The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control is an extracorporeal bypass control unit intended to be used to provide circulatory support for periods up to 6 hours. It is also intended to be used to provide circulatory support (for periods up to 6 hours) during procedures not requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. The Impella Controller with Flow Control is intended to be used by trained healthcare professionals in healthcare facilities and medical transport (i.e. ambulance, helicopter, or fixed-wing aircraft) environments. The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control also displays pressure measurement readings, which are useful in determining intravascular pressure.
Device Story
Microprocessor-based pump motor driver; controls and monitors Impella Percutaneous Support Catheters; provides circulatory support for up to 6 hours. Inputs include motor power and infusate parameters; outputs include pump motor control and intravascular pressure readings. Operates in two modes: Speed Control (RPM-based) and Flow Control (outflow-based). Used by trained healthcare professionals in hospitals and medical transport (ambulance, helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft). Healthcare providers use the console to set support levels and monitor patient pressure, facilitating clinical decision-making regarding circulatory support. Benefits include precise control of pump output to maintain patient hemodynamics.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. In vitro testing verified the Flow Control Mode met specifications, including system durability, system characterization, and system flow characterization. Testing confirmed the Flow Control Algorithm behaves as designed and is equivalent to the predicate's speed control mode. Compliance with IEC 60601-1-2 (EMC/EMI), IEC 60601-1 (electrical safety), ISTA 2A/EN 868 (packaging), and RTCA/DO-160C (altitude/vibration) was demonstrated.
Technological Characteristics
Microprocessor-based console; identical hardware to predicate. Software-driven control of miniature centrifugal pump motors. Connectivity includes pressure measurement display. Complies with IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, and RTCA/DO-160C. Software design follows FDA 2005 guidance.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients requiring circulatory support for up to 6 hours, including procedures not requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. Intended for use by trained healthcare professionals in hospital and medical transport environments.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A nonroller-type cardiopulmonary and circulatory bypass blood pump is a prescription device that uses a method other than revolving rollers to pump the blood through an extracorporeal circuit for periods lasting less than 6 hours for the purpose of providing either:(i) Full or partial cardiopulmonary bypass (i.e., circuit includes an oxygenator) during open surgical procedures on the heart or great vessels; or(ii) Temporary circulatory bypass for diversion of flow around a planned disruption of the circulatory pathway necessary for open surgical procedures on the aorta or vena cava.
Special Controls
*Classification* —Class II (special controls). The special controls for this device are:(i) Non-clinical performance testing must perform as intended over the intended duration of use and demonstrate the following: Operating parameters, dynamic blood damage, heat generation, air entrapment, mechanical integrity, and durability/reliability;
(ii) The patient-contacting components of the device must be demonstrated to be biocompatible;
(iii) Sterility and shelf life testing must demonstrate the sterility of patient-contacting components and the shelf life of these components; and
(iv) Labeling must include information regarding the duration of use, and a detailed summary of the device- and procedure-related complications pertinent to use of the device.
(b)
*Nonroller-type temporary ventricular support blood pump* —(1)*Identification.* A nonroller-type temporary ventricular support blood pump is a prescription device that uses any method resulting in blood propulsion to provide the temporary ventricular assistance required for support of the systemic and/or pulmonary circulations during periods when there is ongoing or anticipated hemodynamic instability due to immediately reversible alterations in ventricular myocardial function resulting from mechanical or physiologic causes. Duration of use would be less than 6 hours.(2)
*Classification.* Class III (premarket approval).(c)
*Date premarket approval application (PMA) or notice of completion of product development protocol (PDP) is required.* A PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required to be filed with FDA on or before September 8, 2015, for any nonroller-type temporary ventricular support blood pump that was in commercial distribution before May 28, 1976, or that has, on or before September 8, 2015, been found to be substantially equivalent to any nonroller-type temporary ventricular support blood pump that was in commercial distribution before May 28, 1976. Any other nonroller-type temporary ventricular support blood pump shall have an approved PMA or declared completed PDP in effect before being placed in commercial distribution.
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# IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control 510(k) Summary
This summary of 510(k) safety and effectiveness information is being submitted in accordance with the Safe Medical Devices Act (SMDA) of 1990 and Title 21 of the Code of Federal Requiations. Part 807.92.
# A. Application Information:
Date Prepared:
April 27, 2011
K110845
Submitter's Name & Address:
ABIOMED, Inc. 22 Cherry Hill Drive Danvers, MA 01923
Contact Person:
Dr. Robert Stewart Manager, FDA Programs Ph: 978-646-1567 Fax: 978-777-5692 E-mail: rstewart@abiomed.com
### B. Device Information:
Trade or Proprietary Name: Common or Usual Name: Classification Name: Performance Standard:
IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control Non-roller type Cardiopulmonary Blood Pump Class III, KFM, 21 CFR - 870.4360 Performance standards do not currently exist for these devices. (i.e. none established under section 514 of the F D & C Act.)
### C. Predicate Device:
The Impella Controller (K093801).
