Brainlab knee is intended to be an intraoperative image guided localization system to enable minimally invasive surgery. It links a freehand probe, tracked by a passive marker sensor system to virtual computer image space on an individual 3D-model of the patient's bone, which is generated through acquiring multiple landmarks on the bone surface. The system is indicated for any medical condition in which the use of stereotactic surgery may be appropriate and where a reference to a rigid anatomical structure, such as the skull, a long bone, or vertebra, can be identified relative to a CT, x-ray, MR-based model of the anatomy. The system aids the surgeon to accurately navigate a knee prosthesis to the intraoperatively planned position. Ligament balancing and measurements of bone alignment are provided by Brainlab knee.
Device Story
Intraoperative image-guided surgery system for total knee replacement; utilizes freehand probe tracked by passive marker sensor system; maps physical landmarks on femur/tibia to virtual 3D bone models; enables navigation of knee prosthesis to planned positions; provides ligament balancing and bone alignment measurements. Used in OR by surgeons; integrates with Smith & Nephew Motorized Cutting Guide (MCG) for automated block positioning. Features disposable clip-on remote control for point/direction acquisition. Benefits include minimally invasive surgical guidance and improved alignment accuracy. Surgeon views real-time navigation data on display to guide instrumentation and implant placement.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Validation included comparison to established predicate history, literature research, usability testing, prototyping, simulations, design reviews, and cadaver testing. Workbench tests compared cut and implant positions to theoretical values on milled model bones.
Technological Characteristics
Image-guided stereotaxic instrument; passive marker sensor system; freehand probe; disposable clip-on remote control. Integrates with motorized cutting guides. Software-based landmark visualization and alignment calculation. Operates on released hardware platforms. Sterilization requirements for instruments apply.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients undergoing orthopedic surgical procedures, including total knee replacement, ligament balancing, range of motion analysis, and patella tracking, where stereotactic surgery is appropriate and anatomical structures (skull, long bone, vertebra) can be referenced to CT, x-ray, or MR-based models.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A stereotaxic instrument is a device consisting of a rigid frame with a calibrated guide mechanism for precisely positioning probes or other devices within a patient's brain, spinal cord, or other part of the nervous system.
PiGalileo Total Knee Replacement (TKR) System (K061362)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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# K102990
APR - 4 2011
## 510 (k) Summary of Safety and Effectiveness for Brainlab knee
#### Manufacturer:
Address:
BrainLAB AG Kapellenstrasse 12 85622 Feldkirchen Germany +49 89 99 15 68 0 Phone: ് +49 89 99 15 68 33 Fax:
Mr. Alexander Schwiersch
Contact Person:
Summary Date:
#### Device:
| Trade name: | Brainlab knee |
|-----------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common/Classification Name: | Brainlab knee, BrainLAB Image Guided Surgery<br>System / Instrument, Stereotaxic |
| Regulation Number: | 21 CFR 852.4560 |
| Product code: | OLO |
#### Predicate Device:
Brainlab knee (K073615) PiGalileo Total Knee Replacement (TKR) System (K061362 )
Device Classification Name: Instrument, Stereotaxic Requlatory Class: Class II
#### Intended Use:
、
Brainlab knee is intended to be an intraoperative image guided localization system to enable minimally invasive surgery. It links a freehand probe, tracked by a passive marker sensor system to virtual computer image space on an individual 3D-model of the patient's bone, which is generated through acquiring multiple landmarks on the bone surface. The system is indicated for any medical condition in which the use of stereotactic surgery may be appropriate and where a reference to a rigid anatomical structure, such as the skull, a long bone, or vertebra, can be identified relative to a CT, x-ray, MR-based model of the anatomy. The system aids the surgeon to accurately navigate a knee prosthesis to the intraoperatively planned position. Ligament balancing and measurements of bone alignment are provided by Brainlab knee.
Page 1 of 2
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Example orthopedic surgical procedures include but are not limited to:
- · Total Knee Replacement
- · Ligament Balancing
- · Range of Motion Analysis
- · Patella Tracking
#### Device Description:
Brainlab knee is an image guided surgery system for total knee replacement surgery . based on landmark based visualization of the femur and tibia.
