Osseointegration

UofL Health is now offering a new innovative option for individuals who have experienced above the knee amputation. Osseointegration, a bone-anchored prosthetic surgery, is now available at UofL Health – UofL Hospital with rehabilitation at UofL Health – Frazier Rehabilitation Institute. UofL Health is the only hospital in Kentucky and the region, and one of only a few locations in the U.S. that perform osseointegration surgery.

What is Osseointegration?

Osseointegration is a surgical procedure in which a metal implant is anchored directly into the bone. The bone then grows into the implant. Osseointegration surgery is for people who have experienced an amputation and either are not a candidate for a traditional artificial limb or have not experienced the desired results from other prosthetic devices, such as a socket prosthesis. Osseointegration is most commonly used for above-the-knee amputations.

Benefits of Osseointegration:

• Improved quality of life
• Decreased pain
• Decreased pressure on the residual limb
• More fluid, steady gait
• Improved balance
• Improved body awareness
• Prosthetic is easier to put on and take off

Procedure Basics

In osseointegration limb replacement surgery, a custom-made titanium implant is inserted into the residual limb and then attached to a prosthesis. This eliminates the need for a traditional prosthesis and socket, which can cause issues like pinching, sweating and muscle weakness. This is a two-part procedure that can be performed during an amputation or much later to relieve painful complications.

The healing period for the first surgery is three to six months. During this period, the bone grows onto the fixture to anchor it to the femur. This bone growth process is called osseoanchoring. During this time, some patients may be able to use their socket prostheses.

During the second surgery, the abutment is attached to the end of the fixture. The abutment goes through the skin and makes it possible to attach the prosthesis to the implant. Four to six weeks after the second surgery, a physical therapist will help the patient regain mobilization. Full weight bearing with a prosthesis is expected three months after the second surgery.

Rehabilitation

Following surgery, patients may benefit from an inpatient rehab hospital stay, typically less than a week, for education and training to safely return home. Once home, a prosthetist and outpatient physical therapist will be able to provide equipment and training to optimize your mobility and quality of life.

Care Team

Our multidisciplinary team of providers is available to assist patients throughout the entire process of osseointegration, from the procedure to recovery and rehabilitation. Our multidisciplinary team includes orthopedic surgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, physical therapists, registered nurses and prosthetists.

For more information about osseointegration or to learn if you may be a surgical candidate, please call us at 502-588-4521.

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