Osseointegration Information

Osseointegration is derived from the Greek ‘osteon’ meaning bone, and the Latin ‘integrare’, which means to make whole. It is defined as the direct contact between living bone and the surface of a synthetic, often titanium based, implant.

Osseointegration’s original application was in bone and joint replacement surgeries and not only has it dramatically enhanced these surgeries and their outcomes but now it is also used to vastly improve the quality of life for amputees.

Clinically osseointegration has been used since 1995, utilising a skeletally integrated titanium implant that is connected through an opening in the stump (stoma) to an external prosthetic limb.  The traditional suction prosthesis is no longer required and perfect fit is achieved via a torque controlled knee connector.

This allows for direct contact to the ground, which provides greater stability, more control and minimises energy exerted.

The Osseointegration Group of Australia Osseointegration Prosthetic Limb (OGAP-OPL) implant is modelled on the anatomy of the human body and takes the load back to the femur and the hip joint when walking. In a traditional socket prosthesis both the femur and hip joint are not loaded naturally which results in degeneration and atrophy of the bone and can lead to osteoporosis.

The OGAP-OPL is suitable for both above and below knee amputees and is implanted directly into the tibia or femur accordingly.

 

Advantages Of Osseointegration And The OGAP-OPL:

No Socket

• Walking with the OGAP-OPL allows for natural loading of the hip joint and the femur which encourages bone growth, creates a more natural gait and requires less physical exertion

• Any weight or fluid variations of the stump have no effect on fit or functionality

• No bulky socket which results in a natural streamlined look in clothes 

 

Freedom of Mobility

• Allows for full freedom of movement in activities ranging from walking to cycling, recreational activities and physical work

• Muscular strength is developed freely minimising muscle wastage of the stump

• Movement is not restricted by the protruding edges of a socket allowing for greater ease and comfort sitting, standing and walking

• The direct connection between femoral bone, implant and knee enables free, natural pivoting movements.

 

Easy Attachment and Osseoperception

• The knee prosthesis can easily be attached and removed with ease within just a few seconds

• The patient regains their sense of proprioception, which is the unconscious perception of the position of the body, movement and spatial orientation in relation to the external environment. This means the patient regains the ability to feel the ground beneath them as they walk and can differentiate between different surfaces such as carpet, grass, tiles and uneven ground. This allows for safer and more confident movement even in unfamiliar areas or dim light.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

What do I need to do?

Make an appointment with A/Prof Munjed Al Muderis and his team to discuss your situation.  You will need to be motivated and willing to work with our physiotherapists to build your muscle strength following the surgery. You can make an appointment by calling 1800 905 907 or +61 2 8882 9011 or book an appointment online. 

 

How soon after amputation can surgery be performed?

Each situation is unique and will be assessed in order to make the best decision for you.  The earliest that osseointegration surgery has been performed is within a year of the patient’s initial amputation. 

 

How much does it cost?

Australian Private Health Insurance covers most of the cost involved with OGAP-OPL prosthesis surgery. However, some items necessary for your treatment may not be covered under some health funds such as physiotherapy, medications or x-rays. This will vary from company to company and policy to policy. Please check with our staff and your fund for more details. 

 

Are there any disadvantages?

There will be a small amount of discharge from the stoma. The amount of discharge varies from patient to patient and some patients have none at all.

 

For more information on the surgical procedure, the implant and the history of osseointegration please view the other pages in the information section.