THE ENDO-EXO-FEMORAL PROSTHESIS

Abstract

Patients with above knee amputation (AKA) face many challenges to mobility including difficulty with socket fit and fatigue due to high energy consumption. The aim of the Endo-Exo-Femur Prosthesis (EEFP) is to avoid problems at the interface between the sleeve of the socket-prosthesis and the soft tissue coat of the femur stump which often impedes an inconspicuous and harmonic gait. In 1999 we began using a transcutaneous, press-fit distal femoral intramedullary device whose most distal external aspect serves as a hard point for AKA prosthesis attachment. The bone guided prosthesis enables an advanced gait via osseoperception and leads to a decreased oxygen consumption of the patient. Thirty two patients underwent the procedure between 1999 and 2008. Their indication for surgery was persistent AKA prosthesis difficulties with a history of AKA for trauma. The paper presents the patient data regarding the design of the implant, the operative procedure, patient satisfaction, gait analysis and oxygen consumption.

Keywords

• above knee amputation
• osseointegrated femoral prosthesis
• rehabilitation