Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 30, 2026
09:01
Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
12.0K
Extended exposure in difficult total knee arthroplasty using tibial tubercle osteotomy
Radu Radulescu1, Adrian Badila2, Octavian Nutiu2
1"Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Bucharest, Romania ; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Emergency University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania.
Maedica
|May 3, 2014
Summary
Tibial tubercle osteotomy offers a safe and effective approach for total knee arthroplasty in complex cases. This technique improves surgical exposure and knee function without compromising the extensor mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Arthroplasty Research
Background:
- Standard medial parapatellar approaches in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can limit patellar eversion and joint visualization.
- Alternative techniques like patellar tendon partial disinsertion or V-Y quadricepsplasty have drawbacks, including extensor weakness or delayed rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of frontal plane tibial tubercle osteotomy as an extended approach in TKA.
- To assess the safety and functional outcomes of this technique in patients with challenging pre-existing conditions.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 11 primary TKA cases utilizing a frontal plane tibial tubercle osteotomy combined with a medial parapatellar approach.
- Patient selection was based on specific complex conditions, including severe rheumatoid arthritis, previous knee surgeries, significant deformities, or patellar fractures.
Main Results:
- The procedure resulted in satisfactory outcomes, with significant improvements in the mean range of motion and Knee Society Score.
- Minor post-operative complications were managed effectively and did not impact long-term results.
Conclusions:
- Frontal plane tibial tubercle osteotomy is an effective surgical option for TKA when standard approaches are insufficient.
- This technique provides enhanced surgical exposure while preserving the integrity of the knee extensor apparatus.
