What is Knee Osteotomy?
Knee osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping the bones around the knee joint to relieve pain and improve joint function. This procedure is often recommended for patients with knee osteoarthritis, particularly those whose joint damage is localized to one side of the knee.
The goal of knee osteotomy is to shift the weight load from the damaged part of the knee to the healthier part, thus reducing pain and improving mobility. It’s commonly performed in younger patients or those who are not yet ready for a knee replacement surgery.
Who Needs Knee Osteotomy?
Knee osteotomy is typically considered for people who:
- Have Knee Osteoarthritis: Particularly in the inner part of the knee joint.
- Are Younger and Active: Patients who are too young for a total knee replacement, but still experience significant knee pain.
- Have Unilateral Knee Damage: When arthritis or wear-and-tear affects only one side of the knee joint.
Knee osteotomy is most effective when the damage to the knee joint is confined to one side of the knee, either the inside (medial) or outside (lateral) part of the knee.
How is Knee Osteotomy Performed?
Knee osteotomy is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the knee and then carefully cut and reshape the bones to realign the knee joint. The goal is to redistribute the weight to the less damaged side of the knee. In some cases, the surgeon may insert metal plates or screws to stabilize the bones during the healing process.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Knee Osteotomy
Recovery from knee osteotomy typically takes several months, and patients are encouraged to follow a rehabilitation plan to regain strength and mobility. Here’s what to expect during the recovery period:
- Initial Healing: Patients may need to use crutches or a knee brace for a few weeks following the surgery.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises will help restore knee function and build strength.
- Full Recovery: It may take 6 to 12 months to fully recover and resume normal activities.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, knee osteotomy carries risks. These may include:
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
- Nonunion of Bone: In rare cases, the bones may not heal properly and require further surgery.
- Blood Clots: There’s a small risk of developing blood clots in the leg after surgery.
Conclusion
Knee osteotomy is an effective surgical option for people with knee pain due to osteoarthritis. It can help delay the need for a full knee replacement, especially in younger and active individuals. If you are struggling with knee pain, consult with an orthopedic surgeon to determine if knee osteotomy could be right for you.
Consult us today at Dayal Orthopedics hospital for expert guidance!
