The ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogenic Catheter is indicated for delivery of medication for regional anesthesia and pain management. Routes of administration may be perineural, intraoperative, or percutaneous. The ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogenic Catheter is indicated for patients undergoing continuous regional anesthesia and pain management procedures.
Device Story
ON-Q* EchoSpark/T-bloc devices are catheters for regional anesthesia and pain management; used in clinical settings for continuous medication delivery. Catheter features stainless steel echogenic screw tip for ultrasound visualization; polyamide nylon (Pebax) tubing with barium sulfate radiopaque stripes; depth markings. Includes Nitinol stylet and polypropylene thread assist guide. Operated by clinicians; ultrasound guidance allows precise placement. Output is medication delivery to target site; benefits include improved visualization during placement and effective pain management. Not for intravascular use.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Compliance with ISO 10555-1:2013, ISO 10993 (biocompatibility), and sterilization standards (ISO 11135-1:2007). No clinical data presented.
Indicated for patients undergoing continuous regional anesthesia and pain management procedures via perineural, intraoperative, or percutaneous routes. Contraindicated for intravascular delivery.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An anesthesia conduction catheter is a flexible tubular device used to inject local anesthetics into a patient and to provide continuous regional anesthesia.
Predicate Devices
ON-Q* Pain Relief System, QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle Catheter Set (K143164)
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Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health and 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 to the right, with three parallel lines extending from the heads.
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
September 30, 2016
Halyard Health Gwendolyn George Technical Leader, Regulatory Affairs 5405 Windward Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30004
Re: K161232
Trade/Device Name: ON-Q* EchoSpark Echogenic Catheter; ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit Regulation Number: 21 CFR 868.5120 Regulation Name: Anesthesia Conduction Catheter Regulatory Class: II Product Code: BSO. CAZ Dated: August 29, 2016 Received: August 30, 2016
Dear Gwendolyn George:
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 (reporting of medical devicerelated 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" (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/Resourcesfor You/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
Tina
Kiang -S
Tina Kiang, Ph.D. Acting Director Division of Anesthesiology. General Hospital, Respiratory, Infection Control and Dental Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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### Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K161232
Device Name
ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogeneic Catheter
Indications for Use (Describe)
The ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogenic Catheter is indicated for delivery of medication for regional anesthesia and pain management. Routes of administration may be perineural, intraoperative, or percutaneous.
The ON-Q* EchoSpark*Echogenic Catheter is indicated for patients undergoing continuous regional anesthesia and pain management procedures.
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.
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#### *DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.*
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"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}------------------------------------------------
#### Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K161232
Device Name
ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is indicated for delivery of medication for regional anesthesia and pain management. Routes of administration may be perineural, intraoperative, or percutaneous.
The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is indicated for patients undergoing continuous regional anesthesia and pain management procedures.
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."
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Image /page/4/Picture/0 description: The image shows the Halyard logo. The logo consists of a circular emblem on the left and the word "HALYARD" in bold, dark blue letters on the right. The emblem features two stylized shapes, one white and one green, within a dark blue circle.
5405 Windward Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30004
| Section 5 | |
|---------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| | 510(k) Summary<br>ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter |
| Date Prepared: | September 29, 2016 |
| 510(k) Submitter: | Gwendolyn George<br>Halyard Health®<br>5405 Windward Parkway<br>Alpharetta, GA 30004<br>520-204-6442<br>gwendolyn.george@hyh.com<br>Establishment Registration Number: 3011270181 |
| PRIMARY CONTACT<br>FOR THIS 510(k)<br>SUBMISSION: | Gwendolyn George<br>Technical Leader, Regulatory Affairs<br>520-204-6442 (Phone)<br>gwendolyn.george@hyh.com |
| TRADE NAME: | ON-Q* EchoSpark Echogenic Catheter |
| CLASSIFICATION NAME: | Anesthesia Conduction Catheter |
| DEVICE CLASSIFICATION: | Class II |
| REGULATION NUMBER: | 21 CFR 868.5120 |
| PRODUCT CODE: | BSO |
| PREDICATE DEVICE: | ON-Q* Pain Relief System, QuikBloc* Over-the-<br>Needle Catheter Set (K143164) |
SUBJECT DEVICE DESCRIPTION: The ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter is a closed tip catheter composed of polyamide nylon (Pebax) tubing that contains two radiopaque barium sulfate stripes, black pad printed depth markings, and a stainless steel echogenic screw tip that is visible under ultrasound. The catheter assembly will also include a stylet composed of Nitinol wire with an ABS Finger holder and a polypropylene thread assist guide in a sterile Tyvek and polyester pouch.
INDICATIONS FOR USE: The ON-Q* EchoSpark Echogenic Catheter is indicated for delivery of medication for regional anesthesia and pain management. Routes of administration may be perineural, intraoperative, or percutaneous.
The ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogenic Catheter is indicated for patients undergoing continuous regional anesthesia and pain management procedures.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: The ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter is not indicated for intravascular delivery.
