Osseointegration

What is osseointegration?

Osseointegration is the installation of a bone-anchored prosthesis system for patients with an above-the-knee amputation. Your surgeon will surgically insert a metal implant (a titanium screw) into the bone of the residual limb. The implant extends through the skin allowing direct external attachment to a prosthetic limb.

Osseointegration requires the expertise of our multidisciplinary team, which includes orthopedic and plastic surgeons, prosthetists and rehab specialists.

If you want more information about osseointegration, or wonder if you might be a candidate, call our office: 617-643-4947.

What are the benefits of an osseointegration implant?

The benefits of the osseointegration implant system are:

• Increased range of motion and limb strength
• Improved ability to sit comfortably
• A more natural gait
• Increased awareness of limb positioning and sense of feel through the prosthesis (proprioception)
• Faster putting on (donning) and taking off (doffing) prothesis
• Increased duration of prosthetic wear time
• Improved quality of life
• The elimination of prosthesis-socket-related problems such as chafing and sores, sweating, pain, pressure and malfunction of the socket
• Eliminated need for prosthesis socket revision due to weight fluctuation

Is osseointegration an option for all patients who have had amputations?

Currently, osseointegration implants are only FDA-approved for patients who have undergone or will undergo above-the-knee leg amputations. Your doctor will review your particular case, including your femur bone density and integrity, and discuss with you whether or not osseointegration is a viable option.