High tibial osteotomy (HTO) risks include bone healing delays, nerve injury, and hardware irritation. While most complications are minor, patients may experience nonunion in 1% to 5% of cases or peroneal nerve palsy, which causes foot numbness. Achieving precise limb alignment is critical to prevent early joint wear.
- Bone healing: Nonunion or delayed fusion may require extended non-weight-bearing periods up to 12 months.
- Hardware irritation: Metal plates and screws cause discomfort in 10% to 16% of patients post-surgery.
- Infection rates: Deep infections occur in 0.8% to 10% of cases, sometimes requiring intravenous antibiotics.
- Correction loss: The corrected knee angle may drift during healing due to internal fixation failure.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Thailand's top orthopedic centers like Bumrungrad International Hospital utilize JCI-accredited protocols to minimize surgical site infections. Data shows a significant experience gap; surgeons like Dr. Thongchai Theerajumyaporn at Intrarat Hospital bring US-fellowship training in reconstructions. This level of expertise is vital because 30% to 50% of HTO patients eventually choose hardware removal surgery.
Patient Consensus: Many patients report that persistent swelling lasted over 6 months, which slowed their initial physical therapy. They strongly suggest confirming local follow-up options before traveling, as post-op communication is vital for monitoring bone fusion.