[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 21, Volume 8, Parts 800 to 1299]
[Revised as of April 1, 1998]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 21CFR878]

[Page 347-359]
 
                        TITLE 21--FOOD AND DRUGS
 
CHAPTER I--FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES--(Continued)
 
PART 878--GENERAL AND PLASTIC SURGERY DEVICES

                      Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
878.1  Scope.
878.3  Effective dates of requirement for premarket approval.

[[Page 348]]

878.9  Limitations of exemptions from section 510(k) of the Federal 
          Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the act).

                      Subpart B--Diagnostic Devices

878.1800  Speculum and accessories.

                          Subpart C  [Reserved]

                      Subpart D--Prosthetic Devices

878.3250  External facial fracture fixation appliance.
878.3300  Surgical mesh.
878.3500  Polytetrafluoroethylene with carbon fibers composite implant 
          material.
878.3530  Silicone inflatable breast prosthesis.
878.3540  Silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis.
878.3550  Chin prosthesis.
878.3590  Ear prosthesis.
878.3610  Esophageal prosthesis.
878.3680  Nose prosthesis.
878.3720  Tracheal prosthesls.
878.3750  External prosthesis adhesive.
878.3800  External aesthetic restoration prosthesis.
878.3900  Inflatable extremity splint.
878.3910  Noninflatable extremity splint.
878.3925  Plastic surgery kit and accessories.

                       Subpart E--Surgical Devices

878.4040  Surgical apparel.
878.4100  Organ bag.
878.4160  Surgical camera and accessories.
878.4200  Introduction/drainage catheter and accessories.
878.4300  Implantable clip.
878.4320  Removable skin clip.
878.4350  Cryosurgical unit and accessories.
878.4370  Surgical drape and drape accessories.
878.4380  Drape adhesive.
878.4400  Electrosurgical cutting and coagulation device and 
          accessories.
878.4440  Eye pad.
878.4450  Nonabsorbable gauze for internal use.
878.4460  Surgeon's glove.
878.4470  Surgeon's gloving cream.
878.4480  Absorbable powder for lubricating a surgeon's glove.
878.4490  Absorbable hemostatic agent and dressing.
878.4493  Absorbable poly(glycolide/L-lactide) surgical suture.
878.4520  Polytetrafluoroethylene injectable.
878.4580  Surgical lamp.
878.4630  Ultraviolet lamp for dermatologic disorders.
878.4635  Ultraviolet lamp for tanning.
878.4660  Skin marker.
878.4680  Nonpowered, single patient, portable suction apparatus.
878.4700  Surgical microscope and accessories.
878.4730  Surgical skin degreaser or adhesive tape solvent.
878.4750  Implantable staple.
878.4760  Removable skin staple.
878.4780  Powered suction pump.
878.4800  Manual surgical instrument for general use.
878.4810  Laser surgical instrument for use in general and plastic 
          surgery and in dermatology.
878.4820  Surgical instrument motors and accessories/attachments.
878.4830  Absorbable surgical gut suture.
878.4930  Suture retention device.
878.4950  Manual operating table and accessories and manual operating 
          chair and accessories.
878.4960  Operating tables and accessories and operating chairs and 
          accessories.
878.5000  Nonabsorbable poly(ethylene terephthalate) surgical suture.
878.5010  Nonabsorbable polypropylene surgical suture.
878.5020  Nonabsorbable polyamide surgical suture.
878.5030  Natural nonabsorbable silk surgical suture.
878.5040  Suction lipoplasty system.

                     Subpart F--Therapeutic Devices

878.5070  Air-handling apparatus for a surgical operating room.
878.5350  Needle-type epilator.
878.5360  Tweezer-type epilator.
878.5650  Topical oxygen chamber for extremities.
878.5900  Nonpneumatic tourniquet.
878.5910  Pneumatic tourniquet.

    Authority:  21 U.S.C. 351, 360, 360c, 360e, 360j, 360l, 371.

    Source:  53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, unless otherwise noted.

                      Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec. 878.1  Scope.

    (a) This part sets forth the classification of general and plastic 
surgery devices intended for human use that are in commercial 
distribution.
    (b) The identification of a device in a regulation in this part is 
not a precise description of every device that is, or will be, subject 
to the regulation. A manufacturer who submits a premarket notification 
submission for a device under part 807 cannot show merely that the 
device is accurately described by the section title and identification 
provision of a regulation in this part, but shall state why the device 
is substantially equivalent to

[[Page 349]]

other devices, as required by Sec. 807.87 of this chapter.
    (c) To avoid duplicative listings, a general and plastic surgery 
device that has two or more types of uses (e.g., used both as a 
diagnostic device and as a therapeutic device) is listed in one subpart 
only.
    (d) References in this part to regulatory sections of the Code of 
Federal Regulations are to chapter I of title 21 unless otherwise noted.

