Overview

Osteotomy is an orthopaedic surgery that involves carefully cutting and reshaping a bone to fix its alignment, move weight-bearing forces around, or ease stress on a joint. It is often performed near the knee, hip, or lower leg to correct problems such as bow legs, knock knees, or early arthritis that affects only one side of a joint. Osteotomy preserves the natural joint by altering the position of the bones to improve their joint function. This is different from joint replacement. Plates, screws, or other fixation devices are used to realign and stabilise the bone. Osteotomy is often suggested for younger, more active people to put off or avoid having to undergo joint replacement surgery.

Why It's Done
When bones aren't lined up correctly, they can cause uneven wear on joints, pain, or progressive degeneration. Osteotomy is done to fix this. When someone has early osteoarthritis in one part of their knee or hip, shifting the weight-bearing load to a healthier area can significantly reduce pain. It is also used to fix birth defects or developmental problems. The goal is to get things back in line, improve joint function, and slow the disease's progression.

What to Expect?
Before surgery, detailed imaging, such as weight-bearing X-rays or CT scans, is performed to assess alignment and determine the exact angle to be corrected. The plan for the surgery is very well thought out. During the procedure, either general or regional anaesthesia is given. The surgeon cuts through the skin over the affected bone, then makes a controlled incision at the planned site. The bone is then moved to the correct position to achieve the correct alignment. Metal plates and screws are used to maintain the corrected position so it can heal properly. A bone graft may be put in to fill in the gaps that were made during realignment in some cases. After the surgery, a brace may be used to support the limb, and the person may not be able to bear weight for a few weeks. Pain management and gradual rehabilitation exercises are started to help you regain your strength and mobility. Follow-up imaging to assess bone healing and alignment.

Recovery & Outlook
After an osteotomy, it usually takes a few months for the bone to heal. At first, swelling, stiffness, and mild pain are common. To get your muscles and joints moving again, you need physical therapy. Osteotomy greatly reduces pain and improves joint function when it works. It can put off the need for joint replacement for many years, especially in younger patients. When alignment is fixed properly and rehabilitation guidelines are followed, the long-term results are good.