BIPLR IM EN PAC LEADS (430-07,432-03,436-02 & 07, 438-05 & 07)
K962174 · Intermedics, Inc. · DTB · Aug 21, 1996 · Cardiovascular
Device Facts
Record ID
K962174
Device Name
BIPLR IM EN PAC LEADS (430-07,432-03,436-02 & 07, 438-05 & 07)
Applicant
Intermedics, Inc.
Product Code
DTB · Cardiovascular
Decision Date
Aug 21, 1996
Decision
ST
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 870.3680
Device Class
Class 3
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
Pacing leads are intended for use with implantable cardiac pulse generators for long-term pacing of the heart. The indications for ventricular pacing include, but are not limited to: Sick sinus syndrome, sinus bradycardia, complete heart block, and certain conditions of asymptomatic second-degree block. In the presence of normal A-V conduction the indications for atrial pacing include, but are not limited to: Sinus arrest, sick sinus syndrome, sinus bradycardia and conditions requiring increased cardiac efficiency, enhanced cardiac output or the overdrive of certain cardiac arrhythmias. In the absence of normal A-V conduction, an atrial lead may be used with a ventricular lead in a dual-chamber pacing system to restore A-V synchrony. Active fixation leads are specifically indicated for use in cases where passive-fixation leads provide unsatisfactory positional stability in either the atrium or the ventricle, or in cases where the atrial appendage has been sacrificed due to open-heart surgery or is abnormal because of congenital or acquired heart disease.
Device Story
Bipolar implantable endocardial pacing leads (Models 430-07, 432-03, 436-02, 436-07, 438-05, 438-07) designed for long-term cardiac pacing. Leads connect to implantable pulse generators to deliver electrical stimulation to the myocardium. Features include iridium-oxide coated titanium, carbon-coated titanium, or platinum-iridium electrodes; trifilar nickel-cobalt conductor coils; and polyurethane or silicone rubber sheaths. Fixation mechanisms include passive trailing tines or active helical corkscrews. Model 438-07 includes a soluble PEG capsule for active fixation protection during venous transit. Device used by physicians in clinical settings for cardiac rhythm management. Benefits include restoration of cardiac output and rhythm regulation. Modification involves transition to CFC-free manufacturing process using IPA/heptane blend.
Clinical Evidence
No new clinical data provided. Substantial equivalence is supported by biocompatibility testing (hemolysis, cytotoxicity, USP Class V, Ames mutagenicity, sensitization) and qualification testing on representative models. Materials processed with IPA/heptane blend demonstrated biocompatibility equivalent to previous manufacturing methods.
Technological Characteristics
Bipolar endocardial pacing leads. Electrodes: IROX (iridium-oxide coated titanium), Biolite (carbon-coated titanium), or Pt/Ir alloy. Conductor: Trifilar nickel-cobalt alloy. Insulation: Polyurethane or silicone rubber. Fixation: Passive (silicone tines) or Active (Ni-Co helical screw). Connector: VS.1 standard. Sterilization: Ethylene oxide (EO) per AAMI 1988 guidelines.
Indications for Use
Indicated for patients requiring long-term cardiac pacing due to sick sinus syndrome, sinus bradycardia, heart block, or sinus arrest. Atrial leads indicated for dual-chamber systems to restore A-V synchrony. Active fixation indicated for cases with unsatisfactory passive-fixation stability or abnormal/sacrificed atrial appendages. Contraindicated in tricuspid atresia, Ebstein's malformation, atrial/ventricular transposition, mechanical tricuspid valves, atrial paralysis, atrial atrophy, or atrial fibrillation.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
Temporary pacemaker electrode: A device consisting of flexible insulated electrical conductors with one end connected to an external pacemaker pulse generator and the other end applied to the heart. The device is used to transmit a pacing electrical stimulus from the pulse generator to the heart and/or to transmit the electrical signal of the heart to the pulse generator. Permanent pacemaker electrode: A device consisting of flexible insulated electrical conductors with one end connected to an implantable pacemaker pulse generator and the other end applied to the heart. The device is used to transmit a pacing electrical stimulus from the pulse generator to the heart and/or to transmit the electrical signal of the heart to the pulse generator.
