Frequent complications in distal femoral osteotomy: a retrospective 8 year multicenter follow-up

A total of 32 distal femoral osteotomies performed between 1971 and 1993 were evaluated, with a follow-up of 8 (2-23) years. Indications were lateral gonarthrosis in 23 cases (group I), and there were a variety of other indications in 9 cases (group 2). Twenty-six of the patients were submitted to revision surgery. Eleven operations were performed as a result of complications, such as pseudarthrosis (5), deep infection (3), and stiff knee (3). The remaining 16 were removals of fixation devices and they were not considered complications. Clinical results were evaluated based on different clinical scores (HSS, Lysholm, and Tegner) and NHP (Nottingham Health Profile), and there were 10 cases with good or excellent results. Results were better if the postoperative HKA angle (Hip-Knee-Ankle) was within 0-8 degrees of varus. As accuracy of correction is of importance, and serious complications frequent, it is important to entrust cases such as these to the care of surgeons with a good knowledge of the surgical technique.