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High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO)
What Is It and How Is It Performed?
Knee osteoarthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a painful condition that occurs due to the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage tissue in the joint. Osteoarthritis, especially in the inner part of the knee, can lead to joint deformities and disrupt the balance of the knee. High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical method used to treat knee osteoarthritis and provides an effective solution, especially for young and active patients, by preserving the knee joint.
What Is High Tibial Osteotomy?
High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical procedure performed to alleviate pain and osteoarthritis caused by the misalignment of the knee joint. Due to the imbalance of weight distribution in the knee, there may be excessive pressure on either the inner or outer part of the joint. HTO involves making a bone cut (osteotomy) in the tibia (shinbone) to realign the knee and redistribute weight evenly. This procedure reduces excessive pressure on the knee joint, improving its function.
When Is High Tibial Osteotomy Recommended?
HTO is recommended for patients with osteoarthritis primarily affecting the inner part of the knee. This condition is often associated with “varus deformity” (bow-legged). High Tibial Osteotomy is preferred in the following cases:
- Osteoarthritis in the inner part of the knee: Patients with pain and limited movement due to cartilage wear.
- Young and active patients: Patients who are not yet suitable for knee replacement surgery can benefit from joint preservation and improved knee function.
- Varus (bow-legged) deformity: To correct the imbalance caused by the misalignment of the knee.
How Is High Tibial Osteotomy Performed?
HTO is performed under general anesthesia. During the surgery, the surgeon makes a bone cut in the tibia and realigns the bone to redistribute the load on the knee joint. The bone is then stabilized with plates and screws to ensure proper positioning. This relieves pressure on the arthritic part of the knee, reducing pain.
After surgery, patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-2 days. Walking support (crutches) is recommended, and physical therapy is crucial for recovery.
Advantages of High Tibial Osteotomy
- Delay in knee replacement surgery: HTO can delay the need for knee replacement in young and active patients.
- Pain relief: Correcting the weight distribution in the knee alleviates pain caused by osteoarthritis.
- Preservation of joint mobility: The procedure helps maintain knee joint function, allowing for better mobility.
Recovery After High Tibial Osteotomy
Recovery depends on the patient’s age, overall health, and the extent of the surgery. Typically, crutches are needed for several weeks post-surgery. Physical therapy is essential to regain knee strength and normal mobility. Full recovery may take between 3 to 6 months.
Who Are Doç. Dr. Harun Mutlu and Doç. Dr. Serhat Mutlu?
Doç. Dr. Harun Mutlu and Doç. Dr. Serhat Mutlu are experienced orthopedic surgeons based in Istanbul, specializing in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis and high tibial osteotomy. Both doctors have extensive experience in using minimally invasive surgical techniques to provide personalized solutions for their patients.
Doç. Dr. Harun Mutlu is an expert in treating structural deformities and osteoarthritis in the knee. He employs modern techniques in high tibial osteotomy surgeries to ensure a quick recovery for his patients.
Doç. Dr. Serhat Mutlu has extensive experience in the surgical treatment of knee osteoarthritis and joint problems. He focuses on relieving pain and improving patients’ quality of life using minimally invasive methods in procedures like high tibial osteotomy.
Both doctors are known for their innovative approaches and successful treatment outcomes in orthopedic surgery.