CDSCO License for Knee joint femorotibial metal/polymer constrained cemented Prosthesis
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
Intended to be implanted to replace part of a knee joint

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Knee Joint Femorotibial Metal/Polymer Constrained Cemented Prosthesis
The Knee Joint Femorotibial Metal/Polymer Constrained Cemented Prosthesis is a critical orthopaedic implant designed to replace part of the knee joint, helping restore mobility and improve patient quality of life. Given its implantable nature and significant risk profile, this device falls under Class C according to the CDSCO classification framework. Compliance with CDSCO regulations is mandatory before manufacturing or importing this device in India.
At our consultancy, with over 25 years of domain expertise and having assisted 500+ companies, we provide end-to-end support for CDSCO licensing tailored to such complex orthopaedic implants. This guide details the regulatory framework, risk classification, licensing process, timelines, costs, and practical advice specifically for your Knee Joint Prosthesis.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Knee Joint Orthopaedic Implants
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) regulates medical devices under the Medical Device Rules, 2017. Orthopaedic implants such as the Knee Joint Femorotibial Prosthesis are classified as Class C devices due to their implantable nature and moderate-to-high risk.
The specific notification governing this device is [29/Misc/3/2017-DC (292)], dated 06.06.2018, which aligns with the Medical Device Rules implemented from January 2020. Compliance ensures safety, efficacy, and quality in the Indian market.
Manufacturers and importers must obtain the appropriate licenses from CDSCO's Central Licensing Authority (CLA) before marketing or distributing this device.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class C Devices
The Knee Joint Femorotibial Prosthesis is categorized as a Class C medical device. According to the CDSCO classification system:
- Class C devices are moderate-to-high risk devices that are implantable and/or used in direct contact with the cardiovascular, nervous, or musculoskeletal systems.
- Licensing for Class C devices requires an MD9 manufacturing license for Indian manufacturers or an MD15 import license for importers.
The MD9 license application is submitted to the Central Licensing Authority and involves rigorous documentation, product testing, and audits.
For detailed classification insights, refer to our Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process (MD9) for Class C Orthopaedic Implants
To manufacture the Knee Joint Femorotibial Prosthesis in India, obtaining the MD9 license is mandatory. This process includes the following steps:
- Test License (MD13): Initially, you must apply for a test license to conduct necessary product testing. This phase takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Conduct testing at CDSCO-approved government testing laboratories to ensure compliance with applicable standards. A list of these labs is available on the CDSCO Testing Laboratories page.
- Documentation Preparation: Prepare comprehensive documents including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, Essential Principles Checklist, and Quality Management System (QMS) documentation.
- MD9 License Application (Form MD7): Submit your application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit by CDSCO Inspectors: CDSCO will conduct an on-site audit of your manufacturing facility.
- Queries Resolution: Address any queries or deficiencies raised by the department or auditors.
- Grant of License (Form MD9): Upon successful completion, the manufacturing license is issued.
The entire manufacturing license process takes approximately 4 to 5 months.
For a full walkthrough, see our detailed MD9 License Guide.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Knee Joint Prosthesis
Accurate and complete documentation is crucial. For Class C devices like the Knee Joint Prosthesis, the following are mandatory:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of ownership or lease agreement of manufacturing premises
- Details and qualifications of technical staff (e.g., qualified engineers, quality personnel)
- Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF) detailing design, materials, manufacturing process. Learn to prepare yours through our Device Master File guide.
- Plant Master File describing the infrastructure, equipment, and manufacturing environment. Refer to our Plant Master File guide.
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating conformity to safety and performance standards
- Risk Management File adhering to ISO 14971 principles. Our Risk Management guide can help.
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved laboratories
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) documents, typically aligned with ISO 13485:2016
Ensuring these documents are well-prepared and aligned with CDSCO expectations significantly smoothens the approval process.
Import License Process (MD15) for Knee Joint Prosthesis
If you plan to import the Knee Joint Femorotibial Prosthesis into India, an MD15 import license is required.
The import license process entails:
- Document Preparation: Compile manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016 certification, CE marking (if applicable), Device Master File, Plant Master File, Wholesale License, and Company Constitution.
- Application Submission: Submit the MD15 application (Form MD14) online via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Queries Resolution: Address any clarifications sought by CDSCO.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory review, the MD15 license is issued.
The MD15 import license typically takes 5 to 6 months to process.
For comprehensive guidance, refer to our Import License Guide.
Import License Documents Required for Class C Orthopaedic Implants
The documentation for import license includes:
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate or Certificate of Market Authorization
- ISO 13485:2016 Quality Management certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale License for distribution in India
- Company Constitution documents
Properly collated documents reduce delays and expedite the import licensing process.
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Process Steps | Typical Duration |
---|---|---|
MD9 Manufacturing | Test license, Testing, Audit | 4-5 months |
MD15 Import License | Document review, Queries | 5-6 months |
Planning ahead and initiating early is key to meeting market entry timelines.
Government Fees and Costs
For Class C Knee Joint Prosthesis devices, CDSCO fees are as follows:
- MD9 Manufacturing License: Rs 50,000 per application + Rs 1,000 per product
- MD15 Import License: USD 3,000 per site + USD 1,500 per product
Additional costs include testing fees at government-approved laboratories and notified body audit charges.
Investing in expert consultancy can optimize application quality and reduce costly delays.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Delays in Testing and Audit Scheduling
- Solution: Engage with CDSCO-approved testing labs early and confirm audit dates with notified bodies well in advance.
Challenge 2: Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation
- Solution: Use our detailed checklists and templates for Device and Plant Master Files, risk management, and QMS to ensure compliance.
Challenge 3: Regulatory Queries Leading to Back-and-Forth Communication
- Solution: Anticipate common queries by thorough pre-submission reviews and expert consultation.
Challenge 4: Understanding Complex Regulatory Requirements
- Solution: Partner with experienced consultants who have a proven track record in Class C device licensing.
Expert Consultation and Support
With over 25 years of experience and more than 500 successful CDSCO license grants, our team offers:
- Gap analysis and readiness assessment
- Document preparation and review
- Liaison with CDSCO officials and notified bodies
- Support through testing and audit processes
- Timely updates on regulatory changes
Our goal is to make your CDSCO licensing journey for Knee Joint Prosthesis seamless and efficient.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Assess your device classification to confirm Class C status.
- Gather and review all required documents, including Device Master and Plant Master Files.
- Apply for the test license (Form MD13) to begin product testing.
- Engage CDSCO-approved testing laboratories promptly to schedule testing.
- Prepare your manufacturing site for the CDSCO audit by reviewing QMS and compliance.
- Submit your license application (Form MD7 for MD9 or Form MD14 for MD15) via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Respond swiftly to any CDSCO queries to avoid processing delays.
For personalized assistance through every step, reach out to our expert team to ensure your Knee Joint Femorotibial Prosthesis enters the Indian market smoothly and compliantly.
Navigating CDSCO licensing for complex orthopaedic implants need not be daunting. With meticulous preparation, expert guidance, and adherence to timelines, manufacturers and importers can achieve regulatory success and bring life-changing devices to patients across India.