#### Substantial equivalence:
Brainlab knee has been verified and validated according to BrainLAB procedures for product design and development. The information provided by BrainLAB in this 510 (k) application was found to be substantially equivalent with the predicate device Brainlab knee (K073615) and "PiGalileo Total Knee Replacement (TKR) System (K061362)".
#### Changes to Predicate Device
Brainlab knee has changed in the following from Predicate Device:
- Compatibility to Smith&Nephew's Motorized Cutting Guide (MCG). Which . itself has FDA clearance under PiGalileo Total Knee Replacement (K061362). The MCG is brings the cutting block into the position, which is planned in the software.
- Alignment Verification Procedure. A condensed workflow, based entirely on . existing algorithms without the necessity to attach reference arrays to the bone. This procedure allows measurement of the alignment of a static cutting block with patient anatomy.
- Disposable Clip-on Remote Control. A facultative enhancement of the existing . pointer. Instead of pivoting the user can press a button on the clip to acquire points. It is also possible to acquire direction with a simple button click instead of holding the pointer still.
#### Verification/validation summary
To verify the correct functionality of the system Brainlab knee, all relevant test documentation coming from the risk analysis and specifications of each component has been compiled into one system. The system guarantees that all risks and associated tests are traceable and verify that no open risks or untested specifications occur. All inherited modules such as hardware platform, instruments, licenses etc. are taken into account.
The functionality is verified on all released platforms. BrainLAB industrial designers verified compliance of the interface to Brainlab standard. Workbench test have been
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performed on precisely milled model bones. Cut and implant positions have been compared to theoretical values.
The following validation methods were used to validate system Brainlab Knee:
- Comparison of the design to a previous product having an established history . of successful use
- Literature research and corresponding database search ●
- Testing and evaluation under real world conditions .
- Usability tests, prototyping and simulations .
- Design reviews .
- t Software Validation
Validation activities have successfully been performed according to the indications for use. The validation is supported by design reviews with many of the initial design surgeons and a cadaver test.
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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 caduceus symbol, which features a staff with a snake winding around it, overlaid on a circle. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES USA" is arranged around the upper portion of the circle.
Food and Drug Administration i 0903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Room -WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
BrainLAB AG % Mr. Alexander Schwiersch Kapellenstrasse 12 85622 Feldkirchen. Germany
APR - 4 2511
Re: K102990
Trade/Device Name: Brainlab Knee Regulation Number: 21 CFR 882.4560 Regulation Name: Stereotaxic instrument Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: OLO Dated: March 24, 2011 Received: March 28, 2011
Dear Mr. Schwiersch:
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. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you; however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to 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
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Page 2 – Mr. Alexander Schwiersch
comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); 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.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please go to http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/CDRH0ffices/ucm115809.htm for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's (CDRH's) Office of Compliance. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportalProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
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 (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Resourcesfor You/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
Ay B. Rh
fr
Mark N. Melkerson Director Division of Surgical, Orthopedic And Restorative Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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### Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known): |<| 02990
Device Name: Brainlab Knee
Indications For Use:
Brainlab Knee is intended to be an intraoperative image guided localization system to enable minimally invasive surgery. It links a freehand probe, tracked by a passive marker sensor system to virtual computer image space on an individual 3D-model of the patient's bone, which is generated through acquiring multiple landmarks on the bone surface. The system is indicated for any medical condition in which the use of stereotactic surgery may be appropriate and where a reference to a rigid anatomical structure, such as the skull, a long bone, or vertebra, can be identified relative to a CT, x-ray, MR-based model of the anatomy. The system aids the surgeon to accurately navigate a knee prosthesis to the intraoperatively planned position. Ligament balancing and measurements of bone alignment are provided by Brainlab Knee.
Example orthopedic surgical procedures include but are not limited to:
- · Total Knee Replacement
- · Ligament Balancing
- · Range of Motion Analysis
- · Patella Tracking
Prescription Use X (Per 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) AND/OR
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
NeK.R.P.de/m for mxm
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Surgical, Orthopedic, and Restorative Devices
. 510(k) Number K102990
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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.
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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.