Sec. 878.3  Effective dates of requirement for premarket approval.

    A device included in this part that is classified into class III 
(premarket approval) shall not be commercially distributed after the 
date shown in the regulation classifying the device unless the 
manufacturer has an approval under section 515 of the act (unless an 
exemption has been granted under section 520(g)(2) of the act). An 
approval under section 515 of the act consists of FDA's issuance of an 
order approving an application for premarket approval (PMA) for the 
device or declaring completed a product development protocol (PDP) for 
the device.
    (a) Before FDA requires that a device commercially distributed 
before the enactment date of the amendments, or a device that has been 
found substantially equivalent to such a device, has an approval under 
section 515 of the act, FDA must promulgate a regulation under section 
515(b) of the act requiring such approval, except as provided in 
paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section. Such a regulation under section 
515(b) of the act shall not be effective during the grace period ending 
on the 90th day after its promulgation or on the last day of the 30th 
full calendar month after the regulation that classifies the device into 
class III is effective, whichever is later. See section 501(f)(2)(B) of 
the act. Accordingly, unless an effective date of the requirement for 
premarket approval is shown in the regulation for a device classified 
into class III in this part, the device may be commercially distributed 
without FDA's issuance of an order approving a PMA or declaring 
completed a PDP for the device. If FDA promulgates a regulation under 
section 515(b) of the act requiring premarket approval for a device, 
section 501(f)(1)(A) of the act applies to the device.
    (b) Any new, not substantially equivalent, device introduced into 
commercial distribution on or after May 28, 1976, including a device 
formerly marketed that has been substantially altered, is classified by 
statute (section 513(f) of the act) into class III without any grace 
period and FDA must have issued an order approving a PMA or declaring 
completed a PDP for the device before the device is commercially 
distributed unless it is reclassified. If FDA knows that a device being 
commercially distributed may be a ``new'' device as defined in this 
section because of any new intended use or other reasons, FDA may codify 
the statutory classification of the device into class III for such new 
use. Accordingly, the regulation for such a class III device states that 
as of the enactment date of the amendments, May 28, 1976, the device 
must have an approval under section 515 of the act before commercial 
distribution.
    (c) A device identified in a regulation in this part that is 
classified into class III and that is subject to the transitional 
provisions of section 520(l) of the act is automatically classified by 
statute into class III and must have an approval under section 515 of 
the act before being commercially distributed. Accordingly, the 
regulation for such a class III transitional device states that as of 
the enactment date of the amendments, May 28, 1976, the device must have 
an approval under section 515 of the act before commercial distribution.

Sec. 878.9  Limitations of exemptions from section 510(k) of the Federal 
          Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the act).

    The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) decision to grant an 
exemption from the requirement of premarket notification (section 510(k) 
of the act) for a generic type of class I device is based upon the 
existing and reasonably foreseeable characteristics of commercially 
distributed devices within that generic type. Because FDA cannot 
anticipate every change in intended use or characteristic that could 
significantly affect a device's safety or effectiveness, manufacturers 
of any commercially distributed class I device for

[[Page 350]]

which FDA has granted an exemption from the requirement of premarket 
notification must still submit a premarket notification to FDA before 
introducing or delivering for introduction into interstate commerce for 
commercial distribution the device when:
    (a) The device is intended for a use different from its intended use 
before May 28, 1976, or the device is intended for a use different from 
the intended use of a preamendments device to which it has been 
determined to be substantially equivalent; e.g., the device is intended 
for a different medical purpose, or the device is intended for lay use 
where the former intended use was by health care professionals only; or
    (b) The modified device operates using a different fundamental 
scientific technology than that in use in the device before May 28, 
1976; e.g., a surgical instrument cuts tissue with a laser beam rather 
than with a sharpened metal blade, or an in vitro diagnostic device 
detects or identifies infectious agents by using a deoxyribonucleic acid 
(DNA) probe or nucleic acid hybridization technology rather than culture 
or immunoassay technology.
[54 FR 13827, Apr. 5, 1989; 54 FR 16438-T, Apr. 24, 1989]

                      Subpart B--Diagnostic Devices

Sec. 878.1800  Speculum and accessories.

    (a) Identification. A speculum is a device intended to be inserted 
into a body cavity to aid observation. It is either nonilluminated or 
illuminated and may have various accessories.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13827, Apr. 5, 1989; 59 
FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

                          Subpart C  [Reserved]

                      Subpart D--Prosthetic Devices

Sec. 878.3250  External facial fracture fixation appliance.

