Arrow International, Inc. (Subsidiary of Teleflex, Inc.)
Product Code
LJS · General Hospital
Decision Date
Jan 28, 2016
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Special
Regulation
21 CFR 880.5970
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The Arrow Pressure Injectable JACC with Chlorageard Antithrombogenic Technology is indicated for short-term (<30 days) or long-term (>30 days) access to the central venous system for intravenous therapy, blood sampling, infusion, pressure injection of contrast media and allows for central venous pressure monitoring. The maximum pressure of pressure injector equipment used with the Pressure Injectable JACC may not exceed 300 psi (2068.4 kPa), The maximum pressure injection flow rate for the specific lumen being used for pressure injection is printed on the extension line hub. Chlorag+ard Technology treatment on the external surface of the catheter body as well as the entire fluid pathyav of the catheter has been shown to be effective in reducing microbial colonization on catheter surfaces. Antimicrobial effectiveness were evaluated using in vivo test methods and no correlation between these testing methods and clinical outcome has currently been ascertained. It is not intended to be used for the treating infections. The VPS Stylet and Console are indicated for guidance and tip positioning for central venous catheters. The Stylet provides stiffness for use in placement of the catheter, intravascular capability for ECG detection and recording and intravascular ultrasound for catheter guiding and positioning. The VPS Stylet, when used with the VPS Console, provides real-time catheter tip location information by using the patient's physiological (cardiac electrical activity and blood flow) information. When the Vascular Positioning System guidance indicator shows a Blue Bullseye, the catheter tip is in the desired location. The VPS System is indicated for use as an alternative method to fluoroscopy or chest x-ray for central venous catheter tip placement confirmation in adult patients when a steady Blue Bullseye is obtained. NOTE: If a steady Blue Bullseye is not obtained, standard hospital practice should be followed to confirm catheter tip location.
Device Story
Device is a pressure-injectable, antimicrobial, antithrombogenic central venous catheter (JACC) with optional VPS Stylet. Catheter body is radiopaque polyurethane with Chlorag+ard (chlorhexidine) treatment. VPS Stylet contains a Doppler sensor and ivECG signal wire; connects to a console to provide real-time catheter tip location via cardiac electrical activity and blood flow. Used in clinical settings by healthcare providers for central venous access. VPS system provides a 'Blue Bullseye' indicator for tip confirmation, serving as an alternative to fluoroscopy or chest X-ray. Output allows clinicians to verify catheter placement during insertion, reducing reliance on radiation-based imaging. Modifications in this submission clarify procedural instructions for catheter trimming.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data. Substantial equivalence supported by bench testing, including catheter trimming compatibility verification and finished good design validation.
Technological Characteristics
Radiopaque polyurethane catheter; Chlorag+ard (chlorhexidine) antimicrobial/antithrombogenic coating. VPS Stylet: 6-foot polymeric tube with distal Doppler sensor and ivECG signal wire. Sterilization: Ethylene Oxide (EtO). Connectivity: Wired connection to VPS Console. Dimensions: 4.5-6 Fr, 15-35 cm length.
Indications for Use
Indicated for adult patients requiring short-term (<30 days) or long-term (>30 days) central venous access for IV therapy, blood sampling, infusion, pressure injection of contrast media, and CVP monitoring. Contraindicated in patients with cardiac rhythm alterations (atrial fibrillation, flutter, severe tachycardia, pacemaker-driven rhythm) or femoral/saphenous vein access where P-wave presentation is altered.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A percutaneous, implanted, long-term intravascular catheter is a device that consists of a slender tube and any necessary connecting fittings, such as luer hubs, and accessories that facilitate the placement of the device. The device allows for repeated access to the vascular system for long-term use of 30 days or more, and it is intended for administration of fluids, medications, and nutrients; the sampling of blood; and monitoring blood pressure and temperature. The device may be constructed of metal, rubber, plastic, composite materials, or any combination of these materials and may be of single or multiple lumen design.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls) Guidance Document: “Guidance on Premarket Notification [510(k)] Submission for Short-Term and Long-Term Intravascular Catheters.”
Predicate Devices
CG+ Arrow JACC powered by Arrow VPS Stylet (K132133)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
{0}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a circular seal with the text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" around the perimeter. Inside the circle is a stylized image of three human profiles facing right, with a flowing design beneath them.
