Mike recounts his personal connection to osseointegration through his wife, who became an above-knee amputee due to cancer. Her desire for a more comfortable and functional prosthetic solution led them to explore osseointegration, a procedure that integrates the prosthesis directly with the bone, eliminating the need for a traditional socket. This experience highlighted the limitations of conventional sockets and the potential benefits of osseointegration, particularly for active individuals who struggle with the static nature of traditional prosthetic devices. Mike emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient's perspective and the psychological impact of limb loss.

The discussion shifts to the broader implications of osseointegration in the prosthetics field. Mike explains how this technology can significantly enhance the quality of life for amputees by providing a more natural and responsive connection between the prosthesis and the body. He addresses common misconceptions about the procedure, such as the risk of additional bone loss in case of infection, and highlights the thorough evaluation and patient selection process that ensures successful outcomes. Mike also touches on the role of insurance in covering osseointegration, noting that most major payers now approve the procedure.

We conclude with insights into the future of osseointegration and its potential to transform prosthetic care. Mike underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, prosthetists, physical therapists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. He also encourages prosthetists to consider osseointegration as a valuable option for their patients, emphasizing the need for continuous education and collaboration within the medical community. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in prosthetic technology and the profound impact these innovations can have on the lives of amputees.

This episode is brought to you by Advanced 3D.

In the latest episode of their podcast-hosts Brent and Joris dig into recent developments and strategic moves of Embla Medical. The company’s communications and social media activities were among the topics discussed. Embla Medical has grown into a company with a very large role in the rehabilitation landscape. In fact, Embla has acquired several companies under its umbrella over the past few years and we discuss the implications for our industry and Embla’s role in the market.

They also discuss how Embla Medical changed its name from Ossur to better reflect the company’s expanded focus on novel technologies for mobility impairments, and how all of this can impact the company’s position in the market and how it relates to its customers.

The podcast ends with an analysis of Embla Medical’s path ahead, with potential new markets and technologies being discussed. The panel speculates upon the tactics that the company could employ to secure a competitive advantage, such as expanding into emerging markets and enhancing its product portfolio using the latest technologies, such as additive manufacturing.

Embla Medical 2023 Annual Report

Special thanks to Advanced 3D for sponsoring this episode.

Join us on an additive journey, exploring the present and the future of 3D printing through the eyes of Grant Michael of Worth Additive Group as he builds his way from a MakerBot Thing-O-Matic to a broad knowledge-base of 3D scanners. He guides a path through our industry into the promising future for additive technologies, especially as it pertains to the orthotic and prosthetic profession. Be prepared, the future may not be what you think!

But more than a glimpse of things to come, this episode is a lesson in the nuts and bolts of 3D. From the appropriateness of starting small with 3D projects, to the learning that happens on the way from idea to object, we go there. We then move and groove with the motion capture of 3D scanning, taking you through the marker dance that results in the reverse engineering that can make the production of a figurine as literal as that of a Hugme pillow. This is your after-school elective shot that will lead you to the sweet zone of 3D production.

We wrap up with a discussion about how to maximise the technology’s huge potential. Learn about the surprisingly little-used world of metal printers, find out how to choose the right contract manufacturing partner with expertise in quality control and understanding materials, and discover how networking is your secret weapon. Towards the end of the episode, we help you understand more about the intricacies of FDM metal printing, as well as the importance of working with service providers.

Special thanks to Advanced 3D for sponsoring this episode.

In this episode of the Prosthetics and Orthotics Podcast, hosts Brent and Joris engage with guest Jeff Denune to explore his extensive background and developments in the prosthetics and orthotics field. Denune shares his journey from his initial involvement in the field, influenced by post-WWII prosthetics professionals, to his adoption of cutting-edge technologies like CAD for socket design. The discussion covers the progression from traditional methods to advanced digital fabrication techniques, emphasizing the impact of 3D printing and CAD in creating more effective and personalized prosthetic devices.

The conversation transitions to the nuances of patient care within the field, highlighting the importance of customizing treatment plans and prosthetics to individual needs. Denune discusses various socket designs, including ischial containment and sub-ischial techniques, illustrating the critical role of personalization in enhancing patient comfort and mobility. The hosts and guest also delve into the evolving landscape of prosthetics, discussing potential advancements and the integration of new technologies like powered exoskeletons and myoelectric devices.

Lastly, the podcast touches on the future of prosthetics and orthotics, contemplating the balance between large-scale manufacturing and boutique-style patient care. Denune advocates for a patient-centered approach, stressing that successful outcomes hinge on understanding and addressing each patient's unique situation. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of innovation and adaptability in the field, encouraging professionals to embrace new technologies while maintaining a strong focus on individualized patient care.

Brought to you by Advanced 3D.

In this engaging episode of the Prosthetics and Orthotics Podcast, we engage in a deep dive into the dynamic world of prosthetics and orthotics. We kick off the discussion with a look at the industry's trend towards consolidation, examining how major players are expanding their reach through strategic acquisitions and vertical integration. This conversation sheds light on the operational strategies that are reshaping the industry, particularly in the context of insurance reimbursement and cost management.

The episode then shifts focus as Linda Calabria, a seasoned expert with a rich background in marketing, joins the conversation. Linda shares her intriguing journey into the prosthetics and orthotics field, revealing how her passion for marketing and storytelling led her to this specialized sector. Her insights provide listeners with a fresh perspective on how marketing and product management can drive innovation and improve patient outcomes in this niche market.

Throughout the discussion, Linda emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs of various stakeholders in the industry, from clinicians and insurance providers to the end-users themselves. She delves into her experiences with multiple companies, discussing the challenges of launching new products and the critical role of regulatory compliance and quality management.

Listeners will also benefit from Linda's practical advice for startups and small businesses in the industry. She highlights the power of digital platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram for building brand presence and establishing thought leadership. Moreover, Linda stresses the necessity of having a clear strategy and understanding the intricacies of market entry, especially for companies looking to break into the U.S. market.

This episode is not just a discussion; it's a masterclass in navigating the complexities of the prosthetics and orthotics industry, offering valuable lessons on innovation, marketing, and strategic planning. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a newcomer to the field, or simply curious about the intersection of healthcare and technology, this episode provides a comprehensive look into the challenges and opportunities that define the prosthetics and orthotics landscape.

This episode is brought to you by Advanced 3D.