The Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System and is intended to be used for bone stabilization in trauma and orthopedic procedures, both on adults and all pediatric subgroups patients except newborns, as required. The indications for use include: - Open or closed fractures in long bones; - Vertically stable pelvic fractures or as a treatment adjunct for vertically unstable pelvic fractures; - Infected and aseptic non-unions; - joint pathologies/injuries of upper and lower limbs such as: - proximal humeral fractures; . - intra-articular knee, ankle and wrist fractures; . - Delayed treatment of dislocated and stiff elbows; . - Chronic, persistent elbow joint instability; . - Acute elbow joint instability after complex ligament injuries; . - Unstable elbow fractures; . - Additional elbow stabilization of post-operative unstable internal fixation. .
Device Story
External fixation system comprising frames, bars, clamps, accessories, and instruments; used with Orthofix pins to couple frame to bone. Surgeon constructs frame configurations to position screws, reduce fractures, restore alignment, and stabilize bone. Used in clinical settings for trauma and orthopedic procedures. System is MR conditional (1.5T and 3T). Provides mechanical stabilization for fractures and joint pathologies; benefits patient by facilitating bone healing and restoring limb/pelvic stability.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Mechanical performance testing included static testing on connectors, joints, constructs, and ring segments; multi-cycle construct testing; and fatigue testing. Magnetic resonance environment testing included radio frequency heating, force/torque, and artifact testing.
Technological Characteristics
External fixation system consisting of metallic frames, bars, clamps, and accessories. Designed for use with Orthofix pins. MR conditional at 1.5T and 3T. Mechanical performance tested per ASTM 1541-02. Modular design for upper/lower limb and pelvic applications.
Indications for Use
Indicated for adults and pediatric patients (excluding newborns) requiring bone stabilization for open/closed long bone fractures, stable/unstable pelvic fractures, infected/aseptic non-unions, and joint pathologies/injuries of upper/lower limbs (proximal humeral, intra-articular knee/ankle/wrist, and elbow fractures/instability).
Regulatory Classification
Identification
Single/multiple component metallic bone fixation appliances and accessories are devices intended to be implanted consisting of one or more metallic components and their metallic fasteners. The devices contain a plate, a nail/plate combination, or a blade/plate combination that are made of alloys, such as cobalt-chromium-molybdenum, stainless steel, and titanium, that are intended to be held in position with fasteners, such as screws and nails, or bolts, nuts, and washers. These devices are used for fixation of fractures of the proximal or distal end of long bones, such as intracapsular, intertrochanteric, intercervical, supracondylar, or condylar fractures of the femur; for fusion of a joint; or for surgical procedures that involve cutting a bone. The devices may be implanted or attached through the skin so that a pulling force (traction) may be applied to the skeletal system.
Additional Accessories for the Orthofix System (K944092)
Smith & Nephew Jet-X® Bar System Clamps, Bars and Posts MR Conditional (K072212)
Hoffmann 3 Modular External Fixation System (K111786)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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SEP 4 2012
Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image shows the Orthofix logo, with the word "ORTHOFIX" in bold, sans-serif font. Below the logo, the text "510(k) Summary" is displayed in a smaller, bold font. The phrase "[as required by 21 CFR 807.92(c)]" is printed below the summary title in a regular, non-bold font.
# Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System
## 510(k) K113770
| 1. | Submitted by: | Orthofix Srl<br>Via delle Nazioni 9<br>37012 Bussolengo (VR)<br>Italy |
|----|---------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|
| | Registration number | 9680825 |
| | Contact Person | Elvira Taccarelli<br>Regulatory Affairs |
| | Telephone: | +39 (045) 671 9000 |
| | Facsimile: | +39 (045) 671 9380 |
| | Date Prepared | July 30, 2012 |
# 2. Device Name:
| Trade/Proprietary Name | Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System |
|------------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Common Name | External Fixation Device and Accessories |
| Device Classification | 87KTT (21 CFR 888.3030) |
## 3. Predicate Device:
The Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System is substantially equivalent in intended use, materials and technological characteristics to the following external fixation systems:
- · Synthes External Fixation Systems, cleared under K082650 and K090658
- · Orthofix Dynamic Axial Fixation System, cleared under K955848
- · Additional Accessories for the Orthofix System, cleared under K944092
- · Smith & Nephew Jet-X® Bar System Clamps, Bars and Posts MR Conditional, cleared under K072212
- · Hoffmann 3 Modular External Fixation System, cleared under K111786
{1}------------------------------------------------
K113770
## 4. Intended Use:
The Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System and is intended to be used for bone stabilization in trauma and orthopedic procedures, both on adults and all pediatric subgroups patients except newborns, as required.
The indications for use include:
- Open or closed fractures in long bones;
- Vertically stable pelvic fractures or as a treatment adjunct for vertically unstable pelvic fractures;
- Infected and aseptic non-unions;
- joint pathologies/injuries of upper and lower limbs such as:
- proximal humeral fractures; .
