260 / 324
The mechanical axis of the knee represents
another important condition that can impose
difficulties in surgical exposure, especially in
the valgus knee. In our study, tibial tubercle
osteotomy (
Group B
) was associated with the
lateral approach in 86% of the cases and late-
ral knee arthritis and lateral patella subluxation
in 57% and 19.4% of the cases, respectively.
(p≤0.001 and p=0.03).
Considerations in relation to the rapport of
bone segment dimensions and osteotomy fixa-
tion were fundamental in reducing consolida-
tion problems at the osteotomy site.
CONCLUSION
Although, the tibial tubercle osteotomy opti-
mizes surgical approach under certain clinical
conditions, it cannot be considered an entirely
safe procedure in PTKA as it is associated with
local complications, particularly skin necrosis
and fracture of the tibial tubercle. So, it should
be performed only when it is strictly necessary,
as in case of preoperative or intra operative dif-
ficulties to an adequate surgical exposure, liga-
ment balance and correct implant positioning.
RESULTS OF TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY PERFORMED WITH TIBIAL TUBERCLE OSTEOTOMY
259
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