The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is a qualitative in vitro test for the rapid detection of vancomycin-resistance (vanA and vanB) genes directly from perianal or rectal swabs. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay detects the presence of the vanA and vanB genes that can be associated with vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The assay is performed on an automated real-time PCR instrument with perianal or rectal swabs from individuals at risk for VRE colonization. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay can be used as an aid to identify, prevent and control vancomycin-resistant colonization in healthcare settings. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is not intended to diagnose VRE infections nor to guide or monitor treatment for VRE infections. Concomitant cultures are necessary to recover organisms for epidemiological typing, susceptibility testing and for further confirmatory identification.
Device Story
The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is a molecular diagnostic test for detecting vanA and vanB genes associated with VRE. Input consists of perianal or rectal swabs. The assay uses real-time PCR to amplify target genes and an internal control (IC). Molecular beacon probes (hairpin-forming oligonucleotides with fluorophore/quencher pairs) detect amplified DNA; fluorescence emission indicates target presence. The SmartCycler® instrument performs thermal cycling and monitors fluorescence. Software interprets data to provide qualitative results. Used in healthcare settings to identify VRE colonization for infection control. Results aid in screening; they do not diagnose active infection or guide therapy. Concomitant cultures are required for confirmation and susceptibility testing.
Clinical Evidence
Multisite prospective study (5 centers, 2156 specimens). Compared BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay to reference method (direct/enriched culture + alternative PCR). Sensitivity for VanR ranged 81.3%–100% (perianal) and 88.6%–100% (rectal). Specificity ranged 69.2%–98.6% (perianal) and 73.5%–100% (rectal). Initial unresolved rate 1.1%, reduced to 0.3% after retest.
Technological Characteristics
Real-time PCR assay; uses molecular beacons (FAM, Texas Red, TET fluorophores). Automated SmartCycler® System with I-CORE™ modules. Reagents: Master Mix, Control DNA, Diluent. Software-based interpretation of fluorescence. Sterilization/materials not specified beyond standard lab reagents.
Indications for Use
Indicated for individuals at risk for VRE colonization; qualitative detection of vanA and vanB genes from perianal or rectal swabs to aid in identification, prevention, and control of VRE colonization in healthcare settings. Not for diagnosing VRE infections or monitoring treatment.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An antimicrobial susceptibility test powder is a device that consists of an antimicrobial drug powder packaged in vials in specified amounts and intended for use in clinical laboratories for determining in vitro susceptibility of bacterial pathogens to these therapeutic agents. Test results are used to determine the antimicrobial agent of choice in the treatment of bacterial diseases.
Predicate Devices
Remel Bile Esculin Azide agar with 6 ug/mL vancomycin (BEAV) (K972359)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY ASSAY AND INSTRUMENT COMBINATION ONLY TEMPLATE
A. 510(k) Number:
k102416
B. Purpose for Submission:
The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay was submitted to obtain a substantial equivalence determination for vancomycin-resistance (vanA and vanB) from perianal or rectal swab specimens
C. Measurand:
Vancomycin resistant (VanA and vanB) genes
D. Type of Test:
Qualitative Nuclei Acid Amplification Test using Real-Time PCR technology, to detect vanA and vanB genes directly from perianal or rectal swabs
E. Applicant:
BD Diagnostics (GeneOhm Sciences, Inc)
F. Proprietary and Established Names:
BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay
G. Regulatory Information:
1. Regulation section:
21 CFR 866.1640
2. Classification:
Class II
3. Product code:
NIJ- System, test, genotypic detection, resistant markers, Enterococcus species
OOI- Nucleic acid amplification systems, real time
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4. Panel:
83 Microbiology
H. Intended Use:
1. Intended use(s):
The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is a qualitative *in vitro* test for the rapid detection of vancomycin-resistance (*vanA* and *vanB*) genes directly from perianal or rectal swabs. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay detects the presence of the *vanA* and *vanB* genes that can be associated with vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The assay is performed on an automated real-time PCR instrument with perianal or rectal swabs from individuals at risk for VRE colonization. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay can be used as an aid to identify, prevent and control vancomycin-resistant colonization in healthcare settings. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is not intended to diagnose VRE infections nor to guide or monitor treatment for VRE infections. Concomitant cultures are necessary to recover organisms for epidemiological typing, susceptibility testing and for further confirmatory identification.