{0}
K962174
AUG 21 1996
# 510(k) SUMMARY
This summary of 510(k) safety and effectiveness information is being submitted in accordance with the requirements of SMDA 1990 and 21 CFR §807.92.
The assigned 510(k) number is:
(To be completed by FDA)
# TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GENERAL INFORMATION 2
B. DESCRIPTION OF THE DISEASES AND CONDITIONS FOR WHICH THE CFC-FREE PACING LEADS ARE INDICATED 3
C. DEVICE DESCRIPTION 4
1. Labeling 6
2. Design and Materials 7
3. Performance 9
D ALTERNATIVES 9
E. POTENTIAL ADVERSE EFFECTS 10
F. SUMMARY OF STUDIES 10
1. Biocompatibility Studies 10
2. Qualification Testing 11
G. CLINICAL SUMMARY 12
H. MANUFACTURING/STERILIZATION 12
I. CONCLUSION 13
0067
{1}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
A. GENERAL INFORMATION
Device Classification Name:
Electrode, Pacemaker, Permanent and Temporary
Device Trade Name:
- Intermedics Model 430-07 Bipolar Implantable Endocardial Pacing Lead
- Intermedics Model 432-03 Bipolar Implantable Endocardial Pacing Lead
- Intermedics Model 436-02 Bipolar Implantable Endocardial Pacing Lead
- Intermedics Model 436-07 Bipolar Implantable Endocardial Pacing Lead
- Intermedics Cardifix EZ Model 438-05 Bipolar Implantable Endocardial Pacing Lead
- Intermedics Cardifix EZ Model 438-07 Bipolar Implantable Endocardial Pacing Lead
Applicant's Name and Address:
Intermedics Inc. (Establishment Registration Number: 1640319)
4000 Technology Drive
Angleton, TX 77515
Primary Company Representative:
Lori Kleinschrodt Holder, RAC
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
(409) 848-4522 FAX: (409) 848-4533
Alternate Company Representative:
Kathleen M. Chester, RAC
Senior Regulatory Affairs Specialist
(409) 848-4527 FAX: (409) 848-4533
Date of Notification:
June 4, 1996
0008
{2}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
B. DESCRIPTION OF THE DISEASES AND CONDITIONS FOR WHICH THE CFC-FREE MANUFACTURED PACING LEADS ARE INDICATED
The indications for use of Intermedics Models 430-07, 432-03, 436-02, 436-07, 438-05, and 438-07 endocardial pacing leads, manufactured using a Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Free process, are identical to those for the commercially available leads with the same model numbers manufactured using Freon-TMS.
Pacing leads are intended for use with implantable cardiac pulse generators for long-term pacing of the heart. The indications for ventricular pacing include, but are not limited to: Sick sinus syndrome, sinus bradycardia, complete heart block, and certain conditions of asymptomatic second-degree block.
In the presence of normal A-V conduction the indications for atrial pacing include, but are not limited to: Sinus arrest, sick sinus syndrome, sinus bradycardia and conditions requiring increased cardiac efficiency, enhanced cardiac output or the overdrive of certain cardiac arrhythmias.
In the absence of normal A-V conduction, an atrial lead may be used with a ventricular lead in a dual-chamber pacing system to restore A-V synchrony.
Active fixation leads are specifically indicated for use in cases where passive-fixation leads provide unsatisfactory positional stability in either the atrium or the ventricle, or in cases where the atrial appendage has been sacrificed due to open-heart surgery or is abnormal because of congenital or acquired heart disease.
Contraindications
The use of endocardial leads may be contraindicated in the presence of tricuspid atresia, Ebstein's malformation, and various forms of atrial or ventricular transposition, and in patients with mechanical tricuspid heart valves. The use of endocardial leads for atrial indications may be contraindicated in the presence of atrial paralysis, atrial atrophy, or a surgically modified or excised atrial appendage.