    (a) Identification. An external facial fracture fixation appliance 
is a metal apparatus intended to be used during surgical reconstruction 
and repair to immobilize maxillofacial bone fragments in their proper 
facial relationship.
    (b) Classification. Class I. If the device is made of the same 
materials that were used in the device before May 28, 1976, it is exempt 
from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of 
this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13827, Apr. 5, 1989]

Sec. 878.3300  Surgical mesh.

    (a) Identification. Surgical mesh is a metallic or polymeric screen 
intended to be implanted to reinforce soft tissue or bone where weakness 
exists. Examples of surgical mesh are metallic and polymeric mesh for 
hernia repair, and acetabular and cement restrictor mesh used during 
orthopedic surgery.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.3500  Polytetrafluoroethylene with carbon fibers composite 
          implant material.

    (a) Identification. A polytetrafluoroethylene with carbon fibers 
composite implant material is a porous device material intended to be 
implanted during surgery of the chin, jaw, nose, or bones or tissue near 
the eye or ear. The device material serves as a space-occupying 
substance and is shaped and formed by the surgeon to conform to the 
patient's need.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.3530  Silicone inflatable breast prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. A silicone inflatable breast prosthesis is a 
silicone rubber shell made of polysiloxane(s), such as 
polydimethylsiloxane and polydiphenylsiloxane, that is inflated to the 
desired size with sterile isotonic saline before or after implantation. 
The device is intended to be implanted to augment or reconstruct the 
female breast.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. No 
effective date has been established of the requirement for premarket 
approval. See Sec. 878.3.

[[Page 351]]

Sec. 878.3540  Silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis.

    (a) Identification--(1) Single-lumen silicone gel-filled breast 
prosthesis. A single-lumen silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis is a 
silicone rubber shell made of polysiloxane(s), such as 
polydimethylsiloxane and polydiphenylsiloxane. The shell either contains 
a fixed amount cross-linked polymerized silicone gel, filler, and 
stabilizers or is filled to the desired size with injectable silicone 
gel at time of implantation. The device is intended to be implanted to 
augment or reconstruct the female breast.
    (2) Double-lumen silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis. A double 
lumen silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis is a silicone rubber inner 
shell and a silicone rubber outer shell, both shells made of 
polysiloxane(s), such as polydimethylsiloxane and polydiphenylsiloxane. 
The inner shell contains fixed amounts of cross-linked polymerized 
silicone gel, fillers, and stabilizers. The outer shell is inflated to 
the desired size with sterile isotonic saline before or after 
implantation. The device is intended to be implanted to augment or 
reconstruct the female breast.
    (3) Polyurethane covered silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis. A 
polyurethane covered silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis is an inner 
silicone rubber shell made of polysiloxane(s), such as 
polydimethylsiloxane and polydiphenylsiloxane, with an outer silicone 
adhesive layer and an outer covering of polyurethane; contained within 
the inner shell is a fixed amount of cross-linked polymerized silicone 
gel, fillers, and stabilizers and an inert support structure 
compartmentalizing the silicone gel. The device is intended to be 
implanted to augment or reconstruct the female breast.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date premarket approval application (PMA) is required. A PMA is 
required to be filed with the Food and Drug Administration on or before 
July 9, 1991 for any silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis that was in 
commercial distribution before May 28, 1976, or that has on or before 
July 9, 1991 been found to be substantially equivalent to a silicone 
gel-filled breast prosthesis that was in commercial distribution before 
May 28, 1976. Any other silicone gel-filled breast prosthesis shall have 
an approved PMA in effect before being placed in commercial 
distribution.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 56 FR 14627, Apr. 10, 1991]

Sec. 878.3550  Chin prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. A chin prosthesis is a silicone rubber solid 
device intended to be implanted to augment or reconstruct the chin.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.3590  Ear prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. An ear prosthesis is a silicone rubber solid 
device intended to be implanted to reconstruct the external ear.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.3610  Esophageal prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. An esophageal prosthesis is a plastic tube or 
tube-like device that may have mesh reinforcement that is intended to be 
implanted in, or affixed externally to, the chest and throat to restore 
the esophagus or provide pharyngoesophageal continuity.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. No 
effective date has been established of the requirement for premarket 
approval. See Sec. 878.3.

Sec. 878.3680  Nose prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. A nose prosthesis is a silicone rubber solid 
device intended to be implanted to augment or reconstruct the nasal 
dorsum.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.3720  Tracheal prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. A tracheal prosthesis is a tubular device 
intended to be implanted to reconstruct the trachea.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. No 
effective date has been established of the requirement for premarket 
approval. See Sec. 878.3.

