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Reviewed by

Dr. Gurdeep Avinash Ratra

Consultant - Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement

Manipal Hospitals, Gurugram

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Osteotomy (Bone Cutting): Types, Procedure, Benefits & Risks

Q: How long does the surgery take?

Most osteotomy surgeries (e.g., knee or hip) take 60 90 minutes, with total procedure and recovery room time around four to six hours.

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Bones are the strong, hard parts of our body which help give it shape and sturdiness and provide support for the musculature and body. Bones are an important part of our body, and just like any other body part, they are also prone to infection, injury and disease. When a bone becomes infected or diseased, it may grow in an abnormal shape or deform completely, causing distortion and discomfort to the patient. In such cases, a bone may be required to be replaced completely, cut or reshaped as per the patient's health requirement. Cutting of the bone for medical procedures is called an Osteotomy surgery and is generally performed by an orthopaedic surgeon. Manipal Hospitals Gurgaon has a team of highly experienced and skilled Orthopedicians in the city, whom you can consult for bone-related medical concerns.

This blog is a compilation of all the information regarding the osteotomy procedure, types of osteotomy, and all the other aspects related to it.

What is Osteotomy?

Osteotomy is a surgical procedure where a bone is cut and reshaped to rectify a deformity or improve joint function. It's a versatile procedure used in various parts of the body, including the jaw, elbow, spine, shoulder, hips, knees, legs, toes, and feet. Whether a person needs osteotomy or not depends on their condition and the health assessment done by an experienced orthopaedic surgeon in Gurgaon.

Why does one need Osteotomy?

Correcting bone deformity: Osteotomy can straighten a bone that has healed improperly after a fracture or address a congenital deformity present since birth. Examples include bowleggedness (knees knocking) or knock-knee deformity. In this deformity, the knees knock or rub against each other and hinder free walking movement.
Realigning of joints: In some cases, osteotomy can help improve joint alignment and function. For instance, in osteoarthritis of the knee, an osteotomy can shift weight away from the damaged area of the joint.
Lengthening or shortening a bone: Osteotomy can be used to lengthen a limb difference or shorten a bone that's too long. Congenital deformities or injury cases can be remedied with this method of bone shaping. Knee surgery may also be performed using osteotomy.
Aesthetic Procedure: Often, when a patient suffers major accidental injuries, they may recover with a deformed body part and might undergo osteotomy.

Types of Osteotomy

There are different osteotomy techniques depending on the bone and the desired outcome. Some common osteotomy types include:

Wedge Osteotomy: A wedge-shaped piece of bone is removed, and the remaining bone segments are realigned and fixed with surgical plates and screws to help support the bone in healing properly in the desired place.
Chevron Osteotomy: A V-shaped cut is made in the bone, allowing for realignment and fixation.
Dome osteotomy: A circular cut is made in the bone, allowing for the rotation and fixation of joints or limbs. An orthopaedic surgeon may use this technique to perform knee operations, operations on the elbow joints, etc.

Osteotomy Procedure

How to Prepare for an Osteotomy

Before surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon will conduct preoperative testing—this includes bloodwork, urine tests, ECG, and imaging (X‑rays, CT, or MRI) to assess bone structure and your overall health.

You may be asked to stop certain medications at least one week prior.
Avoiding smoking, ideally at least two weeks before the procedure, is strongly recommended to promote healing.
You’ll be instructed to fast (no food or drink) for 6–12 hours before surgery. 
Home should be set up for recovery: remove tripping hazards, arrange support and meals, and plan transport since you won’t be able to drive.

What Happens During the Procedure

Osteotomy is performed under general or regional anaesthesia based on the complexity and location.
The surgeon makes an incision to expose the bone, then cuts a wedge or segment according to the preoperative plan using imaging and sometimes computer modelling.
The bone is then repositioned to correct alignment and stabilised internally with plates, screws, or wires.
The wound is closed with sutures or staples and dressed properly.
Total surgery time typically ranges from 60 to 90 minutes, with total operating and recovery time up to 4–6 hours.

After the Procedure: Post-Operative Care

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days post-surgery. 
Pain is managed using NSAIDs, opioids, or local anaesthetics as needed.
You'll use crutches or a brace and may need a cast or splint for several weeks while protecting weight-bearing on the affected joint.
Rehabilitation starts early, with initial passive motion exercises followed by guided physiotherapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion over several months.
Follow-up visits include X-rays to monitor bone healing and guide weight-bearing progression .
Full recovery typically takes 3–6 months; some patients may take up to a year to resume high-impact activities.

Recovery after Osteotomy

Recovery from osteotomy depends on the specific procedure performed and the bone involved. Here's a general idea about osteotomy recovery:

Hospital stay: You might stay in the hospital for a few days following surgery. Depending on how slow or fast your body heals and recovers after surgery.
Pain management: Medication will be provided to manage pain.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in regaining strength, mobility, and function in the affected area.
Recovery time: It can take several weeks to months for full recovery, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Benefits of Osteotomy

Improved joint function and pain relief.
Correction of bone deformity.
Enhanced mobility.
Can sometimes delay the need for joint replacement surgery (e.g knee replacement).

Risks of Osteotomy

Damage to nerves or blood vessels.
Nonunion (bone fragments don't heal together properly).
Stiffness.
Blood clots.
Infection.
Bleeding.

Conclusion

Osteotomy can be a life-changing procedure for those in need. Consultation with an Orthopedician for Osteotomy surgery can completely change a patient’s life for good. Manipal Hospitals Gurugram has some of the best knee surgeons and Orthopedicians to help you find the right care for your loved ones. Visit your nearest Manipal Hospitals to receive world-class care.