CDSCO License for Hip joint metal/polymer constrained cemented or uncemented Prosthesis
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A hip joint metal/polymer constrained cemented or uncemented prosthesis is a device intended to be implanted to replace a hip joint

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Hip Joint Metal/Polymer Constrained Cemented or Uncemented Prosthesis
As a medical device regulatory consultancy with over 25 years of experience, having successfully supported 500+ companies in obtaining CDSCO licenses, we understand the complexities manufacturers and importers face—especially for high-risk devices like the Hip Joint Metal/Polymer Constrained Cemented or Uncemented Prosthesis. This device, classified as Class D under CDSCO regulations, plays a critical role in orthopaedic surgery by replacing damaged hip joints and demands stringent regulatory compliance to ensure safety and efficacy for patients.
Understanding the Device and Its Regulatory Importance
The Hip Joint Metal/Polymer Constrained Prosthesis is a sophisticated implant used in orthopaedic surgeries to restore hip joint function. Given its invasive nature and long-term implantation, regulatory authorities classify it as a Class D device—the highest risk category—mandating rigorous oversight including design validation, manufacturing controls, and post-market surveillance.
Ensuring compliance with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) guidelines is not only a legal obligation but also a commitment to patient safety and market trust.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Orthopaedic Implants (Class D Devices)
The CDSCO governs the import and manufacture of medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules (MDR), 2017. Class D devices like the hip prosthesis require a manufacturing license under the MD9 form (Application Form MD7) issued by the Central Licensing Authority.
Key regulatory references for this device include:
- Notification: 29/Misc/3/2017-DC (292)
- Notification Date: 06.06.2018
You can verify device classification and specific regulatory requirements on the Medical Device Classification guide.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Hip Joint Prosthesis
As a Class D device, the Hip Joint Metal/Polymer Constrained Prosthesis demands:
- MD9 Manufacturing License: For manufacturing within India.
- MD15 Import License: For importers of the device.
Both licenses are granted by the Central Licensing Authority, reflecting the higher regulatory scrutiny due to the device’s critical application.
Manufacturing License Process (MD9) for Class D Orthopaedic Implants
The MD9 license process is comprehensive and typically spans 4-5 months. The process includes:
- Test License (Form MD13): Initial step requiring application and clearance to test the device, taking approximately 1.5-2 months.
- Product Testing: Mandatory testing at CDSCO-approved laboratories to confirm compliance with Indian and international standards.
- Documentation Preparation: Preparation of detailed technical and quality dossiers.
- Submission of MD9 Application (Form MD7): Applying through the CDSCO MD Online Portal with all required documents.
- Audit by CDSCO Inspectors: On-site inspection of manufacturing premises and quality systems.
- Resolution of Queries: Addressing any observations raised by CDSCO or auditors.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory review, MD9 license is granted.
Practical Tip:
Engage with a notified body early to streamline audit scheduling; you can consult the list of notified bodies authorized for MD9 audits.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for MD9
The documentation must be thorough as it forms the backbone of your application. Key documents include:
- Company Constitution/Registration Certificate
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualifications of Technical Staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed design and manufacturing process documentation. Our Device Master File guide offers practical insights.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Description of manufacturing environment and facilities. See our Plant Master File guide for preparation tips.
- Essential Principles Checklist confirming compliance with MDR
- Risk Management File demonstrating hazard analysis and risk mitigation strategies (Risk Management Guide)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs (Testing Laboratories List)
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System Documents (ISO 13485:2016 certification is highly recommended)
Import License Process (MD15) for Hip Joint Prostheses
For companies importing this device into India, the MD15 license is mandatory and processed by the Central Licensing Authority. The process typically takes 5-6 months and does not require a test license.
Steps include:
- Document Preparation: Including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016, CE Certificate (if applicable), Device and Plant Master Files.
- Filing Application (Form MD14) on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Queries Resolution: Addressing any clarifications from CDSCO.
- Grant of MD15 License.
Costs vary based on device class and number of products.
Import License Documents Required
Essential documents for MD15 application include:
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale License
- Company Constitution
For detailed guidance, refer to the Import License Guide.
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Approximate Duration | Key Notes |
---|---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months | Required before MD9 application |
MD9 Manufacturing | 4 - 5 months | Includes audit, testing, and query resolution |
MD15 Import License | 5 - 6 months | No test license required |
Government Fees and Costs
For Class D devices such as this orthopaedic implant, the fee structure is as follows:
- MD9 Manufacturing License:
- Rs. 50,000 per application
- Rs. 1,000 per product
- MD15 Import License:
- $3,000 per site
- $1,500 per product
- Test License (MD13): Separate fees applicable
Proper budgeting for these fees and associated costs like testing, notified body audits, and document preparation is critical for timely compliance.
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Lengthy Testing and Audit Delays: Limited availability of slots at notified bodies and testing labs can prolong timelines.
Solution: Pre-book audits and testing slots; consider multiple approved labs.
2. Documentation Gaps: Incomplete or inconsistent technical files cause rejections.
Solution: Use comprehensive checklists and expert review; our guides on Device Master File and Risk Management can assist.
3. Query Resolution Delays: Slow response to CDSCO queries delays license grant.
Solution: Maintain a dedicated regulatory team to address queries promptly.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO regulatory landscape for a Class D orthopaedic implant requires meticulous planning and expert knowledge. We recommend engaging experienced consultants who can:
- Guide you through regulatory pathways
- Assist in document preparation and submission
- Coordinate with notified bodies and testing labs
- Support audit readiness and query handling
Our track record of supporting over 500 companies ensures you get reliable, actionable support tailored to your device and business goals.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Assess Your Device Classification: Confirm your device as Class D using the official CDSCO classification resources.
- Prepare Testing and Quality Documentation: Begin compiling your Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and QMS documents.
- Apply for Test License (MD13): Initiate the process early to avoid delays.
- Schedule Testing with CDSCO-Approved Labs: Choose from the Testing Laboratories list.
- Engage a Notified Body for Audit: Refer to the Notified Bodies list and initiate audit preparation.
- Submit Your MD9 License Application: File through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Plan for Query Management: Allocate resources to respond efficiently.
By following these targeted steps and leveraging expert support, manufacturers and importers of Hip Joint Metal/Polymer Constrained Cemented or Uncemented Prostheses can successfully navigate the CDSCO licensing process and bring their products to the Indian market with confidence.
For personalized consultation or detailed assistance, contact us to leverage our decades of regulatory expertise in medical device approvals.