High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical procedure to correct abnormalities of the knee bone to restore its natural alignment. The principle involves shifting the weight-bearing axis from the worn side of the knee, usually the inner side, to the side where the cartilage surface is still healthy. After shifting the weight-bearing axis from the problematic side to the healthy side, the worn cartilage surface has a chance to repair itself.
How the knee osteotomy surgery is performed is another option for adults to early elderly patients who have strong bones and experience pain on only one side of the knee. The treatment approach depends on each individual patient, ranging from medication such as oral drugs, injections, and finally surgery.
There are several advantages of knee osteotomy surgery, such as patients being able to return to their daily activities like exercising, cycling, and running. Since the surgery preserves the original knee joint without implanting artificial materials inside the knee, it is beneficial for those who do not want to undergo knee replacement. The real knee joint is adjusted to reduce impact forces through the osteotomy surgery.
Self-care when having knee osteoarthritis
- Maintain body weight within a normal range; avoid obesity
- Exercise to keep the body strong and reduce complications
- Undergo physical therapy to reduce pain
- Strengthen the knee muscles
- Avoid lifting heavy objects
- Avoid staying in one position for too long, such as standing for extended periods, which can increase joint pain
- Follow up with your doctor regularly as scheduled
