High Tibial Osteotomy

High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical procedure used to treat knee arthritis or other knee joint problems.
High Tibial Osteotomy: Purpose, Procedure and Healing Process

The main purpose of high tibial osteotomy surgery is to correct knee deformities that cause knee arthritis or similar problems, thereby reducing pain and improving joint function. This surgery can be applied for the following conditions:

Varus Knee: Varus knee is a deformity in which the knee bends inward. In this case, the knee joint may be under too much stress from the load-bearing bone. YTO can correct this deformity.

Valgus Knee: Valgus knee is a deformity in which the knee bends outward. YTO can correct this deformity.

Knee Joint Calcification: In patients experiencing pain and stiffness due to knee joint arthritis, YTO can reduce pain by improving the load distribution of the knee.

During YTO surgery, an incision is made on the tibia (shin bone). This incision is made at a specific angle to change the angle of the knee. This correction is made to distribute the load of the load-bearing part of the knee joint more evenly. The bones are then fixed at a certain angle. This procedure can slow the progression of knee arthritis and relieve pain.

Healing Process:

The recovery process may vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient's general health condition. Patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days and begin physical therapy. Physical therapy helps the patient regain muscle strength and joint mobility.

High tibial osteotomy can be an effective treatment option for suitable patients and can reduce pain related to knee joint problems. However, surgery has risks, so it is important for patients to be carefully evaluated and counselled.