K231545 · Hearx SA (Pty) , Ltd. · EWO · Oct 27, 2023 · Ear, Nose, Throat
Device Facts
Record ID
K231545
Device Name
hearOAE
Applicant
Hearx SA (Pty) , Ltd.
Product Code
EWO · Ear, Nose, Throat
Decision Date
Oct 27, 2023
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 874.1050
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Software as a Medical Device, Pediatric
Indications for Use
hearOAE is intended to be used by hearing healthcare professionals in the audiologic evaluation and documentation of ear function and ear disorders using Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAEs) and Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAEs). The target population for the hearOAE includes all ages.
Device Story
Portable, battery-operated otoacoustic emission (OAE) device; consists of Android-based application, hearOAE Codec, and probe. Probe houses speakers and microphone to deliver stimuli and measure sound pressure level (SPL) in ear canal. Codec generates/processes signals and communicates via Bluetooth to Android device. Operated by hearing healthcare professionals in clinical settings. Application enables protocol setup, probe check, test control, and visualization of results (tables, graphs). Provides objective data on ear function to assist in identifying hearing loss; aids clinical decision-making regarding patient auditory health.
Clinical Evidence
Cross-sectional, within-subject study comparing hearOAE to predicate. Adults (n=78-90 ears) and infants (n=176). Primary endpoints: test-retest reliability (adults) and diagnostic agreement (infants). Results: Adult test-retest reliability significant (rho=0.952-0.965, p<0.001); validity criteria met (95% CI within 3 dB SPL). Infant diagnostic concordance >85%. No significant safety concerns identified.
Technological Characteristics
Portable, battery-operated (Li-ion). Components: Probe (2 drivers, 1 microphone), Codec, Android smart device. Connectivity: Bluetooth. Standards: IEC 60645-6:2022, IEC 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, ISO 10993-1, IEC 62304. Software: Verification/validation per IEC 62304. Cybersecurity: Compliant with FDA guidance.
Indications for Use
Indicated for audiologic evaluation and documentation of ear function and disorders in patients of all ages using TEOAE and DPOAE testing.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An audiometer or automated audiometer is an electroacoustic device that produces controlled levels of test tones and signals intended for use in conducting diagnostic hearing evaluations and assisting in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders.
Predicate Devices
Otodynamics ILO288 Echoport Plus OAE System (K983350)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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October 27, 2023
hearX SA (Pty) Ltd Seline Van Der Wat Chief Operating Officer Building 2, Ashlea Gardens Office Park, 180 Garsfontein Road Ashlea Gardens Pretoria, 0081 South Africa
Re: K231545
Trade/Device Name: hearOAE Regulation Number: 21 CFR 874.1050 Regulation Name: Audiometer Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: EWO Dated: September 22, 2023 Received: September 22, 2023
Dear Seline Van Der Wat:
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 (the 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. Although this letter refers to your product as a device, please be aware that some cleared products may instead be combination products. The 510(k) Premarket Notification Database available at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpmn/pmn.cfm identifies.combination product submissions. 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.
Additional information about changes that may require a new premarket notification are provided in the FDA guidance documents entitled "Deciding When to Submit a 510(k) for a Change to an Existing Device" (https://www.fda.gov/media/99812/download) and "Deciding When to Submit a 510(k) for a Software Change to an Existing Device" (https://www.fda.gov/media/99785/download).
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Your device is also subject to, among other requirements, the Quality System (OS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820), which includes, but is not limited to, 21 CFR 820.30, Design controls; 21 CFR 820.90, Nonconforming product; and 21 CFR 820.100. Corrective and preventive action. Please note that regardless of whether a change requires premarket review, the QS regulation requires device manufacturers to review and approve changes to device design and production (21 CFR 820.30 and 21 CFR 820.70) and document changes and approvals in the device master record (21 CFR 820.181).
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 device-related adverse events) (21 CFR Part 803) for devices or postmarketing safety reporting (21 CFR Part 4, Subpart B) for combination products (see https://www.fda.gov/combination-products/guidance-regulatory-information/postmarketing-safety-reportingcombination-products); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820) for devices or current good manufacturing practices (21 CFR Part 4. Subpart A) for combination products; and, if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR Parts 1000-1050.
Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-safety/medical-device-reportingmdr-how-report-medical-device-problems.
