Osseointegration

Advanced reconstructive surgery technique for amputees

Since 2008, A Step Ahead Prosthetics has been actively involved in advancing osseointegration care. Founder Erik Schaffer, C.P. traveled to Sweden to work with Dr. Rickard Brånemark of Integrum, a pioneer iso ?n the field, focusing on prosthetic system design to support bone-anchored prosthetic outcomes.

At a time when the procedure was not yet approved in the United States, Erik began building clinical partnerships with leading orthopedic hospitals and surgeons to help expand access to osseointegration for individuals with limb loss.

WHAT IS OSSEOINTEGRATION?

Osseointegration is a cutting-edge technique that directly connects a titanium rod to the bone in an amputee’s limb, eliminating the need for traditional prosthetic sockets. This method allows for a more natural and comfortable fit by fusing the rod and bone over time, providing significant benefits:

Quick and simple to attach or remove the prosthetic
Stable fit, unaffected by weight changes
Eliminates issues with sweat, as no liners are needed
Reduces the risk of pressure sores and skin irritation

Osseointegration enhances the wearing experience, promoting longer use and a higher quality of life. It’s suitable for many amputees, including those with above or below-knee and elbow amputations, and for attaching maxillofacial, finger, and toe prosthetics.

OSSEOINTEGRATION OPTIONS

The two most popular systems are the ORPA and the OPL. A Step Ahead Prosthetics has vast experience and a deep connection to both. Ultimately, the system you choose will depend on your anatomy, needs, goals, insurance coverage, and other factors that you and your doctor should consider. The following content will try better to illustrate the differences between the systems without bias.

The OPL System

Procedure: Combines implant insertion and abutment attachment in one surgery for faster rehabilitation.

Material: High tensile strength titanium with a porous coating for enhanced stability and bone integration.

Recovery Time: Single-step procedure cuts recovery time to 4-6 weeks, accelerating the return to daily activities.

Type: Offers customized solutions for upper and lower limb prostheses, ensuring the best fit and function tailored to individual amputation levels.
Components: Dual cone adaptor and BIOLOY-coated Connector facilitate easy, safe attachment to prostheses, compatible with standard market components.
Innovation: Closely mimics human anatomy to foster a natural, efficient interface between stump and prosthesis, enhancing comfort and functionality for seamless integration.

The OPRA System

Procedure: This procedure employs a two-stage surgical method, spacing the implant and abutment attachment about six months apart for secure bone integration and a durable prosthetic foundation.

Material: Features titanium components with BioHelix™ coating to enhance bone integration, ensuring optimal prosthetic support and longevity.

Recovery Time: Full weight-bearing is possible six months after the second surgery.

Type: Offers customized solutions for upper and lower limb prostheses, ensuring the best fit and function tailored to individual amputation levels.

Components: A three-part system, including an anchoring element, a skin-penetrating connection, and a securing element, designed for patient safety and optimal load distribution.

Innovation: Integrates load-controlling technology to balance stress distribution across the prosthetic, enhancing performance and reducing the risk of complications.