2. Indication(s) for use:
The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is a qualitative *in vitro* test for the rapid detection of vancomycin-resistance (*vanA* and *vanB*) genes directly from perianal or rectal swabs. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay detects the presence of the *vanA* and *vanB* genes that can be associated with vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The assay is performed on an automated real-time PCR instrument with perianal or rectal swabs from individuals at risk for VRE colonization. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay can be used as an aid to identify, prevent and control vancomycin-resistant colonization in healthcare settings. The BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay is not intended to diagnose VRE infections nor to guide or monitor treatment for VRE infections. Concomitant cultures are necessary to recover organisms for epidemiological typing, susceptibility testing and for further confirmatory identification.
3. Special conditions for use statement(s):
Prescription use only
4. Special instrument requirements:
Automated SmartCycler® System (instrument, Dx Software version 1.7b, 3.0a or 3.0b)
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I. Device Description:
The test uses a perianal and/or rectal swab specimen, which is resuspended in a sample preparation buffer tube. The suspension is added to a lysis tube. The lysate is then added to a PCR master mix including vanA and vanB specific primers and an internal control (IC) template. The reaction takes place in a disposable reaction tube placed in the SmartCycler® analyzer. Discrimination of amplicons indicative of drug resistance is done by using a molecular beacon with different fluorometric properties than those of the beacon for the detection of the internal control.
The SmartCycler® software simultaneously monitors the fluorescence emitted by each molecular beacon probe, interprets all data, and provides a final result at the end of the cycling program.
The operation of the SmartCycler® is based on the proprietary microprocessor-controlled I-CORETM (Intelligent Cooling/Heating Optical Reaction) module (SmartCycler® Diagnostic, Operator Manual).
BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay Reagents
- Master Mix
- Control DNA
- Diluent
Materials Provided
- Sample buffer
- lysis tube
- Master Mix
- Control DNA
- Diluent
- SmartCycler reaction tubes, 25μL
- Specimen identification labels
Materials Required but not Provided
- Vortex Genie 2 (Fisher) with 1.5 mL microtube holder or equivalent; for processing multiple samples, an adapter capable of holding multiple tubes can be used
- Micropipettors (accurate range between 1-10 μL, 10-100 μL and 100-1000 μL)
- Sterile DNAse-free filter-blocked or positive displacement micropipettor tips
- DNAse-free microcentrifuge tubes
- Scissors
- Gauze
- Disposable gloves, powder less
- Microcentrifuge for low speed centrifugation
- Dry heating block specific for 1.5 mL tubes or water bath
- Ice or cooling block specific for 1.5 mL tubes
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# Interpretation of Results
The decision algorithm for the BD GeneOhm VanR Assay is embedded in the SmartCycler software. The interpretation of assay results is provided by clinical specimen type, instrument reported assay result, and instrument reported IC result.
