Osseointegration surgery for lower limb amputees is not a new procedure.

There has been experience with this technique within the UK since the 1990’s and overseas prior to this. Recently, a new wave of interest has formed with both non-military and military injured leg amputees regularly travelling abroad to undergo surgery.

The procedure involves insertion of a titanium implant into the bone, as a part of one or two stage surgery. A period of gradual and increased loading through the implant then takes place which can be as little as 2-3 weeks before the patient is able to walk without the need of a prosthetic socket. As a result, the unavoidable long term challenges associated with the use of a socket and pain free loading of the prosthesis, new levels of function can be achieved.

Pace prosthetist Jamie Gillespie explains, “As patient interest grows and we work with an increasing number of osseo integrated patients, we realise that this technique will become a more established option available to those following limb loss. We will continue to remain in the best position to provide support in the UK.