- intra-articular knee, ankle and wrist fractures; .
- Delayed treatment of dislocated and stiff elbows; .
- Chronic, persistent elbow joint instability; .
- Acute elbow joint instability after complex ligament injuries; .
- Unstable elbow fractures; .
- Additional elbow stabilization of post-operative unstable internal fixation. .
### 5. Description:
This Traditional 510(k) is being supplied to the U.S. FDA to provide authorization to market the device "Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System" for interstate commerce.
The Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System includes various frames, bars, clamps, accessories and instruments. The system is designed to be used with commercially available Orthofix pins. The clamps enable the frame to be coupled to bone by securing the pins/wires for the intended use.
The Galaxy Fixation System can be combined to construct different frame configurations that have been shown to be MR conditional in 1.5T and 3T MR environment. The system consists of various modules which are designed to be applied in different anatomical sites of the upper and lower limb as well as the pelvis and allow the surgeon to:
- Position screws where the condition of the bone and soft tissues permits
- Reduce the fracture in order to restore alignment
- Stabilize the fracture safely
#### Substantial equivalence: 6.
Documentation is provided which demonstrates the Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System to be substantially equivalent to other legally marketed devices. Device comparison showed that the proposed device is substantially equivalent in intended, use, materials and performance characteristics to the legally marketed predicate devices, the Synthes External Fixation Systems, cleared under 510(k)
f. 2.63
{2}------------------------------------------------
K11370
K082650 and K090658, the Orthofix Dynamic Axial Fixation System (marketed as the Orthofix Procallus, Minirail System, Limb Reconstruction System, XCaliber Fixator, etc.) cleared under 510(k) K955848, Orthofix Dynamic Axial Fixation System additional accessories (marketed as the Fragment Fixation System, etc.) cleared under 510(k) K944092, the Smith & Nephew Jet-X® Bar System Clamps, Bars and Posts - MR Conditional, cleared under K072212 and testing in a Magnetic Resonance Environment safely used in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, under predetermined conditions cleared in K111786 of Hoffmann 3 Modular External Fixation System.
The components included in the Orthofix Galaxy Fixation system and the predicate devices are all external fracture fixation systems as defined in 21 CFR 888.3030, furthermore, the size, shape and materials for the subject devices are comparable to the predicate devices. Testing in accordance with ASTM 1541-02 shows the mechanical strength of the Galaxy Fixation system to be equivalent or better than the predicate devices.
### 6. Non Clinical testing:
Non clinical laboratory testing was performed on the Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System to determine substantial equivalence. The following testing was performed:
Mechanical performance: Static on Connector Static on Joint Static on Construct Static on Ring Segment Multi-cycle on Construct Fatique tests on Configurations Magnetic Resonance Environment Testing Radio Frequency Heating Testing Force and Torque Testing Artifact Testing
## 7. Conclusion:
Based upon the similarities in design, materials and intended uses, the Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System is substantially equivalent to the predicate devices.
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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 features a stylized depiction of an eagle or bird in flight, composed of three curved lines. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES USA" is arranged in a circular pattern around the bird symbol.
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Mail Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
Orthofix SRL % Ms. Candace Cederman Consultant 22423 Skyview Drive West Linn, Oregon 97068
4 2012 SEP
Re: K113770
Trade/Device Name: OrthoFix Galaxy Fixation System Regulation Number: 21 CFR 888.3030 Regulation Name: Single/multiple component metallic bone fixation appliances and accessories Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: KTT Dated: August 3, 2012
Dear Ms. Cederman:
Received: August 6, 2012
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 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.
{4}------------------------------------------------
Page 2 - Ms. Candace Cederman
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,
Evin L. Keith
ForMark N. Melkerson Director Division of Surgical, Orthopedic and Restorative Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{5}------------------------------------------------
## Indications for Use
K113770 510(k) Number (if known):
Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System Device Name:
### Indications for Use:
The Orthofix Galaxy Fixation System and is intended to be used for bone The Ortholix Octably Pillers and orthopedic procedures, both on adults and all pediatric subgroups patients except newborns, as required.
The indications for use include:
- Open or closed fractures in long bones;
- Vertically stable pelvic fractures or as a treatment adjunct for vertically unstable pelvic fractures;
- Infected and aseptic non-unions;
- joint pathologies/injuries of upper and lower limbs such as:
- proximal humeral fractures; .
- intra-articular knee, ankle and wrist fractures; .
- Delayed treatment of dislocated and stiff elbows; ●
- Chronic, persistent elbow joint instability; .
- Acute elbow joint instability after complex ligament injuries; .
- Unstable elbow fractures; .
- Additional elbow stabilization of post-operative unstable internal fixation. .
× Prescription Use (Part 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 OF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Asit
(Division Sign-Off) Divilion of Surgical, Orthopedic, and Restorative Devices
KI 3770 510(k) Number _
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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.
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.