For comprehensive regulatory information about medical devices and radiation-emitting products, including information about labeling regulations, please see Device Advice (https://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/device-advice-comprehensive-regulatory-assistance) and CDRH Learn (https://www.fda.gov/training-and-continuing-education/cdrl-learn). Additionally, you may contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE) to ask a question about a specific regulatory topic. See the DICE website (https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-advice-comprehensive-regulatoryassistance/contact-us-division-industry-and-consumer-education-dice) for more information or contact DICE by email (DICE@fda.hhs.gov) or phone (1-800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100).
Sincerely,
Shuchen Peng -S
Shu-Chen Peng, Ph.D. Assistant Director DHT1B: Division of Dental and ENT Devices OHT1: Office of Ophthalmic, Anesthesia, Respiratory, ENT and Dental Devices Office of Product Evaluation and Quality Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K231545
Device Name hearOAE
Indications for Use (Describe)
hearOAE is intended to be used by hearing healthcare professionals in the audiologic evaluation and documentation of ear function and ear disorders using Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAEs) and Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAEs). The target population for the hearOAE includes all ages.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|-------------------------------------------------|--|
| | |
| | |
| | Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
|X | Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
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## 510(k) Summary
## 1. SUBMITTER
Name: hearX SA (Pty) Ltd Address: Building 2, Ashlea Gardens Office Park, 180 Garsfontein Road, Ashlea Gardens, Pretoria, South Africa, 0081 Establishment Registration Number: 3014337591 Contact Person: Seline van der Wat, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Director of Regulatory, Governance & Intelligence Phone: +27 12 030 0268 Email: Compliance@hearxgroup.com Date Prepared: 29 May 2023
## 2. SUBJECT DEVICE
Name of Device: hearOAE Common or Usual Name: Otoacoustic Emission Device Classification Name: Audiometer - Otoacoustic Emission (21 CFR 874.1050) Regulation Class: Class II Product Code: EWO Assigned K-number: K231545
## 3. PREDICATE DEVICE
Otodynamics ILO288 Echoport Plus OAE System (K983350)
## 4. DEVICE DESCRIPTION
Per 21 CFR 874.1050, the hearOAE (otoacoustic emission device) is a portable, handheld, battery-operated device that can detect hearing loss using Otoacoustic Emission technologies. The hearOAE device may be configured to support one or any combination of TEOAE or DPOAE. Otoacoustic Emission devices are class II medical devices.
hearOAE consists of three main components listed below:
- hearOAE Application (available on supported Android devices supplied by i hearX)
- hearOAE Codec
- hearOAE Probe -
## The hearOAE Application:
- is operated on an Android smart device that uses Bluetooth connectivity to communicate with the hearOAE Codec.
- enables the user to choose and set up testing protocols for both TEOAE and DPOAE.
- enables the checking of the probe functionality, namely "Probe Check".
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- controls the start and stop of a TEOAE and DPOAE test including pre-test functions such as Probe Check and in-ear calibration.
- provides feedback during and after the test in the form of tables, figures, and graphs.
## The hearOAE Codec:
- consists of hardware and software for generating the test signals and measuring the responses.
- has the ability to generate, measure and process signals.
- contains a rechargeable lithium-ion battery to power the device. -
- uses three light indicators to provide a visual display of the status of the hearOAE Codec to the user. A push button (signified by a Power symbol) is located on the case of the hearOAE Codec to allow the user to switch it on or off.
- communicates the test results via Bluetooth to the hearOAE smart device । which will be displayed on the Smart device screen to the user within the application.
## The hearOAE Probe:
- houses the speakers (drivers), and a microphone that produces the test stimuli and measures the sound pressure level (SPL) present in the ear canal.
- has a removable probe coupler with ear tips which fit onto the probe coupler.
# 5. INTENDED USE / INDICATIONS FOR USE
hearOAE is intended to be used by hearing healthcare professionals in the audiologic evaluation and documentation of ear function and ear disorders using Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAEs) and Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAEs). The target population for the hearOAE includes all ages.
#### 6. COMPARISON OF TECHNOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS WITH THE PREDICATE DEVICE
The hearOAE has the same intended use and target population as the predicate, Otodynamics ILO288 Echoport plus OAE System (K983350).
A substantial comparison has been performed which provides evidence that facilitates the determination of substantial equivalence between the hearOAE device and the Otodynamics ILO288 Echoport plus OAE System.
Although the specific components of the device may look different, and the devices may be handled differently, both devices are made up of the same components:
- Probe ●
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- Contains 2 drivers and 1 microphone o
- Small size to fit into a newborn's ear о
- Different sized ear tips that enables the probe to fit small to large ear canal O sizes
- Processing unit hearOAE Codec and Echoport USB .
