Osteotomy surgery is an orthopedic procedure that involves intricate bone cutting and reshaping of bones to modify the structure of bones, reduce pain, enhance joint functionality, and improve mobility in the knee, hip, or even jaw. In this blog, we will take you through the entire treatment for osteotomy surgery, including its objectives, techniques, postoperative recovery, and the outcomes one can anticipate.

What is Osteotomy Surgery?

Osteotomy surgery is performed for chronic limb pain and dysfunction due to arthritis. The treatment is aimed at realigning the bearing surface of the joint which has essential ligaments and bearing surfaces forming a complex. Osteotomy is a surgical procedure in which the bone is cut to realign and reposition it correctly so as to enhance its functional capabilities. The term comes from Greek which translates to “osteon” (bone) “tomia” (cut). Total joint replacement is still the mainstay surgical option in advanced osteoarthritis, however osteotomies can also serve when there is still considerable joint tissue remaining.

Why Is Osteotomy Surgery Needed

Understanding of treatment for osteotomy surgery

The procedure is often indicated in cases such as:

Knee osteoarthritis
Hip dysplasia
Bow legged (varus) or knock-kneed (valgus) deformities
Orthognathic (jaw) osteotomy

malunited fractures

Osteotomy is specifically done aiming redistribution of weight-bearing on the joints to halt cartilage degradation, alleviate pain, postpone a need for replacement surgeries. The aim also includes slowing wear and tear of claimed surfaces.

Diagnosis Before Surgery: Osteotomie

An orthopedic specialist performs a thorough diagnostic evaluation before osteotomy is considered. This may include:

Physical examination – Aligns and checks the functional range of motion of joints.
X-rays or CT scans – Bone shape alteration and planning steps for precise corrective surgery.
MRI scans – Evaluating the cartilage as well as the joint sight for any possible damages.
Gait analysis – Very critical for lower limb osteotomy procedure.

Surgeons will only design an osteotomy plan once the extent and source of the deformity has been clearly established.

Types of Osteotomy Surgery

Different types of osteotomy will require differing treatment approaches. Some of the most common osteotomies are listed below:

High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO):

Indicated in patients with knee osteoarthritis and involves a cut made in the tibia (shinbone) where it is realigned to relieve stress on the knee joint.

Femoral Osteotomy:

Treatment of deformities of the femur (thighbone), commonly associated with hip dysplasia or following a traumatic event.

Pelvic Osteotomy:

Performed on children and adults with – hip dysplasia; the procedure entails cutting the pelvis and reshaping it to enhance its coverage around the femoral head.

Jaw (Mandibular/Maxillary) Osteotomy:

Jawbones are repositioned to rectify overbite, underbite, and facial asymmetries.

Spinal Osteotomy:

Osteoporotic conditions like scoliosis and kyphosis are treated with this procedure.

Pre-Surgical Preparation and Treatment

Patients go through a detailed step-by-step pre-operative preparation which may include:

Testing of blood and ECG in older patients.

Stopping specific medications such as blood thinners.

Smoking cessation promoting healing.

Physical therapy for muscles supporting the surgery site.

Nutritional consultation for optimal recovery.

A 3D surgical plan or navigation guided system may be employed for precise realignment.

Surgical Procedure: Osteotomy

Osteotomy procedures generally follow these steps:

Anaesthesia:

General or regional anaesthesia is administered.
Surgical Incision and Bone Cutting:

The surgeon performs an incision, then with the aid of specialized instruments, cuts and reshapes or removes a wedge of bone.

Realignment and Fixation:

Bone is realigned and secured with metal plates, screws or rods.

Closure and Bandaging:
Incision is closed and limb is immobile in a brace or cast.

Duration:

Surgery duration is 1 to 3 hours depending on complexity.
Post-Surgical Recovery and Treatment
Post-operative care is as important as the surgery. Here’s what to expect:

Hospital Stay:

Depending on the condition, the patient may stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days.

Pain Care:

Pain and swelling is treated with medicines, ice packs or elevation.

Physical Therapy:

Restoration of function and strength will be guided by exercises set out by a physiotherapist. Early mobilization is imperative.

Weight-Bearing Restrictions:

Based on the type of osteotomy performed, patients may require 6 to 12 weeks of abstaining from weight-bearing activities. Crutches and walkers are commonly utilized during this period.

Follow-up Care:

Regular X-rays are conducted to monitor bone healing and in some cases, metal implants may be de-implanted later Commercial implants are used.

Expected Results and Success Rate Tamdai.

The expectancy and successogether osteotomy surgeries is performed in the caretaker, the better the outcomes. Some listed benefits are:

Alleviation of significant pain
Postponing or easing joint replacement surgery.
Increased mobility accompanied by a better quality of life.
Enhanced alignment and distribution of forces on the joints.

Success Rate:

Patients who adhere to rehabilitation protocols report over 80% satisfaction.

Risks & Complications

Although considered safe, outpatient center procedures like call rotational osteotomy present with several risks. These include:

Infection and blood clots.
Damage to norms or blood vessels
Shrinking, voila non-union
Correcting too much or too little shift balance.

Provision of care during the postoperative period allows for reduced exposure to these risks.

Conclusion

For patients with early-stage arthritis or deformities of the bone, osteotomy surgery is an effective treatment option that preserves the joint. With careful planning and thorough rehabilitation after the operation, the results can be remarkable and the patient’s quality of life significantly enhanced.

In case you experience joint pain owing to misalignment or any kind of deformity, it is best to seek the advice of an orthopedic surgeon who can determine whether osteotomy is suitable for your case.