An osteotomy is a surgical operation whereby a bone is cut to
shorten, lengthen, or change its alignment. It is sometimes
performed to correct a hallux valgus, or to straighten a bone that
has healed crookedly following a fracture. It is also used to
correct a coxa vara, genu valgum, and genu varum. The operation is
done under a general anaesthetic. Osteotomy is one method to
relieve pain in arthritis, especially of the hip and knee. It is
being replaced by joint replacement in the older patient. Due to
the serious nature of this procedure, recovery may be extensive.
Careful consultation with a physician is important in order to
ensure proper planning during a recovery phase.
