Knee Osteotomy

Knee Osteotomy is a surgical procedure performed in the cases of arthritis which has caused damage to just one area of the knee.

Symptoms

The symptoms observed that indicate the requirement of a Knee Osteotomy are:

• Arthritis
• Knee pain

Diagnosis

The diagnostic methods that need to be carried out before a Knee Osteotomy are:

• Physical examination
• Medical history
• CT Scan
• MRI

Treatment

In a Knee Osteotomy, 4-5 inch incision is made. A wedge of bone is removed from the healthy side of the knee & is called “Closing wedge osteotomy”. A wedge of bone may also be removed from the damaged side of the knee & is called “Opening wedge osteotomy”. Now by using bone screws or plates the wedge is secured. A bone graft may be needed to fill the wedge.

It involves two types of surgery:

• Femoral osteotomy: Surgery performed on the femur above the knee cap.
• Tibial osteotomy: Surgery performed on tibia below the knee cap.

Risks

The risks involved in a Knee Osteotomy are:

• Infections
• Blood vessel injury
• Nerve injury

After Procedure

Total recovery may take upto 6 months accompanied by exercises to strengthen the muscles, improve balance & range of motion of the knee.