- o Accepts parameters and instructions from user controlled device (laptop and smartphone respectively) and executes OAE tests accordingly
- Generates and measures the electrical signals sent to and from the probe o
- Processes the measured signals and provides feedback to the user O controlled device which is used to update the user interface
- User controlled interface laptop and smart device .
- O Provides a user interface with user input capabilities
- Provides the user with means to setup test protocols and parameters O
- User can start and stop tests o
The non-clinical performance testing results (described in the table in section 7 below) demonstrate that both devices perform equivalently when set to the same protocol and parameters, when testing in similar environments and patients. Additionally, both devices are able to identify the connected probe and provide the means to perform a self-check by inserting the probe into a cavity, presenting and capturing sound, and comparing it to previous data points.
In terms of safety and technical compliance, both devices were tested and evaluated according to the same standards as described in section 8 below.
Differences were addressed through clinical testing (see section 8) and non-clinical performance testing (see section 7). These differences are not significant and do not change the effectiveness or safety of the subject device.
## 7. NON-CLINICAL PERFORMANCE TESTING:
Performance testing was conducted on the hearOAE to provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device as compared to Otodynamics
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ILO288 Echoport plus OAE System (K983350). The results are summarized in the table below:
| Test Standard/Method | Test Purpose | Result |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------|--------|
| IEC 60645-6:2022 "Electroacoustics -<br>Audiometric equipment – Part 6:<br>Instruments for the measurement of<br>otoacoustic emissions," | Requirements for the<br>measurements of otoacoustic<br>emissions | Pass |
| IEC 60601-1:2005+A1:2012<br>Medical electrical equipment – Part 1: General<br>requirements for basic safety and essential<br>performance | Basic Safety and Essential<br>Performance | Pass |
| IEC 60601-1-2:2014<br>Part 1-2: General requirements for basic<br>safety and essential performance – Collateral<br>Standard: Electromagnetic disturbances –<br>Requirements and tests | Electromagnetic Compatibility | Pass |
| ISO 10993-1:2009<br>Biological evaluation of medical devices - Part<br>1: Evaluation and testing within a risk<br>management process.<br>FDA Guidance FDA-2013-D-0350- Use of<br>International Standard ISO 10993-1,<br>"Biological evaluation of medical devices --<br>Part 1: Evaluation and testing within a risk<br>management process" - September 4, 2020 | Biocompatibility | Pass |
| IEC 62304:2006+A1:2015<br>Medical device software - Software<br>lifecycle processes<br>FDA Guidance FDA-2020-D-0957 - Guidance<br>for the Content of Premarket Submissions for<br>Software Contained in Medical Devices,<br>Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug<br>Administration Staff - May 11, 2005 | Software Verification and<br>Validation | Pass |
| FDA Guidance FDA-2018-D-3443 - Content of<br>Premarket<br>Submissions for Management of<br>Cybersecurity in Medical Devices, Guidance<br>for Industry and Food and Drug Administration<br>Staff - October 18, 2018 | Cybersecurity Compliance | Pass |
| FDA Guidance FDA-2015-D-5105 - Post<br>market Management of Cybersecurity in<br>Medical Devices, Guidance for Industry and<br>Food and Drug Administration Staff -<br>December 28, 2016 | | |
| IEEE / ANSI C63.27:2017 - Evaluation of<br>Wireless Coexistence AAMI TIR 69:2020 -<br>Risk Management of Radio-Frequency<br>Wireless Coexistence for Medical Devices and<br>Systems | Bluetooth SIG Compliance | Pass |
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The range of testing and all acceptable criteria are appropriate to evaluate this device based on its proposed intended use. All acceptance criteria were met.
## 8. CLINICAL STUDIES
The current investigation aimed to (a) evaluate the performance of the hearOAE device in testing diagnostic DPOAEs and TEOAEs in adults, and (b) to evaluate the diagnostic agreement of the device for hearing screening in infants in comparison to a commercially available device (Otodynamics IL0288 ECHOPORT Plus OAE System).
## Methodology
The investigation followed a cross sectional, within-subject repeated measures design in order to evaluate the performance of the hearOAE device compared to the predicate in both adult and infant participants. Two modalities of testing were used, namely transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE).
For sub-aim A. adult participants were recruited and underwent diagnostic DPOAE testing in one ear and TEOAE testing in the opposite ear with both devices. In addition, the diagnostic OAE test with each device was repeated in each ear in order to determine test-retest reliability to allow for comparison of reliability.
Users of the device were qualified and Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) registered audiologists with prior knowledge of ears and hearing as well as prior OAE device experience. They were trained with the specific hearOAE model to ensure competent use with the device.
