artificial joint or an endoprosthesis today is usually also given a small but extremely important document: the implant identification , also implant pass .
But what exactly is this ID? Why is he so crucial? And why should you always carry him with you?

In this comprehensive contribution you will find out everything you need to know about the topic of implant ID card for a hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis.

What is an implant certificate?

An implant certificate is an official document that contains all important information about your endoprosthesis or artificial joint (e.g. hip-tep or knee-tep).

The following information is typically included:

• Type and type of implant
• Manufacturer and model
• Serial number and batch number
• Date of implantation
• Name of the clinic or the hospital
• Name of the operating doctor

Since the EU Ordinance 2017/745 (MDR-Medical Device Regulation), clinics in Europe have been obliged to hand over an implant pass .

Why is an implant card for an endoprosthesis important?

An implant certificate fulfills several vital functions:

1. Medical emergency care

In an emergency, for example after an accident, doctors need quick information about their endoprosthesis .
The implant pass ensures that:

• Your prosthesis is recognized correctly.
• Necessary precautionary measures (e.g. at MRTS) are observed.

2. Travel activity and security with hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis

When crossing security controls, such as airports, metallic implants often trigger the alarm.
With an implant ID you can easily prove:

• Why the metal detector was triggered.
• Where the implant is located.

3. Recall actions and product safety

If production deficiencies become known for a certain implant type, your implant pass help you inform you quickly.
This ensures that:

• They can be contacted for any recall actions.
• Your implant is documented safely and comprehensibly.

4. Transparency for doctor and patient

The implant pass ensures clear documentation of your hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis and a complete medical history.
This is important for:

• Connection treatments
• later revision operations
• Insurance issues

For which implants is an implant ID card mandatory?

According to the European MDR (Medical Device Regulation), an obligation to identify for:

Hip prosthesis

Knee prosthesis

Pacemaker

Dental implants (only recommended to a limited extent)

Eye lens implant (voluntary)

👉 Note: Especially with endoprostheses of the large joints (hip, knee, shoulder), the ID is mandatory.

What does an implant card for your artificial joint look like?

A typical implant pass is the size of a check card or a small booklet.
It contains:

• Personal Data
• Details of your artificial joint

Modern implant cards are often additional:

• Available in several languages
• Equipped with QR codes
• Waterproof and robustly designed

What to do if you have not received any implant ID?

Sometimes the exhibition of the implant card accidentally goes under.
In this case:

1. Contact the clinic or the doctor who carried out your operation.
2. Request the ID in writing.
3. If not possible: have a medical certificate issued with all important implant data.

Important: Always apply a copy to you and keep the original safely.

Advantages of an implant certificate

✅ increased patient safety
✅ simpler diagnostics for follow -up treatments
✅ Protection for travel and security controls
✅ Overview of product warnings and recall
✅ Legal security for medical interventions

What happens if the implant certificate is lost for your artificial joint replacement?

If you have lost implant card

• Apply for a new exhibition.
• If this is not possible, ask a copy of your surgical documentation.

Tip: Photograph your implant pass and save the file safely on your smartphone or computer.

Implant certificate and travel - what do you have to pay attention to?

If you travel artificial joint

• carry your implant pass with you at hand.
• Inform the security personnel at airports before checking.
• Note country -specific regulations for implant carriers.

Tip: Some airlines offer special services for people with hip prostheses or knee prostheses - ask in advance.

Common questions (FAQs)

Do I always have to have the implant ID with me?

Yes, especially when traveling or visiting the doctor, it is advisable to always carry the ID with them.

Do I have to apply for a new implant certificate when I change?

No, a move does not change your implant ID.
Nevertheless, you should give a copy when changing the family doctor.

Can an implant certificate work?

No, the implant card remains valid for life, unless the hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis is removed or replaced.

Summary: The implant card - your personal health companion

An implant or implant pass is much more than just a small piece of paper:
it is an essential part of your medical care after the implantation of an artificial joint or an endoprosthesis .

He ensures:

• Their security
• Your mobility
• Your medical care

Do not lose sight of it and show him if necessary - this is how you and your hip prosthesis or knee prosthesis remain well protected and informed.