K Number
K081656
Device Name
VISUALASE THERMAL THERAPY SYSTEM
Manufacturer
Date Cleared
2008-09-10

(90 days)

Product Code
Regulation Number
892.2050
AI/MLSaMDIVD (In Vitro Diagnostic)TherapeuticDiagnosticis PCCP Authorized
Intended Use
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm. When therapy is performed under MRI guidance, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time. The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician, this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.
Device Description
The Visualase Thermal Therapy System comprises four devices: a laser energy source, a cooled laser applicator, a pump for circulating coolant through the applicator, and a computer workstation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis software for determination and visualization of relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. A software application running on the workstation allows the workstation user to control the laser output and to operate the coolant pump from the workstation interface. Additionally, when appropriate thermal imaging guidance is used, temperature limits may be associated with prescribed image locations and used as an interlock for automatic deactivation of the laser output. A previous version of the Visualase Thermal Therapy System has been cleared for marketing via 510(k) notification (Visualase Thermal Therapy System, K071328). The instant version of this system extends the functionality of the predicate version by providing a software interface for control of the laser output through the computer interface port of the laser component and on/off operation of the pump through a similar interface. When used with appropriate magnetic resonance thermal imaging guidance, a software tool may be used to prescribe limits for the temperature at certain points in the image which can, in turn, be used to deactivate the laser if the limits are reached. Thus this system provides an additional level of "interlock" security over the previous version which may increase safety and/or precision of the treatment prescription. It is important to note that while temperature image information can be used to automatically deactivate the laser as a safety precaution, the user may, at his discretion, override the interlock and proceed with additional laser energy deposition if warranted. Further, it is important to note that the added security feature is in no way capable of energizing the laser on its own. The laser may ONLY be activated by a deliberate action from the user. Thus the added feature serves only as an additional safety interlock on the laser system similar to many other common safety features. Computer control of the coolant pump status (ON/OFF) provides an additional convenience to the user and also provides an additional safety feature since, when the laser is operated from the workstation interface, activation of the laser can be made dependent on first activating the coolant pump. The addition of these features to the Visualase system has no effect on the Indications for Use statement which remains unchanged from the predicate device (except that we have now extended compatibility to Siemens MRI systems).
More Information

Not Found

No
The description focuses on image processing for temperature monitoring and safety interlocks based on predefined temperature limits, not on learning or adaptive algorithms.

Yes
The device is indicated for use to "necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy," which are therapeutic actions.

No

The device is primarily a thermal therapy system designed to ablate soft tissue. While it processes MRI data to monitor temperature changes during therapy, this is for guidance and assessment of the treatment, not for diagnosing a medical condition. The text explicitly states that "Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis."

No

The device description explicitly states that the Visualase Thermal Therapy System comprises four devices: a laser energy source, a cooled laser applicator, a pump, and a computer workstation with software. This indicates it is a system with multiple hardware components, not a software-only device.

Based on the provided text, the Visualase Thermal Therapy System is not an In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) device.

Here's why:

  • IVD Definition: In Vitro Diagnostics are devices intended for use in the collection, preparation, and examination of specimens taken from the human body (such as blood, urine, or tissue) to provide information for diagnostic purposes.
  • Visualase Function: The Visualase system is used for thermal therapy (necrotizing or coagulating soft tissue) directly within the body under MRI guidance. It uses laser energy to heat tissue.
  • MRI Analysis: While the system uses MRI data to monitor temperature changes during the therapy, this is part of the treatment delivery and monitoring process, not the analysis of a specimen taken from the body for diagnostic purposes. The MRI analysis helps guide and assess the effectiveness of the thermal therapy being performed in vivo.

Therefore, the Visualase Thermal Therapy System falls under the category of a therapeutic device that utilizes imaging for guidance and monitoring, rather than an in vitro diagnostic device.

N/A

Intended Use / Indications for Use

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm.

When therapy is performed under MRI guidance, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time.

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician, this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.

Product codes (comma separated list FDA assigned to the subject device)

LLZ, GEX, FRN

Device Description

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System comprises four devices: a laser_ energy source, a cooled laser applicator, a pump for circulating coolant through the applieater, and a computer workstation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis software for determination and visualization of relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. A software application running on the workstation allows the workstation user to control the laser output and to operate the coolant pump from the workstation interface. Additionally, when appropriate thermal imaging guidance is used, temperature limits may be associated with prescribed image locations and used as an interlock for automatic deactivation of the laser output.