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Image /page/5/Picture/0 description: The image shows the Halyard logo. The logo consists of a circular icon on the left and the word "HALYARD" in capital letters on the right. The icon contains a white shape and a green shape inside a blue circle. The word "HALYARD" is written in a bold, blue font.
SUMMARY OF SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE: The technological characteristics, indications for use, and construction material of the ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter are substantially equivalent to the currently-marketed predicate device, ON-Q* Pain Relief System, QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle Catheter Set cleared under K143164. The same fundamental technology, assembly, labeling, packaging, and sterilization method, will be used. The distinguishing feature of the Echogenic Catheter is the stainless steel echogenic screw tip; which makes the catheter visible under ultrasound.
The ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter like the predicate device can be sold stand alone or in a kit.
| Characteristic | Predicate Device<br>QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle<br>Catheter Set<br>(K143164) | Subject Device<br>ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter |
|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Regulation<br>Product Code | BSO | Same |
| Manufacturer | Halyard Health | Same |
| Indications for Use | The ON-Q* QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle<br>Catheter Set is indicated for delivery of<br>medication (such as local anesthetics) for<br>regional anesthesia and pain management.<br>Route of administration may be<br>intraoperative, percutaneous, or perineural.<br>The ON-Q* QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle<br>Catheter Set is contraindicated for the<br>epidural space. | The ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogenic Catheter is<br>indicated for delivery of medication for<br>regional anesthesia and pain management.<br>Routes of administration may be perineural,<br>intraoperative, or percutaneous.<br>The ON-Q* EchoSpark* Echogenic Catheter<br>is indicated for patients undergoing<br>continuous regional anesthesia and pain<br>management procedures. |
| Sterilization<br>Method | Ethylene Oxide | Same |
| Catheter<br>Tubing<br>composition | Pebax | Same |
| Echogenic screw<br>tip | N/A | Stainless Steel |
| Echogenic | N/A | Yes |
| Depth Markings | Graduated depth markings every 10 mm | Same |
| Radiopaque<br>Stripes | Barium sulfate stripes | Same |
| Labeling | Case and sterile pack with identification<br>label of catheter type, size etc. and IFU | Same |
| MRI<br>Compatibility | MR Safe | MR UnSafe |
| Single Use Device | Yes | Same |
| Packaging<br>Chevron Style Sterile Tyvek Pouch<br>ASTM F1980-07<br>ASTM D4169-09<br>ASTM F 2096-11<br>ASTM F 1886-09<br>ISO 15223:2012<br>ISO 11607-1:2006 | | |
| Characteristic | Predicate Device<br>QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle<br>Catheter Set<br>(K143164) | Subject Device<br>ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter |
| Performance<br>Testing Data | ISO:10555-1:2013<br>ASTM F 1980-07<br>EN-13868:2002<br>ISO:10555-5:2013 | All applicable performance standards<br>are the same. ISO 10555-5:2013 does<br>not apply because this is not an over<br>the needle catheter. |
| Biocompatibility | ISO:10993-1:2009<br>Compliant<br>ISO:10993-3:2003<br>No statistically significant increase<br>in the number of revertant colonies<br>compared to negative control<br>ISO:10993-4:2002<br>No statistically significant difference<br>compared to negative control<br>ISO:10993-5:2009<br>Acceptance Criteria $≤$ Grade 2<br>ISO:10993-6:2007<br>No significant difference compared<br>to the controls.<br>ISO:10993-10:2010<br>Acceptance Criteria: Sensitization<br>Index <3<br>Acceptance Criteria: Test article<br>mean score- control article mean<br>score <1<br>ISO:10993-11:2012<br>None of the test animals show<br>greater biological reaction than<br>control animals. | Same |
| Sterilization | ISO 10993-7:2008<br>ISO 11135-1:2007 | Same |
The ON-Q* Echogenic Catheter Substantial Equivalence Table is provided below.
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Image /page/6/Picture/0 description: The image shows the Halyard logo. The logo consists of a circular emblem on the left and the word "HALYARD" on the right. The emblem contains two stylized shapes, one white and one green, set against a dark blue background. The word "HALYARD" is written in a bold, sans-serif font, with each letter in dark blue.
The Indications for Use statements of the subject and predicate devices are the same (i.e., both are intended for regional anesthesia and pain management) except for the order in which the routes of administration are listed, additional specificity regarding indicated patient population, and the predicate includes a contraindication for use of the epidural space. The subject device does not contain a needle; therefore, the predicate contraindication is not applicable to this device. The listed order of routes of administration, additional specificity regarding indicated patient population, and removal of the non-applicable contraindication are not critical to the intended therapeutic or surgical use of the device and do not affect the safety and efficacy of the device when used as labeled.
Based on the design, labeling, and results of testing, the proposed new CONCLUSION: Echogenic Catheter does not raise any different questions of safety or effectiveness. The device is as safe, as effective and performs as well as or better than the predicate. The Echogenic Catheter is substantially equivalent to the predicate ON-Q* QuikBloc* Over-the-Needle Catheter Set.
