9021 - 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:
Sub-classifications
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9021 90
Overview
HTS Code 9021 encompasses a broad range of medical and assistive devices designed to compensate for physical defects or disabilities. This category includes orthopedic and fracture appliances like crutches, surgical belts, trusses, splints, and other fracture-related supports. It also covers artificial body parts, such as prosthetic limbs and components. Furthermore, devices worn or carried to aid sensory functions, like hearing aids, and implanted devices, such as pacemakers, fall under this classification. Parts and accessories specifically designed for these appliances are also included here.
When classifying goods within HTS Code 9021, it is crucial to distinguish them from other categories. For instance, while this chapter covers medical instruments, 9021 specifically focuses on compensatory devices rather than diagnostic or surgical tools found in other headings within Chapter 90. It also differs from general sporting goods or personal care items that might have some overlap in function but are not intended to correct a specific physical impairment. The primary purpose of the item – to compensate for a defect or disability – is the key differentiator.
Within HTS Code 9021, several subcategories provide further specificity. Subheadings address distinct types of appliances, such as orthopedic or fracture appliances (9021.10), artificial teeth and dental fittings, and other artificial body parts. Specialized electronic devices like hearing aids (9021.40) and pacemakers (9021.50) are also detailed in their own subdivisions, recognizing their unique technological nature and specific applications. This granular breakdown facilitates accurate classification of the wide array of assistive technologies covered by this heading.