Sec. 878.3750  External prosthesis adhesive.

    (a) Identification. An external prosthesis adhesive is a silicone-
type adhesive intended to be used to fasten to

[[Page 352]]

the body an external aesthetic restoration prosthesis, such as an 
artificial nose.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.3800  External aesthetic restoration prosthesis.

    (a) Identification. An external aesthetic restoration prosthesis is 
a device intended to be used to construct an external artificial body 
structure, such as an ear, breast, or nose. Usually the device is made 
of silicone rubber and it may be fastened to the body with an external 
prosthesis adhesive. The device is not intended to be implanted.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter. If the 
device is intended for use without an external prosthesis adhesive to 
fasten it to the body, the device is exempt from the current good 
manufacturing practice regulations in part 820 of this chapter, with the 
exception of Sec. 820.180, with respect to general requirements 
concerning records, and Sec. 820.198, with respect to complaint files.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.3900  Inflatable extremity splint.

    (a) Identification. An inflatable extremity splint is a device 
intended to be inflated to immobilize a limb or an extremity.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.3910  Noninflatable extremity splint.

    (a) Identification. A noninflatable extremity splint is a device 
intended to immobilize a limb or an extremity. It is not inflatable.
    (b) Classification. Class I. If the device is made of the same 
materials that were used in the device before May 28, 1976, it is exempt 
from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of 
this chapter. If the device is not labeled or otherwise represented as 
sterile, it is exempt from the current good manufacturing practice 
regulations in part 820 of this chapter, with the exception of 
Sec. 820.180, with respect to the general requirements concerning 
records, and Sec. 820.198, with respect to complaint files.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13827, Apr. 5, 1989]

Sec. 878.3925  Plastic surgery kit and accessories.

    (a) Identification. A plastic surgery kit and accessories is a 
device intended to be used to reconstruct maxillofacial deficiencies. 
The kit contains surgical instruments and materials used to make 
maxillofacial impressions before molding an external prosthesis.
    (b) Classification. Class I. If the device is made of the same 
materials that were used in the device before May 28, 1976, it is exempt 
from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of 
this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13827, Apr. 5, 1989]

                       Subpart E--Surgical Devices

Sec. 878.4040  Surgical apparel.

    (a) Identification. Surgical apparel are devices that are intended 
to be worn by operating room personnel during surgical procedures to 
protect both the surgical patient and the operating room personnel from 
transfer of microorganisms, body fluids, and particulate material. 
Examples include surgical caps, hoods, masks, gowns, operating room 
shoes and shoe covers, and isolation masks and gowns. Surgical suits and 
dresses, commonly known as scrub suits, are excluded.
    (b) Classification. Class II for surgical gowns and surgical masks. 
Class I for surgical apparel other than surgical gowns and surgical 
masks.

[[Page 353]]

Sec. 878.4100  Organ bag.

    (a) Identification. An organ bag is a device that is a flexible 
plastic bag intended to be used as a temporary receptacle for an organ 
during surgical procedures to prevent moisture loss.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The intestinal organ bag device is 
exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 
807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4160  Surgical camera and accessories.

    (a) Identification. A surgical camera and accessories is a device 
intended to be used to record operative procedures.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13827, Apr. 5, 1989]

Sec. 878.4200  Introduction/drainage catheter and accessories.

    (a) Identification. An introduction/drainage catheter is a device 
that is a flexible single or multilumen tube intended to be used to 
introduce nondrug fluids into body cavities other than blood vessels, 
drain fluids from body cavities, or evaluate certain physiologic 
conditions. Examples include irrigation and drainage catheters, 
pediatric catheters, peritoneal catheters (including dialysis), and 
other general surgical catheters. An introduction/drainage catheter 
accessory is intended to aid in the manipulation of or insertion of the 
device into the body. Examples of accessories include adaptors, 
connectors, and catheter needles.
    (b) Classification. Class I.

Sec. 878.4300  Implantable clip.

    (a) Identification. An implantable clip is a clip-like device 
intended to connect internal tissues to aid healing. It is not 
absorbable.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4320  Removable skin clip.

    (a) Identification. A removable skin clip is a clip-like device 
intended to connect skin tissues temporarily to aid healing. It is not 
absorbable.
    (b) Classification. Class I.

Sec. 878.4350  Cryosurgical unit and accessories.