## J. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate device name(s):
Remel Bile Esculin Azide agar with 6 µg/mL vancomycin
2. Predicate 510(k) number(s):
k972359
3. Comparison with predicate:
### Similarities
| Item | BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay | Remel Bile Esculin Azide agar with 6µg/mL vancomycin, k972359) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Intended Use | Screening for vancomycin resistance associated with Enterococcus | Same |
| Sample type | Perianal or rectal swab | Same |
| Type of Test | Qualitative | Same |
| Differences | | |
| Mode of detection | vanA, vanB gene | Growth/no growth in the presence of 6µg/mL vancomycin |
| Assay format | Amplification: PCR | Phenotypic detection based on growth |
| | Detection: Fluorogenic target-specific hybridization | |
| Interpretation of test results | Diagnostic software of SmartCycler® version 1.7b, 3.0a or 3.0b | Visual interpretation |
## K. Standard/Guidance Document Referenced (if applicable):
N/A
## L. Test Principle:
The rectal or perianal swab is eluted in sample buffer and the specimen is lysed. Following specimen lysis, amplification of the vanA and vanB targets occurs. Amplification of the internal control (IC), a DNA fragment of 294-bp including a 254-bp sequence not found in VRE, will also take place unless there are PCR
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inhibitory substances. The amplified DNA targets are detected with molecular beacons, hairpin-forming single stranded oligonucleotides labeled at one end with a quencher and at the other end with a fluorescent reporter dye (fluorophore). In the absence of target, the fluorescence is quenched. In the presence of target, the hairpin structure opens upon beacon/target hybridization, resulting in emission of fluorescence. For the detection of vanA amplicons, the molecular beacon contains the fluorophore FAM at the 5' end and the non-fluorescent quencher moiety DABCYL at the opposite end of the oligonucleotide. For the detection of the vanB amplicons, the molecular beacon contains the fluorophore Texas Red at the 5' end and the quencher DABCYL at the 3' end. For the detection of the Internal Control (IC) amplicons, the molecular beacon contains the fluorophore TET at the 5' end and the quencher DABCYL at the 3' end. Each beacon-target hybrid fluoresces at a wavelength characteristic of the fluorophore used in the particular molecular beacon. The amount of fluorescence at any given cycle, or following cycling, depends on the amount of specific amplicons present at that time. The SmartCycler® software simultaneously monitors the fluorescence emitted by each beacon, interprets all data, and provides a final result at the end of the cycling program.
## M. Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
### 1. Analytical performance:
#### a. Precision/Reproducibility:
The reproducibility panel consisted of low positives near the LoD, moderate and blank (negative) specimens. Panel members were prepared from samples containing negative matrix inoculated with organisms harboring the targeted genes. Specimen Processing Controls (SPC) and Run Controls (Positive and Negative) were included. Each panel member was tested in triplicate per panel run, over five days, with two runs per day and two technologists per site. Two external and one internal, with one lot of reagents, were used to assess site-to-site reproducibility. One clinical site participated in an extended study where two additional lots of reagents were tested to assess lot-to-lot reproducibility with low and moderate positive and negative members.
Site-to-site and lot-to-lot demonstrated >95% reproducibility across negative, low positive and moderate positive categories for both vanA and vanB.
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Site-to-site Reproducibility study Results (one lot)
| | Site | | | | | | Overall %Agreement | Ct Values | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Site 1 %Agreement | | Site 2 %Agreement | | Site 3 % Agreement | | | | Overall Mean | SD | %CV |
| NEG | 30/30 | 100% | 29/30 | 96.7% | 30/30 | 100% | 89/90 | 98.9% | 35.7† | 0.3† | 0.9%† |
| Low pos vanA | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 35.1 | 1.0 | 2.9% |
| Low pos vanB | 30/30 | 100% | 26/30 | 86.7% | 30/30 | 100% | 86/90 | 95.6% | 38.4 | 1.4 | 3.6% |
| Mod pos* vanA | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 34.0 | 1.1 | 3.3% |
| Low pos* vanB | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 37.2 | 1.4 | 3.7% |
† represent values from the internal control
* A single panel member contained both vanA and vanB containing VRE
Lot-to-lot Reproducibility study Results (three lots)
| | Lot 1 | | Lot 2 | | Lot 3 | | Overall %Agreement | | Ct Values | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | %Agreement | | %Agreement | | % Agreement | | | | Overall Mean | SD | %CV |
| NEG | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 35.6† | 0.3† | 1.0%† |
| Low pos vanA | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 35.1 | 1.0 | 1.9% |
| Low pos vanB | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 38.4 | 1.4 | 2.0% |
| Mod pos* vanA | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 34.0 | 1.1 | 2.0% |
| Low pos* vanB | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 30/30 | 100% | 90/90 | 100% | 37.2 | 1.4 | 2.0% |
† represent values from the internal control
* A single panel member contained both vanA and vanB containing VRE
An additional reproducibility study was conducted to assess high negative specimens below LoD. 100-fold and 10-fold dilutions were prepared to obtain the two high negative panel members. The more dilute panel member (i.e. 100-fold below the LoD) contained lower levels of target, demonstrated a higher % agreement for negative test results.
