Bone-Connected Prosthetics: What Adjusters Should Know About Osseointegration
Adjusting catastrophic amputation claims is never simple. From prolonged rehab timelines to prosthetic complications and long-term care planning, these claims often require extra time, coordination, and clinical insight. That’s why a growing shift in prosthetic technology should be on your radar: osseointegration.
Traditional socket prostheses often cause skin irritation, poor fit, and limited mobility. Osseointegration offers a different approach. Instead of relying on soft tissue, it uses a metal implant inserted directly into the bone. Once the implant heals and integrates with the bone, an external connector allows the prosthesis to attach directly to the skeleton. The result? A more natural-feeling limb with better movement and fewer socket-related issues.
What does this mean for your claims?
- Shorter rehab timelines
- Fewer skin breakdowns and fit-related setbacks
- Higher prosthetic use and improved functional outcomes
- Lower risk of abandonment or prolonged disability
Today’s osseointegration techniques are safer and more accessible. Advancements like single-stage surgeries and infection-resistant coatings have improved recovery and reduced complications. While some risks remain, serious infections are rare, and most post-op concerns are manageable with antibiotics.
For injured workers, the difference is often dramatic. Studies show improved mobility, balance, and quality of life. Many can wear their prosthesis longer and return to activities they previously avoided. For adjusters, this can translate to clearer care pathways and better long-term outcomes.
At Enlyte, our Genex Catastrophic Case Management team helps guide claimants and carriers through complex decisions like these. We connect patients with experienced providers, evaluate emerging treatments like bone-anchored prosthetics, and align care plans to the latest evidence.
The technology is evolving. The need for expert clinical guidance isn’t. When osseointegration is on the table, make sure you have the right support.