FAQs of High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) Surgery

High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) is a joint-preserving knee surgery designed to correct misalignment and relieve pain caused by osteoarthritis or knee deformities. The procedure involves reshaping the tibia (shinbone) to shift weight away from the damaged knee compartment, delaying the need for total knee replacement.

HTO is recommended for patients who:
✅ Are under 60 years old and want to preserve their natural knee joint.
✅ Have knee arthritis limited to one side (usually the inner/medial side).
✅ Have bow-legged (varus) or knock-kneed (valgus) alignment causing uneven weight distribution.
✅ Experience chronic knee pain and instability affecting daily activities.
✅ Are active individuals who want to delay knee replacement surgery.

HTO is done using one of two techniques:
🔹 Open Wedge Osteotomy – A controlled cut is made in the tibia, and a small gap is opened and filled with a bone graft or implant.
🔹 Closed Wedge Osteotomy – A wedge-shaped bone section is removed to realign the knee.

Both techniques involve securing the bone with plates and screws for stability.

🔹 The surgery usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity.
🔹 Most patients are discharged within 1-2 days after surgery.

Recovery varies by patient, but general timelines include:
First Few Days – Rest, ice, and pain management.
First 6 Weeks – Limited weight-bearing with crutches.
3-6 Months – Gradual return to daily activities and light exercise.
6-12 Months – Full recovery and return to high-impact activities.

HTO can delay or prevent total knee replacement by 10-15 years or more. However, if arthritis progresses, a knee replacement may still be needed later in life.

✔ Preserves the Natural Knee Joint – Avoids or delays total knee replacement.
✔ Reduces Pain & Improves Mobility – Helps regain normal knee function.
✔ Allows for an Active Lifestyle – Suitable for young and active individuals.
✔ Prevents Further Joint Damage – Corrects knee alignment to distribute weight evenly.

While HTO is generally safe, possible complications include:
Infection – Rare but treatable with antibiotics.
Delayed Bone Healing – Some cases may require additional treatment.
Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury – Rare but possible.
Hardware Issues – Some patients may experience discomfort from plates and screws.