Counterbalancing techniques were used during diagnostic testing (adults) and screening (infants). The participants' ears were tested randomly, and the sequence of the tests performed on each participant followed a Latin square design.
For sub-aim B. infants were recruited via consent of their caregivers from the newborn hearing screening (NHS) program at three public healthcare hospitals. Screening TEOAEs for 50% of infant ears (using both the hearOAE and the predicate device) and screening DPOAEs for 50% of infant ears (using both the hearOAE and the the predicate device) were conducted using a counterbalancing
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procedure. In this way, diagnostic agreement of the investigator device and comparator device for screening TEOAEs and DPOAEs was measured.
## Number of patients (planned and analyzed)
## Planned number of participants
For sub-aim A: 50 adults with normal hearing (100 ears) and 25 adults with hearing loss (50 ears). For sub-aim B: 350 infant ears (screen 175 ears with DPOAE with both the investigational and comparator device and screen 175 ears using TEOAEs with both the investigational and comparator device).
#### Analyzed number of participants
#### Sub-aim A: Adult participants
A total of 78 adult ears (58 normal hearing; 20 with hearing loss) were evaluated with DPOAEs. A total of 90 adult ears (66 normal hearing ears; 24 ears with hearing loss) were tested using TEOAEs.
#### Sub-aim B: Infant participants
A total of 176 infants were included in the sample. DPOAE screening was completed in 175 infant ears while TEOAE screening was completed in 174 infant ears.
## Main criteria for inclusion
#### Adults (sub-aim A)
- ≥ 18 years old. ●
- Adults with normal hearing. Normal hearing is classified as having a pure . tone average (PTA) of ≤25 dB HL. PTA is based on the average of an individual's behavioral pure tone air conduction audiometry thresholds obtained at 0.5 kHz, 1 kHz, and 2 kHz.
- Adults with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) of any degree (mild, . moderate, severe or profound) will also be included in this investigation. SNHL is classified as air conduction PTA of >25 dB HL, and bone conduction thresholds within 10 dB HL of air conduction thresholds across all frequencies.
- Adults who were competent in either English or Afrikaans in order to follow ● instructions during the assessment procedures.
## Infants (sub-aim B)
- Infants younger than 12 months of age, enrolled in the NHS programme at ● three targeted hospitals, to undergo hearing screening by an audiologist using both the hearOAE and the predicate device.
## Criteria for evaluation:
#### Sub-aim A (Adults)
Primary endpoint criteria for sub-group A (adults) considered both test-retest reliability and validity of the investigational device compared to the predicate device. 95% Cl of the test-retest difference of the hearOAE (DPOAE and TEOAE) signal, noise and SNR had to be within a -3.0 to 3.0 dB SPL (lower and upper limit) margin. hearOAE 510(k) Submission hearX SA (Pty) Ltd
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Acceptance criteria for validity was when the 95% Cl lower limit of the signal difference (DPOAE and TEOAE) between the hearOAE and predicate device was no less -3.0 dB SPL across frequencies.
## Sub-aim B (Infants)
The primary endpoint for the infant group was equivalent screening outcomes (device agreement of > 85%) for the investigational device and the comparator device. This was done by measuring device agreement for screening DPOAEs and TEOAEs between the investigation device and the comparator device in terms of Pass/Refer rates, mean signal, noise and SNR. High device agreement was considered > 85%.
## Statistical methods
## Sub-aim A (Adults)
Test-retest reliability was measured for each device within protocols and withinparticipant groups (normal and hearing loss). Due to the non-parametric nature of the data, Wilcoxon signed-rank (WSR) tests were used to compare the means of the two OAE devices in terms of Signal, Noise and SNR for both DPOAEs and TEOAEs. Mean absolute deviations were calculated for Signal, Noise and SNR, and is presented for both devices. Non-parametric inferential statistics were used for both DP- and TEOAEs to determine within-participant test-retest reliability within devices.
## Sub-aim B (Infants)
Normality of distribution of all dependent variables was evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Within-participant comparisons were done with the Wilcoxon Sign Rank test. Quantile regression was used to determine if any participant factors were significantly associated with a difference in DPOAE or TEOAE Signal.
## Summary - Conclusion
The diagnostic performance of the hearOAE, a novel mobile based OAE device, was evaluated by comparing the DPOAE and TEOAE test-retest reliability and validity of the hearOAE with a commercially available device, namely the ILO288 ECHOPORT Plus OAE System.
