The term “osseointegration” refers to the direct connection between an amputee’s bone material and the surface of his or her load-carrying implant. In the medical field, osseointegration is already a common method for attaching prosthetic limbs in transfemoral (above the knee) or transhumeral (above the elbow) amputation scenarios, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for leg and upper-arm amputees as a whole.
The osseointegration process involves implanting a metal anchor directly to the bone that extends out of the patient’s residual limb. Then, the prosthesis is attached to that metal extension. This approach often works out well for patients who have been suffering from recurrent, long-term issues associated with more traditional socket systems such as limited mobility, discomfort when sitting, soreness, and so on.
Osseointegrated prosthetics are relatively new when compared to other prosthetic solutions, but they’ve quickly gained popularity over the years thanks to the enhancements they provide in the areas of strength, mobility, and ease-of-use.