Knee Realignment Osteotomy
Knee Stabilisation And Alignment Surgeries: Knee Realignment Osteotomy
Knee realignment osteotomy is a surgical procedure designed to correct the alignment of the knee joint by redistributing weight-bearing forces across the joint. This procedure is often used to relieve pain, improve function, and slow the progression of knee arthritis. By realigning the knee, osteotomy surgery may help reduce strain on the damaged portion of the joint, preserving knee health and delaying the need for knee replacement surgery in some cases.
What Is Knee Realignment Osteotomy?
Knee realignment osteotomy involves making precise cuts in the bone (either the tibia or femur) and repositioning it to improve the alignment of the knee joint. The bone is then stabilised using plates and screws while it heals in its new position. This procedure aims to shift weight-bearing forces away from the damaged part of the knee to a healthier area, which may reduce pain and improve function.
When Is Unicompartmental Knee Replacement Recommended?
This procedure may be recommended for individuals experiencing:
- Early-Stage Arthritis: Arthritis that affects only one side of the knee joint (typically the medial or lateral compartment).
- Knee Malalignment: Conditions such as bow-leggedness (varus deformity) or knock-knees (valgus deformity) causing uneven weight distribution in the knee.
- Pain and Functional Limitations: Symptoms that do not respond to non-surgical treatments, such as physiotherapy, bracing, or injections.
- Active Lifestyle: Individuals who wish to preserve their natural knee joint and maintain high levels of physical activity.
Knee realignment osteotomy is often considered for younger, active patients who are not yet candidates for knee replacement surgery.
Preparation For Knee Realignment Osteotomy
Proper preparation can optimise surgical outcomes and recovery:
- Pre-Surgical Assessment: Dr Scott Tulloch will perform a thorough evaluation, including imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to assess the alignment of the knee and determine the best surgical approach.
- Pre-Surgery Instructions: Patients may be advised to stop certain medications, follow fasting guidelines, and arrange for post-surgical support, such as crutches or a walker.
- Prehabilitation: Physiotherapy or strengthening exercises may be recommended before surgery to improve knee strength and flexibility.
What Happens During The Surgery?
- Surgical Technique: Knee realignment osteotomy is typically performed as an open procedure under sterile conditions.
- Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (e.g., spinal anaesthesia) is used to ensure patient comfort.
- Procedure Steps:
- A cut is made in the tibia (shinbone) or femur (thighbone) at the site of the malalignment.
- The bone is repositioned to improve alignment and relieve pressure on the damaged side of the joint.
- The new position is stabilised using plates and screws, which may remain in place permanently.
- The incisions are closed, and the knee is bandaged.
- Duration: The surgery generally takes 2-3 hours.
Understanding The Risks
As with any surgical procedure, knee realignment osteotomy carries potential risks. Dr Scott Tulloch will discuss these with you and outline steps to minimise them. Risks may include:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Delayed or incomplete bone healing
- Stiffness or limited range of motion in the knee
- Rare complications, such as nerve or blood vessel damage
What To Expect After Surgery
- Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in hospital for 2-3 days following surgery for monitoring and initial recovery.
- Pain Management: Medications, ice therapy, and elevation may be used to manage pain and swelling.
- Assistive Devices: Crutches or a walker may be needed to reduce weight-bearing on the operated leg during the initial recovery phase.
- Discharge Instructions: Patients will receive detailed guidance on caring for the surgical site, managing pain, and recognising signs of complications.
Rehabilitation And Recovery
- Recovery Timeline: Recovery typically takes 3-6 months, with full bone healing occurring over several months.
- Physiotherapy: A tailored rehabilitation program is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and joint function.
- Activity Restrictions: High-impact activities should be avoided during recovery to protect the healing bone.
Long-term Outcomes
Knee realignment osteotomy may help reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay the progression of arthritis for many patients. By preserving the natural knee joint, this procedure may also delay or reduce the need for knee replacement surgery in the future.
The success of the procedure depends on factors such as the severity of the malalignment, adherence to rehabilitation, and the patient’s overall health. Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Scott Tulloch are recommended to monitor healing and ensure optimal outcomes.
Maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle, including low-impact exercise, can help preserve knee health and support long-term recovery.
If you would like to learn more about knee realignment osteotomy or discuss your options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