## Sub-aim A (Adults)
## Test-retest reliability of DPOAE and TEOAE
Pooling all independent variables, the hearOAE DPOAE displayed statistically significant (rho = 0.952; p < 0.001) test-retest reliability. No significant differences were noted across all frequencies for the DPOAE signals (p > 0.05). The 95% confidence limits for signal, noise and SNR differences were within a 3 dB SPL margin across frequencies, aligning well with the predicate device, confirming the hearOAE's DPOAE test-retest reliability.
For TEOAE variables, hearOAE test-retest reliability was statistically significant (rho= 0.965, p < 0.001). Frequency specific correlations for signal and SNR were also statistically significant (rho= 0.923-0.985, p < 0.001), with no significant differences across frequencies for the TEOAE signal, noise or SNR (p > 0.05). The 95% confidence intervals for test-retest differences fell within a 3 dB SPL margin
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and mirrored the predicate device, meeting the performance criteria for TEOAE testretest reliability.
## Validity of DPOAE and TEOAE
Initial device comparisons showed that hearOAE DPOAE signals across the frequency bands were either comparable to or significantly better (p < 0.05) than the predicate (WSR range: -1.232 to 2.8195). Noise levels were consistently lower for hearOAE (WSR range: -7.323 to -6.197; p < 0.001). Excluding the 3 kHz signal, differences between hearOAE and the predicate device were non-significant across all frequencies, with all but 3 kHz meeting OAE signal acceptance criteria (lower 95% CI limit ≥ -3.0). Although the 3kHz frequency was slightly outside the acceptable range (-0.5 dB SPL), hearOAE adhered to the validity criteria for DPOAE.
No significant differences in TEOAE signal were found between devices (WSR = -1.276; p > 0.05). hearOAE displayed significantly higher means signals at 3 kHz (WSR=-2.183; p < 0.029). Signals were comparable at other frequencies (WSR range: -2.284 to -1.149; p > 0.05), with small mean differences (< 1 dB SPL) except at 3 and 4 kHz. All frequencies met the TEOAE signal acceptance criteria (lower 95% CI limit ≥ -3.0), ensuring hearOAE's compliance with the validity acceptance criteria.
## Sub-aim B (Infants)
Statistically significant within-participant differences for DPOAEs were measured between devices with respect to both total and mean signal, noise, and SNR levels across frequencies (WSR=-7.901 to -3.004; p < 0.05). Signal and SNR values were significantly higher for the predicate, while noise levels were significantly lower for the hearOAE. There was no statistically significant difference in the refer rate between devices (CHI=2.00; p >0.05). The within-participant diagnostic concordance between the two devices was 89.7%.
Statistically higher SNR (WSR=-6.664; p < 0.001), signal (WSR=-6.199; p <0.001), and noise levels (WSR= -2.021 to -2.020; p = 0.043) were recorded for the hearOAE compared to the predicate. Within-participant diagnostic concordance of 85% was measured between devices. The refer rate for TEOAEs between devices differed significantly (CHI 7.538; p = 0.009) with hearOAE demonstrating a higher pass rate.
## Conclusion
The current study concluded that the hearOAE therefore vielded reliable and valid diagnostic DPOAE and TEOAE measures in adults with normal hearing and with hearing loss and demonstrated diagnostic agreement during screening in infants as compared to the predicate device (the IL0288 ECHOPORT Plus OAE System).
## 9. Substantial Equivalence
The hearOAE has the same intended use as the predicate device Otodynamics ILO288 Plus OAE System (K983350). Like the predicate device, hearOAE is intended to be used by hearing healthcare professionals in the audiologic evaluation and documentation of ear function and ear disorders using Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAEs) and Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAEs). The target population for the hearQAE includes all ages. Clinical data shows that the hearX SA (Pty) Ltd hearOAE 510(k) Submission
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effectiveness of the hearQAE was non-inferior to the predicate. Non-clinical performance testing has been conducted to ensure that the device does not raise any concerns or questions of safety and effectiveness as established by the predicate device. The hearOAE software has been validated per the same standards as used to validate the device and software of the predicate device. Lastly, design verification results demonstrate that the subject device has comparable performance to the predicate device.
## 10. Summary - Conclusion
In conclusion the evidence provided proves that the outcomes of the hearOAE testing have been conducted to ensure that the device does not raise any questions of safety and effectiveness. Furthermore, the hearOAE has the same intended use and the same technological characteristics as the previously cleared predicate device. Based on the comparison and analysis above, the hearOAE is determined to be substantially equivalent to the predicate device (Otodynamics ILO288 Echoport Plus OAE System (K983350)).
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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.