Introduction to Osteotomies

In this video, Dr. Grant Garcia introduces the concept of an osteotomy, launching a four-part series designed to demystify this relatively niche surgical topic.

Here is a summary of the description and key points discussed in the video:

• What is an Osteotomy? Literally meaning "to cut the bone," an osteotomy is a surgical procedure where the bone is cut and reshaped. The primary goal is to realign the joint to protect vital internal structures, such as ligaments, cartilage, the meniscus, or the kneecap.
• Why Alignment Matters: Many patients either are born out of alignment or fall out of alignment over time as cartilage and the meniscus degrade. This leads to two common conditions:
  • Varus: Commonly known as being bow-legged.
  • Valgus: Commonly known as being knock-kneed.
• Impact on Other Surgeries: If a patient has a structural alignment issue alongside a cartilage or meniscus injury, correcting the bone alignment is essential. If the surgeon performs a cartilage repair without correcting the underlying alignment, the cartilage surgery is highly likely to fail due to uneven weight distribution. Uncorrected alignment also accelerates the onset of arthritis.
• Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy: Dr. Garcia briefly highlights a specific type of alignment issue involving the tibial tubercle (where the patellar tendon attaches to the shin bone). If this bony bump is shifted too far outward, it significantly increases the risk of kneecap dislocations. A tailored osteotomy can reposition it to stabilize the kneecap.