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
January 28, 2016
Arrow International, Inc. (subsidiary of Teleflex, Inc.) Ms. Julie Lawson Regulatory Affairs Specialist 2400 Bernville Road Reading, Pennsylvania 19605
Re: K153423 Trade/Device Names: CG+ Arrow JACC CG+ Arrow JACC Powered By Arrow VPS Stylet Regulation Number: 21 CFR 880.5970 Regulation Name: Percutaneous, Implanted, Long-Term Intravascular Catheter Regulatory Class: II Product Code: LJS, OBJ Dated: January 4, 2016 Received: January 6, 2016
Dear Ms. Lawson:
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.
{1}------------------------------------------------
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 of medical devicerelated adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (OS) 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" (21 CFR 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 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, Tina Kiang S
for Erin I. Keith, M.S. Director Division of Anesthesiology. General Hospital, Respiratory, Infection Control, and Dental Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{2}------------------------------------------------
### Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K153423
#### Device Name
- CG+ Arrow JACC
- CG+ Arrow JACC powered by Arrow VPS Stylet
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Arrow Pressure Injectable JACC with Chlorageard Antithrombogenic Technology is indicated for short-term (<30 days) or long-term (>30 days) access to the central venous system for intravenous therapy, blood sampling, infusion, pressure injection of contrast media and allows for central venous pressure monitoring. The maximum pressure of pressure injector equipment used with the Pressure Injectable JACC may not exceed 300 psi (2068.4 kPa), The maximum pressure injection flow rate for the specific lumen being used for pressure injection is printed on the extension line hub.
Chlorag+ard Technology treatment on the external surface of the catheter body as well as the entire fluid pathyav of the catheter has been shown to be effective in reducing microbial colonization on catheter surfaces. Antimicrobial effectiveness were evaluated using in vivo test methods and no correlation between these testing methods and clinical outcome has currently been ascertained. It is not intended to be used for the treating infections.
The VPS Stylet and Console are indicated for guidance and tip positioning for central venous catheters. The Stylet provides stiffness for use in placement of the catheter, intravascular capability for ECG detection and recording and intravascular ultrasound for catheter guiding and positioning. The VPS Stylet, when used with the VPS Console, provides real-time catheter tip location information by using the patient's physiological (cardiac electrical activity and blood flow) information. When the Vascular Positioning System guidance indicator shows a Blue Bullseye, the catheter tip is in the desired location.
The VPS System is indicated for use as an alternative method to fluoroscopy or chest x-ray for central venous catheter tip placement confirmation in adult patients when a steady Blue Bullseye is obtained. NOTE: If a steady Blue Bullseye is not obtained, standard hospital practice should be followed to confirm catheter tip location.
Limiting but not contraindicated situations for this technique are in palients where alterations of cardiac rhythm change the presentation of the P-wave as in atrial flutter, severe tachycardia and pacemaker-driven rhythm, and in central venous catheterization procedures performed through femoral vein access which change the presentation of the P-wave. In such patients, who are easily identifiable prior to central venous catheter insertion, the use of an additional method is required to confirm catheter tip location.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
> Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
#### CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
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
"An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB number."
{3}------------------------------------------------
# 7 510(K) SUMMARY: K153423
# Submitter Information
| Name: | Arrow International, Inc (subsidiary of Teleflex Inc.) |
|-------------------|--------------------------------------------------------|
| Address: | 2400 Bernville Road<br>Reading, PA 19605-9607 USA |
| Contact Person: | Julie Lawson<br>Regulatory Affairs Specialist |
| Telephone Number: | (610) 378-0131 Extension 603256 |
| Fax Number: | (610) 478-3179 |
| Email: | julie.lawson@teleflex.com |
| Date Prepared: | November 24, 2015 |
# Device Name
Device Trade Name:
- CG+ Arrow JACC .
CG+ Arrow JACC powered by Arrow VPS Stylet ● Common Name, Catheter: Central Venous Catheter Common Name, Stylet: Catheter, Ultrasound, Intravascular Classification Regulation: 21 CFR: 880.5970 Classification Name: Percutaneous, implanted, long-term intravascular catheter Product Code: LJS, OBJ
# Predicate Devices
- K132133: CG+ Arrow JACC powered by Arrow VPS Stylet .
