The Levo System is indicated for use in the temporary relief of tinnitus symptoms. The device is a tool to generate customized sounds to relieve patients suffering from tinnitus and can be used in a tinnitus management program. The target population is adults (18 years or older). This is a medical device and should only be used with the advice of a physician, audiologist or other hearing healthcare professional.
Device Story
Levo System assists healthcare professionals in evaluating patient tinnitus and delivering customized sound therapy. System comprises two proprietary software applications installed on off-the-shelf consumer electronics (Apple iPad/iPad Air and iPod touch) and custom-fit ear buds. Device generates amplitude modulated tinnitus pitch-matched tones, narrow-band noise, and broad-band noise. Used by patients during sleeping or waking hours. Healthcare professional uses Levo Manager software to configure therapy; patient uses Levo Patient software on iPod touch to receive sound stimulation. Data logs patient usage. System provides relief by masking tinnitus symptoms through customized acoustic output. Benefits include personalized sound therapy management for tinnitus patients.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Biocompatibility testing per ISO 10993-1, -5, and -10. Electrical safety and EMC testing per AAMI/ANSI ES 60601-1 and IEC 60601-1-2. Software verification and validation confirmed performance. Acoustic output testing verified frequency response, amplitude, signal modulation, and independent channel volume control.
Technological Characteristics
System uses off-the-shelf Apple iPad/iPod touch hardware. Patient-contacting materials biocompatible per ISO 10993. Acoustic output: 100Hz-16KHz, max 85 dB SPL. Features: amplitude modulated tones, narrow-band/broad-band noise, data logging, independent left/right volume control. Power: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery. Connectivity: Wireless data transmission.
Indications for Use
Indicated for temporary relief of tinnitus symptoms in adults (18+ years). Used as a tool within a tinnitus management program under the guidance of a hearing healthcare professional.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A tinnitus masker is an electronic device intended to generate noise of sufficient intensity and bandwidth to mask ringing in the ears or internal head noises. Because the device is able to mask internal noises, it is also used as an aid in hearing external noises and speech.
Special Controls
The special control for this device is patient labeling regarding:(1) Hearing health care professional diagnosis, fitting of the device, and followup care, (2) Risks, (3) Benefits, (4) Warnings for safe use, and (5) Specifications.
Predicate Devices
SoundCure, Inc.'s Serenade Tinnitus Treatment System (K111293)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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# JUL 1 8 2014 510(k) SUMMARY Otoharmonics® Levo® System
#### Submitter's Name, Address, Telephone Number, Contact Person and Date Prepared
Otoharmonics Corp 411 SW 6th Ave Portland, Oregon 97204 Phone: 503.336.9906
Contact Person: Michael Baker, President/CEO
Date Prepared: July 11, 2014
#### Name of Device
Levo System
# Common or Usual Name/Classification Name, Classification
Tinnitus Masker Device, 21 CFR 874.3400 (Product Code KLW), Class II
### Predicate Devices
SoundCure, Inc.'s Serenade Tinnitus Treatment System (K111293)
#### Intended Use / Indications for Use
The Levo System is indicated for use in the temporary relief of tinnitus symptoms. The device is a tool to generate customized sounds to relieve patients suffering from tinnitus and can be used in a tinnitus management program. The target population is adults (18 years or older). This is a medical device and should only be used with the advice of a physician, audiologist or other hearing healthcare professional.
#### Device Description
The Levo System is designed to assist the qualified health care professional in evaluating the patient's tinnitus and preparing a customized sound therapy to be delivered to the patient during treatment. The Levo System provides idiopathic tinnitus masking treatment based upon sound stimulation during sleeping or waking hours. The Levo System consists of two proprietary software applications that are pre-installed on commercially available, off-the- shelf consumer electronics (i.e., Apple® iPad® or iPad Air™ and iPod®. Custom-fit ear buds are provided with the device. The Levo System uses amplitude modulated tinnitus pitch matched tones, narrow-band noise centered at the tinnitus frequency, and broad-band noise.