A previous version of the Visualase Thermal Therapy System has been cleared for marketing via 510(k) notification (Visualase Thermal Therapy System, The instant version of this system extends the functionality of the K071328). predicate version by providing a software interface for control of the laser output through the computer interface port of the laser component and on/off operation of the pump through a similar interface. When used with appropriate magnetic resonance thermal imaging guidance, a software tool may be used to prescribe limits for the temperature at certain points in the image which can, in turn, be used to deactivate the laser if the limits are reached. Thus this system provides an additional level of "interlock" security over the previous version which may increase safety and/or precision of the treatment prescription. It is important to note that while temperature image information can be used to automatically deactivate the laser as a safety precaution, the user may, at his discretion, override the interlock and proceed with additional laser energy deposition if warranted. Further, it is important to note that the added security feature is in no way capable of energizing the laser on its own. The laser may ONLY be activated by a deliberate action from the user. Thus the added feature serves only as an additional safety interlock on the laser system similar to many other common safety features.

Computer control of the coolant pump status (ON/OEE) provides an additional convenience to the user and also provides an additional safety feature since, when the laser is operated from the workstation interface, activation of the laser can be made dependent on first activating the coolant pump.

The addition of these features to the Visualase system has no effect on the Indications for Use statement which remains unchanged from the predicate device (except that we have now extended compatibility to Siemens MBI systems).

Mentions image processing

Yes

Mentions AI, DNN, or ML

Not Found

Input Imaging Modality

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Anatomical Site

Soft tissue (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac) in various surgical fields including cardiovascular thoracic surgery, dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology.

Indicated Patient Age Range

Not Found

Intended User / Care Setting

Trained physician / medicine and surgery

Description of the training set, sample size, data source, and annotation protocol

Not Found

Description of the test set, sample size, data source, and annotation protocol

Not Found

Summary of Performance Studies (study type, sample size, AUC, MRMC, standalone performance, key results)

Not Found

Key Metrics (Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV, NPV, etc.)

Not Found

Predicate Device(s): If the device was cleared using the 510(k) pathway, identify the Predicate Device(s) K/DEN number used to claim substantial equivalence and list them here in a comma separated list exactly as they appear in the text. List the primary predicate first in the list.

K071328

Reference Device(s): Identify the Reference Device(s) K/DEN number and list them here in a comma separated list exactly as they appear in the text.

Not Found

Predetermined Change Control Plan (PCCP) - All Relevant Information for the subject device only (e.g. presence / absence, what scope was granted / cleared under the PCCP, any restrictions, etc).

Not Found

§ 892.2050 Medical image management and processing system.

(a)
Identification. A medical image management and processing system is a device that provides one or more capabilities relating to the review and digital processing of medical images for the purposes of interpretation by a trained practitioner of disease detection, diagnosis, or patient management. The software components may provide advanced or complex image processing functions for image manipulation, enhancement, or quantification that are intended for use in the interpretation and analysis of medical images. Advanced image manipulation functions may include image segmentation, multimodality image registration, or 3D visualization. Complex quantitative functions may include semi-automated measurements or time-series measurements.(b)
Classification. Class II (special controls; voluntary standards—Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) Std., Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) Std., Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Test Pattern).

0

K 081656

SEP 1 0 2008

510(k) Summary

In accordance with the Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990 and in compliance with 21CFR 807, the following serves as the 510(k) Summary information upon which the substantial equivalence determination is based.

Contact Information

| Submitter: | BioTex, Inc.
8058 El Rio St.
Houston, TX 77054 |
|-----------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Phone: | 713.741.0111 |
| Contact Person: | Roger McNichols, Ph.D.
8058 El Rio St.
Houston, TX 77054
713.741.0111 |
| Date Prepared: | 7 May 2008 |

Device Names

Trade/Proprietary Name: Visualase® Thermal Therapy System
Common Name:Magnetic Resonance Image-Guided Thermal
Therapy System
Classification Name:Picture Archiving and Communication System
Powered Surgical Laser Instrument/Applicato
Infusion Pump
Product Code:LLZ (Image Processing System),
GEX (Surgical Laser, Laser Applicator)
FRN (Infusion Pump)
Reg.Class:Class II
Reg. Number:21CFR892.2050 (LLZ)
21CFR878.4810 (GEX)
21CFR880.5725 (FRN)

Predicate Devices

Visualase Thermal Therapy System, K071328.

1

Description of Device

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System comprises four devices: a laser_ energy source, a cooled laser applicator, a pump for circulating coolant through the applieater, and a computer workstation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis software for determination and visualization of relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. A software application running on the workstation allows the workstation user to control the laser output and to operate the coolant pump from the workstation interface. Additionally, when appropriate thermal imaging guidance is used, temperature limits may be associated with prescribed image locations and used as an interlock for automatic deactivation of the laser output.