# Device Description
The Arrow Pressure Injectable Jugular Axillo-subclavian Central Catheter (JACC) with Chlorag ard Antimicrobial and Antithrombogenic Technology has the following characteristics:
- . 4.5 French, 1-Lumen, 15-35 cm pressure injectable, antimicrobial and antithrombogenic catheter with or without preloaded VPS stylet
- 5.5 French, 2-Lumen, 15-35 cm pressure injectable, antimicrobial and antithrombogenic . catheter with or without preloaded VPS Stylet
- 6 French, 3-Lumen, 15-35 cm pressure injectable, antimicrobial and antithrombogenic ● catheter with or without preloaded VPS Stylet
The subject device is a CG+ Arrow JACC with or without pre-loaded Arrow VPS Stylet and will be provided in sterile kit configurations. The modifications subject to this submission are additions to the recommended procedural technique to clarify that the catheter devices can be trimmed or cut to the appropriate length based on the specific patient's anatomy.
{4}------------------------------------------------
The CG+ Arrow JACC is a short-term or long-term, single use catheter designed to provide access to the central venous system. It consists of a non-tapered, radiopaque polyurethane extruded catheter body with a softer, contoured Blue Flex Tip. The catheter can be used for the injection of contrast media. The maximum recommended infusion rate is 5 mL/sec for the 1-Lumen and 2-Lumen catheters and 6 mL/sec for the 3-Lumen catheter. The external catheter body and the internal fluid path of the device are treated with chlorhexidine-based, Chlorag+ard technology. There are no modifications subject to this premarket notification related to the geometric or material design of the devices modified in this submission, nor are there any modifications to the Chlorag+ard technology that is incorporated in the modified device's physical design.
## Indications for Use
The Arrow Pressure Injectable JACC with Chlorag+ard Antimicrobial and Antithrombogenic Technology is indicated for short-term (<30 days) or long-term (>30 days) access to the central venous system for intravenous therapy, blood sampling, infusion, pressure injection of contrast media and allows for central venous pressure monitoring. The maximum pressure of pressure injector equipment used with the Arrow Pressure Injectable JACC may not exceed 300 psi (2068.4 kPa). The maximum pressure injection flow rate for the specific lumen being used for pressure injection is printed on the extension line hub.
Chlorag+ard Technology treatment on the external surface of the catheter body as well as the entire fluid pathway of the catheter has been shown to be effective in reducing microbial colonization on catheter surfaces. Antimicrobial effectiveness were evaluated using in vitro and in vivo test methods and no correlation between these testing methods and clinical outcome has currently been ascertained. It is not intended to be used for the treatment of existing infections.
The VPS Stylet and Console are indicated for guidance and tip positioning for central venous catheters. The Stylet provides stiffness for use in placement of the catheter, intravascular capability for ECG detection and recording and intravascular ultrasound for catheter guiding and positioning. The VPS Stylet, when used with the VPS Console, provides real-time catheter tip location information by using the patient's physiological (cardiac electrical activity and blood flow) information. When the VPS System guidance indicator shows a Blue Bullseye, the catheter tip is in the desired location.
The VPS System is indicated for use as an alternative method to fluoroscopy or chest x-ray for central venous catheter tip placement confirmation in adult patients when a steady Blue Bullseye is obtained. NOTE: If a steady Blue Bullseye is not obtained, standard hospital practice should be followed to confirm catheter tip location.
Limiting but not contraindicated situations for this technique are in patients where alterations of cardiac rhythm change the presentation of the P-wave as in atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, severe tachycardia and pacemaker-driven rhythm, and in central venous catheterization procedures performed through femoral or saphenous vein access which change the presentation of the P-
{5}------------------------------------------------
wave. In such patients, who are easily identifiable prior to central venous catheter insertion, the use of an additional method is required to confirm catheter tip location.
The above Indication for Use is identical to the predicate.
### Technological Characteristics and Substantial Equivalence
The subject CG+ Arrow JACC is substantially equivalent to the CG+ Arrow JACC powered by VPS (K132133) in terms of indications for use, manufacturing process, conditions and aids, functional performance, fundamental scientific technology and materials of construction. There is no change to the geometric design of the subject devices which is associated with the procedural clarifications subject to this submission. The procedure clarifications consist of the addition of catheter trimming instructions and other minor clarifications to make the instructions easier to read by eliminating redundancy and standard protocols as well as improving the flow of the written procedure, thus clarifying the recommended procedural steps. The following table reflects a comparison of the subject and predicate device characteristics.
