Osteotomy
Pronunciation: OS-tee-ot-uh-mee
Surgical procedure involving the cutting and repositioning of bone to correct deformity or redistribute weight-bearing forces, requiring specialized rehabilitation protocols.
Full Definition
An osteotomy is a surgical procedure in which a bone is deliberately cut and realigned to correct angular deformities, redistribute mechanical loads, or address joint incongruity. Common types include high tibial osteotomy for medial compartment osteoarthritis, femoral osteotomy for hip dysplasia, and corrective osteotomies for post-traumatic malunions. In orthopedic rehabilitation, osteotomy patients require carefully staged protocols that respect bone healing phases while preventing complications such as delayed union or loss of correction. The rehabilitation timeline is typically longer than standard fracture care, often extending 12-16 weeks for full weight-bearing progression. Physical therapists must understand the specific osteotomy technique performed, as this influences allowable range of motion and loading parameters during the healing process.
Usage
Usage note: Editors should distinguish between different osteotomy types (opening wedge, closing wedge, dome, etc.) as each has distinct rehabilitation implications and healing timelines.
In Context
- "The patient underwent a medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy with plate fixation for varus malalignment." — Surgical operative report
- "Post-osteotomy rehabilitation must be modified to protect the healing bone while maintaining joint mobility and muscle strength." — Physical therapy clinical guidelines