Lower limb prosthetics

Hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy prostheses

For hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy we make the most complex lower limb prosthesis: a custom pelvic socket, prosthetic hip, knee and foot.

Custom-made total-contact pelvic socket
Ottobock Helix3D hip joint
Combined with C-Leg and Genium knees
Maximum EOPYY reimbursement €7,296 (FEK B' 1079/2022)

2310 282 894 Book an appointment

Illustration of the pelvis and hip joint – hip disarticulation and lower limb prosthesis

Hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy are the highest levels of lower limb amputation. For these cases we make the most complex and demanding lower limb prosthesis, because it has to replace the hip, the knee and the ankle at the same time.

Despite the challenges of rehabilitation, a prosthesis should not be ruled out at this level of amputation. Modern components are lighter and more functional than ever, and many users are able to regain a significant degree of independence.

Hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy: what is the difference?

The two levels look similar from the outside, but there are important anatomical differences:

Hip disarticulation: the amputation is made exactly at the hip joint; the pelvis remains intact.
Hemipelvectomy: the entire hip joint is removed together with part of the pelvis on the same side, so weight is borne on softer tissues.

These are extensive operations, usually performed because of malignant tumours. Less often, they are carried out after severe trauma, vascular disease, osteomyelitis of the femur or for other medical reasons.

A woman using a hip disarticulation prosthesis walking outdoors — With modern components, walking can become more natural and less tiring.

The pelvic socket: the foundation of the prosthesis

At this level, the socket “hugs” the pelvis. Its main aims are:

to define precisely the anatomical surfaces that can bear weight,
to transfer weight safely from the trunk to the prosthetic limb,
to hold the prosthesis securely without pain or irritation.

We make a total-contact socket by taking a plaster cast of the pelvis and the iliac crests. The cast is then modified so that the inside of the socket follows your anatomy correctly and all the weight-bearing surfaces are captured precisely. Where appropriate, softer contact materials such as silicone are also used for a better fit and greater comfort.

The Helix3D prosthetic hip joint

In addition to the prosthetic knee and foot, the prosthesis needs an extra mechanism that replaces the hip joint and is attached to the socket. One of the solutions we use is Ottobock’s Helix3D.

Its polycentric design allows three-dimensional hip movement and pelvic rotation, approaching the natural movement of the body.
A combination of springs and a hydraulic mechanism helps to initiate the step and to achieve a controlled, smooth heel strike.
The aim is lower energy expenditure when walking and less strain on the joints and lower back.
According to Ottobock, the Helix3D is combined with the C-Leg and Genium microprocessor knees.

Whether the Helix3D or another hip joint suits you depends on your weight, physical condition and goals. The choice is always made together with your treating physician.

Hip disarticulation prosthesis with a carbon pelvic socket, Ottobock Helix3D hip joint, knee and foot — Hip disarticulation prosthesis with a Helix3D hip joint.

Rehabilitation and gait training

Learning to walk with a hip prosthesis takes time and patience. We work with your doctor and physiotherapist and train you to use the prosthesis in the dedicated area at our premises. You will find useful information about the first steps in our guide after amputation.

Cost and EOPYY

The cost of a hip prosthesis depends mainly on the hip joint, knee and foot chosen. After your assessment we give you a detailed written proposal.

Is it covered by EOPYY? We are a contracted provider of EOPYY (ΕΟΠΥΥ), Greece’s national health insurance organisation. For people insured in Greece, a “hip disarticulation or hemipelvectomy prosthesis” has a maximum reimbursable price of €7,296 according to Government Gazette (ΦΕΚ) B' 1079/2022, with replacement every 5 years. A prescription from a doctor of the relevant specialty is required, and the insured person’s co-payment is 25% (FEK B' 2106/2025, article 46). For components costing more than the maximum amount, contact us so we can check what applies in your case. See our EOPYY reimbursement page. This information is correct as of the date of the last update.

If you are not insured in Greece, EOPYY reimbursement does not apply; you can pay privately, and any cover depends on your own insurer’s rules. Contact us and we will give you the information you need for your case.

See all our options under lower limb prosthetics or book an appointment on +30 2310 282 894.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can’t find your answer? Our prosthetists are happy to help.

Contact

Can I walk with a prosthesis after hip disarticulation?

Many people with a hip disarticulation or hemipelvectomy walk with a prosthesis, often with the help of a walking stick at first. The result depends on your general health, trunk strength, the components and your training. We set realistic goals together with your treating physician and physiotherapist.

What is a hemipelvectomy?

It is an amputation in which the entire hip joint is removed together with part of the pelvis on the same side. It differs from hip disarticulation, where the pelvis remains intact. For this reason the prosthetic socket is designed differently, so that weight is transferred to other load-bearing surfaces.

What does EOPYY cover for a hip prosthesis?

For people insured in Greece, FEK B' 1079/2022 sets a maximum reimbursable price of €7,296 for a “hip disarticulation or hemipelvectomy prosthesis”, with replacement every 5 years. You need a prescription from a doctor of the relevant specialty, and your co-payment is 25%. See our EOPYY reimbursement page and call us so we can check your own case.

What is the Helix3D hip joint?

It is a prosthetic hip joint by Ottobock for hip disarticulation and hemipelvectomy. Its polycentric design allows three-dimensional hip movement, while springs and a hydraulic mechanism support each step. The manufacturer specifies it for use with the C-Leg and Genium knees. Whether it suits you is something we judge after an assessment.

How long does it take to make the prosthesis?

The time varies depending on healing, socket fittings and the availability of components. A pelvic socket usually needs more fittings than other amputation levels, so that we achieve a correct and comfortable fit. After your assessment we give you an estimated timescale for your own case.