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Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy
Tibial tubercle osteotomies are important surgical techniques in the operative management of patellar instability and patellofemoral pain.
When is a patient a candidate for tibial tubercle osteotomy?
· History of multiple knee subluxations or dislocations
· History of patellar and femoral pain
· Physical Therapy has been exhausted
· Non surgical management has failed
What is involved pre operatively?
· continuation of therapy to help strengthening the quadriceps
· x-rays
· MRI- Dr. Luhmann decides if necessary
· Pre operative anesthesia consult depending on patients needs
What is involved with the surgery?
· The surgical approach is relatively straight forward and the osteotomy is a low risk technique
· The osteotomy technique is a greenstick-style distal osteotomy that avoids periosteal stripping appears to optimize bony consolidation, thereby minimizing postoperative fractures
· Below are x-rays of the stages of healing
What does post operative incision care consist of?
· Day 3 patient may remove ace wrap and dressing
· Steri strips are to remain intact until shriveling up or falling off
· Patient may shower after day 3
· Patient may not bath or swim until released by Dr. Luhmann
Post operative care?
· Patient will be NON weight bearing on the affected leg for 6 weeks
· Patient will require use of crutches
· Patient will wear a knee immobilizer
· Patient will start slow Range of Motion Exercises at home
When is the Follow up Visits?
· 7-10days post operatively
· 6 weeks post operatively
· 3 months postoperatively
· As needed
When can the patient start to bear weight?
· Generally 6 weeks postoperatively
· Then the patient can bear weight without crutches in the knee immobilizer for about a week then wean out of the knee immobilizer
When can the patient return to full activity?
This is individualized for each patient, but generally 3 months after surgery.
Some patients may require the use of a patellar stabilizing brace for contact sports.
When to call the office?
· fever greater than 101
· increased pain not tolerated by pain medication
· Redness or drainage at the incision site
Important Phone Numbers:
Orthopedic Appointment Desk (314) 454-2500
Debbie Krenning (314)454-4191
Kim Ballard, RN, BSN (314)454-5221
After Hours (866) 582-8055
Hospital Main Number (314) 454-6000