| Characteristic | Predicate:<br>CG+ Arrow JACC powered by VPS Stylet<br>(K132133) | Subject:<br>CG+ Arrow JACC |
|---------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------|
| Catheter Length | 15-35 cm | SAME |
| Catheter OD | 4.5, 5.5, and 6 Fr | SAME |
| Number of<br>Lumens | 1,2, and 3 Lumen | SAME |
| Internal Lumen<br>Configuration | 1 Lumen - Round<br>2 Lumen – Double D<br>2 Lumen - Round-Crescent<br>3 Lumen- Round-Split-Crescent | SAME |
| Pressure<br>Injection<br>Capabilities | 1 Lumen:<br>Distal: 5 mL/sec. Pressure Injectable<br>2 Lumen - Double D:<br>Distal: 5 mL/sec, Pressure Injectable<br>Proximal: 5 mL/sec, Pressure Injectable<br>2 Lumen - Round-Crescent:<br>Distal: 5 mL/sec, Pressure Injectable<br>Proximal: 4 mL/sec, Pressure Injectable<br>3 Lumen:<br>Distal: 6 mL/sec, Pressure Injectable<br>Proximal: No Pressure Injection<br>Medial: No Pressure Injection<br>Note: Lumens that are not indicated for Pressure<br>Injection have "No CT" printed on the extension<br>line hubs. | SAME |
| Catheter body<br>material | Radiopaque polyurethane | SAME |
### Subject and Predicate Device Comparison
{6}------------------------------------------------
| Characteristic | Predicate:<br>CG+ Arrow JACC powered by VPS Stylet<br>(K132133) | Subject:<br>CG+ Arrow JACC |
|----------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------|
| Catheter Juncture Hub Material | Blue polyurethane | SAME |
| Catheter Tip Design and material | Radiopaque, soft blue polyurethane | SAME |
| Extension Line Material | Clear polyurethane | SAME |
| Extension Line Hub Material | Distal - Pink polyurethane<br>Proximal - White Polyurethane<br>Medial - Blue Polyurethane<br>Note: This new material is used on the medial lumen extension line hub of the 6 Fr. catheter. | SAME |
| Printing Ink | 2405 Black Ink and White Ink<br>Note: The white ink is used to print "No CT" on the medial lumen extension line hub of the 6 Fr. catheter. | SAME |
| Sterilization | Provided Sterile. Sterilized by Ethylene Oxide. | SAME |
| Performance Specifications | Antimicrobial Efficacy<br>Effective in reducing microbial colonization<br>Antithrombogenic Efficacy<br>Effective in reducing thrombus accumulation | SAME |
| Characteristic | Predicate:<br>CG+ Arrow JACC powered by VPS Stylet<br>(K132133) | Subject:<br>CG+ Arrow JACC powered by Arrow VPS Stylet |
|--------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------|
| Stylet Diameter<br>and catheter<br>compatibility | 0.019", compatible with catheters with an ID ≥<br>0.021". | SAME |
| Stylet Length | 6 Ft | SAME |
| Stylet Design | 6 foot long polymeric tube which contains a<br>Doppler sensor at the distal tip and intravascular<br>electrocardiogram (ivECG) signal sensing wire | SAME |
| Signal<br>Conductor | Two conductor stylet wires | SAME |
| Sterilization | EtO | SAME |
# Nonclinical Testing
Risk analysis activities were conducted to assess the impact of the modification made to the subject device. Appropriate control mechanisms were defined to mitigate the identified risks. Design verification testing was conducted to mitigate identified risks and is summarized in the submission to support the substantial equivalence of the modified device. The following testing is summarized in the submission:
- Catheter trimming compatibility verification test according to internal method ●
- Finished Good Design Validation .
{7}------------------------------------------------
### Conclusions
The predicate and the subject devices have the same indications for use, intended use, materials, chlorhexidine formulation, concentration (content per surface area), method of application and mechanism of release and are manufactured using the same processes, conditions and aids. The results of the verification testing performed have supported the substantial equivalence of the modified devices to the predicate devices.
Predicate graph will load when search results are available.
Embedding visualization will load when search results are available.
PDF viewer will load when search results are available.
Loading panels...
Select an item from Submissions
Click any panel, subpart, regulation, product code, or device to see details here.
Section Matches
Results will appear here.
Product Code Matches
Results will appear here.
Special Control Matches
Results will appear here.
Loading collections...
Loading
My Alerts
You will receive email notifications based on the filters and frequency you set for each alert.
Sort by:
Create Alert
Search Filters
Agent Token
Create a read-only bearer token for Claude, ChatGPT, or other agents that can call HTTP APIs.
Copy this now. It will not be shown again.
Connected apps
Apps you authorized through browser sign-in. Disconnecting revokes their access immediately.
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.