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Image /page/7/Picture/0 description: The image shows the Halyard logo. The logo consists of a circular icon on the left and the word "HALYARD" in bold, dark blue letters on the right. The icon features a dark blue circle with two shapes inside: a white shape on the left and a green shape on the right.
5405 Windward Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30004
# Section 5
# 510(k) Summary
ON-Q* T-bloc*Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit
| Date Prepared: | September 29, 2016 |
|---------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 510(k) Submitter: | Gwendolyn George<br>Halyard Health®<br>5405 Windward Parkway<br>Alpharetta, GA 30004<br>520-204-6442<br>gwendolyn.george@hyh.com<br>Establishment Registration Number: 3011270181 |
| PRIMARY CONTACT<br>FOR THIS 510(k)<br>SUBMISSION: | Gwendolyn George<br>Technical Leader, Regulatory Affairs<br>520-204-6442 (Phone)<br>gwendolyn.george@hyh.com |
| TRADE NAME: | ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit |
| CLASSIFICATION NAME: | |
| DEVICE CLASSIFICATION: | Class II |
| REGULATION NUMBER: | |
| PRODUCT CODE: | CAZ |
| PREDICATE DEVICE: | Peripheral Nerve Block Tray (K073187) |
SUBJECT DEVICE DESCRIPTION: ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is designed for the Regional Anesthesia market to deliver medication for regional anesthesia and pain management. The Kit contains multiple components; one being Halyard Health's new Echogenic Catheter. The Echogenic Catheter is a closed tip catheter composed of polvamide nylon (Pebax) tubing that contains two radiopaque barium sulfate stripes, black pad printed depth markings, and a stainless steel echogenic screw tip that is visible under ultrasound. The catheter assembly will also include a stylet composed of Nitinol wire with an ABS Finger holder and a polypropylene thread assist quide in a sterile catheter sleeve composed of Tyvek and polyester.
INDICATIONS FOR USE: The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is indicated for delivery of medication for regional anesthesia and pain management. Routes of administration may be perineural, intraoperative, or percutaneous.
The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is indicated for patients undergoing continuous regional anesthesia and pain management procedures.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is not indicated for intravascular delivery.
{8}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/8/Picture/0 description: The image shows the Halyard logo. The logo consists of a blue circle with two white and green shapes inside. To the right of the circle is the word "HALYARD" in blue, block letters.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGIES: The technological characteristics, instructions for use, construction, and components of the ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit are substantially equivalent to the currently marketed predicate device, Peripheral Nerve Block Tray cleared under K073187. The same sterilization method, fundamental technology, packaging, assembly and labeling will be used. The distinguishing feature of the ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Kit is the Echogenic Catheter which will replace the existing Epimed Spirol® Catheter found in the predicate tray. The differences between the subject and predicate devices do not raise different questions of safety and effectiveness. Table 5.1 Tray comparison, outlines the differences in the predicate and subject devices.
| Characteristic | Predicate Device<br>Peripheral Nerve Block Tray<br>(K073187) | Subject Device<br>ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous<br>Nerve Block Kit |
|----------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Regulation<br>Product Code | CAZ | CAZ |
| Indications for<br>use | The Peripheral Nerve Block Tray is used<br>for administration of regional or local<br>anesthesia to a patient. | The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous<br>Nerve Block Kit is indicated for delivery of<br>medication for regional anesthesia and<br>pain management. Routes of<br>administration may be perineural,<br>intraoperative, or percutaneous.<br><br>The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous<br>Nerve Block Kit is indicated for patients<br>undergoing continuous regional<br>anesthesia and pain management<br>procedures. |
| Sterilization<br>Method | Ethylene Oxide | SAME |
| Single Use<br>Device | Yes | SAME |
| Packaging | Sterile Tyvek Pouch<br>Sterile .035" HDPE tray with Tyvek Lid | SAME |
| Catheter<br>Component | 20 GA x 24 in (61 cm) Spirol® Catheter,<br>with Inner Stylet and Thread Assist<br>Guide | 20 GA x 24 in (61 cm) Echogenic<br>Catheter, with Inner Stylet and Thread<br>Assist Guide |
| Stylet | Stainless Steel | Nitinol |
## TABLE 5.1 Kit Comparison
The Indications for Use statements of the subject and predicate devices have the same intended use (i.e., both are intended for regional anesthesia and pain management); however, the subject device indications for use has been expanded to identify the routes of administration and inclusion of the indicated patient population. The identification of the routes of administration and inclusion of the indicated patient population are not critical to the intended therapeutic or surgical use of the device and do not affect the safety and efficacy of the device when used as labeled.
Conclusion: The ON-Q* T-bloc* Echogenic Continuous Nerve Block Sets & Tray have substantially equivalent Indications for use, sterilization methods, packaging, and kit components as the predicate device, Peripheral Nerve Block Tray (K073187). The design enhancements of the subject device catheter raises no different questions of safety and effectiveness. The device is as safe, as effective, and performs as well as or better than the predicate.
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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.