Hybrid closing-wedge DTO using PSI was selected for a patient wit severe deformity post-fracture malunion, which enable good alignment correction and patient satisfaction.

Abstract

Background: High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is an effective treatment option for deformity correction after fracture. However, performing precise corrective osteotomy for cases with a severe varus deformity and a significant posterior slope poses a significant challenge. Three-dimensional (3D) bone model construction and patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) created from preoperative Computed tomography (CT) may be useful tools in achieving successful outcome for such cases. The present technique describes a hybrid closing-wedge distal tuberosity tibial osteotomy (Hybrid CWDTO) using two PSIs.

Methods: Preoperative planning was performed in 3D with reference to the contralateral normal lower extremity CT taken preoperatively, which was then mirrored for analysis. A full-scale bone model and two PSIs were constructed based on this plan to allow for complex correction. During surgery, osteotomy was performed using these sterilized PSIs as guides.

Results: Radiographic imaging showed that medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) improved from 68 to 84 degrees and posterior tibial slope (PTS) improved from 19 to 6 degrees. The standing leg radiograph showed a mechanical varus alignment improvement from 12 to 3 degrees. The 2011 Knee Society Scoring system (2011 KSS) improved from 31 to 95 in objective knee indicators, from 10 to 24 in symptoms, from 14 to 40 in patient satisfaction and from 51 to 95 in activities.

Conclusion: Hybrid CWDTO using PSIs is a useful surgical technique for alignment correction post-malunion while also achieving high patient satisfaction. This can assist surgeons in treating complex deformities that are otherwise difficult to treat.