[Medial opening-wedge high tibial valgus osteotomy, using a stable TomoFix plate, in genu varum arthritis: surgical technique]

Abstract

The authors present the technique of high tibial correction osteotomy by the medial opening procedure, with the use of an angle-stable TomoFix plate. The prerequisite for a long-term good outcome of corrective osteotomy in genu varum is to achieve limb alignment permitting transfer of weight-bearing from the affected medial compartment to the healthy lateral compartment of the knee. The development of implants that maintain a stable angle has facilitated corrective osteotomy with an opening wedge on the medial side of the proximal tibia. These implants provide stable fixation even when a high correction of the mechanical axis is needed. The authors present the case of a patient with varus malalignment following a fracture of the tibia. In order to achieve correction of the limb's mechanical axis, it was necessary to open the proximal tibia osteotomy with a wedge that was 2.5 cm on the outer side.