Hardware Classification and Terminology

There are several different schemes for classification of orthopedic hardware and alternate names for the same piece of hardware. Orthopedic hardware, itself, is also referred to as implants, devices, and appliances with or without the preceding word "orthopedic".  In the United States, all clinically implanted hardware must have FDA approval. The FDA has a classification system that is published in the Code of Federal Regulation, Title 21, Part 888 (21CFR888) where hardware is classified under the category of orthopedic devices. See FDA in the glossary. In general clinical usage, no single classification system is used.

Orthopedic hardware can be described or classified by its biomechanical function, primary use, anatomic location, design, or appearance. In addition, there are eponyms for particular pieces of hardware while manufactures often use proprietary names for their products. A given piece of hardware is often classified in several different ways. For example, plates that stabilize fractures at or near weight bearing joints are called buttress plates which describes there biomechanical function. Because they are most commonly used near major joints, they are also referred to as periarticular plates. These plates are shaped to bone surfaces and often are named by their appearance: spoon plates, cloverleaf plates, etc.

In this program, hardware is divided into groups that are the most often clinically used. Hardware that is used in several different locations is named for its appearance: screws, plates, wires, pins, nails, etc. Hardware for joint replacement and spinal hardware have designs and functions that are unique to these locations, so they are separately listed in the Hardware Atlas.