Osteotomy

Osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the cutting and reshaping of bone. It is often used to correct deformities and improve alignment in conditions such as osteoarthritis and congenital hip dysplasia.

History

The first recorded osteotomy was performed by Bernhard Heine, a German orthopedic surgeon, in 1830. Heine used a chisel and mallet to perform the procedure, which was revolutionary at the time.

Types of Osteotomy

There are several types of osteotomy, including:

• High tibial osteotomy (HTO): This procedure is used to treat knee osteoarthritis by shifting the weight-bearing line to the healthier side of the knee.
• Distal femoral osteotomy (DFO): This procedure is used to correct deformities of the lower femur.
• Pelvic osteotomy: This procedure is used to correct hip dysplasia in children.
• Mandibular osteotomy: This procedure is used to correct deformities of the jaw.

Procedure

The procedure for an osteotomy varies depending on the type of osteotomy being performed and the specific patient's condition. However, the general steps include:

1. The surgeon makes an incision over the area where the bone will be cut.
2. The bone is cut using a special saw or chisel.
3. The bone is reshaped and realigned.
4. The bone is held in place with screws, plates, or rods until it heals.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with osteotomy. These can include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Nonunion (the bone does not heal properly)
• Malunion (the bone heals in the wrong position)

See Also

• Orthopedic surgery
• Bone fracture
• Bone healing

Osteotomy

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  Osteotomy
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  X-ray of the hip after open reduction, capsulorrhaphy, and Dega and Chiari surgery
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  Osteotomy of the tibia