About the Treatment Method
The Surgery That Stops the Progression to a Knee Replacement
Knee replacements have a certain lifespan (15-20 years). If the patient is 45-50 years old, the prosthesis to be implanted will wear out in the future and will need to be replaced again (revision). HTO surgery saves the patient's "own original knee" and postpones the need for a prosthesis for about 10-15 years. Furthermore, the patient can run and play sports after this surgery (heavy sports are not allowed with a prosthesis).
The upper part of the shinbone (tibia) near the knee joint is surgically cut in a wedge shape and opened. After the leg is made straight (proper axis), a bone graft is placed in the gap and fixed with a titanium plate-screw system (platinum) so that the angle is not disrupted.
Since the bone is cut (broken), it takes time for that bone to fuse back together. The patient needs to walk with crutches without putting full weight on the operated leg for about 4 to 6 weeks. Full recovery and return to sports generally take 3-4 months.
The information on this page is for general health advice. Please consult specialized physicians for personalized treatment or advice.
