A systematic approach to managing complications after proximal tibial osteotomies of the knee

Proximal tibial osteotomy (PTO) is an effective procedure for active and young adult patients with symptomatic unicompartmental osteoarthritis and malalignment. They were considered technically demanding and prone to various complications related to the surgical technique, biomechanical or biological origin. Among the most important are hinge fractures and delayed or non-healing, neurovascular complications, loss of correction, implant-related problems, patellofemoral complaints, biological complications and changes in limb length. Being aware of these problems can help minimizing their prevalence and improve the results of the procedure.The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the potential complications that may occur during and after proximal tibial osteotomies, their origin and ways to prevent them.

Automated summary

Proximal tibial osteotomy is an effective procedure for symptomatic unicompartmental osteoarthritis and malalignment in active and young adult patients. However, it is associated with various complications such as fractures, delayed or non-healing, neurovascular issues, correction loss, implant-related problems, patellofemoral complaints, biological complications, and limb length changes. Understanding these problems can help reduce their occurrence and improve surgical outcomes.