Successful treatment of nonunion after high tibial osteotomy using combined Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): a case report.

Abstract

This study applies pulsed electromagnetic fields, with Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) delivering high-intensity magnetic pulses at approximately 80 mT for therapeutic bone stimulation. High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a commonly performed joint-preserving procedure for patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis and malalignment of the mechanical axis. One potential complication after HTO is impaired bone healing at the osteotomy site, which can lead to nonunion. The standard treatment for nonunion typically involves surgical revision with autologous bone grafting, a method that carries the risk of increased morbidity and healthcare burden. In recent years, Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) have gained attention as emerging non-invasive treatment modalities in bone regeneration and fracture healing. This case report describes a 51-year-old male with nonunion following medial open-wedge HTO, presenting with pain and limited mobility. He received five sessions of combined EMTT and ESWT. Four weeks later, imaging confirmed complete bone healing. The patient recovered fully without complications or need for revision surgery. This case demonstrates the potential of EMTT and ESWT as non-invasive treatment options for managing nonunion following osteotomy. Further prospective studies are needed to assess their clinical efficacy and support their integration into standard treatment protocols.