Introduction

An osteotomy means breaking and realigning the bone.  Commonly arthritis in young patients affects the inner aspect of the knee. Changes leading to a bow legged appearance.  Due to the bow leg deformity, there can be progressive worsening of the arthritis and pain felt on the inner aspect of the knee.  High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is used to relieve the pressure on the inner arthritic bearing of the knee and to correct deformity. This procedure stops, or slows arthritic changes in the knee and postpones replacement procedures.

If the patient have knock knees („X“ knees) the femoral osteotomy is performed. Usualy the outer, or lateral part of the knee is worn out.

Recovery

After surgery the patient begins with a range of motion exercises. On the second or the third day patient is discharged fromthe Clinic. The first six weeks the patient should walk with two crutches without weight bearing on the operated leg. After that period patient comes to a follow-up exam and has another X-ray picture made. After that, only one crutch is used usually and weight bearing is increased. The patient comes to a follow-up exam after 3 months and again after six months.