High negatives, site-to-site Reproducibility study Results
| High Negatives Panel | Site 1 | | Site 2 | | Site 3 | | Overall %Agreement | | Ct Values | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | %Agreement* | | %Agreement* | | % Agreement* | | | | Overall Mean | SD | %CV |
| 1:100 vanA | 22/30 | 73.3% | 21/30 | 70% | 23/30 | 76.7% | 66/90 | 73.3% | 39.2 | 0.9 | 2.2% |
| 1:100 vanB | 21/30 | 70.0% | 27/30 | 90% | 25/30 | 83.3% | 73/90 | 81.1% | 41.4 | 0.6 | 1.4% |
| 1:10 vanA | 0/30 | 0.0% | 2/30 | 6.7% | 1/30 | 3.3% | 3/90 | 3.3% | 38.0 | 1.1 | 2.9% |
| 1:10 vanB | 1/30 | 3.3% | 3/30 | 10.0% | 4/30 | 13.3% | 8/90 | 8.9% | 39.9 | 1.0 | 2.4% |
* Percent agreement for a negative result
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# Precision
Within-laboratory precision was evaluated for the BD GeneOhm VanR Assay at one site. Samples included simulated specimens representing low and moderate positive vanA and vanB containing VRE, high negative specimens (100-fold and 10-fold dilutions of a sample prepared at the LoD), and samples negative for VRE. The study was performed over 12 days, with two (2) runs per day and two (2) sample replicates (negative specimens) or three (3) sample replicates (low/moderate positives and high negatives) per run. All samples produced reportable results. Precision study results for negative samples, low and moderate positive samples demonstrated agreement for 100% of the replicates. The more dilute (1:100) high negative panel member, containing lower levels of target, demonstrated a higher percent agreement (68.1% and 69.4% for vanA and vanB respectively) for negative test results than the less dilute (1:10) panel member (1.4% and 4.2% for vanA and vanB respectively), which contains higher levels of target.
The following tables show the mean CT values and %CV obtained for the different types of samples.
| Variance component analysis POSITIVE results | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Category | Mean CT | Within Run CV | Between Run CV | Between Day CV | Overall CV |
| Low Pos vanA | 35.6 | 1.3% | 0.0% | 0.0% | 1.3% |
| Low Pos vanB | 37.2 | 1.2% | 0.0% | 0.1% | 1.2% |
| Mod Pos vanA | 33.5 | 0.9% | 0.3% | 0.0% | 1.0% |
| Mod Pos vanB | 36.3 | 1.3% | 0.0% | 0.0% | 1.4% |
| Variance components analysis NEGATIVE results | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Category | Mean CT | Within Run CV | Between Run CV | Between Day CV | Overall CV |
| 1:100 dil. vanA | 36.0 | 0.9% | 0.0% | 0.0% | 0.9% |
| 1:100 dil. vanB | 35.9 | 0.8% | 0.5% | 0.0% | 1.0% |
| 1:10 dil. vanA | 35.8 | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| 1:10 dil. vanB | 35.8 | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| NEG | 35.6 | 0.9% | 0.4% | 0.0% | 1.0% |
NA: Not enough data for calculation
b. Linearity/assay reportable range:
Not applicable
c. Traceability, Stability, Expected values (controls, calibrators, or methods):
Positive and negative controls are assay controls (run controls). Assay controls were performed at each site demonstrating acceptable QC results most of the time. The overall invalid result (i.e. failure of the positive and/or negative run controls) rates were 3.4% (6/177). The overall initial unresolved
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results (i.e. failure of the internal control) rate was 1.1%.
