[Long-term results after uni- and bilateral high tibial osteotomies]

Abstract

Aim: This study compares the long-term results of uni- and bilateral high tibial osteotomies.

Method: 94 osteotomies (72 patients) were followed for 12.7 +/- 2.4 years after osteotomy. Long-term results of 21 patients with bilateral osteotomies (42 osteotomies) were compared with 52 patients who had a unilateral high tibial osteotomy. Endpoint of survival, was defined as implantation of a knee endoprosthesis (Kaplan-Meier analysis). At follow-up clinical results were evaluated by the knee society score and X-rays were analysed for axis and grade of arthrosis.

Results: Out of 94 high tibial osteotomies 22 (23 %) ended 1 - 13 years later in a knee endoprosthesis. In 11 of the 42 bilateral high tibial osteotomies (26 %; after 2 - 13 years, median 8 years) and 11 of 52 (21 %; after 1 - 11 years, median 8 years) unilateral osteotomies an endoprosthesis was implanted. Kaplan-Meier analysis resulted in no statistical difference in survival between the two groups (p = 0.6517). Additionally, clinical and radiological results were equal.

Conclusions: We conclude that there is no long-term difference between uni- and bilateral high tibial osteotomies and both indications can be recommended due their satisfactory long-term results.