    (a) Identification--(1) Cryosurgical unit with a liquid nitrogen 
cooled cryoprobe and accessories. A cryosurgical unit with a liquid 
nitrogen cooled cryoprobe and accessories is a device intended to 
destroy tissue during surgical procedures by applying extreme cold.
    (2) Cryosurgical unit with a nitrous oxide cooled cryoprobe and 
accessories. A cryosurgical unit with a nitrous oxide cooled cryoprobe 
and accessories is a device intended to destroy tissue during surgical 
procedures, including urological applications, by applying extreme cold.
    (3) Cryosurgical unit with a carbon dioxide cooled cryoprobe or a 
carbon dioxide dry ice applicator and accessories. A cryosurgical unit 
with a carbon dioxide cooled cryoprobe or a carbon dioxide dry ice 
applicator and accessories is a device intended to destroy tissue during 
surgical procedures by applying extreme cold. The device is intended to 
treat disease conditions such as tumors, skin cancers, acne scars, or 
hemangiomas (benign tumors consisting of newly formed blood vessels) and 
various benign or malignant gynecological conditions affecting vulvar, 
vaginal, or cervical tissue. The device is not intended for urological 
applications.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4370  Surgical drape and drape accessories.

    (a) Identification. A surgical drape and drape accessories is a 
device made of natural or synthetic materials intended to be used as a 
protective patient covering, such as to isolate a site of surgical 
incision from microbial and other contamination. The device includes a 
plastic wound protector that may adhere to the skin around a surgical 
incision or be placed in a wound to cover its exposed edges, and a latex 
drape with a self-retaining finger cot that is intended to allow 
repeated insertion of the surgeon's finger into the rectum during 
performance of a transurethral prostatectomy.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

[[Page 354]]

Sec. 878.4380  Drape adhesive.

    (a) Identification. A drape adhesive is a device intended to be 
placed on the skin to attach a surgical drape.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4400  Electrosurgical cutting and coagulation device and 
          accessories.

    (a) Identification. An electrosurgical cutting and coagulation 
device and accessories is a device intended to remove tissue and control 
bleeding by use of high-frequency electrical current.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4440  Eye pad.

    (a) Identification. An eye pad is a device that consists of a pad 
made of various materials, such as gauze and cotton, intended for use as 
a bandage over the eye for protection or absorption of secretions.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4450  Nonabsorbable gauze for internal use.

    (a) Identification. Nonabsorbable gauze for internal use is a device 
made of an open mesh fabric intended to be used inside the body or a 
surgical incision or applied to internal organs or structures, to 
control bleeding, absorb fluid, or protect organs or structures from 
abrasion, drying, or contamination. The device is woven from material 
made of not less than 50 percent by mass cotton, cellulose, or a simple 
chemical derivative of cellulose, and contains x-ray detectable 
elements.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 61 FR 1123, Jan. 16, 1996]

Sec. 878.4460  Surgeon's glove.

    (a) Identification. A surgeon's glove is a device made of natural or 
synthetic rubber intended to be worn by operating room personnel to 
protect a surgical wound from contamination. The lubricating or dusting 
powder used in the glove is excluded.
    (b) Classification. Class I.

Sec. 878.4470  Surgeon's gloving cream.

    (a) Identification. Surgeon's gloving cream is an ointment intended 
to be used to lubricate the user's hand before putting on a surgeon's 
glove.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4480  Absorbable powder for lubricating a surgeon's glove.

    (a) Identification. Absorbable powder for lubricating a surgeon's 
glove is a powder made from corn starch that meets the specifications 
for absorbable powder in the United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) and 
that is intended to be used to lubricate the surgeon's hand before 
putting on a surgeon's glove. The device is absorbable through 
biological degradation.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. As of May 
28, 1976, an approval under section 515 of the act is required before 
this device may be commercially distributed. See Sec. 878.3.

Sec. 878.4490  Absorbable hemostatic agent and dressing.

    (a) Identification. An absorbable hemostatic agent or dressing is a 
device intended to produce hemostasis by accelerating the clotting 
process of blood. It is absorbable.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. As of May 
28, 1976, an approval under section 515 of the act is required before 
this device may be commercially distributed. See Sec. 878.3.

[[Page 355]]

Sec. 878.4493  Absorbable poly(glycolide/L-lactide) surgical suture.

    (a) Identification. An absorbable poly(glycolide/l-lactide) surgical 
suture (PGL suture) is an absorbable sterile, flexible strand as 
prepared and synthesized from homopolymers of glycolide and copolymers 
made from 90 percent glycolide and 10 percent L-lactide, and is 
indicated for use in soft tissue approximation. A PGL suture meets 
United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) requirements as described in the 
U.S.P. ``Monograph for Absorbable Surgical Sutures;'' it may be 
monofilament or multifilament (braided) in form; it may be uncoated or 
coated; and it may be undyed or dyed with an FDA-approved color 
additive. Also, the suture may be provided with or without a standard 
needle attached.
    (b) Classification. Class II.
[56 FR 47151, Sept. 18, 1991]

Sec. 878.4520  Polytetrafluoroethylene injectable.