External specimen processing controls (E. faecalis ATCC 51299 for VRE, and E. faecalis ATCC 29212 as VSE) were also performed. There were a total of 156 SPC runs for the clinical trial, with an acceptable valid SPC rate of 91.7% (143/156).
## Stability Studies
### Reagents Stability
The reagents in their protective sealed pouches for the stability claim of 2-25°C were tested at 5±3 °C for 21 months and 25±2 °C for 12 months on three lots. Data supported that the reconstituted Master Mix and Control DNA were stable:
a) In the original container, in an ice bucket or cooling block at ambient temperature, for up to 3 hours.
b) In the SmartCycler tubes, in an ice bucket or cooling block at ambient temperature, for up to 1 hour.
c) Outside their protective pouch before reconstitution, for up to 2 hours at ambient temperature.
### Specimen Stability
The DNA amplifiability results showed that the four transport media allowed the sample eluate storage at ambient temperature for 48 hrs or 4°C for 5 days.
### d. Detection limit:
The limit of detection (LOD) was determined in rectal and perianal matrix with one vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium containing the vanA gene (ATCC 700221) and with three vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis, each containing one of the vanB₁ (ATCC 51299), vanB₂ (TUH1-75) or vanB₃ (TUH7-68) gene variants. Quantitative culture diluted into negative or perianal matrix was tested in 24 replicates. The LOD was determined using statistical modeling of the lowest concentration of viable organisms achieving 95% detection with the assay. The LoD was determined as follows:
| | Rectal | | Perianal | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | CFU/rxn | CFU/swab | CFU/rxn | CFU/swab |
| E. faecium vanA | 3 | 2500 | 1 | 833 |
| E. faecalis vanB₁ | 2 | 1449 | 5 | 3623 |
| E. faecalis vanB₂ | 3 | 2174 | 2 | 1449 |
| E. faecalis vanB₃ | 5 | 3623 | 14 | 10145 |
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# Analytical Reactivity
A total of 156 vancomycin resistant strains (representing 19 countries) from well characterized clinical isolates or public collections were evaluated using the BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay. The detection rate was 99.4% (155/156).
# Challenge Study
A challenge set comprising of 50 well characterized *Enterococci* spp. was evaluated. The study included 30 vancomycin resistance due to the *vanA* or *vanB*, 10 intrinsically vancomycin resistant (i.e. *vanC*), and 10 vancomycin susceptible *Enterococci*. All results were as expected.
e. Analytical specificity:
Genomic DNA or culture lysate were tested for the cross-reactivity study. It included one human DNA specimen, 98 closely related organisms, normal and pathogenic perianal and/or rectal flora, 27 strains of vancomycin-susceptible enterococci and vancomycin-resistant enterococci other than *vanA*/*vanB* (i.e. *vanC*, *vanC₂*, *vanD*, *vanE*, and *vanG*). All results were negative.
## Vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) strains
Genomic DNA of five VRSA strains from Network on Antimicrobial Resistance in *Staphylococcus aureus* (NARSA) were tested with the BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay to determine if amplification/detection of *vanA* and *vanB* genes occurred. The GeneOhm™ VanR Assay detected the *vanA* gene in all the VRSA strains; *vanB* was not detected in any of these strains. They were also positive on agarose gel for *vanA*.
## Potentially interfering substances
Potentially interfering substances were tested using materials that may be found in the rectum, such as petroleum jellies, creams, blood, suppositories. Undiluted hydrocortisone cream USP gave unresolved results; blood demonstrated an inhibitory effect and could cause a negative result for a low positive signal.
f. Assay cut-off:
Acceptance Criteria for the BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay were established during assay development and pre-validated at one external site with 216 specimens prior to the clinical trial. The acceptance criteria included: Endpoint threshold, 2nd derivative threshold, minimum cycle threshold, maximum cycle threshold, and IC% endpoint threshold.