#### Technological Characteristics
The Levo System presents very similar technological characteristics as the predicate Serenade Tinnitus Treatment System in device design and specifications. Both devices are designed to assist in the evaluation of a patient's tinnitus, and can be used by the healthcare professional to prepare a customized sound therapy for each patient. Both devices include software components that operate on designated hardware platforms, although the specific hardware used are not the same (i.e., offthe-shelf consumer electronics versus customized hardware). In addition, the Levo System transmits data wirelessly between the devices, whereas the predicate device
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utilizes a USB cord. However, these differences do not raise any new types of safety or effectiveness questions for the Levo device. Robust risk analysis and verification and validation testing further support the substantial equivalence of the devices. In addition, for both devices, the customized sound therapy is delivered to patients through a hand-held audio device. The devices both generate sounds that can be confiqured from broad band to narrow band, and provide for amplitude modulated tinnitus pitch matched tones. The Levo System can be used to generate the exact same type of amplitude modulated sounds as the predicate device. Therefore, the similar technological characteristics of the devices support substantial equivalence.
#### Performance Data
Nonclinical testing was conducted to validate the performance of the Levo System and ensure the device performs as intended and meets the design specifications. consistent with FDA's "Draft Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff: Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Tinnitus Masker Devices" (2005). The biocompatibility of the patient-contacting materials of the Levo System has been demonstrated per ISO 10993-1, ISO 10993-5, and ISO 10993-10 for a device with limited duration of contact with intact skin.
Consistent with FDA's guidance document, the Levo System meets the safety performance requirements of AAMI/ANSI ES 60601-1 and electromagnetic compatibility requirements of IEC 60601-1-2.
Software verification and validation testing further demonstrated that the software performs as intended and in accordance with specifications. The potential risks of the Levo System have been identified and evaluated, and the risks were determined to be acceptable, or have been addressed with risk control measures. Performance testing further demonstrated that the acoustic outputs of the device meet specifications, including the following testing:
- · Frequency response of the ear buds, patient device, and software
- · Amplitude of generated output
- · Software/firmware performance
- · Amplitude modulation of signal
- · Independent volume control of left and right channel of device
Therefore, in all instances of performance testing, the Levo System functioned as intended.
#### Substantial Equivalence
The Levo System is as safe and effective as the SoundCure predicate device. The Levo System has the same intended uses and similar indications, technological characteristics, and principles of operation as its predicate device. The Levo System provides the same general types of sounds and amplitude modulated tones as the predicate device. Although the Levo System and the predicate device operate with different patient device hardware, data transmission (i.e., wireless versus USB cable), and output ranges, these minor technological differences between the Levo System and its predicate device do not raise any new issues of safety or effectiveness. Thus, the Levo System is substantially equivalent to the SoundCure
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.
predicate. Further details regarding the comparison of the device and the predicate are providing in the following table.