A previous version of the Visualase Thermal Therapy System has been cleared for marketing via 510(k) notification (Visualase Thermal Therapy System, The instant version of this system extends the functionality of the K071328). predicate version by providing a software interface for control of the laser output through the computer interface port of the laser component and on/off operation of the pump through a similar interface. When used with appropriate magnetic resonance thermal imaging guidance, a software tool may be used to prescribe limits for the temperature at certain points in the image which can, in turn, be used to deactivate the laser if the limits are reached. Thus this system provides an additional level of "interlock" security over the previous version which may increase safety and/or precision of the treatment prescription. It is important to note that while temperature image information can be used to automatically deactivate the laser as a safety precaution, the user may, at his discretion, override the interlock and proceed with additional laser energy deposition if warranted. Further, it is important to note that the added security feature is in no way capable of energizing the laser on its own. The laser may ONLY be activated by a deliberate action from the user. Thus the added feature serves only as an additional safety interlock on the laser system similar to many other common safety features.

Computer control of the coolant pump status (ON/OEE) provides an additional convenience to the user and also provides an additional safety feature since, when the laser is operated from the workstation interface, activation of the laser can be made dependent on first activating the coolant pump.

The addition of these features to the Visualase system has no effect on the Indications for Use statement which remains unchanged from the predicate device (except that we have now extended compatibility to Siemens MBI systems).

Indications for Use

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general

2

surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm.

When therapy is performed under MRI guidance, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time.

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician. this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.

Comparison to Predicate Devices

The indications for use for the newest Visualase Thermal Therapy System are essentially the same as those of the antecedent system except that compatibility has been extended to Siemens Medical Solutions MRI systems.

Non-clinical Performance Tests

Performance, specifications, and technical data for the components of the Visualase component devices are essentially unchanged from the previous version, and are therefore not included here.

Conclusion

The instant version of the Visualase Thermal Therapy System is substantially equivalent to the predicate version. The additional features do not affect the specifications or function of the system as a whole.

3

Image /page/3/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a stylized eagle with three overlapping wing-like shapes, symbolizing health and human services. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES (USA)" is arranged in a circular fashion around the eagle emblem.

SEP 1 0 2008

Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850

BioTex, Inc. % Roger McNichols, Ph.D. Vice President 8058 El Rio Street Houston, Texas 77054

Re: K081656

Trade/Device Name: Visualase Thermal Therapy System Regulation Number: 21 CFR 892.2050 Regulation Name: Picture archiving and communications system Regulatory Class: II Product Code: LLZ, GEX, FRN Dated: June 9, 2008 Received: June 12, 2008

Dear Dr. McNichols:

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.

If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to such 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.

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); 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.

4

Page 2 - Roger McNichols, Ph.D.

This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.

If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's (CDRH's) Office of Compliance at (240) 276-0115. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding postmarket surveillance, please contact CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometric's (OSB's) Division of Postmarket Surveillance at (240) 276-3474. For questions regarding of device adverse events (Medical Device Reporting (MDR)), please contact the Division of Surveillance Systems at (240) 276-3464. You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (240) 276-3150 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/industry/support/index.html.

Sincerely yours,

Mark N. Millman

Mark N. Melkerson Director Division of General, Restorative and Neurological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health

Enclosure

5

Indications for Use Statement

510(k) Number (if known): K081656

Device Name:

Indications for Use:

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is indicated for use to necrotize or coagulate soft tissue through interstitial irradiation or thermal therapy under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance in medicine and surgery in cardiovascular thoracic surgery (excluding the heart and the vessels in the pericardial sac), dermatology, ear-nose-throat surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, radiology, and urology, for wavelengths 800nm through 1064nm.

When therapy is performed under MRI guidatice, and when data from compatible MRI sequences is available, the Visualase system can process images using proton resonance-frequency (PRF) shift analysis and image subtraction to relate changes in complex phase angle back to relative changes in tissue temperature during therapy. The image data may be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways, and the values of data at certain selected points may be monitored and/or displayed over time.

The Visualase Thermal Therapy System is compatible with General Electric Medical Systems Signa model MR scanners and with Siemens Medical Solutions Magnetom Espree systems. When interpreted by a trained physician, this device provides information that may be useful in the determination or assessment of thermal therapy. Patient management decisions should not be made solely on the basis of Visualase analysis.

Division Sign-Off

Division of General, Restorative, and Neurological Devices

510(k) Number /K081656