The following table demonstrates the acceptance criteria for the assay:
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# Acceptance Criteria for BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay
| | Clinical specimens | | | Positive Control | | Negative Control |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Acceptance criteria | Assay | | Internal Control | Assay | | Internal Control |
| | vanA | vanB | | vanA | vanB | |
| Endpoint threshold | 15 | 10 | 30 | 40 | 70 | 30 |
| 2^{nd} derivative threshold | 25 | 25 | 30 | 25 | 25 | 30 |
| Minimum cycle threshold | 10 | 10 | 31 | 31 | 33 | 32 |
| Maximum cycle threshold | 45 | 45 | 42 | 39 | 41 | 41 |
| % IC NC endpoint | N/A | N/A | 50% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
## 2. Comparison studies:
The reference method consisted of direct culture complemented by enriched culture. Enriched culture analysis was completed for all specimens that were negative for VRE by direct culture. Direct culture was performed by inoculating specimens onto a primary isolation media containing Bile Esculin Azide agar supplemented with $6\mu \mathrm{g} / \mathrm{mL}$ vancomycin (BEAV). Enriched culture was performed by inoculating $300~\mu \mathrm{L}$ of sample buffer containing the specimen into BEA broth or BEAV broth (BEA broth supplemented with $6\mu \mathrm{g} / \mathrm{mL}$ vancomycin). Vancomycin resistance was determined for confirmed enterococcal colonies by using a MIC method. Confirmed vancomycin-resistant enterococcal isolates were further tested for genotypic characterization (i.e. vanA and vanB genes) by use of an alternative PCR method.
### a. Method comparison with predicate device:
See clinical studies below
### b. Matrix comparison:
Not Applicable
## 3. Clinical studies:
The clinical study was conducted at five medical centers. A total of 2156 specimens were tested using Direct/Enriched culture with alternative PCR and the BD GeneOhm VanR™ Assay, producing 2150 (1316 perianal and 834 rectal specimens) reportable results. Two hundred and twenty-two specimens (123 perianal and 99 rectal) were culture negative but positive for vanB only by the BD GeneOhm VanR™ PCR and may represent detection of the vanB gene in non-enterococcal organisms. Further investigation for non-enterococcal organisms
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that might contain the vanB gene was not performed.
In comparison to Direct/Enriched culture with alternative PCR, the BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay identified $92.9\%$ and $93.1\%$ of the perianal and rectal positive specimens, respectively, and identified $86.0\%$ and $82.2\%$ of the perianal and rectal negative specimens, respectively.
Clinical Performance by Perianal Specimens in comparison to Direct/Enriched culture with Alternative PCR
| | Sensitivity (95% CI1) | Specificity (95% CI1) | VRE Prevalence | PPV (95% CI1) | NPV (95% CI1) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| vanA | 88.2% (134/152) (81.9% - 92.8%) | 96.6% (1124/1164) (95.3% - 97.5%) | 11.1% (152/1372) | 77.0% (134/174) (70.0% - 83.0%) | 98.4% (1124/1142) (97.5% - 99.1%) |
| vanB | 100.0% (3/3) (29.2% - 100.0%) | 87.6% (1150/1313) (85.7% - 89.3%) | 0.2% (3/1372) | 1.8% (3/166) (0.4% - 5.2%) | 100.0% (1150/1150) (99.7% - 100.0%)) |
| VanR | 92.9% (144/155) (87.7% - 96.4%) | 86.0% (998/1161) (83.8% - 87.9%) | 11.3% (155/1372) | 46.9% (144/307) (41.2% - 52.7%) | 98.9% (998/1009) (98.1% - 99.5%) |