    (a) Identification. Polytetrafluoroethylene injectable is an 
injectable paste prosthetic device composed of polytetrafluoroethylene 
intended to be used to augment or reconstruct a vocal cord.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. As of May 
28, 1976, an approval under section 515 of the act is required before 
this device may be commercially distributed. See Sec. 878.3.

Sec. 878.4580  Surgical lamp.

    (a) Identification. A surgical lamp (including a fixture) is a 
device intended to be used to provide visible illumination of the 
surgical field or the patient.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4630  Ultraviolet lamp for dermatologic disorders.

    (a) Identification. An ultraviolet lamp for dermatologic disorders 
is a device (including a fixture) intended to provide ultraviolet 
radiation of the body to photoactivate a drug in the treatment of a 
dermatologic disorder if the labeling of the drug intended for use with 
the device bears adequate directions for the device's use with that 
drug.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4635  Ultraviolet lamp for tanning.

    (a) Identification. An ultraviolet lamp for tanning is a device that 
is a lamp (including a fixture) intended to provide ultraviolet 
radiation to tan the skin. See Sec. 1040.20 of this chapter.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[55 FR 48440, Nov. 20, 1990, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4660  Skin marker.

    (a) Identification. A skin marker is a pen-like device intended to 
be used to write on the patient's skin, e.g., to outline surgical 
incision sites or mark anatomical sites for accurate blood pressure 
measurement.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4680  Nonpowered, single patient, portable suction apparatus.

    (a) Identification. A nonpowered, single patient, portable suction 
apparatus is a device that consists of a manually operated plastic, 
disposable evacuation system intended to provide a vacuum for suction 
drainage of surgical wounds.
    (b) Classification. Class I.

Sec. 878.4700  Surgical microscope and accessories.

    (a) Identification. A surgical microscope and accessories is an AC-
powered device intended for use during surgery to provide a magnified 
view of the surgical field.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[55 FR 48440, Nov. 20, 1990, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

[[Page 356]]

Sec. 878.4730  Surgical skin degreaser or adhesive tape solvent.

    (a) Identification. A surgical skin degreaser or an adhesive tape 
solvent is a device that consists of a liquid such as 1,1,2-trichloro-
1,2,2-trifluoroethane; 1,1,1-trichloroethane; and 1,1,1-trichloroethane 
with mineral spirits intended to be used to dissolve surface skin oil or 
adhesive tape.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4750  Implantable staple.

    (a) Identification. An implantable staple is a staple-like device 
intended to connect internal tissues to aid healing. It is not 
absorbable.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4760  Removable skin staple.

    (a) Identification. A removable skin staple is a staple-like device 
intended to connect external tissues temporarily to aid healing. It is 
not absorbable.
    (b) Classification. Class I.

Sec. 878.4780  Powered suction pump.

    (a) Identification. A powered suction pump is a portable, AC-powered 
or compressed air-powered device intended to be used to remove 
infectious materials from wounds or fluids from a patient's airway or 
respiratory support system. The device may be used during surgery in the 
operating room or at the patient's bedside. The device may include a 
microbial filter.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.4800  Manual surgical instrument for general use.

    (a) Identification. A manual surgical instrument for general use is 
a nonpowered, hand-held, or hand-manipulated device, either reusable or 
disposable, intended to be used in various general surgical procedures. 
The device includes the applicator, clip applier, biopsy brush, manual 
dermabrasion brush, scrub brush, cannula, ligature carrier, chisel, 
clamp, contractor, curette, cutter, dissector, elevator, skin graft 
expander, file, forceps, gouge, instrument guide, needle guide, hammer, 
hemostat, amputation hook, ligature passing and knot-tying instrument, 
knife, blood lancet, mallet, disposable or reusable aspiration and 
injection needle, disposable or reusable suturing needle, osteotome, 
pliers, rasp, retainer, retractor, saw, scalpel blade, scalpel handle, 
one-piece scalpel, snare, spatula, stapler, disposable or reusable 
stripper, stylet, suturing apparatus for the stomach and intestine, 
measuring tape, and calipers. A surgical instrument that has specialized 
uses in a specific medical specialty is classified in separate 
regulations in parts 868 through 892.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13828, Apr. 5, 1989; 59 
FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4810  Laser surgical instrument for use in general and plastic 
          surgery and in dermatology.