0069
{3}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
Atrial pacing is contraindicated in the presence of atrial fibrillation and, except when used in a dual chamber system, in the presence of certain A-V conduction defects.
## C. DEVICE DESCRIPTION
The Intermedics Models 430-07, 432-03, 436-02, 436-07, 438-05, and 438-07 endocardial pacing leads are designed for use with implantable cardiac generators for long term cardiac pacing. Table 1 summarizes the accessories packaged with each lead model.
0010
{4}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
TABLE 1. Accessories packaged with each lead model.
| Accessory | Lead Model | | | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | 430-07 | 432-03 | 436-02 | 436-07 | 438-05 | 438-07 |
| 365-11
Limber Stylet | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ |
| 365-12
Firm Stylet | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ |
| 365-57
Limber Large "J" Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ | ☐ |
| 365-58
Firm Large "J" Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ | ☐ |
| 365-81
Tapered Limber Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ | ☐ | ☐ |
| 365-82
Tapered Firm Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ | ☐ | ☐ |
| 365-87
Limber Tight "J" Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ | ☐ |
| 365-89
Limber "J" Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ |
| 365-90
Firm "J" Stylet | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ |
| 366-14
Lead Cover | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| 366-29
Step up adapter VS.1 to 5mm | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| 366-30
Step up adapter VS.1 to 6mm | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| 367-01
Vein Lifter | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ |
| Stylet Funnel
(no model no.) | ☑ | ☑ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
5
0011
{5}
510(k) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(k) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
With the exception of the solution used during the manufacturing process, the listed pacing leads manufactured with the CFC-free process are identically configured to the commercially available Intermedics pacing leads with the same model numbers. Table 2 lists the 510(k) numbers and approval dates for each lead model.
Table 2. 510(k) Numbers and approval dates for each lead model.
| Lead Model | 510(k) Number | Approval Date |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 430-07 | K890412 | 3/28/89 |
| | K902672 | 3/1/91 |
| | K954610 | Submitted 10/03/95 |
| | K954719 | 2/27/96 |
| 432-03 | K890411 | 03/28/89 |
| | K912235 | 09/26/91 |
| | K954610 | Submitted 10/03/95 |
| | K954719 | 2/27/96 |
| 436-02 | K883602 | 09/06/88 |
| | K954719 | 02/27/96 |
| 436-07 | K955122 | Submitted 11/07/95 |
| 438-05 | K922972 | 01/22/93 |
| | K954719 | 02/27/96 |
| 438-07 | K955550 | Submitted 12/04/95 |
1. Labeling
There are no changes to the product labeling as a result of the modification to the manufacturing process.
6
0012
{6}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
## 2. Design and Materials
The general characteristics of the pacing leads are summarized below. Table 3 summarizes the characteristics of each lead by model number.
### a. Electrodes
The cathode tip electrode transfers the electrical charge from the pulse generator to the desired cardiac surface (endocardium, epicardium, or myocardium) via the pacing lead. This electrical charge stimulates the myocardium, causing cardiac depolarization. The electrodes are either made of iridium-oxide coated titanium (IROX™) (models 430-07, 432-03, 436-07, 438-07), carbon-coated (Biolite¹) titanium (model 436-02) or a platinum-iridium alloy (model 438-05).
### b. Lead Body
The conductor coils, constructed of three nickel-cobalt alloy wires wound uniaxially (trifilar), transmit electrical activity to and from the heart. Electrical isolation between the connectors and the body environment is provided by an sheath surrounding the conductor coil: which also contributes to the structural strength of the leads. The sheath may be made of polyurethane (models 430-07, 432-03, 438-05, 438-07) or silicone rubber (models 436-02, 436-07).
### c. Tip Fixation
The passive fixation mechanism of the lead tip of the models 430-07, 432-03, 436-02, and 436-07 lodges among the trabeculae in order to prevent dislodgement or movement of the tip electrode from the endocardium. The tip fixation mechanism, made of silicone rubber, is a trailing tines design with radial projections 45° to the axis of the lead body.
