High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and improve function in patients with knee osteoarthritis, particularly in the medial compartment. The surgery involves realigning the knee joint to shift the weight-bearing load away from the damaged area.

Indications and Benefits

HTO is indicated for younger, active patients with unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis who want to delay the need for total knee replacement. The benefits of HTO include pain relief, improved joint function, and prolonged knee joint preservation.

Detailed Surgical Procedure

During HTO, a wedge of bone is either added to or removed from the tibia to realign the knee joint. This realignment redistributes the load across the knee, reducing stress on the arthritic area. The procedure may involve the use of plates and screws to stabilize the bone until it heals.

Rehabilitation and Outcomes

Post-operative rehabilitation is essential for successful outcomes. Patients will undergo a structured physical therapy program to restore knee function and strength. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility, allowing them to return to their daily activities and sports.