What is a knee osteotomy?
In a knee osteotomy the upper part of the shinbone (tibia) or the lower part of the thighbone (femur) is cut and realigned. The aim is to take pressure off the damaged side of the knee and shift it towards the side where the cartilage is healthier.
A high tibial osteotomy, just below the knee, is the most common type. A small wedge of bone is opened or closed to change the angle of the leg, then held with a plate and screws while it heals.
Who it may suit
Arthritis that mainly affects one side of the knee
Younger, active people who would like to keep their own knee for longer
Leg alignment (bow legs or knock knees) that adds to the wear
Pain that has not settled with exercise, physiotherapy or injections
Suitability is always assessed in clinic, using full-length standing X-rays of the leg. Results vary from person to person.
Recovery
Recovery is gradual. Mr Morapudi and the physiotherapy team will give you a plan for your own operation; the stages below are a general guide.
1
First days
Walking with crutches, starting gentle exercises with the physiotherapist.
2
First weeks
Protected weight-bearing as advised while the bone begins to heal.
3
Around three months
Bone healing on X-ray and building strength and confidence.
4
Longer term
A return to walking, cycling and other activities as the bone heals.
Risks
Every operation carries risks. Mr Morapudi will talk you through those that apply to you, including:
Infection of the wound or around the plate
Blood clots in the leg or lungs
Slow healing or non-healing of the bone
Stiffness, or a need for further surgery
Alternatives
Depending on your knee, other options may include:
Questions about knee osteotomy
How long does an osteotomy last?
It can delay the need for a knee replacement, sometimes for many years, but this varies from person to person.
Will I need a knee replacement later?
Answer to follow: awaiting client copy.
When can I drive again?
Answer to follow: awaiting client copy.
Can I get back to sport?
Answer to follow: awaiting client copy.