1 Binomial $95\%$ exact confidence intervals.
Clinical Performance by Rectal Specimens in comparison to Direct/Enriched culture with Alternative PCR
| | Sensitivity (95% CI1) | Specificity (95% CI1) | VRE Prevalence | PPV (95% CI1) | NPV (95% CI1) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| vanA | 86.4% (108/125) (79.1% - 91.9%) | 96.1% (681/709) (94.3% - 97.4%) | 15.4% (133/863) | 79.4% (108/136) (71.6% - 85.9%) | 97.6% (681/698) (96.1% - 98.6%) |
| vanB | 100.0% (7/7) (59.0% - 100.0%) | 82.5% (682/827) (79.7% - 85.0%) | 1.0% (9/863) | 4.6% (7/152) (1.9% - 9.3%) | 100.0% (682/682) (99.5% - 100.0%) |
| VanR | 93.1% (122/131) (87.4% - 96.8%) | 82.2% (578/703) (79.2% - 85.0%) | 16.3% (141/863) | 49.4% (122/247) (43.0% - 55.8%) | 98.5% (578/587) (97.1% - 99.3%) |
1 Binomial $95\%$ exact confidence intervals.
A total of 2152 specimens were tested using Direct Culture with alternative PCR and the BD GeneOhm VanR™ Assay, producing 2146 (1314 perianal, 832 rectal) reportable results. Two hundred and thirty-one specimens (129 perianal and 102 rectal) were culture negative but positive for vanB only by the BD GeneOhm VanR™ PCR and may represent detection of the vanB gene in non-enterococcal organisms. Further investigation for non-enterococcal organisms that might contain the vanB gene was not performed.
In comparison to direct culture with alternative PCR, the BD GeneOhm™ VanR Assay identified $95.0\%$ and $95.5\%$ of the perianal and rectal positive specimens, respectively, and identified $83.9\%$ and $81.0\%$ of the perianal and rectal negative specimens, respectively.
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Clinical Performance by Perianal Specimens in comparison to Direct culture with Alternative PCR
| | Positive Percent Agreement (95% CI*) | Negative Percent Agreement (95% CI*) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| vanA | 92.4%
(109/118)
(86.0%-96.5%) | 94.7%
(1133/1196)
(93.3%-95.9%) |
| vanB | 100.0%
(1/1)
(2.5%-100.0%) | 87.4%
(1148/1313)
(85.5%-89.2%) |
| VanR | 95.0%
(113/119)
(89.3%-98.1%) | 83.9%
(1003/1195)
(81.7%-86.0%) |
* Binomial 95% exact confidence intervals.
Clinical Performance by Rectal Specimens in comparison to Direct/Enriched culture with Alternative PCR
| | Positive Percent Agreement (95% CI*) | Negative Percent Agreement (95% CI*) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| vanA | 91.5%
(97/106)
(84.5%-96.0%) | 94.9%
(689/726)
(93.0%-96.4%) |
| vanB | 100.0%
(7/7)
(59.0%-100.0%) | 82.5%
(681/825)
(79.8%-85.1%) |
| VanR | 95.5%
(107/112)
(89.9%-98.5%) | 81.0%
(583/720)
(77.9%-83.8%) |
* Binomial 95% exact confidence intervals.