## D. Device Description:
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control is identical to the IMPELLA Controller in its physical characteristics. The only difference is that an additional operating mode. Flow Control Mode, has been implemented via a software modification. Both the IMPELLA Controller and the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control are identical microprocessor-based pump motor drivers incorporating an infusion system. They both are intended to be used by trained healthcare professionals in hospital and medical transport environments.
#### E. Intended Use:
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control is an extracorporeal bypass control unit intended to be used to provide circulatory support for periods up to 6 hours. It is also intended to be used to provide circulatory support (for periods up to 6 hours) during procedures not requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. The Impella Control is intended to be used by trained healthcare professionals in healthcare facilities and medical transport (i.e. ambulance, helicopter. or fixed-wing aircraft) environments.
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control also displays pressure measurement readings, which are useful in determining intravascular pressure.
## F. Technological Characteristics:
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control employs identical functional scientific technology as its predicate device cleared under K093801.
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## G. Comparison to Predicate Device:
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control has the same intended use as its predicate system, the IMPELLA Controller. The primary function of the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control is identical to that of the predicate system, which is supplying motor power and infusate to control and monitor an IMPELLA Percutaneous Support Catheter. Both the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control and its predicate system are software driven. microprocessor-based consoles. It has a hardware configuration identical to the IMPELLA Controller.
The only difference between the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control and the predicate IMPELLA Controller is a modification in the internal software to allow a Flow Control Mode of operation, which permits the User to set the circulatory support level (i.e. outflow from the nonroller pump) of the IMPELLA Percutaneous Support Catheters. The IMPELLA Controller, on the other hand, uses a Speed (called "Performance level") Control Mode (P1 to P9) to control the RPM of the miniature centrifuqal pump motors in the IMPELLA Percutaneous Catheters. The Speed Control Mode is still available in the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control. The equivalency of the indications for use, the design features and the functional characteristics of the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control raise no new safety or effectiveness issues.
## H. Summary of Performance Data:
As with the predicate IMPELLA Controller (cleared under K093801):
International standards were met for the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control:
- Electromagnetic compatibility testing was in conformance with IEC 60601-1-2, including ● all pertinent IEC 61000-3-X and IEC 61000-4 --X standards for EMC/EMI along with EN 55011.
- . Electrical safety testing was in conformance with IEC 60601-1- Part 1.
- Packaging and shipping testing was in conformance with ISTA 2A and EN 868. .
- Altitude and vibration testing during operation was tested per RTCA/DO-160C.
Software design & testing for the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control complied with:
- FDA 2005 document titled "Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff- Guidance for the � Content of Pre-market Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices".
Performance characteristics of the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control were tested in vitro to verify that the new Flow Control Mode met its specifications. The main in vitro systems tests completed were:
- System Durability Testing. .
- . System Characterization Test.
- System Flow Characterization Test.
Additional specialized performance testing was completed to verify that the 2 control modes are substantially equivalent. This testing showed that the Flow Control Algorithm behaves as designed, and that the 2 control modes are equivalent for use with the IMPELLA pump catheters.
The results of the bench testing demonstrated that the IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control did not raise new issues with safety or effectiveness.
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Image /page/2/Picture/1 description: The image shows the seal of the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). The seal features the department's name encircling a stylized caduceus symbol. The caduceus is depicted with a single snake winding around a staff, topped with a stylized bird-like figure. The text reads "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES • USA".
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Room -WO66-G609 Silver Spring. MD 20993-0002
ABIOMED, Inc. c/o Dr. Robert Stewart 22 Cherry Hill Drive Danvers, MA 01923
APR 2 7 2011
Re: K110845
Trade/Device Name: IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control Regulation Number: 21 CFR 870.4360 Regulation Name: Non-roller type cardiopulmonary bypass blood pump Regulatory Class: III Product Code: KFM, DWA Dated: March 25, 2011 Received: March 28, 2011
Dear Dr. Stewart:
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 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
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Page 2 - Dr. Robert Stewart
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/CDRH/CDRHOffices/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/ReportaProblem/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,
\$\beta\$
Bram D. Zuckerman, M.D. Director Division of Cardiovascular Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# 6.0 INDICATIONS FOR USE
510(k) Number (if known):
K110845
Device Name: IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control
### Indications for Use:
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control is an extracorporeal bypass control unit intended to be used to provide circulatory support for periods up to 6 hours. It is also intended to be used to provide circulatory support (for periods up to 6 hours) during procedures not requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. The Impella Controller with Flow Control is intended to be used by trained healthcare professionals in healthcare facilities and medical transport (i.e. ambulance, helicopter, or fixed-wing aircraft) environments.
The IMPELLA Controller with Flow Control also displays pressure measurement readings, which are useful in determining intravascular pressure.
Prescription Use × (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) AND/OR
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 807 Subpart C)
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
fo (Division Sign-Off)
iovascular Devices
510(k) Number k110845
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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).
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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.
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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.
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Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
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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.
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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.
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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.