What is an osteotomy ?
L'osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves correcting the axis of the lower limb by performing a controlled bone cut, followed by precise realignment. The objective is to rebalance joint pressures to relieve a worn, painful or overloaded area.
Rather than replacing the joint, osteotomy allows it to be preserved by modifying the way in which stresses are exerted on the cartilage. It is part of a logic of conservative surgery, particularly in young and active patients who wish to delay the installation of a joint prosthesis as long as possible.
When should an osteotomy be considered ?
L'knee osteotomy is indicated when the joint is still partially preserved, but mechanical misalignment causes accelerated wear of a single compartment (most often internal).
It is recommended in particular in the following cases :
- Unicompartmental arthritis of the knee in a young patient.
- Genu varum (bowed legs) or genu valgum (X-shaped knees) leading to overwork on one side of the joint.
- Chronic instabilities or mechanical pain linked to a bad axis.
- Need to delay a prosthesis, when the other compartments of the joint remain healthy.
This surgery is often offered as alternative to a total prosthesis in patients under 60 years of age, wishing to maintain an active lifestyle and preserve their natural joint.
What does the intervention consist of ?
L'osteotomy consists of making a partial section of the bone (femur or tibia), then opening or closing an angle to restore the ideal axis of the lower limbAn anatomical plate and screws allow the correction to be maintained during bone consolidation.
Osteotomy is most often performed :
- At the proximal tibia : in cases of genu varum (bow legs).
- At the distal femur : in cases of genu valgum (knock knees).
Each surgical procedure is carefully planned. Dr. Coulin uses state-of-the-art tools.precision imaging and, if necessary, a 3D planning to anticipate correction and obtain optimal alignment, adapted to the patient's anatomy and biomechanics.
What are the post-operative consequences ?
The aftermath after a knee osteotomy vary depending on the extent of the correction and the type of bone involved. In general:
- Partial weight-bearing is permitted for a few days after surgery.
- The transition to full support is done gradually, depending on bone consolidation.
- Rehabilitation begins quickly to maintain mobility, prevent stiffness and strengthen muscles.
- A resumption of normal activities is possible between 2 and 3 months.
- Sports recovery occurs between 4 and 6 months, depending on progress.
Control X-rays are taken regularly to check bone healing and adjust the recovery rate.
What results can you expect ?
L'osteotomy offers excellent results in well-selected patients. It allows:
- A significant pain relief.
- A slowing down the progression of osteoarthritis.
- Improved joint function and walking.
- A delay, or even avoidance, of fitting a prosthesis.
It is important to remember that osteotomy does not cure osteoarthritis, but it does allow sustainably rebalance the joint, giving a second life to a knee that is still partly healthy.
Precise, personalized and scalable surgery
Dr. Coulin places particular importance on the preoperative planning, to the radiological analysis of the axis and to the rigorous selection of patients. Theosteotomy is a powerful tool in the joint preservation strategy.
It can also be combined with other surgical procedures if necessary:
- Cartilage repair,
- Meniscus treatment,
- Ligament stabilization.
This comprehensive approach helps optimize results and ensure better joint longevity.
Are you young, active and suffering from the beginnings of knee osteoarthritis?
Dr. Coulin will see you for a consultation in Geneva to assess the relevance of a osteotomy in your case. The indication is made taking into account your functional objectives, your activity level and your anatomy.
L'knee osteotomy represents a modern and conservative solution, which offers patients an effective alternative to preserve their joint and maintain their quality of life.
