[Distal femoral osteotomy using a lateral opening wedge technique]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Knee Osteoarthritis Research

Background:

• Valgus malalignment and lateral compartment osteoarthritis are common in the knee.
• Symptomatic lateral knee osteoarthritis requires effective surgical interventions to improve function and reduce pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a lateral-based metaphyseal osteotomy at the distal femur.
• To shift the weight-bearing axis of the lower limb medially in patients with knee malalignment and osteoarthritis.

Main Methods:

• A lateral approach to the distal femur was used for a biplanar osteotomy.
• The osteotomy was gradually opened and fixed with a locking plate.
• Postoperative management included protected weight-bearing transitioning to full weight-bearing.

Main Results:

• Patients experienced a mean improvement of 20-30 points in knee scores.
• A mean 10-year survival rate of 80% was observed in patients with lateral unicompartimental osteoarthritis.
• The mean complication rate associated with the procedure was 9%.

Conclusions:

• Lateral-based distal femur osteotomy is an effective surgical option for correcting valgus malalignment.
• This procedure can significantly improve functional outcomes and survival rates for patients with lateral knee osteoarthritis.
• The technique offers a viable solution with a manageable complication rate.