Osseointegration Prosthetic Implant System
What is osseointegration?
Osseointegration limb replacement is a surgical procedure where a metal implant is anchored directly to the bone, which then attaches to a prosthesis. The implant then integrates with the surrounding tissue, allowing a new prosthetic limb to be a more natural extension of the body. For patients who have had an amputation, osseointegration can eliminate socket-related issues (redness, blistering, and even ulcers) and can improve quality of life by increasing mobility and function.
The benefits of using osseointegration technology include:
- Reduction or elimination of pain, skin irritations, ulcers and perspiration
- Elimination of socket-related problems in traditional prosthetics
- Increased range of motion and limb strength
- Increased sense of feel through the prosthesis
- Intuitive awareness of limb positioning in space
- Allows for weight gain/loss
- Comfort during sitting (for lower limbs)
- Fast and easy donning and doffing of prosthetic
How does it work?
WashU orthopedic surgeons use a system that consists of three parts: an anchoring element, a skin penetrating connection, and a screw to secure both.
Osseointegration surgery is done in one or two phases depending on the implant type, design, and individual patient needs. First, a titanium implant is placed into the bone of the patient’s residual limb during a surgical procedure. As the limb heals from surgery, the implant becomes integrated with the bone, which allows the final prosthetic limb to act more like a direct extension of the limb and body.
After a healing period of about six months, a second surgery is performed so the abutment, or skin-penetrating connection, is attached. A few weeks after the second surgery, rehabilitation begins.
Full weight-bearing on an osseointegration prosthesis is achieved about one year after the initial surgery.
Who is a candidate?
Transfemoral (above-knee) amputee who currently has or is anticipated to have socket issues due to:
- Recurrent skin issues, such as ulcers
- Pain
- Short limb length
- Scarring/skin grafts
- Excessive sweating
- Restricted mobility
Why choose WashU Orthopedics for osseointegration surgery?
Washington University orthopedic surgeons are board-certified, fellowship-trained experts who lead the field of orthopedics across the country.
Not only do WashU surgeons utilize the latest technology and treatment methods available for patients, we help develop them through research and clinical trial.
Most importantly, our surgeons care about our patients, and want to help each patient get back to doing what they love as quickly as possible.
For more information or to learn if you are a candidate for osseointegration, call 314-514-3500.