History Wall

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Highlighting OSMA’s achievements, milestones, and contributions

OSMA is one of the longest-standing trade associations devoted to the manufacture of medical devices used in orthopaedic surgical procedures. This digital timeline takes you on an inspiring odyssey, chronicling decades of remarkable achievements, pivotal milestones, and the tireless dedication of OSMA and its members to the field of orthopaedic surgery.

1954

OSMA is founded by five pioneering companies: Depuy, OEC, Richards, Wright, and Zimmer.

1962

  • OSMA member companies contribute to the formation of the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) F-4 Committee, dedicated to developing standards for orthopaedic devices.
  • The initial focus is on materials used in orthopaedic implants.
  • Members create the first drafts of standards presented to ASTM F-4 for review.

1970s

  • OSMA starts to focus on material standards and partners to address the screw head slots/screw driver incompatibility issue.
  • Member companies serve as the first industry representatives to the newly formed FDA advisory panel to recommend classification of orthopaedic devices.

1974

  • The FDA asks medical specialty groups to develop Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) for their respective areas.
  • OSMA establishes a Task Force and develops GMPs for orthopaedic products, and presents it to the FDA in 1975.

1976

OSMA shifts its focus from standards development to regulatory/compliance issues.

Late 1970s–1980

  • OSMA engages in regular meetings with the FDA to address regulatory issues and develop guidance documents.
  • OSMA provides information and comments on proposed regulations and classification affecting orthopaedic products.

1990s

OSMA provides information and comments on proposed regulations and classification affecting orthopaedic products.

1995

OSMA participates in the newly established AAOS Orthopaedic Device Forum.

1990s–2018

OSMA collaborates with the AAOS Forum Device Reclassification Efforts (total joint prostheses and PMMA bone cement).

2020–present

  • OSMA reforms the Orthopaedic Device Forum as the Orthopaedic Alliance Roundtable, and receives provisional approval as an FDA Collaborative Community.
  • OSMA continues to work with the FDA through the Forum, addressing reclassification petitions and regulatory schemes.
OSMA remains active, tackling standards and regulatory processes impacting the orthopaedic community. The organization continues to grow and adapt to industry changes, with a focus on orthobiologics as a key part of its future. OSMA’s active involvement in regulatory matters persists, supported by trained regulatory professionals from its member companies