Tibia Osteotomy is an operation that is designed to change the position of the
leg bone (the tibia).
Sometimes the smaller bone in the leg (the fibula) is also included in the
surgery. This operation is performed to correct a deformity of the leg, foot,
or ankle, but can also be used to assist with treatment for arthritis of the
ankle.
In order to perform the osteotomy, the bone is cut (an osteotomy) and the
position of the leg is changed. The cut can be made either with or
without a bone graft (which is obtained from the bone bank). There is a slight
difference in the speed of healing when a bone graft is inserted, but if no
bone graft is used, the leg is typically 6mm shorter.
In order to hold the new position of the tibia, a metal plate, and screws are
inserted, which are usually permanent. Once the bone cut (osteotomy) has
healed, they do not need to be in any longer, but we usually leave them in to
save an additional operation.
Ankle Realignment Postoperative Recovery
You will not be walking on the leg for about 6 weeks.
In order to stay off your foot, you will need to use crutches, a
walker, a wheelchair, or a scooter-type device called a
roll-about.
There will be a hard plaster bandage applied to the leg for two
weeks after surgery.
Your first follow-up visit will be at approximately 2 weeks to
remove. A removable boot is worn for another 6 more
weeks.
If the surgery is on your left ankle, you should be able to drive an
automatic vehicle at two weeks. If the surgery is on the right ankle,
you may be able to drive between 3 and 4 weeks, but this
varies.
Exercises and movement of the foot and ankle are encouraged but without
putting weight on the ankle at about 6 weeks after surgery.
You will begin walking on the leg at about 6 weeks in a boot
You may begin to walk without the boot at about 12 weeks,
depending upon your level of discomfort and bone healing.
You should plan to use a physical therapist for about 2 months.
Physical Therapy is helpful to regain the strength and movement of the
ankle.
You can expect to have some soreness and aching for about 4-6 months
after surgery. There will be moderate swelling of the ankle and leg for
about 6 months.
You will continue to improve your strength and movement for about 9
months after the surgery.
Specific Post-Operative Course
Week 0-2
Foot wrapped in a bulky bandage and splint
Ice, elevate, take pain medication
Expect numbness in the foot for 12-24 hours then pain.
Blood drainage through bandage expected
Do not change bandage
Week 2-6
First follow-up in the office
Dressing changed and sutures removed
Placed in the cast.
No weight-bearing for 6-8 weeks
Start moving the ankle
Week 6-12
Start walking in the boots
Start Physical Therapy
Week 12
X-ray taken
If the bone (osteotomy) is healed, then walking in a shoe is allowed
Continue exercise program and physical therapy
Therapy will continue for about two months
Exercise is important to regain the movement of the ankle and leg strength
Expect swelling in the leg and ankle for about 6-12 months
