Knee cartilage plays a crucial role in joint health, providing a smooth surface for bones to glide over each other and cushioning impact during movement. Damage to this vital tissue can lead to significant pain and reduced mobility. The London Cartilage Clinic team provides patients with the most advanced treatments, including osteotomy, to repair and preserve knee function. This article will answer your most pressing questions about osteotomy and how it can help improve your quality of life following a knee injury.
An osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping the bones to relieve pressure on the knee joint. It is often used to treat arthritis or other conditions that cause uneven wear and tear on the knee cartilage. Read ‘Everything you need to know about Knee Arthritis‘. By realigning the bones, an osteotomy can shift the weight away from the damaged area, reducing pain and improving function. The two types of osteotomy relevant for improving knee health are:
High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO): This is the most common type of osteotomy for knee problems. It involves cutting the tibia (shin bone) and reshaping it to relieve pressure on the inner part of the knee.
Distal Femoral Osteotomy (DFO): This procedure involves cutting the femur (thigh bone) and is typically used to relieve pressure on the outer part of the knee.
During an osteotomy, the surgeon makes a cut in the bone and removes or adds a wedge of bone. This realigns the joint and shifts the weight away from the damaged cartilage. The bone is then fixed in place with metal plates and screws to allow it to heal in the new position.
Recovery from an osteotomy can take several months. Patients typically need to use crutches for a few weeks and engage in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. The goal is to return to normal activities with reduced pain and improved knee function.
Osteotomy offers several benefits over other treatments for knee cartilage damage. It can delay the need for a total knee cartilage replacement by preserving the natural knee joint. This procedure is particularly beneficial for younger, active patients who want to maintain their mobility and continue participating in physical activities.
At London Cartilage Clinic, our approach is patient-centred, focusing on individual needs and promoting overall musculoskeletal health. To this end, our surgeons combine advanced techniques with modern rehabilitation protocols to help achieve the best possible patient outcomes. Although osteotomies are just one of the solutions we offer, with the possibility for other treatments to be recommended. This might include expert cartilage repair, cartilage regeneration, or a specialist injection. Contact us today to start your journey to recovery.
A good candidate for an osteotomy is typically a younger, active patient with knee cartilage damage limited to one area. It is often recommended for patients who are not yet ready for a total knee replacement.
The recovery period can vary, but it generally takes several months. Patients usually need to use crutches for a few weeks and undergo physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
An osteotomy can be highly effective in relieving knee pain and improving function by realigning the bones and reducing pressure on the damaged cartilage. The effectiveness depends on the extent of the damage and the patient’s overall health.
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with an osteotomy, including infection, blood clots, and complications related to the surgical procedure. It’s essential to discuss these risks with your surgeon.
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