| Trade Name | Otoharmonics Levo System | SoundCure Serenade Tinnitus<br>Treatment System (K111293) |
|------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Indications<br>for use | The Levo System is indicated for use in<br>the temporary relief of tinnitus<br>symptoms. The device is a tool to<br>generate customized sounds to relieve<br>patients suffering from tinnitus and can<br>be used in a tinnitus management<br>program. The target population is adults<br>(18 years or older). This is a medical<br>device and should only be used with the<br>advice of a physician, audiologist or<br>other hearing healthcare professional. | The SoundCure Serenade Tinnitus<br>Treatment System is indicated for use in<br>the temporary relief of tinnitus symptoms.<br>The device is a tool to generate<br>customized sounds to relieve patients<br>suffering from tinnitus and can be used in<br>a tinnitus management program. The<br>target population is adults (18 years or<br>older).<br>This is a medical device and should only<br>be used with the advice of a physician,<br>audiologist or other hearing healthcare<br>professional. |
| Patient<br>Medium | Hand-held audio device (iPod touch®)<br>for use with custom headphones | Hand-held audio device (Serenade<br>patient device) with headphones |
| Components | Levo Manager software supplied pre-<br>installed on iPad® or iPad Air ™<br>Levo Patient software supplied pre-<br>installed on iPod touch®<br>Ear buds<br>Accessories (standard Apple® charger<br>with Apple® device) | Serenade Treatment Software (to be<br>used with user's commercially available<br>computer)<br>Serenade patient device with software<br>pre-installed<br>Earphones<br>Accessories (power supply, power cord,<br>USB cable) |
| Sounds | Sounds customized to the patient by<br>qualified health care professional.<br>From 1 to ten (10) combinations of the<br>following sounds:<br>• Pure Tone<br>• White Noises<br>• Narrow Band Noises (bandwidth<br>selectable by HCP)<br>Includes the ability to create sinusoidal<br>amplitude modulated (SAM) tones. | Sounds customized to the patient by<br>qualified health care professional.<br>Individually patient selectable from the<br>following sounds:<br>• Sinusoidal amplitude modulated<br>(SAM) tones (S-Tones) (choice of 2<br>predefined by HCP)<br>• White Noises<br>• Band Noises |
| Data<br>Logging | Data logging of patient use | Data logging of patient use |
| Volume<br>Control | Individual volume control per ear | Individual volume control per ear |
| Features in<br>Sleep | Help to Sleep (optional) - Music played<br>to help patient relax | SleepAssist technology - Sleep Mode<br>Timer to help the patient fall asleep |
| Maximum<br>Output | 85 dB SPL | 92 dB SPL |
| Output<br>Frequency | 100Hz - 16KHz | 1 kHz to 14 kHz |
| Power | Rechargeable lithium-Ion (Li-Ion)<br>Battery, external power supply (100-<br>250VAC to 5V DC) with power cord for<br>recharging. (Battery and charger<br>provided by Apple for Apple® devices) | Rechargeable lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Battery,<br>external power supply (100-250VAC to<br>5V DC) with power cord for recharging. |
Otoharmonics and Levo are registered trademarks of Otoharmonics Corporation.
Apple, iPod touch and iPad are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
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# Conclusions
In conclusion, the Levo System is substantially equivalent to the SoundCure predicate device and software verification and validation testing further demonstrate that the software performs as intended and in accordance with specifications.
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Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
July 18, 2014
. .
Otoharmonics c/o Ms. Yarmela Pavlovic Hogan Lovells US LLP 1835 Market Street, 29th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19103
Re: K140845
Trade Name: Otoharmonics LEVO Tinnitus Masking Software Device Regulation Number: 21 CFR 874.3400 Regulation Name: Tinnitus masker Regulatory Class: Class II, Product Code: KLW Dated: June 17, 2014 Received: June 17, 2014
Dear Ms. Pavlovic:
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,
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Page 2 - Ms. Yarmela Pavlovic
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.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm. 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 Industry and Consumer Education at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours.
# Eric A. Mann -S
for Malvina B. Eydelman, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic and Ear. Nose and Throat Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration
# Indications for Use
Form Approved: OMB No. 0910-0120 Expiration Date: January 31, 2017 See PRA Statement below.
510(k) Number (if known)
Device Name
LEVO Tinnitus Masking Software Device
# Indications for Use (Describe)
The LEVO Tinnitus Masking Device is indicated for use in the temporary relief of tinnitus symptoms. The device is a tool to generate customized sounds to relieve patients suffering from tinnitus and can be used in a tinnitus management program. The target population is adults (18 years or older). This is a medical device and should only be used with the advice of a physician, audiologist or other hearing healthcare professional.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
2 Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
# PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE - CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
#### FOR FDA USE ONLY
Concurrence of Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) (Signature)
# Ting Zhang -S 2014.07.14 08:58:36 -04'00'
This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
# *DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW."
The burden time for this collection of information is estimated to average 79 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed and complete and review the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this information collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to:
> Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration Office of Chief Information Officer Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Staff PRAStaff@fda.hhs.gov
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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.
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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.
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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.