Osteotomy: Symptoms, Classification, Diagnosis & Recovery

The anesthesia that is given prior to this procedure is either general or spinal. The procedure itself takes one to two hours to be completed. 

An incision is made in front of the knee, below the kneecap. A wedge of bone is then removed which has been measured out using guide wires. 

Closing Wedge Osteotomy (most common): The bones are then brought together to close the gap that has now been created. Plates and screws are used to keep the bones together till the healing of osteotomy takes place.

Opening Wedge Osteotomy: The bone wedge is opened, space is filled by adding a bone graft so healing can take place.

Postoperative complications and risks are rare but it is good to be informed of them before you make your decision to opt for Osteotomy. These are as follows:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Stiffness of the joint
• Injuries to vessels and nerves
• Failure of the osteotomy to heal: a second surgery may be needed

Benefits of Osteotomy-

• You can participate in physical activities with equal vigor and restrictions are next to none.
• This procedure helps delay joint replacement because if rightly done then the anatomy of the joint is preserved.

Follow-Up Care-

The only hospital stays required is a day or two posts the operation. Here are the various kinds of follow-up care needed.

Pain Management: Any pain medication that you take post the surgery and during the recovery period should be strictly under the supervision of your physician.

Weight-Bearing: You might be asked to use a cast or brace on your knee or use crutches. The time period post which you can begin to put weight on your leg will be suggested by the physician.

Doctor Visit: X-Rays during the follow-up visit will give the picture regarding your treatment journey, the time when rehabilitation can begin or when can you bear weight.

Rehabilitation Exercises: Strength can be regained after the surgery and you can work towards recovering the range of motion via the exercises a physical therapist helps you with.