |
## Predicate Devices
Visualase Thermal Therapy System, K071328.
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## Description of Device
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System comprises four devices: a laser_ energy source, a cooled laser applicator, a pump for circulating coolant through the applieater, and a computer workstation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis software for determination and visualization of relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. A software application running on the workstation allows the workstation user to control the laser output and to operate the coolant pump from the workstation interface. Additionally, when appropriate thermal imaging guidance is used, temperature limits may be associated with prescribed image locations and used as an interlock for automatic deactivation of the laser output.
A previous version of the Visualase Thermal Therapy System has been cleared for marketing via 510(k) notification (Visualase Thermal Therapy System, The instant version of this system extends the functionality of the K071328). predicate version by providing a software interface for control of the laser output through the computer interface port of the laser component and on/off operation of the pump through a similar interface. When used with appropriate magnetic resonance thermal imaging guidance, a software tool may be used to prescribe limits for the temperature at certain points in the image which can, in turn, be used to deactivate the laser if the limits are reached. Thus this system provides an additional level of "interlock" security over the previous version which may increase safety and/or precision of the treatment prescription. It is important to note that while temperature image information can be used to automatically deactivate the laser as a safety precaution, the user may, at his discretion, override the interlock and proceed with additional laser energy deposition if warranted. Further, it is important to note that the added security feature is in no way capable of energizing the laser on its own. The laser may ONLY be activated by a deliberate action from the user. Thus the added feature serves only as an additional safety interlock on the laser system similar to many other common safety features.
Computer control of the coolant pump status (ON/OEE) provides an additional convenience to the user and also provides an additional safety feature since, when the laser is operated from the workstation interface, activation of the laser can be made dependent on first activating the coolant pump.
The addition of these features to the Visualase system has no effect on the Indications for Use statement which remains unchanged from the predicate device (except that we have now extended compatibility to Siemens MBI systems).
## Indications for Use
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general
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surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm.
When therapy is performed under MRI guidance, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time.
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician. this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.
## Comparison to Predicate Devices
The indications for use for the newest Visualase Thermal Therapy System are essentially the same as those of the antecedent system except that compatibility has been extended to Siemens Medical Solutions MRI systems.
# Non-clinical Performance Tests
Performance, specifications, and technical data for the components of the Visualase component devices are essentially unchanged from the previous version, and are therefore not included here.
#### Conclusion
The instant version of the Visualase Thermal Therapy System is substantially equivalent to the predicate version. The additional features do not affect the specifications or function of the system as a whole.
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Image /page/3/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a stylized eagle with three overlapping wing-like shapes, symbolizing health and human services. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES (USA)" is arranged in a circular fashion around the eagle emblem.
SEP 1 0 2008
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
BioTex, Inc. % Roger McNichols, Ph.D. Vice President 8058 El Rio Street Houston, Texas 77054
Re: K081656
Trade/Device Name: Visualase Thermal Therapy System Regulation Number: 21 CFR 892.2050 Regulation Name: Picture archiving and communications system Regulatory Class: II Product Code: LLZ, GEX, FRN Dated: June 9, 2008 Received: June 12, 2008
Dear Dr. McNichols:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA), You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
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### Page 2 - Roger McNichols, Ph.D.
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's (CDRH's) Office of Compliance at (240) 276-0115. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding postmarket surveillance, please contact CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometric's (OSB's) Division of Postmarket Surveillance at (240) 276-3474. For questions regarding of device adverse events (Medical Device Reporting (MDR)), please contact the Division of Surveillance Systems at (240) 276-3464. You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (240) 276-3150 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/industry/support/index.html.
Sincerely yours,
Mark N. Millman
Mark N. Melkerson Director Division of General, Restorative and Neurological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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Indications for Use Statement
510(k) Number (if known): K081656
Device Name:
Indications for Use:
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm.
When therapy is performed under MRI guidatice, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time.
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician, this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.
Division Sign-Off
Division of General, Restorative, and Neurological Devices
510(k) Number /k081656
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Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.