[Single-cut derotational osteotomy of the distal femur for correction of torsion and frontal axis].

Abstract

Objective: A rotational osteotomy requires a complete cut of the bone in order to correct maltorsion. An additional correction of the frontal axis can be achieved via an oblique cut of the bone. The osteotomy with bone to bone contact is fixed with an angle stable plate.

Indications: Symptoms such as anterior knee pain, inwardly pointing knee syndrome, lateral patellar subluxation or dislocation, lateral patellar hypercompression syndrome are a common indication for derivational osteotomy if clinically increased femoral internal rotation and radiologically increased femoral antetorsion is detected.

Contraindications: Increased hip external rotation versus internal rotation, increased femoral torsion but no increased internal hip rotation, malcompliance, inability for partial weight bearing, risk of delayed union (nicotine abuse and obesity) as well as patellofemoral arthritis and systematic glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants are (relative) contra-indications.

Surgical technique: A lateral or optionally medial approach to the distal femur and exposure of the bone with Eva hooks for the osteotomy is done. The use of patient-specific cutting blocks accurately specify the planned extent of derotation and level of incision. A defined oblique cutting plane of the single-cut osteotomy and derotation will additionally correct/change frontal axis. An additional biplanar osteotomy with an anterior wedge increases intraoperative stability and generates a larger bone contact area for consolidation.

Postoperative management: With the use of an extra medullary fixation device partial weight bearing with 15-20 kg with crutches up to 6 weeks is required, but no restriction on knee movement is given.

Results: The literature shows significantly improved patient satisfaction regarding patellofemoral stability and knee function. With the use of patient-specific cutting guides, high accuracy of the osteotomy and 3‑dimensional correction can be achieved, while delayed union rate is up to 10%.