¹Biolite is a trademark of Carbomedics, Inc., Austin, TX.
7
0013
{7}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
TABLE 3. Characteristics of Intermedics Pacing Leads by Model Number.
| Model No. | Chamber^{1} | Polarity | Length^{2} (cm) | Electrode Material | Lead Body Material | Fixation | Connector |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 430-07 | Ventricular | Bipolar | 58 | IROX | Polyurethane | Passive/Tine | VS. 1 |
| 432-03 | Atrial | Bipolar | 52 | IROX | Polyurethane | Passive/Tine | VS. 1 |
| 436-02 | Ventricular | Bipolar | 60 | Biopore | Silicone | Passive/Tine | VS. 1 |
| 436-07 | Ventricular | Bipolar | 58 | IROX | Silicone | Passive/Tine | VS. 1 |
| 438-05 | A/V | Bipolar | 60 | Pt/IR | Polyurethane | Active/Screw | VS. 1 |
| 438-07 | A/V | Bipolar | 58 | IROX | Polyurethane | Active/Screw | VS. 1 |
1A/V - Atrial and Ventricular
2Nominal Lengths. Other lengths available upon request.
8
{8}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
The active fixation mechanism of the lead tips of the models 438-05 and 438-07 consists of a nickel-cobalt helical corkscrew which is fixed in the endocardium in order to prevent dislodgement or movement of the tip. The model 438-07 pacing lead has a unique feature which provides a protective soluble Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) capsule over the fixation mechanism while the lead is passed through the venous system. Within 2 to 4 minutes, the PEG dissolves allowing fixation of the lead into the cardiac tissue.
d. Connector Assembly
For all Intermedics pacing lead models, the connector pin (cathode), made of 316 stainless steel, provides the electrical and mechanical connection between the pulse generator and pacing lead. The connector sleeve and seals are made of silicone rubber and provide an insulating seal between the lead and the header of the pulse generator. The connector dimensions are designed to meet the requirements of the VS. 1 standard.
3. Performance
The Intermedics pacing leads are intended for use with implantable pulse generators. Based upon the results of qualification testing, the performance of the leads manufactured with the CFC-free manufacturing process is expected to be equivalent to the performance of the commercially available leads manufactured using Freon-TMS.
D. ALTERNATIVES
The alternatives to the use of pacing leads are similar to those described for pulse generators. Surgery or drug therapy have been stated as alternatives to cardiac pacing in certain instances. However, when a cardiac pacing system is employed, the side effects of drugs and/or the risks of surgery make these alternatives less desirable.
Other commercially available pacing leads provide another alternative to the use of Intermedics pacing leads manufactured using the CFC-free process.
9
0015
{9}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
## E. POTENTIAL ADVERSE EFFECTS
The potential adverse effects associated with the use of pacing leads may include intermittent or continuous loss of pacing or sensing produced by factors such as displacement of the electrode, unsatisfactory electrode position, breakage of the conductor or its insulation, an increase in thresholds, or poor electrical connection to the pulse generator. As with the introduction of any foreign object into the body, infection can result from the use of pacing leads and accessories. These complications can occur during implantation, explantation, or at any time postoperatively and may require noninvasive or invasive management techniques.
When subclavian venipuncture is used for endocardial lead introduction, "extremely medial" insertion of a lead and/or "anatomic abnormalities" may contribute to conductor fracture². Perforation of the ventricular wall may cause phrenic nerve stimulation or diaphragmatic muscle stimulation. Cardiac tamponade has been reported from instances of lead perforation.
When removing an implanted endocardial lead, if the connector is cut off, the lead's insulation tubing, under sufficient traction, may separate from the lead conductor and slide off, leaving an exposed conductor coil in the heart and vein.
When using an epicardial or myocardial lead, conditions may occur that are associated with risks inherent in open chest surgery, such as pulmonary difficulties and, rarely, cardiac tamponade.
