RT Journal
A1 Robertsson, Otto
A1 Mendenhall, Stan
A1 Paxton, Elizabeth W.
A1 Inacio, Maria C.S.
A1 Graves, Stephen
T1 Challenges in Prosthesis Classification
JF The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
JO The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
YR 2011
FD December 21
VO 93
IS Supplement_3
SP 72
OP 75
DO 10.2106/JBJS.K.00990
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.K.00990
AB Abstract: 
  Accurate prosthesis classification is critical for total joint arthroplasty surveillance and assessment of comparative effectiveness. Historically, prosthesis classification was based solely on the names of the prosthesis manufacturers. As a result, prosthesis designs changed without corresponding name changes, and other prostheses’ names changed over time without substantial design modifications. As the number of prostheses used in total joint arthroplasty on the market increased, catalog and lot numbers associated with prosthesis descriptions were introduced by manufacturers. Currently, these catalog and lot numbers are not standardized, and there is no consensus on categorization of these numbers into brands or subbrands. Classification of the attributes of a prosthesis also varies, limiting comparisons of prostheses across studies and reports. The development of a universal prosthesis classification system would standardize prosthesis classification and enhance total joint arthroplasty research collaboration worldwide. This is a current area of focus for the International Consortium of Orthopaedic Registries (ICOR).