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Overview
Medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO)
Medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) is a surgical procedure to correct knee alignment and relieve pain in patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis. Below is a note on MOWHTO under your requested headings.
Results of the Surgery
MOWHTO is effective in reducing knee pain, improving function, and delaying the need for knee replacement in appropriately selected patients. Studies show good long-term outcomes, with many patients experiencing pain relief and improved knee alignment for several years after surgery. The procedure is particularly beneficial for active, younger patients with varus deformity and medial knee osteoarthritis.
What Happens During Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy
During MOWHTO, a wedge-shaped cut is made in the upper tibia, and the gap is opened to realign the leg, shifting weight away from the damaged medial compartment of the knee. The gap is maintained with a bone graft (autograft or allograft), and the bone is stabilized with a plate and screws. This realignment reduces stress on the worn-out cartilage and promotes healing in healthier areas.
How to Prepare for the Surgery as a Patient
Patients should attend a pre-surgical consultation, undergo a clinical examination, and complete necessary imaging and blood tests. Medical clearance is required, and certain medications may need to be stopped before surgery. Fasting guidelines and pre-surgery instructions are provided, and physiotherapy advice is often recommended for post-operative recovery.
What All Tests Are Required for the Same
The required tests for MOWHTO include:
- Routine blood tests (CBC, BMP, albumin, ESR, PT).
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to check heart health.
- Chest X-ray to screen for lung issues.
- Advanced imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans for surgical planning.
- Urinalysis to check for infections.
- Basic fitness check for anesthesia.
These tests ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery and enable precise planning.
Procedure Details
What Happens During the Procedure
The procedure steps for MOWHTO are:
- The patient is placed under general or spinal anesthesia.
- A tourniquet is placed on the thigh, and a 6–10 cm incision is made on the upper, medial side of the tibia.
- The osteotomy is performed with careful cuts to preserve the lateral hinge, and the gap is opened to the desired amount using specialized instruments.
- A bone graft is inserted into the gap, and a locking plate is fixed to stabilize the bone.
- The wound is closed, and a drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup.
What Is the Usual Recovery Time ?
The typical recovery time for MOWHTO is about 6 to 8 weeks for most patients to resume light activities, with full recovery and return to normal activities taking 2 to 4 months. Physical therapy is started soon after surgery to help regain strength and mobility.
Doctors & Departments
Departments and Specialties
Astenortho has one of the largest and most experienced practices. Staff skilled in dozens of specialties work together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.
Departments with Related Expertise
Doctors Who Perform This Procedure
Care at Astenortho
Astenortho's Approach
Cutting-Edge Technology
AstenOrtho is Kerala’s Most Tech-Advanced Orthopaedic Hospital, with advanced robotics and some of the finest health-tech, which has proven time and again to give excellent patient outcomes. Our seasoned specialists combine their experience and AstenOrtho’s technological edge to keep evolving the AS.10 Robotic Precision Protocols; to keep pushing the bar of the care delivery models.
Collaboration
We host some of the best surgeons, specialists, therapists, and healthcare workers who work as one strong team to ensure best possible treatment outcomes, and ‘Zero Compromise Care’ for our patients at AstenOrtho.
Compassion
We understand the human urge of keep doing and wanting to do the things they love. At AstenOrtho, ‘Do What You Love’ is the core philosophy that drives us to ensure that we give our best shot in achieving the ‘Desired Mobility’, our patients need.
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Costs and Insurance
AstenOrtho is empanelled with leading insurance providers both within and outside India. For more details on a specific insurance provider or to understand the insurance process, you can write to us: hello@astenortho.com
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