Osseointegration (often shortened to “Osseo”) is a surgical procedure that allows a metal implant to be inserted directly into the bone to become fused together. The metal implant protrudes through the skin to allow a prosthetic limb to be attached.
By anchoring the prosthetic directly to the skeleton, this technique provides more natural movement, better sensory feedback and often, a greater sense of control.
The Benefits
The benefits of osseointegration are significant. One major advantage is improved comfort as it eliminates the need for painful or ill-fitting sockets that often cause skin irritation or pressure sores. Patients also experience greater mobility, with many reporting increased range of movement and better stability. This leads to an enhanced quality of life, making tasks that were once exhausting or frustrating more manageable. Additionally, some users experience osseoperception – the ability to sense the ground through their prosthetic – which improves balance and boosts confidence. For many individuals, these advantages not only enhance functionality but also foster a renewed sense of identity and empowerment.
The Risks
Like any surgical procedure, osseointegration carries certain risks. One of the primary concerns is infection, as the implant exits through the skin, creating a potential entry point for bacteria. Although rare, implant failure can also occur due to complications such as loosening over time. There is also a risk of bone fracture, particularly during the early stages of adaptation. Additionally, the rehabilitation process tends to be longer and requires a strong commitment, as patients must gradually build strength and adapt to using the implant safely.
These risks highlight the importance of thorough patient screening and expert surgical and rehabilitative care.
While the procedure holds remarkable promise, it’s important to acknowledge that osseointegration is not suitable or accessible for everyone. Factors such as bone quality, overall health, lifestyle, and financial considerations can influence eligibility. Furthermore, although the procedure is recommended within the NICE guidelines, currently it is not offered within NHS England.
Osseointegration represents one of the most exciting advancements in prosthetic care in recent decades.
The technology continues to evolve, and with greater awareness, research, and accessibility, more individuals may have the opportunity to benefit in the years to come. We look forward to watching its continued development and hope to see it offered within the NHS to those who could truly benefit from it.
How we can help
Even though this is not a procedure currently offered to NHS England and Wales patients osteointegration is something we can secure funds for through a clinical negligence or personal injury claim. The purpose of making a claim is to help people who were injured because of the actions or negligence of others get back to as close as possible to where their lives would have been had the incident that led to their injuries not happened. Since all treatments funded through a claim are paid for privately, we are able to secure compensation specifically for private procedures like osseointegration.
If you or a loved one have had an amputation as the result of having received negligent medical care or in an accident that was not caused by you we may be able to help you. To speak to Kerry Blomerus or a member of our dedicated team supporting amputees call us today on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can give you a call at a time convenient for you.