## F. SUMMARY OF STUDIES
### 1. Biocompatibility Studies
All of the tissue/fluid contacting materials of the pacing leads have been evaluated for biocompatibility in both in vitro and in vivo test systems and subjected to the following tests:
²Stokes K, et al: A possible "new" complication of subclavian stick: Conductor fracture, PACE, 10:748, 1987 (Abstract).
10
0016
{10}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
- Hemolysis Test
- MEM Elution Cytology
- Ames Mutagenicity
- USP Class V
- Intramuscular Implantation Test
- Maximization Sensitization Test
- USP Pyrogen Test
Based upon the test data, the materials above were not found to present any toxic liability under physiological conditions. Therefore, the tissue/fluid contacting materials of this pacing system are considered biocompatible.
In order to ensure continued biocompatibility of these materials when manufactured utilizing the IPA/heptane blend, the hemolysis and cytotoxicity tests were repeated for the following materials:
- Silicone tubing cleaned with IPA/heptane,
- 80A polyurethane tubing cleaned with IPA/heptane,
- 55D polyurethane tubing cleaned with IPA/heptane.
Based upon the results of these tests, the materials continue to be biocompatible when processed with the IPA/heptane blend.
## 2. Qualification Testing
Qualification testing was performed on the model 430-07. This lead model was selected as it consists of processes representative of the changes in the manufacturing processes of the affected lead models as a result of the elimination of Freon-TMS. These processes include:
- Cleaning (degreasing) of silicone, polyurethane, and metal parts
- Swelling of silicone tubing and parts
- Softening and lubricating of polyurethane tubing
- Mechanical assembly of components
0017
{11}
510(K) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(K) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
# G. CLINICAL SUMMARY
The clinical experience of the commercially available Intermedics pacing leads has resulted in an extremely low incidence of clinical complications, demonstrating its effective performance in human implantation. Because of the favorable biocompatibility and qualification test results, it is expected that the pacing leads manufactured with the CFC-free process will perform with comparable efficacy.
# H. MANUFACTURING/STERILIZATION
Intermedics utilizes environmental controls in the manufacturing facilities which are designed, maintained and closely monitored to achieve an efficacious environment for manufacturing all products. The manufacturing environment is routinely monitored for particle counts, humidity, temperature, and static electricity controls. Additionally, bioburden testing is performed on all products.
Vendors of purchased material must be "approved" based upon a quality survey in which Intermedics' field engineers determine whether the vendor has the capability of consistently supplying material that will meet Intermedics' standards. Each quantity of purchased material is assigned a lot number and acceptance or rejection is determined based upon an inspection (conducted on a statistical sampling basis) performed to Intermedics' Engineering specifications.
The finished pacing lead and accessories are packaged in the formed pockets of an inner blister tray which is closed by heat sealing a peelable cover around the periphery. This inner blister is then placed into an outer blister which is closed by heat sealing a second peelable cover to it. Cover material is microbial penetration resistant, water resistant, and puncture resistant as suitable for this application.
Intermedics sterilization procedures for pacing leads and accessories utilize ethylene oxide (EO) sterilizers set for specific parameters derived using methods described in the 1988 AAMI guideline, Guideline for Industrial Ethylene Oxide Sterilization of Medical Devices.
003
{12}
510(k) NOTIFICATION - CFC-FREE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
SECTION 2 - 510(k) SUMMARY, SUMMARY OF ADVERSE SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS DATA, AND CERTIFICATION
Upon release from sterilization, pacing lead and accessories are packaged into a carton and the boxed product is inspected prior to being routed to the Finished Goods Inventory area.
## I. CONCLUSION
The information presented in this submission for the Intermedics Models 430-07, 432-03, 436-02, 436-07, 438-05, and 438-07 endocardial pacing leads demonstrates that the intended use of these devices does not differ from that of the commercially available predicate models.
The clinical experience of the Intermedics endocardial pacing leads has resulted in an extremely low incidence of clinical complications, demonstrating their effective performance in human implantation. Because of the similarity in design and materials, the pacing leads can be expected to perform with
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.