    (a) Identification. (1) A carbon dioxide laser for use in general 
surgery and in dermatology is a laser device intended to cut, destroy, 
or remove tissue by light energy emitted by carbon dioxide.
    (2) An argon laser for use in dermatology is a laser device intended 
to destroy or coagulate tissue by light energy emitted by argon.
    (b) Classification. (1) Class II.
    (2) Class I for special laser gas mixtures used as a lasing medium 
for this class of lasers. The devices subject to this paragraph (b)(2) 
are exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of 
part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 61 FR 1123, Jan. 16, 1996]

Sec. 878.4820  Surgical instrument motors and accessories/attachments.

    (a) Identification. Surgical instrument motors and accessories are 
AC-powered, battery-powered, or air-powered devices intended for use 
during surgical procedures to provide power to operate various 
accessories or attachments to cut hard tissue or bone and soft tissue. 
Accessories or attachments may include a bur, chisel (osteotome), 
dermabrasion brush, dermatome, drill

[[Page 357]]

bit, hammerhead, pin driver, and saw blade.
    (b) Classification. Class I.
[55 FR 48440, Nov. 20, 1990]

Sec. 878.4830  Absorbable surgical gut suture.

    (a) Identification. An absorbable surgical gut suture, both plain 
and chromic, is an absorbable, sterile, flexible thread prepared from 
either the serosal connective tissue layer of beef (bovine) or the 
submucosal fibrous tissue of sheep (ovine) intestine, and is intended 
for use in soft tissue approximation.
    (b) Classification. Class II.
[54 FR 50738, Dec. 11, 1989]

Sec. 878.4930  Suture retention device.

    (a) Identification. A suture retention device is a device, such as a 
retention bridge, a surgical button, or a suture bolster, intended to 
aid wound healing by distributing suture tension over a larger area in 
the patient.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 59 FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4950  Manual operating table and accessories and manual 
          operating chair and accessories.

    (a) Identification. A manual operating table and accessories and a 
manual operating chair and accessories are nonpowered devices, usually 
with movable components, intended to be used to support a patient during 
diagnostic examinations or surgical procedures.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13828, Apr. 5, 1989; 59 
FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.4960  Operating tables and accessories and operating chairs and 
          accessories.

    (a) Identification. Operating tables and accessories and operating 
chairs and accessories are AC-powered or air-powered devices, usually 
with movable components, intended for use during diagnostic examinations 
or surgical procedures to support and position a patient.
    (b) Classification. Class I.
[55 FR 48440, Nov. 20, 1990]

Sec. 878.5000  Nonabsorbable poly(ethylene terephthalate) surgical 
          suture.

    (a) Identification. Nonabsorbable poly(ethylene terephthalate) 
surgical suture is a multifilament, nonabsorbable, sterile, flexible 
thread prepared from fibers of high molecular weight, long-chain, linear 
polyesters having recurrent aromatic rings as an integral component and 
is indicated for use in soft tissue approximation. The poly(ethylene 
terephthalate) surgical suture meets U.S.P. requirements as described in 
the U.S.P. Monograph for Nonabsorbable Surgical Sutures; it may be 
provided uncoated or coated; and it may be undyed or dyed with an 
appropriate FDA listed color additive. Also, the suture may be provided 
with or without a standard needle attached.
    (b) Classification. Class II.
[56 FR 24685, May 31, 1991]

Sec. 878.5010  Nonabsorbable polypropylene surgical suture.

    (a) Identification. Nonabsorbable polypropylene surgical suture is a 
monofilament, nonabsorbable, sterile, flexible thread prepared from 
long-chain polyolefin polymer known as polypropylene and is indicated 
for use in soft tissue approximation. The polypropylene surgical suture 
meets United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) requirements as described in 
the U.S.P. Monograph for Nonabsorbable Surgical Sutures; it may be 
undyed or dyed with an FDA approved color additive; and the suture may 
be provided with or without a standard needle attached.
    (b) Classification. Class II.
[56 FR 24685, May 31, 1991]

Sec. 878.5020  Nonabsorbable polyamide surgical suture.

    (a) Identification. Nonabsorbable polyamide surgical suture is a 
nonabsorbable, sterile, flexible thread prepared from long-chain 
aliphatic polymers Nylon 6 and Nylon 6,6 and is indicated for use in 
soft tissue approximation.

