clinic locator
payments

Osseointegration

Osseointegration (OI) or Bone-anchored Prosthetics

APC Prosthetics has been actively involved in the establishment of amputee services for Osseointegration prosthetic users since its introduction to Sydney in 2010. Over the years, we’ve worked with more than 500 amputees who have undergone this life changing procedure 
  
With full-service clinics at all five permanent APC Clinics and remote clinics, you have the flexibility to see one of our experienced prosthetists at a location convenient for you.  Additionally, we run a specialist OI clinic at Macquarie University Hospital in Sydney every week. You can find clinic dates or locate the nearest clinic using our Clinic Locator.
Clinic locator

What is Osseointegration?

Osseointegration (OI) is the structural connection between living bone and a load- carrying metal implant. With prosthetic limbs, we refer to this as an Osseointegrated/OI prosthesis or some may use the term, bone-anchored prosthesis.

Unlike traditional socket-based prosthetics, OI prosthetics eliminate the need for a socket, offering a direct attachment to the implant via a connector.

If you’d like more information, our prosthetists are available to answer your questions.
Ollie-Dousset_Beach_Lifestyle-Image-scaled-2
rec-limb-badminton
vid2-osseointegration
image-20211008-050348-9bf5360a-scaled
IMG_9152-scaled-2
IMG_9152-scaled-2
previous arrow
next arrow
Ollie-Dousset_Beach_Lifestyle-Image-scaled-2
rec-limb-badminton
vid2-osseointegration
image-20211008-050348-9bf5360a-scaled
IMG_9152-scaled-2
IMG_9152-scaled-2
previous arrow
next arrow

How does an Osseointegration prosthesis work?

OI was first introduced into dentistry in the 1960s, and has been an option for some lower and upper limb amputees since the 1990’s in various forms. The prosthetic components are attached directly to the implant via a connector, eliminating the use of a traditional socket.

The forces in an OI prosthesis are transferred directly into the bone, so height permitted, torsion and shock adapters are highly recommended for osseointegration prosthetic legs. The risk of bone fracture from a fall is also much higher, so many above knee/transfemoral osseointegrated clients are fitted with microprocessor knees (MPKs) to help minimise falls risk. 
 
While Osseointegrated prosthetics offer several functional benefits, there are also potential risks and limitations. It is essential to have detailed discussions with your prosthetist about your mobility goals, functional needs and potential outcomes before proceeding. 

Get in touch about how we can help you

contact us

Who can use an Osseointegration prostheses?

The main reason for using an OI prosthesis over a socket-based prosthesis is socket issues.

  • Skin sensitivity - discomfort or irritation from the socket
  • Severe scarring - that makes socket fitting difficult 
  • Bilateral above knee -challenges like groin discomfort 
  • Donning issues - difficulty putting on or wearing a socket based prosthesis

Certain medical conditions or presentations may make Osseointegrated prosthetics unsuitable or increase surgical risks, including: 

  • Diabetes
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Bone density issues, eg osteoporosis 
If you have any of these conditions, it is essential to discuss your options with your prosthetist, surgeon, and healthcare team to ensure you have the full picture based on your specific situation. 
  
Previously, high-impact activities like running were not recommended for OI prosthetic users. However, ongoing research is being conducted to assess the long-term effects of such activities on the implants. This could open up new possibilities for OI users in the future. 

 At APC Prosthetics, we’re here to guide you through every step of your journey with OI prosthetics. From understanding the procedure to ensuring you have the most suitable prosthetic solution, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your mobility and lifestyle goals. 

Start Your Journey with APC Prosthetics

Ready to learn more about Osseointegration and how it could improve your mobility and quality of life? Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our experienced prosthetists.

Let APC Prosthetics guide you toward advanced comfort, advanced function, and an advanced lifestyle with a solution tailored to your unique needs.
book an appointment now

FAQ

Osseointegration is a surgical procedure where a metal implant is fused directly with the bone. This allows for the attachment of a prosthetic limb without the need for a traditional socket.
OI prosthetics are generally suitable for those who have significant challenges with socket-based prosthetics, such as:
  • Severe skin irritation or sensitivity.
  • Scarring or residual limb issues.
  • Difficulty with donning (putting on) the prosthesis.
  • Bilateral above-knee amputations.
  • Keep the implant site clean and monitor for signs of infection.
  • Attend regular follow-ups with your prosthetist and healthcare team.
  • Use any recommended shock or torsion adapters to reduce stress on the implant.
No, all APC branches and remote clinics are full-service facilities capable of supporting OI prosthetic users. However, we also offer a dedicated OI clinic weekly at Macquarie University Hospital in Sydney for specialised care.

Related Resources

Related Client Stories

Join the Community

Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the loop with the latest news from APC Prosthetics

About

Services

Client Stories

Resources

Funding

©Copyright 2025 APC Prosthetics
Privacy Policy You have made another Discovery