a. Clinical Sensitivity:
See perianal and rectal clinical performance studies above “...in comparison to Direct/Enriched culture with Alternative PCR”
b. Clinical specificity:
See perianal and rectal clinical performance studies above “...in comparison to Direct/Enriched culture with Alternative PCR”
c. Other clinical supportive data (when a. and b. are not applicable):
Not Applicable
4. Clinical cut-off:
Not applicable
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5. Expected values/Reference range:
## Perianal Specimens
| Health System | Total N | Number of VRE with vanA | Number of VRE with vanB | Number of VRE with vanA and/or vanB | Prevalence of VRE with vanA | Prevalence of VRE with vanB | Prevalence of VRE with vanA and/or vanB |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Multi-Institutional | 789 | 73 | 2 | 75 | 9.3% (73/789) | 0.3% (2/789) | 9.5% (75/789) |
| Academic | 583 | 79 | 1 | 80 | 13.6% (79/583) | 0.2% (1/583) | 13.7% (80/583) |
| Total | 1372 | 152 | 3 | 155 | 11.1% (152/1372) | 0.2% (3/1372) | 11.3% (155/1372) |
## Rectal Specimens
| Health System | Total N | Number of VRE with vanA | Number of VRE with vanB | Number of VRE with vanA and/or vanB | Prevalence of VRE with vanA | Prevalence of VRE with vanB | Prevalence of VRE with vanA and/or vanB |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Multi-Institutional | 417 | 79 | 9 | 87 | 18.9% (79/417) | 2.2% (9/417) | 20.9% (87/417) |
| Academic | 446 | 54 | 0 | 54 | 12.1% (54/446) | 0.0% (0/446) | 12.1% (54/446) |
| Total | 863 | 133 | 9 | 141 | 15.4% (133/863) | 1.0% (9/863) | 16.3% (141/863) |
## N. Instrument Name:
Automated SmartCycler® System (instrument, Dx Software version 1.7b, 3.0a or 3.0b)
## O. System Descriptions:
1. **Modes of Operation:**
The operation of the Smart Cycler instrument is based on the proprietary microprocessor-controlled I-CORE (Intelligent Cooling/Heating Optical Reaction) module. Each Smart Cycler processing block contains 16 independently controlled, programmable I-CORE modules, each with one reaction site. Thermally optimized proprietary reaction tubes combined with the design of the I-CORE modules allow very rapid temperature cycling and rapid amplification. Up to 6 Smart Cycler processing blocks can be daisy-chained together, allowing simultaneous analysis of 96 discrete samples. Information regarding data acquisition, data analysis and diagnostic algorithm was submitted and cleared under k022504 and k042357
2. **Software:**
FDA has reviewed the applicant’s Hazard Analysis and software development processes for this line of product types:
{13}
Yes ☐ X or No ☐
3. Specimen Identification:
A liquid or soft stool specimen is collected and transported to the laboratory. A sterile dry swab is dipped into the liquid or soft stool material and processed.
4. Specimen Sampling and Handling:
For testing, the swab is eluted in sample buffer and the specimen is lysed. An aliquot of the lysate is added to PCR reagents which contain the vanA and vanB specific primers used to amplify the genetic target, if present. Amplified targets are detected with hybridization probes labeled with quenched fluorophores (molecular beacons). The amplification, detection and interpretation of the signals are done automatically by the Cepheid SmartCycler software. The entire procedure takes about 60 to 75 minutes
5. Calibration:
N/A
6. Quality Control:
Positive and Negative Controls
Quality control procedures are designed to monitor assay performance. The positive control is intended to monitor substantial reagent failure. The negative control is used to detect reagent or environmental contamination (or carry-over) by either DNA containing vanA or vanB genes or amplicons. Positive and negative controls are assay controls (run controls). An invalid control invalidates the run. Finally, an internal control incorporated into each reaction mixture is intended to monitor the reagent integrity and PCR inhibition in each specimen.
One positive control and one negative control must be included in each assay run on the SmartCycler®. The software automatically assigns the position of the controls on the instrument.
Specimen Processing Controls
A reference VRE strain (e.g. American Type Culture Collection, ATCC 51299) or a well characterized VRE clinical isolate may be used as a positive specimen processing control. A vancomycin sensitive enterococci (e.g. ATCC 29212) or non-vanA/vanB VRE (e.g. Enterococcus gallinarum ATCC 700425) may be used as a negative specimen processing control.
Re-suspend isolated colonies from an 18 to 24 h 5% sheep blood agar plate in saline to a turbidity of 0.5 McFarland (approximately 1.5 x 10⁵ CFU/mL). Dilute
14
{14}
with saline to obtain a suspension of approximately 10⁶ CFU/mL. Dip a recommended swab into the bacterial suspension and press out the excess fluid. Process and test as a clinical specimen. The specimen processing controls should yield valid results.
P. Other Supportive Instrument Performance Characteristics Data Not Covered In The "Performance Characteristics" Section above:
Not Applicable
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.
15
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Learn the FDA Browser
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.