Tibia Osteotomy is an operation that is designed to change the position of the leg bone (the
tibia).
Sometimes the smaller bone in the leg (the fibula) is also included in the surgery. This operation
is performed to correct a deformity of the leg, foot, or ankle, but can also be used to assist
with treatment for arthritis of the ankle.
In order to perform the osteotomy, the bone is cut (an osteotomy) and the position of the leg is
changed. The cut can be made either with or without a bone graft (which is obtained
from the bone bank). There is a slight difference in the speed of healing when a bone graft is
inserted, but if no bone graft is used, the leg is typically 6mm shorter.
In order to hold the new position of the tibia, a metal plate, and screws are inserted, which are
usually permanent. Once the bone cut (osteotomy) has healed, they do not need to be in any longer,
but we usually leave them in to save an additional operation.
Ankle Realignment Postoperative Recovery
You will not be walking on the leg for about 6 weeks.
In order to stay off your foot, you will need to use crutches, a walker, a wheelchair, or a
scooter-type device called a roll-about.
There will be a hard plaster bandage applied to the leg for two weeks after surgery.
Your first follow-up visit will be at approximately 2 weeks to remove. A removable boot is
worn for another 6 more weeks.
If the surgery is on your left ankle, you should be able to drive an automatic vehicle at
two weeks. If the surgery is on the right ankle, you may be able to drive between 3 and 4
weeks, but this varies.
Exercises and movement of the foot and ankle are encouraged but without putting weight on
the ankle at about 6 weeks after surgery.
You will begin walking on the leg at about 6 weeks in a boot
You may begin to walk without the boot at about 12 weeks, depending upon your level of
discomfort and bone healing.
You should plan to use a physical therapist for about 2 months.
Physical Therapy is helpful to regain the strength and movement of the ankle.
You can expect to have some soreness and aching for about 4-6 months after surgery. There
will be moderate swelling of the ankle and leg for about 6 months.
You will continue to improve your strength and movement for about 9 months after the
surgery.
Specific Post-Operative Course
Week 0-2
Foot wrapped in a bulky bandage and splint
Ice, elevate, take pain medication
Expect numbness in the foot for 12-24 hours then pain.
Blood drainage through bandage expected
Do not change bandage
Week 2-6
First follow-up in the office
Dressing changed and sutures removed
Placed in the cast.
No weight-bearing for 6-8 weeks
Start moving the ankle
Week 6-12
Start walking in the boots
Start Physical Therapy
Week 12
X-ray taken
If the bone (osteotomy) is healed, then walking in a shoe is allowed
Continue exercise program and physical therapy
Therapy will continue for about two months
Exercise is important to regain the movement of the ankle and leg strength
Expect swelling in the leg and ankle for about 6-12 months
