[London, 15 January 2026] — The Orthopaedic Data Evaluation Panel (ODEP) is pleased to announce that the latest, updated ODEP Knee criteria – for both Total Knee Replacement (TKR) and Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (UKR) – commonly referred to as the “ratcheted up” benchmarks – have now been formally adopted. These revised standards have been applied from 15 January 2026.

This update is part of ODEP’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards in orthopaedic implant evaluation. The ratcheting up of the criteria for both TKR and UKR is fully aligned with ODEP’s routine policy of reviewing and refining benchmarks to reflect contemporary revision rates and the evolving landscape of clinical performance data.

In addition, ODEP has introduced optional 20-year benchmarks (20A*, 20A and 20B). These are available for products that wish to demonstrate longer-term performance beyond the 15-year follow-up required under the previous 2020 criteria. Products that have achieved a 15-year rating will not be penalised for not progressing to the 20-year benchmarks; submission against the 20-year criteria remains entirely voluntary.

Importantly, there will be no changes to the ratings of currently listed products. All existing ratings will remain in place until their natural expiry, including the year of grace where applicable.

Manufacturers are encouraged to review the new criteria in preparation for their upcoming submissions. The updated benchmarks can be viewed on the Methodology pages of the ODEP website. Updated ODEP Knee submission forms will become available in February.

ODEP remains committed to transparency and collaboration with all stakeholders. For any questions or further information, please contact ODEP at ODEP@necsws.com.

Get in touch

ODEP Team
enquiries@odep.org.uk
0845 345 9991