Find HS Code and trade information for orthosis

Orthosis

An orthosis (plural: orthoses) is an externally applied device used to modify the structural and functional alignment and movement patterns of the musculoskeletal system. It is a support or brace used to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities, or to improve function of a movable part of the body.

Material

Orthoses are constructed from a variety of materials, selected based on the required level of support, flexibility, and patient comfort. Common materials include:

• Plastics: Polypropylene, polyethylene, and other thermoplastics are frequently used for custom-molded shells providing rigid support.
• Metals: Aluminum alloys, steel, and titanium offer high strength and durability for frameworks and hinges.
• Composites: Carbon fiber and fiberglass provide lightweight strength and are often used in dynamic orthoses.
• Fabrics: Neoprene, nylon, and elastic materials offer comfort, compression, and flexibility.
• Foams: Used for padding and comfort layers.
• Leather: Traditionally used, still employed for certain applications requiring durability and molding.

Purpose

The primary purposes of orthoses are:

• Support: Providing external stability to a weakened or injured limb.
• Alignment: Correcting or maintaining proper anatomical alignment.
• Protection: Shielding a limb from further injury or stress.
• Correction: Gradually repositioning a deformity over time.
• Functional Improvement: Assisting with movement or improving gait.
• Prevention: Reducing the risk of further complications or deformities.

Function

Orthoses function by applying forces to the body to achieve a specific therapeutic goal. These forces can be:

• Static: Providing a fixed position of support or correction.
• Dynamic: Allowing or assisting with controlled movement.
• Corrective: Applying a force to gradually realign a joint or limb.
• Proprioceptive: Providing sensory feedback to improve body awareness and control.

Usage Scenarios

Orthoses are utilized in a wide range of medical conditions, including:

• Fractures: Immobilizing broken bones during healing.
• Sprains and Strains: Supporting ligaments and muscles after injury.
• Joint Instability: Providing external stability to unstable joints.
• Post-Stroke: Assisting with gait and preventing foot drop.
• Cerebral Palsy: Managing spasticity and improving alignment.
• Arthritis: Reducing pain and improving joint function.
• Clubfoot: Correcting foot deformities in infants.
• Spinal Deformities: Supporting the spine and correcting scoliosis.
• Sports Injuries: Preventing re-injury and providing support during activity.

Common Types

Orthoses are categorized based on the body part they support and their function:

• Foot Orthoses: Arch supports, ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), and custom-molded insoles.
• Knee Orthoses: Hinged knee braces, patellar stabilizing braces, and unloader braces.
• Ankle Orthoses: AFOs, stirrup braces, and functional ankle braces.
• Wrist and Hand Orthoses: Splints, braces for carpal tunnel syndrome, and thumb spica casts.
• Elbow Orthoses: Hinged elbow braces and splints for elbow hyperextension.
• Spinal Orthoses: Thoracolumbosacral orthoses (TLSOs), cervical collars, and scoliosis braces.
• Hip Orthoses: Pavlik harness (for developmental dysplasia of the hip) and hip abduction braces.
• Shoulder Orthoses: Shoulder immobilizers and rotator cuff braces.
• Prosthetic Liners and Sockets: While technically part of a prosthesis, these often function similarly to orthoses in providing support and alignment.

Based on the provided reference material, the following HS codes are relevant to “orthosis”:

• 9021100050: Orthopedic appliances, including crutches, surgical belts and trusses; splints and other fracture appliances; artificial parts of the body; hearing aids and other appliances which are worn or carried, or implanted in the body, to compensate for a defect or disability; parts and accessories thereof: Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof Bone plates, screws and nails, and other internal fixation devices or appliances.

  • 90: Chapter 90 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or surgical purposes.
  • 21: Heading 21 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or surgical purposes.
  • 10: Subheading 10 – Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof. This includes bone plates, screws, nails, and other internal fixation devices.

• 9021100090: Orthopedic appliances, including crutches, surgical belts and trusses; splints and other fracture appliances; artificial parts of the body; hearing aids and other appliances which are worn or carried, or implanted in the body, to compensate for a defect or disability; parts and accessories thereof: Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof Other.

  • 90: Chapter 90 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or surgical purposes.
  • 21: Heading 21 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or surgical purposes.
  • 10: Subheading 10 – Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof. This includes other orthopedic appliances not specifically mentioned elsewhere.

Regarding HS codes 9021100050 and 9021100090, please note that these codes cover a range of appliances used to support or correct physical defects or disabilities. The specific classification will depend on the exact function and design of the orthosis.