(a) Identification. A nonresorbable gauze/sponge for external use is a sterile or nonsterile device intended for medical purposes, such as to be placed directly on a patient's wound to absorb exudate. It consists of a strip, piece, or pad made from open woven or nonwoven mesh cotton cellulose or a simple chemical derivative of cellulose. This classification does not include a nonresorbable gauze/sponge for external use that contains added drugs such as antimicrobial agents, added biologics such as growth factors, or is composed of materials derived from animal sources.

(b) Classification. Class I (general controls). The device is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in part 807, subpart E of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 878.9.