After someone has lost a leg through amputation, they have options for the kind of artificial limb, or prosthesis, they can use to help them walk again. One is a socket prosthesis, which attaches the artificial limb to the remaining part of the leg. But a socket prosthesis can cause friction, leading to discomfort and skin problems that can make movement and walking difficult.
A newer option is called an osseointegrated prosthetic implant, which involves surgically implanting a metal rod into the person’s leg bone. The artificial leg is then connected to the rod. However, these implants can cause serious complications, including leg, soft tissue, and bone infections.
Health Quality Ontario looked at the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of osseointegrated prosthetic implants for lower-limb amputees. We also looked at the budget impact of publicly funding them and the experiences, preferences, and values of people who have had a leg amputation.
Read the full Health Technology Assessment report for more information.
The Ministry of Health has accepted this recommendation.
The Ministry of Health has provided the following response: The Ministry has a standardized process in place to review Health Quality Ontario recommendations. This takes into consideration Ministry priorities, implementation options, the need for consultation with impacted stakeholders, and funding considerations.