[[Page 358]]

The polyamide surgical suture meets United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) 
requirements as described in the U.S.P. monograph for nonabsorbable 
surgical sutures; it may be monofilament or multifilament in form; it 
may be provided uncoated or coated; and it may be undyed or dyed with an 
appropriate FDA listed color additive. Also, the suture may be provided 
with or without a standard needle attached.
    (b) Classification. Class II.
[56 FR 24685, May 31, 1991]

Sec. 878.5030  Natural nonabsorbable silk surgical suture.

    (a) Identification. Natural nonabsorbable silk surgical suture is a 
nonabsorbable, sterile, flexible multifilament thread composed of an 
organic protein called fibroin. This protein is derived from the 
domesticated species Bombyx mori (B. mori) of the family Bombycidae. 
Natural nonabsorbable silk surgical suture is indicated for use in soft 
tissue approximation. Natural nonabsorbable silk surgical suture meets 
the United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) monograph requirements for 
Nonabsorbable Surgical Suture (class I). Natural nonabsorbable silk 
surgical suture may be braided or twisted; it may be provided uncoated 
or coated; and it may be undyed or dyed with an FDA listed color 
additive.
    (b) Classification. Class II (special controls).
[58 FR 57558, Oct. 26, 1993]

Sec. 878.5040  Suction lipoplasty system.

     (a) Identification. A suction lipoplasty system is a device 
intended for aesthetic body contouring. The device consists of a powered 
suction pump (containing a microbial filter on the exhaust and a 
microbial in-line filter in the connecting tubing between the collection 
bottle and the safety trap), collection bottle, cannula, and connecting 
tube. The microbial filters, tubing, collection bottle, and cannula must 
be capable of being changed between patients. The powered suction pump 
has a motor with a minimum of 1/3 horsepower, a variable vacuum range 
from 0 to 29.9 inches of mercury, vacuum control valves to regulate the 
vacuum with accompanying vacuum gauges, a single or double rotary vane 
(with or without oil), a single or double diaphragm, a single or double 
piston, and a safety trap.
     (b) Classification. Class II (special controls). Consensus 
standards and labeling restrictions.
[63 FR 7705, Feb. 17, 1998]

                     Subpart F--Therapeutic Devices

Sec. 878.5070  Air-handling apparatus for a surgical operating room.

    (a) Identification. Air-handling apparatus for a surgical operating 
room is a device intended to produce a directed, nonturbulent flow of 
air that has been filtered to remove particulate matter and 
microorganisms to provide an area free of contaminants to reduce the 
possibility of infection in the patient.
    (b) Classification. Class II.

Sec. 878.5350  Needle-type epilator.

    (a) Identification. A needle-type epilator is a device intended to 
destroy the dermal papilla of a hair by applying electric current at the 
tip of a fine needle that has been inserted close to the hair shaft, 
under the skin, and into the dermal papilla. The electric current may be 
high-frequency AC current, high-frequency AC combined with DC current, 
or DC current only.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 61 FR 1123, Jan. 16, 1996]

Sec. 878.5360  Tweezer-type epilator.

    (a) Identification. A tweezer-type epilator is an electrical device 
intended for hair removal. The device provides a high-frequency electric 
current at the tip of a tweezer used for removing hair.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. No 
effective date has been established of the requirement for premarket 
approval. See Sec. 878.3.

[[Page 359]]

Sec. 878.5650  Topical oxygen chamber for extremities.

    (a) Identification. A topical oxygen chamber for extremities is a 
device intended to surround hermetically a patient's limb and apply 
humidified oxygen topically at a pressure slightly greater than 
atmospheric pressure to aid healing of chronic skin ulcers or bed sores.
    (b) Classification. Class III.
    (c) Date PMA or notice of completion of a PDP is required. No 
effective date has been established of the requirement for premarket 
approval. See Sec. 878.3.

Sec. 878.5900  Nonpneumatic tourniquet.

    (a) Identification. A nonpneumatic tourniquet is a device consisting 
of a strap or tubing intended to be wrapped around a patient's limb and 
tightened to reduce circulation.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 54 FR 13828, Apr. 5, 1989; 59 
FR 63010, Dec. 7, 1994]

Sec. 878.5910  Pneumatic tourniquet.

    (a) Identification. A pneumatic tourniquet is an air-powered device 
consisting of a pressure-regulating unit, connecting tubing, and an 
inflatable cuff. The cuff is intended to be wrapped around a patient's 
limb and inflated to reduce or totally occlude circulation during 
surgery.
    (b) Classification. Class I. The device is exempt from the premarket 
notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter.
[53 FR 23872, June 24, 1988, as amended at 61 FR 1123, Jan. 16, 1996]
 

Back to the Year 2000 page

[CDRH Home Page] [Search]

(Uploaded February 26, 1999)